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Apple iPad revealed

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Tobor said:
I'd still rather have the extra functionality. $99 and I'll buy both.

See, there is the flaw in the argument, you still want the extra functionality. Newer Netbooks provide you exactly that. And by Extra I mean cameras, multi-tasking. The Kindle for PC is free.

The thing with kindle is that it is built for reading. e-ink makes you want to read for a LONG time. With the LED/LCD display it is a pain for your eyes especially when reading.
 
As someone who reads a ton of newspapers online and listens to music in the mornings and before bed, this product has some draw to me. Of course I can do these things on a laptop, but it would be nice to have an eReader on my bedside table. But asking for $500 bucks to be a lazy ass is a bit much.
 
fireside said:
If iPhone OS 4 with multitouch is coming so soon, I can't imagine Apple would debut the iPad without multitouch. Just seems silly.
what da hell are you talking about ?

:lol :lol :lol :lol :lol :lol :lol :lol
 
Sriffat said:
With the LED/LCD display it is a pain for your eyes especially when reading.
This claim is so awkward when you realize that probably 90% of GAF works on computers all day.

You're right, that it's definitely less of an eye strain...but come on. I've never had to put down my computer/phone because the screen was hurting my eyes.
 
SnakeXs said:
All these netbook people are making me curious. What is it people do with netbooks? Go on the internet, watch Youtube videos, chat on Facebook and instant messengers, and maybe take notes for a class and Google stuff.

I'm not seeing why people are making a huge deal for things that this can't do that a netbook can, that the vast majority of people don't care about. And the only gimped thing right now is instant messaging, since you can't multitask, yet much of the rest of is quite possibly and arguably, a better experience with this.

But hey I never got the netbook thing so maybe I'm wrong about it and people all have super vital things they do on them like, oh wait, check porn on -tube sites which are all Flash based. It all makes sense now.

Two key things I think are writing notes in class, which the iPad is not good for, and using it to write documents or work within a group of people on projects for a number of productivity things which again the iPad won't be good for because of the lack of multitasking, it's formfactor, and the OS it is based upon at the moment. That right there is a key factor for netbooks IMO.
 
SnakeXs said:
All these netbook people are making me curious. What is it people do with netbooks? Go on the internet, watch Youtube videos, chat on Facebook and instant messengers, and maybe take notes for a class and Google stuff.

I'm not seeing why people are making a huge deal for things that this can't do that a netbook can, that the vast majority of people don't care about. And the only gimped thing right now is instant messaging, since you can't multitask, yet much of the rest of is quite possibly and arguably, a better experience with this.

But hey I never got the netbook thing so maybe I'm wrong about it and people all have super vital things they do on them like, oh wait, check porn on -tube sites which are all Flash based. It all makes sense now.

There is only one reason. it is because until we see Multi-tasking on this (hopfully by iteration 2), My netbook can let me chat on MSN and browse GAF at the same time.
 
Tobor said:
For me personally, this isn't an iPad vs. Netbook debate. I have no interest in netbooks whatsoever.

This is an iPad vs. Kindle argument. And I'd much rather spend the extra cash, give up the e-ink, and get all that bonus functionality. iWork and a bluetooth keyboard, and I can get work done on it when I need to.

As for the OS, it needs work. I think 4.0 will clear up a lot, and over time it will evolve, just like the iPhone has.

As for what version, I'm probably going to go $499, but I might spring for the 32GB.

For you, perhaps. This announcement today has pushed me to buy a kindle. It is better at what I want it to do, and its much cheaper (I don't need the dx). I have an ipod touch too which can do many things the ipad already can....so I don't need a redundant device with a bigger screen.

I might get a nook though instead of a kindle. Need to go a bit more indepth on the two.
 
My Thoughts about the iPad:
(Warning: Don't Read if your a Trolling Fuckweasel)

How long does the average PC or Mac take to boot up?
Regardless of your specs, it's too long.

This device isn't a godsend to the hardcore crowds, however,
it's going to sell like gangbusters to soccer moms and football dads.

You may cynically say, "it's a bigger iPhone", but that, in many ways, is just the point.
I can immediately get on it. Immediately check mail. Immediately browse the web.

And unlike the iPhone, for the first time do you have the space and breathing room to actually enjoy video and be able to see whats going on without squinting.

As someone said in the Conference thread, stealing a Nintendo line, "it's the 3rd pillar bitches". And in that sense it's perfect, not in the current iterative sense,
it lacks some important features to both casuals and hardcores alike, but when it comes down to it, it's perfect and it's launching well in advance of the competition.


