RIM described suggestions that it is ending its PlayBook tablet computer line as “pure fiction,” with the company telling Reuters that it “remains highly committed to the tablet market and the future of QNX in its platform.”

The comment refutes claims made by a Collins Stewart analyst, who stated that the company “believes RIM has stopped production of its PlayBook and is actively considering exiting the tablet market.” In a research note, it also said that “our due diligence indicates that RIM has cancelled development of additional tablet products.”

A number of retailers were reported to have cut PlayBook prices this week, following unimpressive sales of the device – RIM has shipped 700,000 devices over two quarters, and it remains unclear how many of these have reached the hands of consumers. Prices have been cut by up to US$200, comprising of a US$100 reduction and a US$100 gift voucher from supporting retailers.

The Register also said that UK retailer Carphone Warehouse is giving away PlayBook devices to BlackBerry device customers signing up for a new service contract.

The PlayBook was widely criticised for lacking a number of core software features expected by potential customers. The company has promised an update for the device will be available in the near future.

Reuters also said that RIM has parted company with the executives in charge of “developer relations and business outreach.” It was not revealed if these changes were the result of RIM’s large-scale restructuring programme.

Tyler Lessard, the company’s SVP of global alliances and developer relations, has now been replaced by Alec Saunders, who worked with QNX before it was acquired by RIM. Jeff McDowell, SVP for platform marketing and alliances, also departed the company.