ipad??

Icyseanfitz

hey guys im just wondering what is the appeal of the ipad? im looking for some real opinions as to why it is in any way usefull.
To me it just seems like a big ipod touch - same os, same apps, same hardware i just dont get the hype around it

Dr_Teeth

http://www.apple.com/ipad/guided-tours/

Have a look at the guided tour of Keynote, Pages and Numbers. I think one of the things that excites people about the iPad is that it could represent a new type of computing device (though I think Apple is going to have to open the machine up a bit more for it to really take off).

Leiva

The iPad I think will be a massive success .
What Im pissed about is Apples decision to riddle the iPad with DRM. It's one thing filtering users through your servers and restrictions on a phone , but on Personal computer is another thing.
The iPad will be the first personnel computer to have all the restrictions that DRM brings on a phone , that's just wrong and goes totally against what Apple started off as been ( open platform for Devs)
Essentially speaking , from the release date of the iPad , if you want to develope anything for the iPad ( personnel computer ) you now have to jump thru all of Apples Hoops .That's just wrong in my mind.

I think the iPad looks the bizz , I will more than likely get one ( even after my rant) but I will hold off til gen2 or gen3.

cornbb

I like the iPod Touch and iPhone (so do millions of others too obviously) but obviously there's only so much web browsing, game playing, movie watching and book reading you can do on a 3" screen. The iPad sacrifices some portability to open up new possibilities - it will be far better for doing many of these things, while still being small enough to slip into a handbag or glove compartment and light enough to hold in one hand. You can fit more text, UI elements and fingers on the screen.

iPhone OS and a multitouch interface worked very well for the iPhone so why shouldn't Apple use them for the iPad?

I think the initial response from developers (who will play a vital role in how successful the device will be) has been fabulous. Look at a sample of what is available already, considering that the vast majority of developers haven't even been able to test their apps on a device yet: http://www.apple.com/ipad/apps-for-ipad/. At this point, I think the device is bound to be a success on paper (i.e. it will be profitable). Whether it will seriously change mobile computing remains to be seen.

As for the hype, some would argue that Apple have been making monumental changes in the way we use mobile computing devices, and that this is the next phase of it. Others would argue that it's largely down to the reality distortion field...

CivilServant

There has been no advertising done in the UK and Ireland so the average consumer won't know much at all about it, and probably doesn't even know it exists. Like Fry, Jobs, Forstall and Ive have already said it really is an experiential product. You have to hold it and try it out yourself. The larger screen size and more powerful processor opens up a whole new world of apps and ideas. This is just the beginning. I think most people don't get it because there is no reference point as to how you can use it and what you can use it for. Like Dr Teeth said, the guided tours are a good starting point.

Most people in the tech industry are fascinated by numbers, features and shiny doodads. The beauty of nearly all Apple products is they are so easy to use and really put the user experience at the forefront. Things that wouldn't bother a windows developer, having to press two buttons to achieve the same thing that can be done with one on a mac/iphone. Being concerned with smooth scrolling and the way you interact with an application. Windows programs can look like an aircraft cockpit in comparison. The iPad is a big iPod Touch and all the better for it, because you know how to use it immediately. You can feel right at home, and get to using the thing right away.

soundsham

article about ipad in todays examiner......

sorry cant find it online and havent time to read it yet:o

whiterebel

mixednuts wrote: »

The iPad I think will be a massive success .
What Im pissed about is Apples decision to riddle the iPad with DRM. It's one thing filtering users through your servers and restrictions on a phone , but on Personal computer is another thing.
The iPad will be the first personnel computer to have all the restrictions that DRM brings on a phone , that's just wrong and goes totally against what Apple started off as been ( open platform for Devs)
Essentially speaking , from the release date of the iPad , if you want to develope anything for the iPad ( personnel computer ) you now have to jump thru all of Apples Hoops .That's just wrong in my mind.

I think the iPad looks the bizz , I will more than likely get one ( even after my rant) but I will hold off til gen2 or gen3.

Apple have always been the complete opposite of what you put there. Closed systems, and for a reason. One of the main reasons I started with Macs 15 years ago, and stay with them today.

banquo

Want.

padraig_f

as others have said, the bigger screen will make the experience quite different. look at some of these apps:

http://gizmodo.com/5507569/gizmodos-essential-ipad-apps

and consider how much difference the bigger screen will make to them.

Icyseanfitz

thanks for all the great answers guys but if they keep the same price point that they have in america il be passing $500 for basic 16 gig, $800 for 64gig with 3g:( im broke

Dman001

The iPad has great potential, and as stated in reviews, it's the first device that you'd describe as a Living Room computer. It's the type of device that you can just pick up and browse the web, and just leave it down on the coffee table or pass it round to family and friend to show them your latest pictures and videos.

