Major Apple Announcement Scheduled for Jan 27, Sources Say

“Sources in a position to know” have confirmed to All Things Digital that Apple is hosting a big thing later this month, in a move that will likely see the much-hyped tablet finally introduced. Previously rumored to take place on January 26 (Tuesday), the announcement has been pinpointed for the 27th of that week, putting Apple on stage on a Wednesday.

John Paczkowski writing for All Things D claims to have been in touch with “sources in a position to know” who told him, “Apple is indeed planning a media event later this month at which the company will announce a major new product.” These people allegedly also confirmed that, “The gathering is to be held at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts in San Francisco,” while other sources tell Paczkowski, “It will occur on Wednesday, Jan. 27, not Tuesday, Jan. 26, as had been rumored.”

Although evidently familiar with Apple’s plans, these people have refrained themselves from offering more details, such as what exactly Apple is announcing. Still, pretty much every Apple fan has their fingers crossed for the iSlate – perhaps (hopefully) introduced under a different name.

According to other so-called tipsters, the tablet Apple is set to introduce this month will run a specific operating system called “Clouded Leopard.” As version 10.7 of the Mac operating system, it allegedly includes iTunes, Time Machine, QuickLook, Spaces, Spotlight, Dashboard, Mail, iChat, Safari, Address Book, QuickTime, iCal, Photo Booth and Front Row.

From a hardware point of view, most bets are on a 10-inch screen, although many also believe Apple would not cross the 7-inch limit. All Things D points out to The Wall Street Journal, which offers some specifics. The tech-site indeed cites people “briefed by the company” who say Apple plans to ship a 10- or 11-inch tablet computer in March. The WSJ also cites analysts who “currently believe” the device will retail for $1,000, which may include a wireless plan.