Apple iPad / iSlate with Barnes & Noble bookstore app?

Sorry – this rumour comes comes one of the most widely read blogs related to technology – but that does not mean that it is accurate. TechCrunch has reported that the Apple tablet computer, expected to be revealed today, will have a built-in Barnes & Noble bookstore app.

It is well known that Apple has been negotiating with large book publishers and media companies for content tie-ups. New York Times and Conde Nast have leaked info that discussions have taken place – but not much else.

Amazon already has its Kindle range of e-readers, all using e-Ink to give you black and white books and newspapers over 3G. For the Apple Tablet – whether it is called the iPad or iSlate or whatever – needs killer apps to get people to buy it. Barnes & Noble already has an e-reader – the Nook. If TechCrunch’s sources are correct, then it means that Apple has approached the no. 2 in the online book sales space and tied up with them to offer books. Considering that this is Apple we are talking about, expect the Bookstore app to amazing to use.

Amazon recently announced its KDK for developing apps for the Amazon Kindle. There might be a clue there – perhaps, the company knows that Apple is working with Barnes & Noble, and is trying to take some steps to counter the inevitable hype and enthusiasm. It is unclear, however if Amazon would be able to do much, if Apple manages to make the Apple tablet, among other things, a superb e-reader for books, author interviews, color pics and more.