Apple ready to unveil its “latest creation”

Apple has begun sending out invitations for an event on 27 January, where it is widely expected to unveil its tablet computer.

Invitations to the event have been sent out, enticing recipients to “Come and see our latest creation”. A paint-splattered image gives no clue to what that might be.

Such mystery will only add to the hype and hyperbole surrounding what will be Apple’s and the tech world’s most eagerly anticipated product launch since the iPhone three years ago. And its most guarded — the company has maintained a veil of secrecy as effective as that which obscured the iPhone until its launch three years ago.

Analysts, commentators and bloggers almost universally agree, or at least assume, that Apple will unveil a “tablet” device, possibly called iSlate, that will bridge the gap between smartphones and laptops, allowing users to stream video, surf the web and play games while on the go.

It could also propel Apple into the digital book market popularised by Amazon’s Kindle eBook reader. The Wall Street Journal reported last week that HarperCollins Publishers was negotiating with Apple to make electronic books available for the tablet device, citing people familiar with the situation. Other sources have reported similar talks between other publishers and Apple.