Apple (AAPL) is on track to launch a much-anticipated, tablet-sized computing device early next year, according to brokerage reports this week. The end-of-the year business period has become known as the “iPod quarter” for Apple, due to the historically strong sales of the company’s digital-media players. But with iPod sales showing signs of leveling off, Apple is believed to be working on a new, tablet-style device that will help the company continue with its multiyear streak of hit products. Read more about Apple’s potential plans .