Like the iPad, RIM’s BlackPad will apparently include a 9.7-inch display, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, will sport a size and shape similar to the iPad, and will even fall in the same price range as the iPad. The BlackPad will also be able to tether to a BlackBerry smartphone for 3G wireless data access, will support BlackBerry email servers, and will include front and back-facing digital video cameras.
RIM isn’t saying whether or not it really is working on a tablet computer, so it’s unclear if the company will be targeting personal or business users with the device.
Considering the iPad’s popularity, competing head-on will be something of a chore for RIM. Releasing a tablet device sooner instead of later, however, will make that chore a little less daunting.