I'd love to have one for college, the iWork Apps look great. Only problem is that you cant connect it to a printer. Quirks like this would have to sorted for it to become a a netbook replacement.

kesey

Dman001 wrote: »

Only problem is that you cant connect it to a printer. Quirks like this would have to sorted for it to become a a netbook replacement.

Don't think you are correct there, Dman. You can connect to a wireless printer via your wireless network.

Dman001

kesey wrote: »

Don't think you are correct there, Dman. You can connect to a wireless printer via your wireless network.

Oh I thought that this may be a possibility, but I never looked into this. But this wouldnt really suit me, or many others I'd imagine.

gunnerfitzy

Or you could buy an similarly priced tablet with windows 7 like this one:

http://www.netbookreviews.com/acer-aspire-1420p-11-6-inch-tablet-announced/

I thought long and hard about the ipad and came to the conclusion that it really is just a big iphone. if you don't have an iphone then ok, maybe the ipad is a good choice. but iphone AND ipad? not for me.

Dman001

gunnerfitzy wrote: »

Or you could buy an similarly priced tablet with windows 7 like this one:

http://www.netbookreviews.com/acer-aspire-1420p-11-6-inch-tablet-announced/

I thought long and hard about the ipad and came to the conclusion that it really is just a big iphone. if you don't have an iphone then ok, maybe the ipad is a good choice. but iphone AND ipad? not for me.

The thing with Tablets is that they are expensive, the Touch Screens work badly and Windows wasn't really built for Touch Screen controls.

gunnerfitzy

Dman001 wrote: »

The thing with Tablets is that they are expensive, the Touch Screens work badly and Windows wasn't really built for Touch Screen controls.

Two different types of machines of course, however the Acer 1420p cost €500-600 - about that of a 32gb ipad.

Touchscreen is not as good as the ipad but in my opinion the versatility of a windows machine with USB, HDMI etc ports, vast array of software, flash enabled, webcam & option to use proper keyboard far outweights the smoother touchscreen interface of the ipad.

Rsaeire

I'm more and more turned off by the fact that practically all content, just like on the iPhone, has to be sourced directly from Apple. What about all the existing files people already have? Oh yes I forgot, Apple don't care, that's why they didn't include any additional connections such as a USB port or a memory card reader; it's not as if people would like to look at pictures taken by their digital camera on their iPad. Then again, there is an accessory for that. :rolleyes:

Also, a lot of apps on the iPad are more expensive than their iPhone equivalents. Why is that exactly, especially when the same amount of development time went into them?

As another user mentioned, Apple cry for "no DRM" and then continually act in such a hypocritical fashion and lock users down further and further in their own ecosystem. In addition, it's been rumoured that firmware updates, like the iTouch, won't be free, so Apple will make even more money. It's not as if they won't be making enough money from the sheer amount of already available accessories.

While I can think of a few ways in which I could use an iPad, the many things that I can't use it for, and actually would use it for, turn me off the device immeasurably. I do hope that Apple change their current approach to making and releasing almost finished products and then drip-feeding features with each iteration of device until it eventually meets the criteria most people initially wanted.

Even though a lot of people will be happy with the iPad in its current form, I'll be waiting for a more feature packed device before spending my money.

Rowley Birkin QC

Dman001 wrote: »

The iPad has great potential, and as stated in reviews, it's the first device that you'd describe as a Living Room computer. It's the type of device that you can just pick up and browse the web, and just leave it down on the coffee table or pass it round to family and friend to show them your latest pictures and videos.

I'd love to have one for college, the iWork Apps look great. Only problem is that you cant connect it to a printer. Quirks like this would have to sorted for it to become a a netbook replacement.

Like a netbook?

The Onion puts it better than I ever could.

Gummy Panda

The iPad videos people are putting up on youtube is making me interested. Pages looks good but then i came across Numbers. Looks great but you can't export to Excel unlike Pages which can export to Word. Lack of Excel export is going to kill that app.

Red Alert

I think Keynote will be where it's at - you could easily imagine using that app. I wonder will the PDF reader support full screen for showing presentations made in Beamer?

CivilServant

That didn't take long at all did it?

http://appadvice.com/appnn/2010/04/ipad-jailbreaked-day/

Leiva

CivilServant wrote: »

That didn't take long at all did it?

http://appadvice.com/appnn/2010/04/ipad-jailbreaked-day/

With all the rumours over the past couple of days i guessed something big was coming ... Will we see the untethered jb for 3.1.3 or not until 3.2 , that's the next guessing game .

whiterebel

Red Alert wrote: »

I think Keynote will be where it's at - you could easily imagine using that app. I wonder will the PDF reader support full screen for showing presentations made in Beamer?

