While Apple Inc's long-rumored tablet device has piqued interest among enthusiasts and industry analysts for several years, by Tuesday a pair of the top business news outlets, the Wall Street Journal and Bloomberg, had reported that the device will be unveiled in January and is set to ship by March.

The reports cite people familiar with the matter.

The product will feature a 10 or 11 inch touch screen and the company is working on two different material finishes, the Journal said, citing people briefed by the company. It was unclear if the product would be offered in multiple versions at different prices depending on the finishes, according to the report.

An Apple spokesman said in the reports that the company does not comment on rumors and speculation.

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