Apple tablet exists, says analyst

Barron’s (a Wall Street Journal subsidiary, so be forewarned) is reporting that an “analyst” has “… seen first-hand a prototype slate-style computer from Apple.” According to this analyst, the device will retail between $699 and $799, filling in the price gap between the 32G iPhone and white MacBook. It will launch in November, following an official announcement in September. If Jon Peddie of Jon Peddie Research is to be believed, the device will fulfill a plethora of multimedia functions—from supposedly impressive high-def video playback to gaming.

Even more impressive is that fact that, purportedly, ODMs (original device makers) have ceased their own designs, and are instead opting to wait for Apple’s tablet before making any further moves.

Finally, the “iTablet” is supposedly awaiting the final go ahead by Steve Jobs. But until Apple formally announces it, this can still be filed under “rumors.”

Read [Barron's] (WARNING: I’ve linked to the Google search results for the article, as articles from the WSJ and its subsidiaries are subscription-only, but not for Google click-throughs.)