Do presentations on what? I'd love something light like that to do carry around when doing presentations, but it doesn't seem to connect to a projector. Unless I'm missing something?

banquo

Apple sell an adapter that's designed for a plug-and-play style projector connection.

whiterebel

banquo wrote: »

Apple sell an adapter that's designed for a plug-and-play style projector connection.

My bad. Just checked out the specs.

redout

Who will sell the iPad in Ireland (mobile phone stores?) and will I need to get a contract if I buy a 3g model or can I just buy it seperate ?

kjl

well you people can get all the ipads you want, I have and LOVE my iphone, but come on the iPad will be nowhere near as good as the hp slate.

Leiva

Rsaeire wrote: »

I'm more and more turned off by the fact that practically all content, just like on the iPhone, has to be sourced directly from Apple. What about all the existing files people already have? Oh yes I forgot, Apple don't care, that's why they didn't include any additional connections such as a USB port or a memory card reader; it's not as if people would like to look at pictures taken by their digital camera on their iPad. Then again, there is an accessory for that. :rolleyes:

Also, a lot of apps on the iPad are more expensive than their iPhone equivalents. Why is that exactly, especially when the same amount of development time went into them?

As another user mentioned, Apple cry for "no DRM" and then continually act in such a hypocritical fashion and lock users down further and further in their own ecosystem. In addition, it's been rumoured that firmware updates, like the iTouch, won't be free, so Apple will make even more money. It's not as if they won't be making enough money from the sheer amount of already available accessories.

While I can think of a few ways in which I could use an iPad, the many things that I can't use it for, and actually would use it for, turn me off the device immeasurably. I do hope that Apple change their current approach to making and releasing almost finished products and then drip-feeding features with each iteration of device until it eventually meets the criteria most people initially wanted.

Even though a lot of people will be happy with the iPad in its current form, I'll be waiting for a more feature packed device before spending my money.

+1
But seen this beautiful looking "DRM jail bird" has now been jailbroken , and hopefully given some beautiful wings , it's making me think really hard about not waiting til 2nd or 3rd gen release .

My wife might not think the same ,made a passing comment about iPad , let's just say the same hypotetical bird was shot down :eek:

M

Red Alert

It's going to be sold unlocked only, so you can source one from wherever you want with no unlock required for the 3G radio.

Leiva

Red Alert wrote: »

It's going to be sold unlocked only, so you can source one from wherever you want with no unlock required for the 3G radio.

Is there no AT&T exclusivity in the States ?

Red Alert

They have a deal with AT&T for pay as you go monthly 3G wireless for it, but it's unlocked and you can stick any SIM you want into it.

Leiva

Red Alert wrote: »

They have a deal with AT&T for pay as you go monthly 3G wireless for it, but it's unlocked and you can stick any SIM you want into it.

Thanks ...:eek:
The decision and justification about getting an iPad has changed from:
Why I should get one

To

Why I shouldn't get one

Hagar

Apparently it can't multi-task, so no listening to music while you work on something else or post on Boards. Also still no ability to play Flash natively. Very short-sighted.

Leiva

69 wrote: »

Apparently it can't multi-task, so no listening to music while you work on something else or post on Boards. Also still no ability to play Flash natively. Very short-sighted.

Jailbreak & background .

Flash won't ever be seen on a Apple device . Besides HTML5 will be rolled out soon enough which will be the death of Flash .

M.

Hagar

mixednuts wrote: »

Jailbreak & background .

Flash won't ever be seen on a Apple device . Besides HTML5 will be rolled out soon enough which will be the death of Flash .

M.

I'll take your word for it but it still doesn't explain Apple releasing a product limited like that.

zekiel

I'm going to get one for one simple reason, I sit in bed at night and play with my iphone, apps, games, music, video's and always say to myself I'd love if this had a bigger screen... problem solved.

Chardee MacDennis

69 wrote: »

Apparently it can't multi-task, so no listening to music while you work on something else or post on Boards. Also still no ability to play Flash natively. Very short-sighted.

eh thats just pain wrong, no non apple apps can multitask but ipod can play in the background, safari can stream audio in the background too and mail never shuts too. so the exact same as an iphone...

with regards flash, its a steaming pile of poo, especially on apple machines - as a web developer i'm glad apple arent supporting it as it will drive the upgrade to html 5 much quicker now..

Leiva

69 wrote: »

I'll take your word for it but it still doesn't explain Apple releasing a product limited like that.

