Bloomberg is citing statements from RIM co-CEO Jim Basillie stating that the RIM Playbook tablet will be sold for under $500 when it launches during the first quarter in the US and Canada, with the international launch beginning later in the second quarter.
RIM also expects the Playbook to compete on the strength of its new operating system based around the QNX embedded real-time operating system which was acquired earlier this year, its support for multiple video formats, real-time multitasking, Java/OpenGL for app development and in-browser Flash content, with its sights aimed at Apple’s iPad as well as corporate customers.
The Playbook is expected to be sold in 16/32/64GB versions with a built-in Wi-Fi radio, Bluetooth and a 7 inch display at 1024×600 resolution with built-in front facing camera, but will require tethering to a RIM smartphone for 3G data access, whereas the iPad is currently sold in Wi-Fi only and Wi-Fi+3G models.
Basillie has also hinted that the Playbook could be sold through Best Buy and Target stores in the US, which would place it in direct competition with the iPad as both retailers also resell the current tablet market leader via agreement with Apple.
