After all of the hoopla over the iPad announcement, and putting much thought into it's advancements and shortcomings, I've come to the conclusion that the iPad might, indeed, have created a new category of product. I, like many, was a little disappointed with the product unveiling. After all, 2 years of speculation, doctored pictures and assumptions are hard to live up to.
Things the iPad was missing:
- a phone
- a camera
- a pannini press
I think what is more important, is a failing industry that the iPad might well revive. Apple has partnered with some of the top publishing houses to bring new life to there industry. New forms of interactive media will be developed to draw people away from their old computers into this new arena of digital sensations.
Added to this, is the ability to use existing iPhone apps alongside of apps made solely for the iPad. This would broaden and already thriving and profitable ecosystem and encourage developers to break out from the small screen into the giant screen. With this, I think the game category will grow and grow, until it virtually explodes, crushing the small computing competition like a hammer!
The iPhone has already created a geyser of hardware peripherals that enhance the iPhone way beyond it's original limitations. Imagine what could be created for the iPad.
I think when people and developers finally get their hands on this device, it will get really big! The iPad will be a win for Apple!
That is, unless the porn industry gets it's hands on it.
He looked so much better in pajamas then
©2012 
I like your point about failing industries being revived. The newspapers are such a useful lot; too bad they’ve had so much trouble deciding to embrace change. I can’t fault them though. Who does embrace change when it is undermining their success? Only a few. Who?
Anyway, back to the iPad… I’m dying to see what happens with all the additional monetization the app store will provide to these newspapers. There’s a good podcast from WNYC called On the Media at http://www.onthemedia.org/ which has been discussing these failing media. Recently they’ve been talking about the iPad. Interesting analysis and times.
Thanks for the insight Kevin!
I’m not sure there is much of a market for iPad for new Apple customers. I think most of the purchasers will be Mac’Loyalists. Why? Because the price is awfully steep for the limited functionality of that thing. You can get a tablet with multitask-capable notebook for less that has more drive space and usability.
Regarding the whole e-reader technology debacle, there are so may variables in emerging technologies that informed consumers like me are content to wait until AMOLED devices come to the mainstream market. I like my iPod touch OK, because it’s hacked and I can customize it according to my needs, not what Apple thinks I want. The screen just blows though, reading in the daylight outside is critical for any e-reader, and right now the e-ink technology is the front runner. One of my coworkers has the Sony, and it’s truly like looking at paper, works very nicely for her.
So what is the primary use of an iPad then? PMP, it’s a big iPod touch, same features. I’m not sure a camera would make a difference, since it’s kind of large. I’m a big fan of Cowon/Jet Audio, and I’m thinking my next PMP will be theirs. Their sound quality, as is Sony’s, is vastly superior to any device Apple has put out, and that’s my biggest gig on the iPod. I like the games, hate the sound and battery life.
Oh, that reminds me, hack your AppleTV yet?
not yet- life keeps getting in the way
Boxee even has a stable install now.