Apple allegedly in talks with book publishers readying content for the device

Dec 10, 2009 07:39 GMT  ·  By
An artist’s representation of what is believed to be Apple's upcoming iTablet
   An artist’s representation of what is believed to be Apple's upcoming iTablet

Yair Reiner, an analyst with Oppenheimer, claims to have gained knowledge that Apple’s plans for next year’s debut include the much-hyped tablet unit. Reiner told clients in a note on Wednesday morning that Apple was preparing to close deals that should prove very attractive to book publishers, in what was an obvious move to ready content for a platform boasting ebook functionality.

AppleInsider reports that, “Checks within Apple's supply chain have led to a new round of tablet-related rumors from one analyst, who believes the device will launch in March or April of 2010 with a 10.1-inch LCD screen.” According to the website, the note particularly said, “Our checks into Apple's supply chain indicate the manufacturing cogs for the tablet are creaking into action and should begin to hit a mass market stride in February. At this stage Apple appears to be sizing its supply chain to support production of as many as 1M units per month.”

The site mentions that Reiner has been told, “Apple has been reaching out to book publishers with a ‘very attractive proposal’ for offering content on a forthcoming ebook platform.” The analyst speculates that Apple could be offering partners a business model similar to that surrounding the App Store.

“Contacts in the U.S. tell us Apple is approaching book publishers with a very attractive proposal for distributing their content,” Reiner said. “Apple will split revenue 30/70 (Apple/publisher); give the same deal to all comers; and not request exclusivity. We believe the typical Kindle split is 50/50, rising to 30/70 if Kindle is given ebook exclusivity.” Reiner ultimately gave clients a view of some of the technologies supposedly employed by this tablet device, saying it would have a 10.1-inch multi-touch display using the LTPS LCD technology, just like Apple’s iPhone.