The Apple Tablet is clearly the most anticipated gadget of 2010. The exact design of the device is unknown but that isn't stopping excited analysts from speculating that the device will be wildly successful. CNN writes that these analysts are "channeling their inner-Frodo" by claiming it to be the one gadget to rule all gadgets.
"This will be the next big thing," said Laura DiDio, principal analyst at ITIC. "Apple is going to wow everybody with the tablet."
Any time Steve Jobs gets on stage, the expectations are incredibly high, but they are especially lofty for the tablet. Analysts and investors are saying that this device could revolutionize the handheld world in the same way the the iPhone changed the smartphone market.
"The tablet will change the game, because Apple will throw down the gauntlet at the competitors, and force them to follow along," DiDio said.
Skeptical analysts argue that if the Apple Tablet tries to do everything it will fall because people need different sized gadgets and different types of gadgets for different purposes. These analysts say a cell phone camera can't replace a digital camera and a tablet can't replace a device designed specifically for reading, such as the Kindle or Nook.
"What we've found in the past with these multi-function devices is that they're better for ad-hoc purposes, like quick and dirty tasks," said Zeus Kerravala, an analyst with Yankee Group. "They're not for any prolonged, high-performance use."
For instance, smartphones have cameras for quick snapshots, but when you go on vacation, you're probably going to want your digital camera to come along with you for high-quality photos.
Kerravala said the same logic applies to the tablet's other functions, including its e-reading capability: "If you want to sit and read a book, the ergonomics of a device that's specifically designed for reading are going to be better."
Apple also could run into a problem where it is competing with itself and putting its own gadgets in competition with each other. This is a problem most device manufacturers would love to have but for Apple it is a real issue. How many Apple devices can Apple fanboys afford in a recession? Some may love the idea of the Tablet but decide what they need most right now is the iPhone. An article here says the Apple Tablet could cement Steve Jobs' legacy. That article underscores the pressure on Steve Jobs and Apple to deliver an amazing Tablet. Apple will probably deliver a very innovative device but time will tell whether enough people will be ready to buy it for it to be a success.
The Apple Tablet is clearly the most anticipated gadget of 2010. The exact design of the device is unknown but that isn't stopping excited analysts from speculating that the device will be wildly successful. CNN 
