Apple Tablet Scheduled to Begin Shipping in March? Two Different Material Casings Being Considered?

The Wall Street Journal reports (subscription required) that while Apple is expected to introduce its tablet device at a media event reportedly scheduled for later this month, the tablet will not begin shipping until March.

Apple Inc. plans to unveil a new multimedia tablet device later this month, but doesn't plan on shipping the product until March, people briefed by the company said.

While the shipping time hasn't been finalized and could change, people briefed on the matter said the new tablet device will come with a 10- to 11-inch touch screen.

The report also details information received from a source indicating that Apple has been working with two different materials for the device's casing, although it is unknown whether it plans to release models with both types.

One of the people briefed on the matter added that Apple was working on two different material finishes for the tablet, though it was unclear whether the Cupertino, Calif., company was just testing them or planning to come out with multiple versions of the device at different prices.

The remainder of the report summarizes previously-rumored information about the tablet, citing analyst claims of a price point near $1,000 and a multifunction nature catering to those interested in video, gaming, and electronic book, newspaper, and magazine content.