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Apple iPad revealed

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Marty Chinn said:
I can imagine a device that let you use a bluetooth keyboard when you're at home, or at the office, or at a hotel which would let you do documents, email and other stuff, but then you leave that behind and could use a finger touch interface or stylus interface when you're on the go.

Imagine them announcing text books and then showing on the kindle how you have to move a tiny joystick around to get to where you want and then the complexities of the UI that is involved with that, then they switch to the iPad and the person is jotting down notes on top of his eTextBook and drawing diagrams as a lecture is going. It would be a night and day difference in functionality and something that would show off the merits of a tablet. That's just one small avenue that they could have done but didn't.

I just wanted to state this again since I think it got lost at the end of a page of posts, but would you guys who are defending the iPad not see merit in something like I just listed above? How something like that would be a much bigger game changer and would be something that people could grasp as something their iPhone and their laptop doesn't offer them? That is the type of innovation I think people were expecting out of this and it's sad that Apple didn't "think different."
I just watched a guy edit a spreadsheet with ease using only a finger. If you can't figure out it's better than a Kindle for school after that, you weren't going to buy one no matter what.

A couple of good TV spots and it's all good. You're overthinking it.
 
npm0925 said:
I'm sold. The instant-on functionality of an iphone with a processor and display much more suited to web browsing. I will be selling my Macbook and my Ipod Touch and picking up the low-end device as soon as it's available.
I think my sarcasm meter just broke.
 
npm0925 said:
I'm sold. The instant-on functionality of an iphone with a processor and display much more suited to web browsing. I will be selling my Macbook and my Ipod Touch and picking up the low-end device as soon as it's available.
wow. have fun with that!
 
Marty Chinn said:
I can imagine a device that let you use a bluetooth keyboard when you're at home, or at the office, or at a hotel which would let you do documents, email and other stuff, but then you leave that behind and could use a finger touch interface or stylus interface when you're on the go.

Imagine them announcing text books and then showing on the kindle how you have to move a tiny joystick around to get to where you want and then the complexities of the UI that is involved with that, then they switch to the iPad and the person is jotting down notes on top of his eTextBook and drawing diagrams as a lecture is going. It would be a night and day difference in functionality and something that would show off the merits of a tablet. That's just one small avenue that they could have done but didn't.

I just wanted to state this again since I think it got lost at the end of a page of posts, but would you guys who are defending the iPad not see merit in something like I just listed above? How something like that would be a much bigger game changer and would be something that people could grasp as something their iPhone and their laptop doesn't offer them? That is the type of innovation I think people were expecting out of this and it's sad that Apple didn't "think different."


Nah, I see merit in that. And it could be as big a game changer too. In a way, I think Apple did 'think different'. For a lot of people, this was underwhelming. This was certainly against the general line of thinking, or rather the general line of expectation.

Thing is, everyone has a concept in their head of what is 'game-changing'. Well, everyone in an internet forum likes to think so. We're all nerds, an we all have pipe dreams of the ultimate device. But unless any of us make that device, that's all they are. Do you honestly think those things are an exclusive pipedream of us geeks? But truth of the matter is, there's also reality to deal with. Look at the crunchpad - nerd dream device. So simple, and even that had difficulties. It's one thing to dream up an idea and another to make it reality.

A lot of those dreams tend to be on the 'more, more, MORE!' side of things. Let's combine this with that, and put this in kind of deal. Apple have traditionally 'thought different', and actually gone in different ways. It's worked for them. The iPad is not all it could be, but I think that's part of their vision - they see where they want this device to be, and geek pipe dreams aren't where it starts. Perhaps it's where it ends up, just not where it starts.

They want it to be in everyone's hands is the first supposition. To do so, they need to start it simple so EVERYONE understands it. They expand upon that vision once everyone else understands. You could argue that it's a fluke that this reasoning has worked, but lightning has struck int eh same place so many times for Apple.


It's not that we don't see merit in a super device (any number of devices in yours and our heads), it's perhaps more that we see merit in this one. This one is real, and it's coming.
 
I really don't see the benefit of this device / something which can't be done with other devices available.
Maybe if you really want a tablet PC but even then you have some options already, though probably it will have some nice and easy-to-use software with for viewing photos etc. so people will be all over it.