So, in conclusion, sure it's lacking features (multi-task, pressure stylus, etc.), but also it brings a lot to the table.
And just like the original iPhone wasn't perfect, neither is this, but the foundation is there and one day it will please everyone.
 
RubxQub said:
This claim is so awkward when you realize that probably 90% of GAF works on computers all day.

You're right, that it's definitely less of an eye strain...but come on. I've never had to put down my computer/phone because the screen was hurting my eyes.
You've never stared directly at it non-stop for over an hour. That's what you do when you're reading and you really get into something. During normal computer use, you're glancing around, taking small breaks every now and then.

I never bought into the eyestrain thing either until I actually just gave a long reading session a shot on an LCD.

Also, the best part of reading is doing it right before bed to ease yourself into sleep. Good luck doing that when you have a backlight screaming at you.
 
SnakeXs said:
All these netbook people are making me curious. What is it people do with netbooks? Go on the internet, watch Youtube videos, chat on Facebook and instant messengers, and maybe take notes for a class and Google stuff.

I'm not seeing why people are making a huge deal for things that this can't do that a netbook can, that the vast majority of people don't care about. And the only gimped thing right now is instant messaging, since you can't multitask, yet much of the rest of is quite possibly and arguably, a better experience with this.

But hey I never got the netbook thing so maybe I'm wrong about it and people all have super vital things they do on them like, oh wait, check porn on -tube sites which are all Flash based. It all makes sense now.

do you think typing will be as good as on a netbook?
 
Sriffat said:
See, there is the flaw in the argument, you still want the extra functionality. Newer Netbooks provide you exactly that. And by Extra I mean cameras, multi-tasking. The Kindle for PC is free.

The thing with kindle is that it is built for reading. e-ink makes you want to read for a LONG time. With the LED/LCD display it is a pain for your eyes especially when reading.

I want the extra functionality with the form factor and UI. Netbooks aren't even a factor to me.
 
bengraven said:
This reeeeally sucks.

My Kindle just arrived a few minutes ago, I was so excited for it to arrive today. What a way to kill my joy.

:/

say you hate and and get your money back and keep it for free?

have you not seen the ads?
 
Up until today i was set to buy an ereader next week. Probably the nook. Now I am picking this mofo up.

Smiles and Cries said:
say you hate and and get your money back and keep it for free?

have you not seen the ads?
he had to personally get that email. Its only for specific high book purchasing accounts.
 
RubxQub said:
This claim is so awkward when you realize that probably 90% of GAF works on computers all day.

You're right, that it's definitely less of an eye strain...but come on. I've never had to put down my computer/phone because the screen was hurting my eyes.

I have to take breaks at work sometimes to relax my eyes from using dual 24" LCD monitors at work. I don't have to every day, but I do have to. I know other people around the office and just other people in general who have to do the same thing. Light blaring into your eye with the flicker refresh rate that is happening does strain your eye. Some are more sensitive to it than others. I've got my wife's Nook with me and just holding it side by side, there's no contest which is much easier on the eye and which one I would rather read.
 
I think Apple should have just come out and sold this as a entertainment device first and foremost, thats the only arena where it kind of makes sense. Instead what we have is a device which is trying to do everything and comes out looking like it can do nothing.

iWork, really? anyone who does work will need a laptop and will use the iPad sporadically at best, meaning they'd be expected to own both?

Communications? Do you really think the average free email user knows how to use the email apps? Its all about the browser email. Only the business/tech people care about mail. and its not always connected unless you go for the 3G.

Internet? One very limited browser, not always connected, inferior touch keyboard, no flash...are we supposed to exit safari and open facebook/youtube apps?

Design/Art? No serious designer or music producer or film maker or web developer will use this for their job other than the occassional bits and bobs. Any serious work will be done on a proper work station. Keyboard accessory or not.


books, video, music are the only areas I can see this device beating out others, and convenience is probably something to consider.

Not sure if I will get over the lack of e-ink, I had it down as an essential for any e-reader I ever get.

research has shown that people don't like reading big chunks of text, particularly on an LCD screen. Anything wider than 300px or so and a couple lines deep and the reader becomes aware of the act and becomes kind of uncomfortable and wants to stop. I bet most people dont even read this post. thats why ebooks havent really taken off on pc or laptop, because they'e difficult to read. and thats why e-ink is the bee's knees.

the HD video capabilities seem interesting, but I dont have many HD videos in digital format and I usually only watch on a big screen.

will never use this for music over my iphone.

very unimpressed...not just with the product with Apple seemingly feeding us with pretentious superfluos tat, they usually seem so in touch and on the button but this resembled Nintendo trying to convince us pacman was awesome.

but I DO need a manga reader.....
 
