This week we’re going to have (most likely) a new Apple device announced alongside likely updates of some of it’s current offerings. It really shows how much the Apple brand has become ingrained in our culture, when every announcement they have brings this much fanfare. You never see this much anticipation before an announcement by HP, Dell or any of the other leading tech brands.

The new product is likely to be the long awaited tablet computer. From all accounts, it certainly looks interesting. What really excites me is the potential for controlling every electronic device in my house from the tablet. Other reports I’ve read suggest it will be offered with 3G service from Verizon and/or AT&T.

Speaking of Verizon and AT&T, I’m also reading that the later’s iPhone exclusivity could be ending soon. What’s interesting is that it may be AT&T who is making the change. Tired of being beaten up over their shoddy voice and data service, they could be looking to share the iPhone load with some other carriers. Perhaps they should just more heavily invest in their infrastructure, seeing as how the iPhone has been such an economic boon to the company.

At least Apple is still creating new and innovative products for us to enjoy. I look forward to Wednesday’s announcements.

AT&T is not known for their sterling voice and data service. In fact, the only reason I’m with them is because of the iPhone and because there is decent service in my city. However, that isn’t the case for everyone. Remember, there’s a “map for that”.

They have made a ton of money off of the iPhone and it’s unlimited data plans. Now comes word that unlimited may start to be limited. AT&T head of consumer services, Ralph de la Vega, has told a group of investors that it plans to “educate” and offer “incentives” to customers using high bandwidth apps on the iPhone. By “educate” and offer “incentives” they mean charge more money. The thing that is so irritating is the fact that they didn’t use some of that iPhone money to build a better mobile infrastructure. Up until now, they’ve talked about how great their unlimited data plans are. Now their network troubles are somehow the customer’s fault.

If they go through with this plan, I’ll immediately go to the next carrier offering the iPhone. They’ll lose me and my iPhone money. They won’t always be the sole US carrier. In fact, I think the exclusive will end sooner rather than later. I would suggest they consider that fact, because I am, no doubt, not alone in my feelings.

I don’t know what to say. ATT reversed field. Watch the video.