When Apple first released the original iPad back in 2010 they provided users with a screen size of 9.7-inches, but since then we have seen the growth of smaller devices that are around the 7-inch mark that included the iPad mini among others. We now have news of a 20-inch Sharp tablet that you would think was on steroids and it makes you wonder if Apple should counter-attack with a super sized iPad?

There are some that prefer the smaller tablet PCs now on offer as they allow for a more comfortable experience for prolonged use held in one hand, but now Sharp the company responsible for a 90-inch HDTV has announced the LL-S201A “BIG PAD”. The impressive looking device features a 20-inch LCD backlit display that is capable of ten point multi touch input, and will come with a stylus that measures 2mm in diameter at the tip.

Users will be able to use the new display as a digital sketchpad or even a secondary touch enabled monitor if preferred, and the display has a resolution of 1920 x 1080 and a 3000:1 contrast ratio with a 5ms response time. The new device is promised to ship in Japan early next year possibly as soon as January, and it is not currently known of its availability elsewhere or pricing.

The Sharp LL-S201A is equipped with both HDMI and DisplayPort connections, and the body of the device is claimed to be the thinnest and lightest in the industry. It can be used as a PC monitor but can you imagine someone reading their emails will travelling to work on public transport.

Holding this for any length of time would certainly cause your wrists to ache as the device measures 274.8mm × 463.8mm × 25.2mm and weighs a hefty 2.3kg, and it will be compatible with Windows XP or later.

Can you ever see the need for a 20-inch tablet PC?