This is interesting. A new rumor about a possible Tablet computer, but this time the news comes from Microsoft. It seems they will once again compete with Apple. After the iPod touch versus Zune and the upcoming iPhone competitor “Pink”, Microsoft wants to battle with Apple to see who has the best Tablet computer on the market. I guess we all know Microsoft will always be one step behind Apple.

ZD Net’s Mary-Jo Foley said she has received several tips that the Windows Maker is working on a tablet device of their own. It is part of something known as “Alchemy Ventures”. Foley said she finds it likely Microsoft will wait to show off the hardware until after Apple reveals their own much rumored tablet device.

“No word on whether Microsoft will field a Microsoft-branded Surface/Tablet combo or rely on one or more hardware partners to produce multiple designs.”

Most recent rumors suggest Apple is working on a 9,6″ touch device with a launch date of somewhere in early 2010. Foley continued by pointing out that Microsoft is a software and services company, not a hardware company. They most likely return to those things after at least one more Zune. There’s also a part about “Pink”. Codename for Microsoft’s iPhone competitor. The device is probably going to run Windows Mobile 7. The new Windows Mobile edition is going to launch late 2010, but Microsoft will most likely show off “Pink”  at the Consumer Electronics show in January.

What do you think about these developments? I think it is a good thing, because this might speed things up a little. Apple wants to be revolutionary with every new product they put on the market. And since the rumors about a possible iTablet started spreading in 2002, with 2009 being the busiest year when it comes to iTablet rumors and Steve Jobs back at his throne, the chance to see a iTablet soon is very high. With competitors like Microsoft, we will most likely see other big companies to build their own tablet computer as well. That will quickly drop prices and then we no longer have a desktop or laptop age, but a tablet computer age.

Give your opinion. What do you think about these developments?

pixelstats trackingpixel