Why not buy a netbook for 300€/$ (including build in camera, bluetooth etc. etc.) and you can do anything you want with it, it's a small portable PC.

I'm using my Eee/Seashell 1005HA PC Netbook all the time. In the lab, reading papers in the tram/train, working on pictures/results in Photoshop, Excel and so on. Plus of course all thinkable entertainment media available including flash ;)

Also, how do you e.g. write texts/emails on the iPad while not having a table etc. or if its uncomfortable to look straight down on its monitor? I can place my netbook on my legs (sitting) in a full tram and still can write fairly good/fast with all fingers on the (actual) keyboard while seeing the monitor clearly at the same time.
 
Tobor said:
I just watched a guy edit a spreadsheet with ease using only a finger. If you can't figure out it's better than a Kindle for school after that, you weren't going to buy one no matter what.

A couple of good TV spots and it's all good. You're overthinking it.

Editing a spreadsheet is nothing like taking notes in class. You're not even comparing something similar. I don't think either are ideal for school to be honest. They're extra costs that won't take to most people. I think Apple missed an opportunity to create something that is both fun and productive and could move people away from netbooks and not require them to have both a tablet and a laptop. You honestly think what I said wouldn't have been better than what we got? You don't think what I said would differentiate it from the other devices? You don't think what I said would cause potential merit for someone only to need a tablet and not a laptop in school?
 
mrkgoo said:
Nah, I see merit in that. And it could be as big a game changer too. In a way, I think Apple did 'think different'. For a lot of people, this was underwhelming. This was certainly against the general line of thinking, or rather the general line of expectation.

Thing is, everyone has a concept in their head of what is 'game-changing'. Well, everyone in an internet forum likes to think so. We're all nerds, an we all have pipe dreams of the ultimate device. But unless any of us make that device, that's all they are. Do you honestly think those things are an exclusive pipedream of us geeks? But truth of the matter is, there's also reality to deal with. Look at the crunchpad - nerd dream device. So simple, and even that had difficulties. It's one thing to dream up an idea and another to make it reality.

A lot of those dreams tend to be on the 'more, more, MORE!' side of things. Let's combine this with that, and put this in kind of deal. Apple have traditionally 'thought different', and actually gone in different ways. It's worked for them. The iPad is not all it could be, but I think that's part of their vision - they see where they want this device to be, and geek pipe dreams aren't where it starts. Perhaps it's where it ends up, just not where it starts.

They want it to be in everyone's hands is the first supposition. To do so, they need to start it simple so EVERYONE understands it. They expand upon that vision once everyone else understands. You could argue that it's a fluke that this reasoning has worked, but lightning has struck int eh same place so many times for Apple.


It's not that we don't see merit in a super device (any number of devices in yours and our heads), it's perhaps more that we see merit in this one. This one is real, and it's coming.
it's a giant ipod touch with software that maximizes the larger screen/resolution, backed by a giant app store and content distribution network that prints Apple millions each quarter. that's it. to get so philosophical over something so simple is a bit silly.
 
560pad.gif


Oh and what to do if you get clammy hands?
 
scola said:
I want to make sure I am not stupid. Is the aGPS only on the 3G version of the iPad? I was confused by how it said "Wi+Fi + 3G" after. Would be a bummer that you couldn't use something like the tom tom or another app that actually includes maps in it if you opted for the Wifi Only model.

Thanks for the clarification in advance.

Yup, GPS only comes with the 3G version. It's assisted GPS, so I think it needs the cell tower radio? At any rate, I guess apple just don't think a GPS device without connectivity is worth it - after all the GPS app they choose to come with requires an internet connection.

MrPliskin said:
Honestly, this just makes me want a WebOS enabled device of similar size. Badly.

You know, it will be interesting to see market reaction to this. It's possible other companies are laughing as hard as GAF is right now, but it's also possible that they will jump on the bandwagon too and make touch tablet devices based on their own mobile OS - then you'll all get your multitasking and there will be rejoicing.

npm0925 said:
I'm sold. The instant-on functionality of an iphone with a processor and display much more suited to web browsing. I will be selling my Macbook and my Ipod Touch and picking up the low-end device as soon as it's available.

