Apple launches iPad

Over the last twelve months, the rumours have been rife as to what Apple will come up with. Stories have abounded on the net with regard to the 'new Apple Tablet'. What will they produce? How good will it be? How cool that it will rival the Kindle!

Yesterday, Apple announced their new product the iPad which is due for release in the next few months. Within moments of the launch, and for the next several hours, tech geeks and tech bloggers everywhere were quick to post their first impressions. A great resource when you're not willing to get up at 3.30am to watch the live streaming of the launch lol.......

However, I am disappointed with the naysayers..... I wonder if these were the same folk who rubbished the iPod and then again the iPhone? Somehow I think Apple's marketing will quash these doomsayers yet again!

The iPad for all intense and purposes looks like a larger iPod Touch, with many of the same capabilities. It will access the internet via wifi or with a mobile broadband USB. Like all 1st Gen products, this has so much room to grow. Capabilities for in the classroom, photo manipulation and lots of other wonderful possibilities with the touch screen are on the horizon. These products aren't launched without foresight. Apple knows where it's going, and we're just left to ponder, (or criticize whatever your inclination!).

Below is my post on a forum. I rarely post on geek forums, sometimes to ask questions, sometimes to answer them, but I rarely post an opinion. Below is what I wrote in reply to someone who was quick to point out the iPad's shortcomings. I was very interested to read that all the other positive comments like mine were from the women of the group.

I believe the iPad is aimed at a market not currently tapped. This device will suit people, who have not entered into the Apple arena as yet. For example, people who want an e reader, but wish to try an Apple product, may well be tempted to go this way. Just as the iPod Shuffle 'caught' people into the Apple web, I believe the iPad will capture the netbook/e reader market.

I have an iPhone, MacBook and an iMac, and have absolutely no use for an iPad, but I don't for one minute think that Apple doesn't know what they're doing. While this device doesn't suit my needs, I'm reluctant to join the chorus of people hasty to dismiss it's niche in the current market.

I believe the proof is in the pudding. Wait and see what happens with this product in the next twelve months. I think people will be surprised. Those in Geeksville anyway!