Quanta-built RIM BlackPad to cost US$499?

Chinese-language Apple Daily is reporting that Taiwan-based Quanta Computer is set to manufacture the upcoming Research In Motion BlackPad tablet. The production run for 2010 is set for 2 million units with shipments beginning in September for a November launch. Another eight million units are expected to ship in 2011.

The report goes on to suggest that RIM will price the BlackPad at US$499 to compete against the Apple iPad.

Supporting earlier rumours, Apple Daily reports that the BlackPad will come with a 9.7-inch display, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a front-facing camera. They also suggest that it will be powered by Google Android (also suggested by early rumours). Considering that RIM has always used its own operating system, this would be a very surprising move.

Quanta also appears to have been chosen by HP and Acer to manufacture their respective tablets. HP appears to have ordered up to 9 million webOS-powered HP Hurricane tablets while Acer has ordered a combined 10 million units for its 7- and 10-inch models. These appear set to ship in 2011.

Note: The ‘Read more’ link is in Chinese. [Google translation]

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