Today Apple announced a “Magical!” device - the iPad. I was doing my best to avoid talking about this, mainly because so much has been said already, but I have just too much to say to hold off.
First and foremost, I’m going to assume you know what the iPad is - and if not, please check out this link and once you’ve done that we’ll be set to go. So after all the speculation has quieted down and we know the real facts about Apple’s new Tablet computer, I still have some linger questions:
- Seriously, “iPad” is the final name? That’s what you settled on? Every time I’ve heard someone say that, they’ve giggled first.
- How do you carry it with you? And relatedly, how fragile is the OLED screen? Does Apple Care cover the iPad?
- How do you type on it? Flat on the table? What about when you’re holding it?
- $30 for “Unlimited” AT&T 3G network - how much does “Unlimited” really mean? Because for all other plans, “Unlimited” is capped at 5GB.
- $15 for 250MB a month - what happens when you go over?
- Does it have bluetooth for accessories? Will there be third party docks?
- If you already own an iPod and a MacBook, why should you buy this? (Thanks @ekmurphy)
- What will this do to AT&T’s network, that has already had problems with the increased iPhone traffic?
- How will this change iPod Touch sales?
- Is there a built in microphone for potential voice use?
- Is there a built in web cam?
- Does it handle multitasking?
- Can it receive push notifications?
- Which wireless band is supported? A/B/G/N?
- Now that you’ve crossed the line with a keyboard dock, will there be other dockable add ons? (I’m hoping for a game pad…)
- Will the keyboard dock integrate with gaming?
- Does the keyoard docking require the new API or is it pure hardware replacement for the virtual keypad?
- How well will the “10hr” batter really hold up? If the iPhone’s batter really only last a day, wouldn’t that mean this 10hrs is more like 3-4?
- No, seriously. “iPad”. You’re kidding, right?
- Can I have one?
Well, a lot of these questions will be answered in due time - and some might be debated for coming months. Ultimately, I think this is great for the market. I actually really like the Tablet concept and look forward to getting my hands on one - it might not be the iPad, but I see value in the converged, media device. With Apple’s entrance into the market, it will force other manufacturers (I’m specifically thinking about Acer, Archos, Asus, HP, etc.) to step up their game.
If it means a price war - I’m ok with that. If it means speed to market, that’s fine too. But what I’m sure this will help with is overall consumer adoption, which will inspire more innovation. And the more manufacturers innovate, the awesomer the world gets.