I'm pretty sure that's why Apple made this device.
 
Marty Chinn said:
Editing a spreadsheet is nothing like taking notes in class. You're not even comparing something similar. I don't think either are ideal for school to be honest. They're extra costs that won't take to most people. I think Apple missed an opportunity to create something that is both fun and productive and could move people away from netbooks and not require them to have both a tablet and a laptop. You honestly think what I said wouldn't have been better than what we got? You don't think what I said would differentiate it from the other devices? You don't think what I said would cause potential merit for someone only to need a tablet and not a laptop in school?
I think they can show somebody taking notes in class in a tv spot, if that's what they think they need. The story doesn't begin and end today.

That said, no I don't think you have to show Johnny taking notes in chemistry class in order to sell iPads.

I think you show someone using Pages against a white background with a nice piece of music and the audience gets it.
 
scorcho said:
it's a giant ipod touch with software that maximizes the larger screen/resolution, backed by a giant app store and content distribution network that prints Apple millions each quarter. that's it. to get so philosophical over something so simple is a bit silly.

Actually, I agree with this too. Perhaps even more so. Just wanted to up in some thoughts into response about 'game-changing'.

I just like saying stuff :(
 
MrPliskin said:
Honestly, this just makes me want a WebOS enabled device of similar size. Badly.

That would be interesting.

This year however, we'll see plenty of Android Tablets. And next year, we'll also see some ChromeOS ones hitting.
 
The browser is disappointing. I want a real browsing experience on this device.

I want to be able to download and upload files, extensions and Add-ons, custom style sheets, and yes, I want flash.

Without any of those things it's not a "real" web browser, it's the same experience you get on your cellphone but with a larger screen.
 
mrkgoo said:
Yup, GPS only comes with the 3G version. It's assisted GPS, so I think it needs the cell tower radio? At any rate, I guess apple just don't think a GPS device without connectivity is worth it - after all the GPS app they choose to come with requires an internet connection.



You know, it will be interesting to see market reaction to this. It's possible other companies are laughing as hard as GAF is right now, but it's also possible that they will jump on the bandwagon too and make touch tablet devices based on their own mobile OS - then you'll all get your multitasking and there will be rejoicing.



I'm pretty sure that's why Apple made this device.
It's not a choice they made. The gps module is on the 3G chip, unless I'm mistaken.
 
Jtwo said:
The browser is disappointing. I want a real browsing experience on this device.

I want to be able to download and upload files, extensions and Add-ons, custom style sheets, and yes, I want flash.

Without any of those things it's not a "real" web browser, it's the same experience you get on your cellphone but with a larger screen.

Does it support true tabbing?


Tobor said:
It's not a choice they made. The gps module is on the 3G chip, unless I'm mistaken.

So deciding to go with that particular chipset wasn't their choice?
 
Jtwo said:
The browser is disappointing. I want a real browsing experience on this device.

I want to be able to download and upload files, extensions and Add-ons, custom style sheets, and yes, I want flash.

Without any of those things it's not a "real" web browser, it's the same experience you get on your cellphone but with a larger screen.
that's the biggest problem with the device. you get a screen that large with performance/specs that closely mimics a full-fledged pc/laptop, and the limitations hit you like a brick in the face. can't multi-task, can't run flash, can't utilize custom javascript/css on sites, can't download the occasional torrent in the background, etc.

egad!
 
Tobor said:
I think they can show somebody taking notes in class in a tv spot, if that's what they think they need. The story doesn't begin and end today.

That said, no I don't think you have to show Johnny taking notes in chemistry class in order to sell iPads.

I think you show someone using Pages against a white background with a nice piece of music and the audience gets it.

Maybe you haven't been in a classroom in awhile, but a device like this in its current state would require you to look down at it more often than not and that's not ideal. Most people are paying attention to the professor and the board with the occaisional peak down. It doesn't work in its current state. Without functionality like that, you really take away the feasibility of it doing well for selling textbooks to students because I think for a device like this to have any success at the college level, you need to start aiming it more at making it a replacement for them from buying a laptop. A netbook can do this, the iPad can't.
 
Raistlin said:
That would be interesting.

