Verizon to pre-pone its 4G roll-out

Is this another hint that points to the Apple tablet PC being available by Q1 2010?

 There have been reports pointing out that Apple is currently developing some form of a large iPod or a large iPhone which will have a 10-inch touchscreen, an ARM processor, and built-in for 3G or 4G (not confirmed) connectivity. The new Apple tablet PC is believed to be available by Q1 2010 according to a recent report by AppleInsider. The report also pointed out that Apple might be in talks with Verizon to roll out this device on Verizon’s LTE (Long Term Evolution or 4G) network. Earlier Verizon had announced that the LTE network would be rolled out by second half of 2010 but, a recent report by TechCrunch points out that Verizon might roll out the LTE service in selected markets by Q1 2010.

This means that it would be in sync with the launch of the much talked about Apple tablet PC. Although this can not directly be linked to Apple and this is purely speculation but, according to sources at TechCrunch there was talk of at least one non-dongle (wireless card) product that this LTE launch was being specifically geared towards.

LTE (Long Term Evolution) or some may also call it 4G is far superior to the currently available 3G services in terms of speed. LTE once it deploys in the real world should give download speeds of about 12Mbps, or several times faster than either EVDO- or HSPA-based 3G. Many carriers expect this to allow HD video downloads and two-way video calls. Verizon has actually been conducting limited tests of its LTE network and have had some tremendous results (speeds of up to 60Mbps).

Another, thing that can strengthen the credibility of this report is that Apple’s deal with AT&T for selling its brand of iPhones is set to expire in 2010. Moreover, Apple might enter into a data only deal with Verizon that means the iPhone continues to be with AT&T but, the tablet PC can use Verizon’s LTE to connect to the internet. There is also news circling the market that Apple is not happy with AT&T but that too can be mere speculation.

Well, what is cooking between Apple, Verizon, and AT&T still remains a mystery. One thing is for sure that people are eagerly waiting for the Apple tablet to hit the streets.