Quote:
Originally Posted by Regor
Having a giant iPhone that doesn't make calls, might be awesome for some people but I personally think it is just a toy headed for obscurity like all the other tablet computers have done in the past 5-8 years.
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Wow.... I REALLY wanted to like the Apple iPad! But, I have to agree with Regor. I have an iPhone and a Macbook Pro. There isn't anything the new iPad will do that I can't do [maybe better] on the 2 devices I already have.
I think Apple was attempting to balance the cost of the new device (less than $500) with the functionality. Obviously, adding the camera, USB and/or SB ports, etc. would have pushed the cost above the $500 threshold. In the end, the device might appeal to a niche market of those purchasing the Kindle or Nook for eBooks. For a little more, you can have a lot more than just an eBook reader, in the iPad. I'm still working, so I could use the iPad more as a note taking device, although that is not native to the OS; There's an App for that! However, once I retire [very soon], I can't imagine I'd need that functionlity. I did consider that I could use the iPad, in the Villages, on my golf cart for GPS on the golf course. There's an App for downloading courses and tracking your game..even though I have a SkyCaddie, I like the visuals of the GPS; especially using the satellite view.
I have a little different opinion of the App Store and their approval process. I like that Apple has tested the App to work with the hardward and OS, before I test it. As a general rule, I [personally] have no hesitation downloading and installing Apps on my iPhone...I trust them. Perhaps I shouldn't but I do. Apple is all about the User Experience and I love both of my Apple products.
Lastly, I'm not a big fan of AT&T, which is the 3G provider Apple has elected to use again. I'm currently living in Germany and my iPhone contract is through T-Mobile. While not so big in the US, they are fantastic in Europe and I have good (3G) reception almost everywhere I go...Even into some remote areas of Norway, Denmark. In my travels around Europe, I've not had any connection issues with T-Mobile. This is the best part. I paid 1 Euro ($1.40) for my 8GB iPhone with a 2 year contract. Unlimited talk-time and unlimited data plan for about $70/month...can't get much better than that!
I'd be interested to learn how others might be planning to use the iPad. I might have to change my mind and just get one..
Cheers...