[kevkrom]

It’s clear they called it the iPad because it’s like an electronic legal pad (OF PAPER!!!).

And it plays off of the "iPod" brand name that is now so ingrained int he public consciousness that it is basically a generic term to refer to an entire class of products (see also: Kleenex, Aspirin, and the once-ubiquitous Walkman).

Once people get over their juvenile snickering, they'll be lining up to buy 'em.

[LibertyRocks]

I didn’t even think of the iPod! You’re right about that... I actually think it’s pretty cool, and the name makes sense. I only hope the stylus/pen is easier to use than my daughter’s drawing tablet — my hand’s muscles seriously rejected using that as it was just awkward.

[Oztrich Boy]

I assumed the Apple guys are nerds.

PADD (Personal Access Display Device) introduced on Star Trek: The Next Generation, 22 years ago now (I feel old)