Source: AppleInsider

Since the dawn of man, people have wanted a single device to carry with them to manage their lives. The computer was great, the iPhone was even better, but many have wanted a Mac tablet. A few years ago rumors started spreading about the possible release of a tablet Mac that would be similar to an iPhone, but larger. These rumors never came true, but now the rumor mill has started again.

Both AppleInsider and the Financial Times are reporting that Apple is close to releasing the mythical device that is allegedly a 10-inch tablet that features 3G. AI tells us that this device has gone through at least 6 revisions over a 2 year period. The tablet, which is rumored to look somewhat like an overgrown iPhone/iPod touch, is set to launch sometime between this September and March 2010. Skepticism about the launch date makes us weary. That and the fact this device has been rumored to launch for years and never has. 

Financial Times' September launch date makes sense for the holiday season. Apple has its annual iPod refresh in September and why not add the magical Tablet to that mix. It could be the Tickle Me Elmo of the 2009 holiday shopping season. AppleInsider points to a January to March 2010 time frame. that would be just in time for the huge Valentine's Day/Groundhog Day electronics buying spree. Nothing says I love you like electronics.

It makes sense that this Mac tablet would feature a custom ARM-processor designed by P.A. Semi. This would explain the sudden purchase of the company by Apple. Or maybe Apple has more devious plans for P.A. Semi? An Apple 60-inch TV with Apple TV built in? Sure that sounds plausible.

Just as we've always been with rumors of this nature, we'll take these with a grain of salt, but we will still keep our fingers crossed for all the tablet-lovers out there. In fact, we believe all the rumor sites have it wrong and Apple will finally release the long awaited coffee table Mac, the iTable.

Though, only time will tell.

Via AppleInsider and Financial Times