Like thousands of others I just finished watching the 2010 Apple 2010 Event where they have officially announced the new Apple iPad. It is an elegant design at a pretty good price point and has the potential to be a game changer as a personal electronic appliance. It is a significant improvement in the ebook space, it is a game changer in the web tablet space.
I've been waiting for a device like this for years. It doesn't have everything I would like, for example handwriting recognition and pen input. It does have Web, Video, eBooks, Apps, WiFi, 3G, new apps like iWorks, and a great deal more.
Tech Specs:
- Battery Life : Up to 10 hours battery life.
- Height: 9.56 inches (242.8 mm)
- Width: 7.47 inches (189.7 mm)
- Depth: .5 inches (13.4 mm)
- Weight: 1.5 lbs (.68 kg) Wi-Fi model
- Weight: 1.6 lbs (.73 kg) Wi-Fi = 3G model
Why would I buy one? As an entrepreneur, business owner and consultant would I want one?Beyond the coolness, new tech gadget appeal, why on earth would I want one?
The GOOD:
- 3G Access ( No Contract, Cancel anytime, $29.99/month unlimited data.)
- iBook - eBook Reader ( Kindle for iPhone runs on it, bookstore/bookshelf is a great touch, flick to turn a page)
- As an ebook reader let's get this straight it isn't a Kindle killer, but it is superior at first blush, in many ways.
- Mail - eMail (light weight full screen email reader, 2 windows, seamless integration with contacts & calendar)
- iWork (Create presentations and collaborate, drag and drop images, let text reflow automatically)
The BAD
- It's a large iPhone or iPod touch (no Adobe Flash, some websites won't work).
- Locked into Apple even more. Music, Movies, Books, etc.
- Battery life of 10 hours is too short for a ebook reader.
- No Pen or Handwriting Recognition.
- External Keyboard, so I'm carrying more equipment.
- To big to be typing on a virtual keyboard on the screen.
- No Multitasking. That could change with iPhone OS 4.0 when available.
There is alot more information on the Apple website, and tons of opinions around the web today. Check out Engadget coverage and any of the many Apple fan websites.
Will I buy one? The jury is still out, but I will check it out at the Apple store at MOA or Best Buy when the time comes.
Mind Mapping is one of the primary reasons that I am interested in the iPad type device. I want something to take notes at conferences and it would make our upcoming service "Beyond The Meeting™" much more effective. It is my belief going in that inking versus a virtual keyboard, will prove superior.