iPad Thoughts

You can go to Engadget for the latest and greatest coverage on the iPad:

http://www.engadget.com/2010/01/27/apple-ipad-first-hands-on/

But, assuming you already know everything about it, here are my thoughts.

  • I like the new iBooks store and functionality--it's a great way of getting competitive in a growing market.
  • I love the fact that this is really just a large iPhone that has better, more complex apps and, because of the increased real estate, a better user interface.
  • I really love the idea of a $29 unlimited data plan that is not contract based. That's just wonderful if and when you need it. And it's a heck of a lot cheaper than cable or DSL. Plus, it's available anywhere.
  • I'm not such a big fan of the lack of a camera on the device. There should be a forward facing camera.
  • I'm really, really not a fan of the lack of multi-tasking. That's just an epic fail. I already want to be able to use multiple apps on my iPhone, but I really can't imagine being restricted to using just one on the iPad.
  • Finally, it should have been called the iSlate. iPad's sort of lame.
Here's the bottom line, however: the iPad starts at $499. That's insane. When you consider the 10-hour battery life, the multi-touch interface, the iWork apps, the amazing video processor, the gorgeous screen, and the compatibility with all existing iPhone apps, this thing is going to sell like hotcakes.

And I stand by my prediction. Just like the iPhone wasn't perfect, the iPad isn't either. But it is going to change the media world. We're just beginning to see how.