Liu Kang Baking A Pie said:
You've never stared directly at it non-stop for over an hour. That's what you do when you're reading and you really get into something. During normal computer use, you're glancing around, taking small breaks every now and then.

I never bought into the eyestrain thing either until I actually just gave reading a shot on an LCD.
Admittedly I've never actually read a book on a laptop screen (have on my iPhone), so there's probably more truth to the sentiment than I'm giving it credit.
 
RubxQub said:
This claim is so awkward when you realize that probably 90% of GAF works on computers all day.

You're right, that it's definitely less of an eye strain...but come on. I've never had to put down my computer/phone because the screen was hurting my eyes.

I am talking about reading specifically, word by word. Most people who work on laptops just use their peripheral visions looking at objects on screen. When you are reading, you concentrate on every word and process it. Your eyes are very strained due to that word by word processing
 
espionage said:
i checked the slate out after you mentioned this m0dus, and you're right - the slate does look very promising. in fact, now i think i'll wait to hear the full specs on the slate before even considering this iPad.

I think Slate is impressing me more right now than the ipad, I'd rather have Win7 than iphone OS anyway since its in a totally different league in terms of features, productivity and abilities.

Is there a price for the Slate yet? hopefully its cheaper than the ipad, might seriously give one a look if it is.
 
Liu Kang Baking A Pie said:
You've never stared directly at it non-stop for over an hour. That's what you do when you're reading and you really get into something. During normal computer use, you're glancing around, taking small breaks every now and then.

I never bought into the eyestrain thing either until I actually just gave a long reading session a shot on an LCD.

Also, the best part of reading is doing it right before bed to ease yourself into sleep. Good luck doing that when you have a backlight screaming at you.
I read long as research papers all the time on lcds. sometimes sessions much longer than an hour. Programming projects ... much longer than an hour at a time.
 
Mr. Dobalina said:
I'm telling you, no. Moving a mouse or finger on a trackpad which then moves a cursor on the screen over an icon you then have to click on (or *gasp* double click on) is intimidating to her. Tapping an icon with her finger is doable for her (I think :lol ).

I think there is actually a good point here...


These devices are foolproof. And I mean both definitions- both "unfuckupable" and "idiotproof." Apple has no equal in designing devices this way.

I think it's people that have a decent understanding of computing in general (say, the level of expertise needed to install Windows and up) that will be really disappointed here. Because I actually am very interested in something with this form factor and a multitouch screen...

..but for now that something remains the Lenovo U1 Hybrid (which is actually also a pretty powerful laptop, so it's not at all a fair comparison): http://www.engadget.com/2010/01/05/lenovo-ideapad-u1-hybrid-hands-on-and-impressions/

You can bet it certainly won't have that Apple sheen, though. Also the videos on that page are pre-production and it shows; it's not coming out til June.
 
SnakeXs said:
All these netbook people are making me curious. What is it people do with netbooks? Go on the internet, watch Youtube videos, chat on Facebook and instant messengers, and maybe take notes for a class and Google stuff.

I'm not seeing why people are making a huge deal for things that this can't do that a netbook can, that the vast majority of people don't care about. And the only gimped thing right now is instant messaging, since you can't multitask, yet much of the rest of is quite possibly and arguably, a better experience with this.

Because it does all the same things and it is $299 or less.
 
Why are people talking about college students using this? I already see Macbooks everywhere.

And as with iPod and iPhone, it's only revolutionary if it takes off (which I guess happened very quickly with the iPhone).
 
Liu Kang Baking A Pie said:
You've never stared directly at it non-stop for over an hour. That's what you do when you're reading and you really get into something. During normal computer use, you're glancing around, taking small breaks every now and then.

I never bought into the eyestrain thing either until I actually just gave a long reading session a shot on an LCD.

Also, the best part of reading is doing it right before bed to ease yourself into sleep. Good luck doing that when you have a backlight screaming at you.

I actually use the Kindle app on my iPod Touch, and it's fine. I think e-ink is a bot overrated. OTOH, my wife (with an actual Kindle) swears by it.

As a super-deluxe ebook, that's the only real application I see this thing serving as. And that's not exactly a huge market.
 
So what's the point of this?

