UK title The Independent is prepping to launch on Oct. 26 a new daily, called "i," which will target readers in their 20s, MarketingWeek.co.uk reported today. The launch date's announcement comes after weeks of industry speculation suggesting The Independent could change to a freesheet, a notion that has been dismissed by owner Alexander Lebedev.

i's launch is "targeted at readers and lapsed readers of quality newspapers, and those of all ages who want a comprehensive digest of the news in printed form," the publisher reported today. It is hoped that the quality daily will complement The Independent newspaper, which remains priced at £1, and will be available for sale at newsstands from Monday to Friday at a cover price of 20p.

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