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The previously cited prediction by the Wall Street Journal's authors hit the spot. Naturally, there hasn't been any confirmation yet, but the recent plethora of speculations allows us to conclude that Apple's new tablet device will be more than a revamped iPhone embedded in a different form factor. More importantly, it will add a whole new value to terms such as media integration, entertainment and publishing.

With the recent publications (see reference articles for details), we are finally able to preview some of the specs and an anticipated price tag. Here's an excerpt from the Engadget's take on the topic:

On a totally separate note, we also received a tip claiming to have some specs -- we can't verify any of this either, but we're told that the device will have a 10-inch screen and look like a larger iPhone with a MacBook-like aluminum back, and that pricing will run $800 on contract with Verizon and $1000 without when it arrives in March. We're also told that the official name remains a secret and that Apple employees are still calling it by the codename of "K48" -- a name we last heard in May from the same source that pegged the iPhone 3GS exactly. This source also tells us that the iPhone will be coming to Verizon as well and that we'll see iLife '10 tomorrow, but there won't be any MacBook updates. A relatively safe set of predictions -- which is why we sort of believe them.

A bit pricey, indeed. However, what we should emphasize is the tablet's role and its target. With the tablet in hand, Apple is posed to redesign the entire outline of media distribution process as we know it, from top to bottom. Assuming the device remains as it has been described in the articles, bringing it on will become a groundbreaking moment for the entire media industry. Basically, it's because of the revenue generation model. Apple appears to be the only IT company that understands and grasps the media distribution models, and therefore is able to provide the content producers with a systemic solution exemplifying novel approach in computer use and simultaneously securing a steady revenue. Hence, all of stakeholders participating in media distribution and consumption experience will benefit.

The era of technology we're living in is surely to get even more exciting.

PS. Let's not forget the iLife '10 update and perhaps iWork '10 with fully functional iWork.com. Now, how sweet would be that.