After such a monumental buildup, it was impossible not to be let down at least a little bit by the unveiling of Apple’s horrifically named iPad.*
*Seriously, iPad is the worst name I’ve ever heard.
For me, the biggest letdown was the lack of content to showcase what the device could do. I’m on record as saying that the device could change the way we consume paper media, and I still believe that. But Wednesday’s announcement featured one two-minute demo of the New York Times’ native iPad app, which was neat but left a “That’s it?” taste in my mouth.
But I do think that, in the months leading up to the device’s release, we’ll get a better handle on exactly how much and what kind of content will be available as more publishers and other content providers get a handle on what the device can do.
And while some of its technical aspects seemingly fall short (no multitasking, no camera, little storage, etc.), the iPad is not something geared toward the average Windows Geek. Yes, it’s probably underpowered for the price (or overpriced for the power, if you prefer), but the average user is going to be more concerned with how it works than the means by which it works.
This device is basically an overgrown iPod Touch, best suited as a leisure-time reading/Internetting/gaming vehicle. It’s roughly the size of a magazine and would easily fit on a bedside or coffee table. And despite the iWork demos, the iPad isn’t something you’re going to be using for computing functions beyond Web surfing and e-mail.
It’s strictly a platform for the consumption (and purchase, perhaps more importantly) of media.
For more about the iPad, check out Endgadget’s iPad guide as well as the official site.
Already have an iPhone and an iPod for the music, web, and gaming aspects, and as for a reader, I’ll stick with my Nook (proprietary or not)– and I’ll definitely stick with my printed copy of the State Journal-Register, for as long as it’s around with which I may be stuck.
Or something like that.
As I said in your previous post, I like to be able to sit down, drink a cup of coffee, and HOLD my newspaper while I read it. Yes, I’ve used the web site on occasion if I want to look something up quickly, or reference something mentioned in a tweet or blog post or whatever, but reading it online is just not as… fulfilling, if that’s the right word… as being able to kick one’s feet up and sip coffee (or chug a beer- don’t judge me) and read an actual newspaper.
Just sayin’.
Regarding the name, it’s impossible for me to believe that they didn’t anticipate the feminine hygiene product jokes. I can only assume then that they felt staying consistent with the iP*** branding was more important and that the name would outlive the jokes. It will be interesting to see if it does.
I can’t see myself getting one. I don’t do a lot of computing, beyond writing, but my notebook and soon to be procured iPhone should cover it.
From everything I’ve heard and read, the iPad is nothing more than an expensive toy, especially if you own an iPhone and a laptop…which I do.