This year however, we'll see plenty of Android Tablets. And next year, we'll also see some ChromeOS ones hitting.

That'll be pretty cool.

I think the iPad has a lot of potential, but Apple is going after the wrong market at the moment. They need to first sell this to the business market IMO. I think the casual market is more than content with their iPhones and iPod Touch sets, the need for a big bulky device that doesn't do the same thing their laptop does easily just doesn't make sense.

Now, if this device had some multi-tasking, with a business focused road map (to include things like voice to text, etc), I think it has a great place to thrive easily. Corporate offices would eat this alive (hell they probably will anyway). I just think as they've positioned it now, it looks like they want to sell it to existing iPhone / iPod Touch users.
 
Remember when Windows 7 Starter was going to limit it to only run 5 apps at a time? Apple did it one better! :lol :lol

(As a Windows fan, I was soooo glad Microsoft didn't go with it - was cringing thinking about the Mac vs. PC ads it would result in)
 
Marty Chinn said:
Maybe you haven't been in a classroom in awhile, but a device like this in its current state would require you to look down at it more often than not and that's not ideal. Most people are paying attention to the professor and the board with the occaisional peak down. It doesn't work in its current state. Without functionality like that, you really take away the feasibility of it doing well for selling textbooks to students because I think for a device like this to have any success at the college level, you need to start aiming it more at making it a replacement for them from buying a laptop. A netbook can do this, the iPad can't.
OEBBs.png
 
My initial reaction after seeing the unveiling was MEH - but the more I think of it the more I want one. Being able to just browse the net, listen to podcasts/music or watch a few videos without any component (fans) noise would be nice. I already have an iPhone, infact I'm posting from it ATM - but i would live a bigger screen.

The apps designed for the ipad exclusively will eventually give the unit more of a reason to be purchased. For me atleast.

Edit: imagine this thing jailbroken? :D
 
Marty Chinn said:
Maybe you haven't been in a classroom in awhile, but a device like this in its current state would require you to look down at it more often than not and that's not ideal. Most people are paying attention to the professor and the board with the occaisional peak down. It doesn't work in its current state. Without functionality like that, you really take away the feasibility of it doing well for selling textbooks to students because I think for a device like this to have any success at the college level, you need to start aiming it more at making it a replacement for them from buying a laptop. A netbook can do this, the iPad can't.
You missed my point again, and I'm getting bored with re-iterating, so I'll ask you a question instead:

Why are you so wound up about college note taking? It's only one segment of who they want to sell this to, and they're predisposed to Apple products anyway.
 
I think I've found the perfect word to describe this: smartbook (it's already a thing but that didn't stop netbooks)

I've seen it a few times now and it's exactly how I think of it. It's almost a shame Apple didn't play up the book/e-reader side of it more.

I think trashing netbooks then showing something that does less for more wasn't a good idea. That really seems to be hurting it in the reviews I've read. Everyone is comparing it to a netbook (becuase Apple did)

Maybe Apple should've taking a step back with what they had, tried to carve out a niche first then slowly crush the competition.
 
SolidusDave said:
I really don't see the benefit of this device / something which can't be done with other devices available.
Maybe if you really want a tablet PC but even then you have some options already, though probably it will have some nice and easy-to-use software with for viewing photos etc. so people will be all over it.


Why not buy a netbook for 300€/$ (including build in camera, bluetooth etc. etc.) and you can do anything you want with it, it's a small portable PC.

I'm using my Eee/Seashell 1005HA PC Netbook all the time. In the lab, reading papers in the tram/train, working on pictures/results in Photoshop, Excel and so on. Plus of course all thinkable entertainment media available including flash ;)

Also, how do you e.g. write texts/emails on the iPad while not having a table etc. or if its uncomfortable to look straight down on its monitor? I can place my netbook on my legs (sitting) in a full tram and still can write fairly good/fast with all fingers on the (actual) keyboard while seeing the monitor clearly at the same time.
The ipad is more a device aimed at consumption than production. Looking up recipes while in the kitchen, pulling up a faq while playing a video game, reading a book, watching a video, listening to a song, etc. It seems like it does those things more conveniently, if not better, than a laptop.
 
