Rumored Amazon Tablet Will Likely be Here Soon

The much-speculated Google (NASDAQ: GOOG) Android-based Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN) tablet computer could be here soon, if supply chain leaks from Taiwan are any indication.

According to the Digitimes online magazine, sources say Amazon recently settled its supply chain to produce 7- and 10-inch tablets featuring Google's popular software. The tablets would likely be released in the third quarter of this year, meaning a product announcement is likely imminent.

Amazon's current e-reader, the Kindle, has long been a popular book substitute for its customers. Its leading position with users was secured by early market adoption, simplicity of use, and modern design.

This new tablet, however, could put the heat Apple's (NASDAQ: AAPL) iPad and Samsung's Galaxy Tab. If customers could benefit from Amazon's extensive media store and Android's computing strengths at a reasonable price, the tablet market would undoubtedly face renewed competition.

For now, the rumors are all hearsay. But consistent rumors about a pipeline technology product can be predictable indication of things to come. Certainly, Amazon would love to benefit from the emerging, but potentially lucrative, tablet market.

Indeed, consumers currently shopping around for e-readers and tablets would be well-advised to wait until September.