According to Digitimes, “Asustek Computer is making preparations to launch a new device named Eee Pad featuring a 4- to 7-inch panel, and which will offer a combination of tablet PC and MID functions, according to industry sources. Current details of the Eee Pad suggest the product has been inspired by the rumors of Apple’s planned tablet device, the sources commented.”

Though the screen size of Eee Pad is smaller than rumored Apple tablet, but it’s clear that like many other companies Asus is also taking preemptive measures against the Apple device. Definitely, Asus will protect the small computing device (netbook) territory it has created with Eee PC lineup, and it already has few touchscreen devices in Eee lineup. Now the really question is will Asus launch the Eee Pad first or Apple will ship the tablet first?