When I first heard about it, I figured it would be pretty much a Macbook Tablet, which would be a pretty swell idea. Lots of designers use Macs as it is, a tablet Macbook seemed like the obvious route to go... but this... what the hell?

It's an iPod Touch for Paul Bunyan. Who would ever need this?!
 
Buckethead said:
My Thoughts about the iPad:
(Warning: Don't Read if your a Trolling Fuckweasel)

How long does the average PC or Mac take to boot up?
Regardless of your specs, it's too long.

Do people to this day still shut down their laptops or computers completely? Sleep mode works wonders and is nearly instant coming from a dead to awake state.
 
Has anyone (mostly referring to the people saying it's useless and is horrid) like you know actually USED the tablet yet?

EDIT - I've subscribed to both this and the media event thread so if (most likely when) this thing succeeds I can post them for hilarious retrospective.
 
Blablurn said:
do you think typing will be as good as on a netbook?

If you're seriously lugging it for the purpose of heavy duty writing, then you can get a BT keyboard or the dock.

Two key things I think are writing notes in class, which the iPad is not good for, and using it to write documents or work within a group of people on projects for a number of productivity things which again the iPad won't be good for because of the lack of multitasking, it's formfactor, and the OS it is based upon at the moment. That right there is a key factor for netbooks IMO.

Mentioned above, get a keyboard of some sort. As for your projects, then it's not meant for you depending on what sort of projects and how you work. The form factor isn't an issue, though, between the dock or stand cases and bluetooth keyboards.

Really the biggest slight is multitasking, which very well could come with 4.0.

The UI and ease of use just make up so much ground, if you ask me. People just need to accept it's not trying to do everything and it's maybe not for you.
 
Karma said:
:lol :lol Are you joking?

No, I'm not joking. It's not so much the mouse as a device - it's what is down with it. The tracking and clicking is the small part. It's the 3-4 buttons, the double-clicking, what all the menus and stuff do.

I admit, my parents are luddites when it comes to technology. They are dying for a way to keep in touch with me and family in todays world, and the concept of a computer you need to boot up, user accounts, passwords is completely foreign to them.

Multiple windows open confuses them (they don't know how to switch between them). All the windows look the same to them.

They want to be connected, but a standard computing environment is not right. The iPad is.



Anyway, the iPad is not the revolution as MUCH as I was hoping for, but it has the key things I want in such a device. Because no revolutionary interface was added, I'm glad they decided to opt for BT keyboard connectivity - afterall, there isn't the need to 'force' people to use a new interface to know it. It's already familiar.
 
After thinking about it a bit, I wouldn't mind using one as a quick remote desktop device.

A 1024x768 small tablet that acts like a dumb terminal to my PC/Server in theory sounds kind of cool. Assuming the big touch button keyboard and attempting to use"touch" a non touch native interface through RDP on the PC/Server doesn't cause me to accidentally erase something of course.
 
MThanded said:
I read long as research papers all the time on lcds. sometimes sessions much longer than an hour. Programming projects ... much longer than an hour at a time.
I do too. But I wish i didn't had too...
 
Marty Chinn said:
Do people to this day still shut down their laptops or computers completely? Sleep mode works wonders and is nearly instant coming from a dead to awake state.

yeha and laptob batery is ALWAYS empty when using sleep
 
Smiles and Cries said:
I really hope I can hold out for the next gen of this but if I find some spare money

Same. I may go ahead and try the 499 version and then see if I want a beefier one when the next iteration comes out.
 
SnakeXs said:
All these netbook people are making me curious. What is it people do with netbooks? Go on the internet, watch Youtube videos, chat on Facebook and instant messengers, and maybe take notes for a class and Google stuff.

I'm not seeing why people are making a huge deal for things that this can't do that a netbook can, that the vast majority of people don't care about. And the only gimped thing right now is instant messaging, since you can't multitask, yet much of the rest of is quite possibly and arguably, a better experience with this.

But hey I never got the netbook thing so maybe I'm wrong about it and people all have super vital things they do on them like, oh wait, check porn on -tube sites which are all Flash based. It all makes sense now.
I use my netbook to surf in bed, which this looks like it would be quite good at, and to take notes in class (which this thing cannot do comfortably).

I don't really get it. I was expecting Apple to kind of neatly define what a tablet should be, since all the other manufacturers have failed to do that. Apple has two kinds of products in their lineup: products with clearly defined roles with mass appeal and those without. Which do you think this is more like, at least right now?
 
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