The rumor is that Apple is coming out with a MacBook Touch in October, which will be Apple’s answer to an iTablet. Here’s a description: “Think MacBook screen, possibly a bit smaller, in glass with iPhone-like, but fuller-featured multi-touch. Gesture library. Full Mac OS X.” It’s like a mash-up of every product in Apple’s current roster.
I think it is a necessary step for Apple. The time frame might be a result of some unique new features? I can see this being big in ‘hands on’ businesses for presentations and idea development.