Apple readying a 7-inch iPad?

Apple is once again said to be getting a 7-inch version of its iPad ready for release, despite Steve Jobs early comments about the impractical form factor. This time the source of the rumor is Technology Business Research analyst Ezra Gottheli saying Cupertino is preparing to tablets for launch soon.

Now, we’d definitely take this with a grain of salt - it’d actually go against Apple’s own principles, and we find it hard to believe that Apple will suddenly change its opinion about smaller tablets, but it’s nonetheless possible.

Now, Gottheli specifies that the 7-inch tablet won’t arrive at the same event as the third-generation 9.7-inch iPad, and that it’s also likely to come with a tailor-made keyboard case as an accessory.

"I believe that's always been in the plan" Gottheil said despite Jobs’ vision of 7-inch tablets being too small. "Actually that's a good form factor for some users, and although they will also charge a premium above other similar-sized tablets, they want to protect that price flank."