Apple said on mOnday that it would host a media event next week, sparking speculations about a possible announcement of a new line of iPod music players. Apple, with its usual air of mystery, sent an invitation to journalists inviting them to the September 9 event in San Francisco. The invitiation featured an iPod and the tagline: "It's only rock and roll, but we like it."

The videogame "The Beatles: Rock Band" is also to be released on September 9 and the coinciding dates sparked speculation that Apple may announce the availability of a Beatles catalog on iTunes, its online music store.

Expectations around the gathering next week are running particularly high as it could feature the first public appearance by Chief Executive Steve Jobs since he returned from medical leave.

Rumors have been also sweeping Silicon Valley in recent weeks that Apple plans to come out later this year with a portable tablet-sized computer that can surf the Web and also serve as an electronic book reader.

The event next Wednesday will be held in San Francisco at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Theater.