iSlate

1. The next wave of personal computing from Apple. Set to be introduced in late spring or early summer 2010, the Apple iSlate is a new tablet computer with a high-resolution touch screen and sleek black design. The device is about the size of a telephone book cover, but less than 1/2-inch thick. The iSlate offers all the functionality of an Apple laptop (e.g., iMac Air), but in a sleek one-piece design with many new extras. The virtual keyboard is similar to the iPod "electronic keyboard," but is almost the same size as a regular physical keyboard. Besides thousands of computer applications, the iSlate also plays movies, music and games. With optional services, it can also work as a video-conferencing device (using the built-in video camera) and a telephone. Of course, it comes with built-in WiFi access and optional 3G wireless Internet access. The iSlate takes advantage of recent advances in super-thin flash memory, battery design, smudge-resistant coatings and thin-film transistor display technology. Essentially, the iSlate is an advanced next generation "hybrid" of the iPod Touch, iPhone and MacBook Air laptop, but with many new cool features and a stunning new user experience. It may eventually replace the standard laptop for many users.