This is going to be a case of some will, some won't - it depends on the device, the airport, the staff member making the call, the seasons, the position of the moon, the wind speed, etc. etc. etc.
Certainly, I haven't seen any signs at any checkpoints in the world that say something like "Please take all computers out, but tablets / iPads are just fine - leave them in your bag". I could be wrong on that, and there could be a checkpoint with that detail, but I have not seen it.
I've passed through a security screening point overseas where I accidentally left my laptop (not a small one, big normal one) in my bag, but no one said anything. I guess the security detail there are just for show, pumping out paycheques...
In many other checkpoints, my small 7" tablet had to come out.
As is the case in nearly all of the world, resistance is futile, so just do what they ask you to do. This is where having your device in an easy to reach and slipstreamed position is invaluable, so you don't need to stuff around as much. (A tough thing to do when it ends up buried underneath the bursting bag full of cables, peripheral devices, paperwork and gifts for your loved ones).
