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Why the iPad will be synonymous with failure

January 28th, 2010 asv Leave a comment Go to comments


Its been 24 hours since the iPad was announced, and I have to say that with every tick of the clock, my opinion of Apple’s new device gets more negative. During the announcement, I wasn’t blown away, but I was positive. However; the more I started think about the iPad, the more I disliked it. Its really just an oversize ipod touch.

I thought Apple’s device would be a really strong e-reader, but sadly the Kindle is far superior. A backlight display is not preferable for reading, so Apple’s choice of an OLED screen makes the device a substandard e-reader. With the Kindle, there are no data fees, and there is infinitely more content, and to top it off, the books are cheaper too. So I have to have a monthly network access fee, to buy more expensive books, in a store with less selection, and I must read those books on screen that will strain my eyes? No thanks!

Photos, videos, and music all look very nice on the ipad, but why would I buy an iPad when the iphone/ipod already has all that functionality? The video display is better, but what is the actual use case for the iPad video? An airplane trip? If I’m in an airplane, I already have my laptop, so why bother with an iPad? Again, the more I think about it, the more the iPad doesn’t make much sense.

Finally, the one solid use case I had for an iPad is a living room computer. Something I could share with others in the house to check e-mail, browse the Internet, and carry on the road when I’m on the go. The lack of multiple user profiles makes the iPad a horrible option as a living room computer. Multitasking has existed on personal computers for 16 years, but the iPad wants to party like its 1989? There is no camera, there is no standard video out, and there is no usb port. No sane person would buy a computer that requires you to purchase a bunch of proprietary junk to have basic connectivity.

I’m the type of personal who can rationalize just about any technology purchase. I’m the guy in line to buy the new gadget the day it goes on sale. There is no way to rationalize purchasing an iPad in its current form. The device makes zero sense. It reminds me of the Macbook Air, a device for people who have more money than brains.

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  1. January 28th, 2010 at 21:29 | #1

    The annoying thing is that it is so very very close to being truly compelling. A USB port plus the software to print, use USB mass storage devices, and connect to digital cameras would make the iPad a full fledged computer, instead of an accessory. How many business users spend almost all their time in an office suite, emails, and calendar. They could do all that, but they'd also need to print. How many home users do nothing more than email, web, and digital photos. If they could connect their cameras they would be set. Going on a trip? Keep the keyboard packed in your luggage and use the soft keyboard for tapping out a few quick emails or twitter posts. Sitting down to work on your thesis? Pull out the keyboard and type away.

    I probably would not buy one for myself. My work in technology requires me to use a much beefier laptop. But I could certainly see a device like this as great for my kids, my wife, my parents. Here's hoping an Android based vendor learns from Apple's mistake.

  2. alexvalentine
    January 28th, 2010 at 22:03 | #2

    Agreed, its very close. A USB port, HDMI, multiple users, and
    multitasking would make me really excited about the Ipad.

  3. January 30th, 2010 at 21:36 | #3

    “The lack of multiple user profiles makes the iPad a horrible option as a living room computer. “

    maybe it will though.
    http://img49.yfrog.com/i/rr9h.jpg/

  4. alexvalentine
    January 30th, 2010 at 22:32 | #4

    Once I see a login screen, I will be convinced.

  5. January 30th, 2010 at 23:35 | #5

    sounds good.

  6. January 31st, 2010 at 02:36 | #6

    “The lack of multiple user profiles makes the iPad a horrible option as a living room computer. “

    maybe it will though.
    http://img49.yfrog.com/i/rr9h.jpg/

  7. alexvalentine
    January 31st, 2010 at 03:32 | #7

    Once I see a login screen, I will be convinced.

  8. January 31st, 2010 at 04:35 | #8

    sounds good.

  9. August 2nd, 2010 at 20:37 | #9

    The ipad will not be synonymous with failure. It is truly one of the most ground breaking piece of technology produced to date. It does exactly what is was designed to do so why don't all of you complainers go back to your parents basement, light up your electronic cigarette and take a break.

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