CaptainABAB said:
Remember when Windows 7 Starter was going to limit it to only run 5 apps at a time? Apple did it one better! :lol :lol

(As a Windows fan, I was soooo glad Microsoft didn't go with it - was cringing thinking about the Mac vs. PC ads it would result in)

:lol

D4Danger said:
I think trashing netbooks then showing something that does less for more wasn't a good idea. That really seems to be hurting it in the reviews I've read. Everyone is comparing it to a netbook (becuase Apple did)

That is what is bugging me. Apple and their fans have been trashing Netbooks for awhile now. The iPad does less but cost more and they are calling it amazing. I just dont get it.
 
numble said:

I'm sorry but did Apple invent new screen technology where you can actually feel the keys because without it, you're going to have to be looking down at the keyboard a lot.

Tobor said:
You missed my point again, and I'm getting bored with re-iterating, so I'll ask you a question instead:

Why are you so wound up about college note taking? It's only one segment of who they want to sell this to, and they're predisposed to Apple products anyway.

Because without it, students are going to use their laptop. I'm in firm believe unless it can replace the laptop, for the price they're asking, it won't fly for students buying two devices. It's just not financially feasible for the masses.
 
My stupid brain is convincing me that this product would be boss to have when I'm traveling.

I'm trying to tell my brain to shut the fuck up and just pony up for the new Macbook Pros that are coming. :lol
 
Marty Chinn said:
I'm sorry but did Apple invent new screen technology where you can actually feel the keys because without it, you're going to have to be looking down at the keyboard a lot.

Um, when typing or writing you usually have to look at the screen/paper occasionally. So if you are in a class, sometimes you are looking at the professor, sometimes at your note taking area. How is this different really?
 
Gary Whitta said:
I hope someone is keeping tabs on some of these posts so we have nice crow-eating thread a la Avatar in a few months' time :lol

Me too, but in the other direction.

I have no problem with the people who want one, or for whom it is a good fit-- I just don't think that there are that many of them out there.

I am a big fan of Apple, but I call this a dud. At least this rev of it, we'll see if they make changes to make it more appealing to more people.
 
PhoncipleBone said:
Um, when typing or writing you usually have to look at the screen/paper occasionally. So if you are in a class, sometimes you are looking at the professor, sometimes at your note taking area. How is this different really?
for one, the angle of the screen, which combined with the glass surface would make your life hell if there are ceiling-based light sources.
 
PhoncipleBone said:
Um, when typing or writing you usually have to look at the screen/paper occasionally. So if you are in a class, sometimes you are looking at the professor, sometimes at your note taking area. How is this different really?

Touchscreen typing is slower, requires constant attention, and is less precise. This isn't really debatable; you're not going to have the speed and accuracy of a device with physical feedback.

Tobor said:
I just watched a guy edit a spreadsheet with ease using only a finger. If you can't figure out it's better than a Kindle for school after that, you weren't going to buy one no matter what.

A couple of good TV spots and it's all good. You're overthinking it.

Being able to do something and being able to do it well are two entirely different things. I have no doubt that you can enter data into a spreadsheet using your finger; I have high doubts about whether anyone in the business world that is used to dealing with serious, large Excel documents that are full of complex formulas will have the same experience.
 
Marty Chinn said:
I'm sorry but did Apple invent new screen technology where you can actually feel the keys because without it, you're going to have to be looking down at the keyboard a lot.
Most people still look at their screen areas while they are typing; I'm in classes everyday.
 
PhoncipleBone said:
Um, when typing or writing you usually have to look at the screen/paper occasionally. So if you are in a class, sometimes you are looking at the professor, sometimes at your note taking area. How is this different really?

Because when I'm writing with a pen/pencil, or typing, I have to only take a quick glance down every once in awhile. Less often while typing because I have tactile feedback. Without the tactile feedback, I'm going to have to keep looking down to make sure I'm actually typing what I think I'm typing. It's about how often you're going to keep your focus on one over the other. You should be spending most of your time watching the professor and the board notes, not paying attention to what keys you're hitting cuz you can't feel where home row is.
 
npm0925 said:
The ipad is more a device aimed at consumption than production. Looking up recipes while in the kitchen, pulling up a faq while playing a video game, reading a book, watching a video, listening to a song, etc. It seems like it does those things more conveniently, if not better, than a laptop.

