Apple Tackling a New Market?

*This article is purely speculative based on information gathered from a variety of rumor sources and track record of Apple.

Many of us have been waiting for Apple’s big announcement with more anticipation than I’ve seen collectively in a very long time. I can remember when the iPhone was first rumored that the world waited, breath held, and excitement at an all time high. I can’t say that any other company has truly fascinated the world as much as Apple has in the last ten years, but then again, very few companies have changed the way we interact the way Apple has. From the launch of the iPod, to the launch of the iPhone, and even dating as far back as their initial Apple computer, the company is known to make waves.

As we approach the big announcement date, the word on everyone’s mind is tablet. I can’t imagine that anyone has not heard the rumors, but this coming Wednesday, along with some other announcements, the world is waiting for the announcement on what they see as the iTablet. Will happen? Does it exist. I’m not here to neither confirm nor deny what’s happening, I’m not privy to that information. But what I will do is make an assumption that I think is at least 85% true.

Should an iTablet of sorts arrive, I’m looking at a device that is purely a media consumption device. I don’t see any content being created with this device, but more for entertainment purposes. While the device will more than likely play movies and audio, it’s being said it could also function as an e-reader. But what I’m looking at is the gaming value.

There have been numerous sources stating that games would play a big factor in this new device and if so why, to what end? Currently the mobile gaming industry throne is held by Nintendo. Since the release of its Gameboy, which was a revolutionary device in its own right, it has been known as a great gateway gaming machine for those not typically used to playing games. Nintendo enjoys its position as being an easy point of entry for the casual gamer that perhaps would not pick up an Xbox or a PS3. This has been the bread and butter for this market, followed by the hardcore fans that thrive on franchises like Mario and Zelda.

The iTouch/iPhone has quickly become the gaming alternative for those of us waiting in line or just passing the time. With quick pick up games that  can be played in short bursts and then put down, the release of an iTablet could easily transcend the small screen but bring the same mindset of carrying a slightly larger device that won’t just offer the same gaming diversion, but also offer up video, audio, and published entertainment.

Maybe I’m going out on  limb here, but I think Nintendo might be in their sights. Not necessarily as a gaming machine, but rather, eating up their casual gamer market share that are looking for something a little more sophisticated than a Nintendo DS or DSi interations.

What are you thoughts? Do you care? Do you think it’s all hype? Leave your comments and let me know what’s what.