BlackBerry maker to launch tablet computer to compete with iPad

The Waterloo, Ontario-based maker of the BlackBerry smartpnone will call the device the Blackpad, according to one of the sources.

The Blackpad is expected to have about the same dimensions as the iPad and cost about as much as the $499-plus Apple tablet, the report said.

Apple has sold more than 3 million iPads since the product's debut in April.

RIM is widely expected to unveil a revamped version of the BlackBerry on Tuesday, aiming to compete more effectively against Apple's iPhone and other advanced smartphones.