Nokia set to launch iPad clone

Other PC and handset manufacturers expected to follow suit

Nokia's own version of the iPad tablet PC could be in stores in 2010

Nokia is looking to rival Apple’s iPad with its own tablet computer, which could be in stores later this year.

Samsung, HP and a host of other PC and handset manufacturers are expected to follow suit, creating a similar device of their own, according to a report by news agency Reuters.

Apple has already enjoyed widespread success with the iPad, selling 300,000 units on its first day in stores.

The success of Apple’s iPhone following its release in 2007 surprised Nokia, and it took the Finnish phone manufacturer almost two years to launch a rival smartphone with a large touch screen.

Nokia has already ventured into new markets, entering the PC industry last year when it introduced its first laptop. The phone manufacturer has sold small phones designed primarily for internet browsing since 2005, but with very limited success.