I can understand that, but I actually used my netbook for all of this as well ^^
The photo stuff and so on will probably be more convenient to use but on the other hand e.g. anything involving a web browser should be more convenient on devices like a netbook.

IMO, Mac OS + something like a removable clip-on keyboard (which would also function as a cover for the screen) would make this 1000 times more interesting (well, the price would still be quite high..).
 
Seriously...someone make an iSketch app and make trillions of dollars.
Straightballin said:
I understand there is no multi-tasking, but surely you can listen to music while you browse the web?
Assuming it's like the iPhone, yes, yes you can.
 
the more i look at it. the more I see that Jobs did not have multi-tasking on the device because iPhone 3.2 itself did not support it. Why? Because iPhone 3.2 is primarily to be on iPhone 3GS which cannot multi-task by design. I think iPhone 4.0 Hardware AND Software will allow multi-tasking
 
RubxQub said:
My stupid brain is convincing me that this product would be boss to have when I'm traveling.

I'm trying to tell my brain to shut the fuck up and just pony up for the new Macbook Pros that are coming. :lol
Be a good apple fanboy and just do both. You know you want to.

And I'm with Marty. Not ideal for school in current iteration. At least not over a laptop. I'm sure people will use it anyway. That said, i don't see that it needs to be perfect for that niche. Certainly it had the chance to be, but oh well.

It doesn't have a full web experience, but I'm about as base as you get (safari, no plugins, well except flash), and I manage fine, so the device is fine for me.
 
Karma said:
:lol



That is what is bugging me. Apple and their fans have been trashing Netbooks for awhile now. The iPad does less but cost more and they are calling it amazing. I just dont get it.

Thats how Apple fans are. They are delusional. I brought up valid criticisms and got called a hater and told to stop "talking shit".

It's hilarious.

Like I said before. Tablets are the future. But this one is a laughable gimp joke. It could sell like hot cakes but it doesn't change the fact it's inferior to a Netbook in almost every possible way.

Put a legit computer OS on it, up the capacity, allow multi-tasking, give me USB/SD, make flash useable on it, allow ram swapping and I am sold.

Launch one that allows you to install your own OS of choice (Dell, HP someone) and includes the features above and I would drop a good amount of cash on it.

The Ipad is just, well not worth it right now when you can get a sleek, portable, light netbook with 9 hours of battery life, more power, capacity, features and ram for $350-$400.
 
mrkgoo said:
Be a good apple fanboy and just do both. You know you want to.
It's tough because Macbooks to me are just as portable. It's really only when using it does the thinner and hand-held form factor really come into play.

...I'd much rather have a new MBP as it stands. I still don't have one of the unibody models and if the next iteration comes with upgraded graphics cards, I'm pretty much in ASAP.
 
RubxQub said:
My stupid brain is convincing me that this product would be boss to have when I'm traveling.

I'm trying to tell my brain to shut the fuck up and just pony up for the new Macbook Pros that are coming. :lol
You mean the i5s?
 
Marty Chinn said:
I'm sorry but did Apple invent new screen technology where you can actually feel the keys because without it, you're going to have to be looking down at the keyboard a lot.



Because without it, students are going to use their laptop. I'm in firm believe unless it can replace the laptop, for the price they're asking, it won't fly for students buying two devices. It's just not financially feasible for the masses.
This is our fundamental disagreement. I don't believe, and going by Steve Jobs own words during the presentation, Apple doesn't believe that the iPad is or needs to be a laptop replacement. It needs to be what it is, a supplemental device. An e-reader when you need one, a web browser when you need one, an appliance that can run all of the apps you bought for your iPhone on a bigger screen. It's just a cool device.

Is it the computer revolution? No. Are nerds raging? Yes. Does the general public care about nerd rage? No. Will they see ads for it and want to buy one? We'll see.
 
mrkgoo said:
Be a good apple fanboy and just do both. You know you want to.

And I'm with Marty. Not ideal for school in current iteration. At least not over a laptop. I'm sure people will use it anyway. That said, i don't see that it needs to be perfect for that niche. Certainly it had the chance to be, but oh well.

Anti-Gloss screen is my main issue in that case.
 
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