I think the tablet idea would be good if they designed it like a laptop, only the keyboard/speaker/mousepad half could be removed (via Bluetooth) so that it can be reversed (ie the monitor faces the opposite way for dispay purposes, or be removed altogether and hung on a wall or on a kiosk stand. Of course, they would have touchscreen technology included--and perhaps a new way to do that as well, such as optic fiber on the edge or something like that. They would have to be lightweight and sturdy construction. Both of which Apple is pretty good at.

Interesting points, maybe the expectations were the problem. I would use mine to draw out ideas all the time, and to take notes. I do that on my Pocket PC now, but the screen is too small for larger ideas and long notes.

A tablet with a large high-res display and good CPU would have limited battery life, but would be useful as a main machine. For some of us, it would be enough life to justify owning one.

The keyboard could be used for extended batter life. In other words, by default it comes with a battery in the display (as well as input for external power). The keyboard could have an extra battery that can be applied via the hinges. Oh, to work for Apple in R&D. ;)

...with phone capabilities. Id like to see something like my MDA Compact but with a good stable OS and better compatibility with Mac OS X :)

Good bet - I've just bought a Palm LifeDrive and have the uncanny knack of buying just before something really hot is launched!