Apple Netbook – Credit Gizmodo

First it was the iPod, then we got the iPhone, and now we have the iProd. There is no question Apple has come a long way in the past few years with the iPod and iPhone product lines. But no company is perfect. Apple could’ve giving us a much better idea about its upcoming product by using a much more descriptive name. Even a small hint would have done it. At this point, we do know from Apple’s config files that a whole new product is due soon. What we don’t know is what the device will be and what it will be capable of.

So here are a few things that could be on the cards:

• iPhone Nano: we have been hearing rumors about iPhone nano for weeks now. There are a few suspicious prototypes and reports on the imminent release of iPhone Nano, but it’s hard to read too much into them.
• iPod XL: the bigger the better right? That’s why Apple may be developing a larger handheld based on iPod Touch.
• iTablet: rumors keep coming about Apple’s touchscreen mini laptop. We have seen pictures, heard leaks, and even have September as the release month, but Apple hasn’t given us too many clues here.
• iNetbook: highly unlikely but might as well make the list. Consumers have been pushing Apple for a netbook, but Steve Jobs is not having any of it.
• iPod Video: this is really not a rumor at this point. We do know a new, better iPod Touch is coming soon. It’s just the matter of when at this point. It will have the same video capabilities of the iPhone.

So what is iProd? No one can tell for sure, but it’s the most interesting product in the world. I bet if Apple put it up for sale without telling us what it is, the device would still sell out. Maybe not, but you can always expect Apple to knock it out of the part with its products. Now think about what could be if Apple was less controlling…