Apple's latest product - the iPad, is a simplified tablet-style mac that serves very similar functionality to the iPhone. iPad has a 9.7in backlit screen with both horizontal and vertical viewing capabilities. It will have access to over 100,000 applications in the iTunes app store at launch, and will start at roughly $500. There will be two versions available: AT&T 3G capable and a version that is only wi-fi capable. The AT&T version will have a base price of $30/month for unlimited data access using their 3G network.
The device functions much like a netbook in terms of processing power, but is able to render high definition video for up to *ten hours* using Apple's new 1GHz A4 processor. Many assumed that this new device would be a fully functional OSX macintosh in tablet form, but this tablet is more of an accessory device - an intermediary unit for the most common daily activities. With full Safari browser, eBook capabilities, and the vast array of applications and accessories available for the unit, this unit will not suffer from any lack of capability in comparison to its netbook brothers.
As a side note, Apple has yet to differentiate this product from the iPhone. It uses a similar navigation system, the same base applications, has the same capabilities - including using 3G data networks - and will hold the same general functionality of their current top-seller. Many users have already stated that they do not have plans to acquire the device unless major differences truly do exist. The unit will be released in March and I am sure that we have much to learn yet.
Yeah, I was pretty excited about the release of the tablet. I'm a big fan of Macs and i think it will be interesting to see how this technology is going to fair in the market place.
ReplyDeleteI think that this is just a last stitch effort by Apple to bring in more $$ before the Iphone caps out in the market place.
ReplyDeleteWith the introduction of Android, and the poor service that ATT has, I see many people shying away from the Iphone. I love my Ipod Touch, but I'm not going to waste $500 on a bigger version of it.