Boy Genius Report notes today that they have heard from sources that there is a BlackBerry/Research in Motion tablet device in the works.

The BlackBerry tablet is reported to have a 8.9″ and very similar functionalities when compared to Apple’s iPad which means it has the ability to read email, browse the web, offer video playback and allow games. There is also the possibility that the tablet will have access to the BlackBerry App World, which may put it up against the iPad in yet another category.

The device is also said to be a companion to your BlackBerry smartphone, meaning it would not be able to have its own cellular connection, but may be able to be setup via tethering.

Sources close to RIM say that the company is planning on releasing this rumored tablet in December of this year, but are hoping to have it finished sooner than that.

Boy Genius Report regarding rumored BlackBerry tablet:

To be honest, as a complementary device that is coming from RIM, we are not sure why they are even trying here. Especially since RIM employees have privately voiced their frustration to us regarding this initiative.