Despite the fact that there are hundreds of rumors (or so it seems) circulating around Apple's Wednesday press event, I find this one of particular importance given the numerous debates we've had about it over the past few years.
According to a source reporting to HotHardware, it is thought that the Apple tablet announcement will be followed by an announcement detailing the end of AT&T's iPhone exlusivity. Given that an announcement of iPhone OS 4.0 has been rumored as well, it could be a huge day for iPhone lovers that have refused to join with AT&T. No whispers on what carrier(s) will pick up the device (if the rumor is indeed true), and I'd venture to say that if this comes to fruition, Wednesday's event will serve as an announcement - don't expect another iPhone to hit retail shelves this week.
If (and that's a really big if) all of these things are announced at the event, my money would be on the following dates:
- Apple's tablet: Announced Wednesday, released in 1-3 weeks
- Apple iPhone OS 4.0: Announced Wednesday, released either Wednesday or within a week
- Apple iPhone (of a different flavor): Announced Wednesday, released in June
Now that we're in the home stretch, let the speculation begin. Tablet? iPhone OS? New iPhone? None of the above (wouldn't that be terrible)? What say you?
Via BGR