The Apple iPad functions in a region between the popular iPhone and iPod Touch.  Depending on the model you purchase, the Apple iPad comes with WiFi access and the high-end models have 3G access as well.  With a price range of $500-850, this puts the iPad solidly in the high netbook price range.  Many people have called the iPad a potential Amazon Kindle killer, but I believe the iPad and Kindle target different markets (although they may overlap in some arenas).  Although the touch interface certainly has several amazing advantages in the realm of digital books, the backlit screen of the iPad will suffer from the same “lack of enthusiasm” the typical book-reader has when it comes to reading from a monitor.  In contrast, the Kindle’s screen is incredibly easy on the eyes and therefore appealing to those who want nothing more from their portable device but to read a novel or two.  However, those businessmen and gadget junkies who are interested in a more powerful device that can surf the web, handle games, and play movies will quickly migrate to the iPad.

It hasn’t yet been announced when exactly the device will be available, but the simple fact that Apple has finally acknowledged it’s existence means it can’t be far from the store shelves.  For official details about the iPad, take a look here.