I hear yea , it's not Apple limiting products , it's Apple making you only use Apple products with all the poxy frills of DRM.

It's the No.1 reason why the Apple hack community is so strong , folks just wanna jailbreak their Apple devices to free the platform to a acceptable level .

Hagar

That'll teach me to listen to reviews on Sky News.

Daniel S

If only it had a few usb ports..... and OSX Snow Leopard :P

Leiva

mtb_kng wrote: »

If only it had a few usb ports..... and OSX Snow Leopard :P

They do a 15" version with a flip lid , leopard , multiple USB and camera .....
.... It's called the NETBOoK

Keano!

doubt i'll get one. dont see the need for one

Chardee MacDennis

mtb_kng wrote: »

If only it had a few usb ports..... and OSX Snow Leopard :P

get a modbook then...

http://www.axiotron.com/index.php?id=modbook

john__long

The general rule of thumb is:

If you don't see the use of it, you're not the intended market!

redout

I presume it makes more sense to buy the 3G version ?

Can I just stick my simcard in it and hey presto - internet access or do I need to buy a mobile broadband package ?

Rsaeire

But isn't the 3G version just too cost prohibitive? I mean, the cheapest 3G version currently available, if you're looking to import, is the 16 GB iPad for $629/€466; not including the associated tax and delivery to get it to Ireland.

As I said before, while the device has its uses, for that amount, plus the additional costs of content and accessories, it just seems like you're paying an awful lot for a device that doesn't do that much in comparison to similar computing devices either currently available or being released soon. At least with other devices you'd be able to make use of your existing media content.

cornbb

Rsaeire wrote: »

At least with other devices you'd be able to make use of your existing media content.

Bear in mind that most pundits predicted a price-point entry of around $1,000 before the iPad was announced. It's expensive, but it will definitely sell at the current price.

There's no reason you can't use all of your existing content on the iPad. People are talking like "DRM" will force people to buy everything all over again elsewhere. That's just not true. All your existing music (and videos once converted) can be used on the iPad. There are even dozens of ebook readers, in addition to iBooks, available in the App Store. You can only buy Kindle ebooks from Amazon, yet you never hear of people criticising the Kindle for being locked down...

alex73

I got my ipad yesterday from a friend coming back from States. Its 100% a larger itouch. For sure it will be a great sucess. Very easy to use. But for sure it will not replace the Laptop or PC. You can only run 1 app at a time. (so no multi windows open) plus you HAVE to have a Laptop / PC or Mac to be able to update your Ipad. Its a great book reader, Newspaper reader, video/Entertainment. I think it will be a great sucess, it will find its corner in the Market and people will buy it.

I think the price tag is too high. you are get a good netbook laptop for 300 euros. But I think Apple have a winner. Its far superior to an ebook reader I have seen so far.

gbee

I've the iPhone, so no great breakthrough for me. I've been looking for a notebook that does not weigh a ton, I've the TC4400 swivel digitiser ... fantastic .. but realistically too heavy to use whilst carrying it around.

Reviews already say that the iPad won't do what I want either, a nice gadget but for me it'd be something extra as I don't see it replacing anything that I have already ... so I'd probably be a bit slow in buying one ...

CivilServant

alex73 wrote: »

I got my ipad yesterday from a friend coming back from States. Its 100% a larger itouch. For sure it will be a great sucess. Very easy to use. But for sure it will not replace the Laptop or PC. You can only run 1 app at a time. (so no multi windows open) plus you HAVE to have a Laptop / PC or Mac to be able to update your Ipad. Its a great book reader, Newspaper reader, video/Entertainment. I think it will be a great sucess, it will find its corner in the Market and people will buy it.

I think the price tag is too high. you are get a good netbook laptop for 300 euros. But I think Apple have a winner. Its far superior to an ebook reader I have seen so far.

Pics or ....

Oafley Jones

cornbb wrote: »

Bear in mind that most pundits predicted a price-point entry of around $1,000 before the iPad was announced. It's expensive, but it will definitely sell at the current price.

There's no reason you can't use all of your existing content on the iPad. People are talking like "DRM" will force people to buy everything all over again elsewhere. That's just not true. All your existing music (and videos once converted) can be used on the iPad. There are even dozens of ebook readers, in addition to iBooks, available in the App Store. You can only buy Kindle ebooks from Amazon, yet you never hear of people criticising the Kindle for being locked down...

In fairness there's been plenty of criticism of the Kindles locked down nature, reaching a crescendo with the 1984 debacle a few months back. I still can't fathom why anyone would want the iPad as an ereader over an e-ink device - i cant sort of understand ezines but i'm not entirely convinced that they'll take off.