Replies

I really don’t think that the tablet format is a winner over the netbook or clamshell format, for the following practical reasons:

1. If you’re going to transport it you’ll want something to protect the screen, thus the clamshell wins - you don’t need to get some add-on screen protector.

2. If you’re going to use it to read an ebook or document, either on a table or on a chair or in bed, you’ll want something to hold up the screen so you have your hands free. With the iPad you have to get a stand - more expense and annoyance. Again the clamshell wins.

3. If you’re going to do any serious typing having a separate real keyboard and the full screen adjustable to any angle available for the document is far better than having a virtual keyboard taking up most of the screen, or having to fuss with an add-on real keyboard (extra cost and inconvenience).

In summary, apple would have had a real winner if they had come out with a smaller version of the MacBook Air with a touch screen and roughly the same price.

I’m sure they’ll sell a lot of the iPad given all the hype, especially at the beginning, but my prediction is that it will peter out and won’t be anywhere near as successful as the iphone. And eventually apple (or someone else) will come out with a “cool” netbook that will supplant the iPad and other tablets simply because it’s a more user friendly format.

I went to the apple store and checked one of the out. Sure it looks nice but after about ten minutes I realized it was a waste of 499.

First there are no USB ports or ability to share photos directly. This has to be done either through email or the computer it must sync with.

Second I personally like a keyboard got typing email and posting on sites like fr.

Third, its not really that big.

Fourth a decent netbook has vastly more capabilities and is half the price. I bought a netbook for 269 dollars w ten hours of batt life and can do anything I need w pc anywhere or any other business app I need.

Its a cool toy for entertainment only. But don’t get too excited. I cool thing though is that you can stream netflix videos.

you don't need to get some add-on screen protector

That's right, don't need one, it's called a carrying pouch.

you'll want something to hold up the screen

They're at the ends of my arms.

If you're going to do any serious typing having a separate real keyboard and the full screen

Those needs are why I don't have a netbook.

eventually apple (or someone else) will come out with a "cool" netbook that will supplant the iPad and other tablets simply because it's a more user friendly format

More user friendly than OS X, not happenin'. As usual, Stevie is a few moves ahead, and his "no USB port" looks a little too 'out there', but this is designed to be a mobile, wireless device. Also its margins are bound to be better than in netbooks, there are no substitutes on the market other than smaller mobile phones and clunkier netbooks, and 3rd party support (for services) is already in place. At least a few models of netbook will be sub-$100 by Christmas, but will not make money for their manufacturers, and won't be worth what the customer is paying for them.

[embed the "I could have had a V-8" ad right here]