Two Apple Tablets To Challenge Kindle?

I know. It’s getting pretty ridiculous now, but this is one rumor that one can’t afford not to entertain. A lot of experts did expect Apple to come up with its tablet late this year, but at this point all signs point to a 2010 release date. Nevertheless, rumors are now surfacing about the 2nd tablet that seems to be in the works. Essentially, Apple is introducing two different models to position its gadgets more specifically. Apple introducing both a 6″ and a larger screen (possibly 9.7″) tablet could put Kindle in an awkward situation. While Apple has never specifically discussed the idea of getting in the business of e-books, I wouldn’t put it past Apple to aim for a piece of the pie in this growing market.

There are two major issues that Apple has to deal with if it wants to truly challenge Amazon. These tablets are not using the E-ink technology, so Kindle has them beat in that regard. But more importantly, Amazon Kindle has access to Amazon marketplace that comes with tons of e-books to choose from. Apple does not have that currently, though that can be remedied through partnerships. Apple tablets may not be e-book readers per se, but they will enable their owners to get many things done on the go, so they’ll be more capable than Amazon Kindle in many regards.

Nobody expects Apple to introduce an e-book reader. Apple has never been into one dimensional gadgets, but allowing people to read their e-books on their tablets, take notes, and manage their e-books on the go is not too much to ask for. Will Apple tablets kill Amazon Kindle? That’s highly unlikely. But they will be the most potent competitor to Kindle in a long time. Amazon Kindle’s future is not in doubt at this point, but that’s more than what one can say about Sony Reader’s prospects.

Your turn: can Sony Reader survive Apple tablets?