The long awaited Apple version of the “tablet” has arrived with the announcement today of the new Apple iPad, set to hit stores in April of this year.
Much like a glorified iPod Touch, the Apple iPad sets a bar above and beyond the typical new tablets. Apple’s CEO Steve Jobs unveiled the new gadget today, explaining that this new launch is an enhanced combination of a smartphone and laptop.
Construction
Experience this and more on its large Multi-Touch screen, measuring 9.7 inches. With a high resolution, LED-backlit screen, the crisp display allows for an impressive 178 degree viewing angle, with perfect colour and contrast in any light. The touch response has been re-engineered, and the large surface makes it easy to do exactly what you set out to.
The bonus of tablet computers is their portability, and the iPad is no exception. At just 1.5 pounds and 0.5 inches thick, it’s easy to take everywhere you go – and we’re sure there are a bevy of slick cases on the way. For those who are always on the go, they’ll appreciate the ten hour battery life and built in 802.11n wireless network, as well as an optional 3G model when Wi-Fi isn’t available.
Inside, there is also an enhanced, custom designed A4 chip allowing for extreme productivity – this is combined with your choice of a 16, 32 or 64GB flash storage, for your collection of files, photos, movies, apps and more. Although it seems to be lacking specific connectors (such as a USB), it does include a 30-pin dock connector. And the built-in speakers allows for movie watching and music listening with ease (headphone jack is included).
Built In Apps
The new iPad can easily run about 140,000 apps available at the app store. It also comes with many of the applications that we already know and love.
Safari: You can make your way around the Internet using your finger. Clicking, pointing, scrolling and zooming has never been easier on the enhanced touch screen.
Mail: Compose, read, delete and send your emails in all of your favourite mail programs. Use two orientations – portrait or landscape – to view and organize your inbox to your liking. Photos: The high resolution, LED-backlit screen lets you see photos in a whole new light. Zoom, edit, email and organize with a new software that makes your iPad into personalized, portable album.
Video: Any kind of movies will make the cut, including television shows and podcasts. The picture completely fills the screen, keeping distractions at bay and letting you enjoy. It also includes a YouTube app, so videos are easy to find and watch.
iPod and iTunes
Your music awaits, organizing your songs by their information. Simply tap to play a song, and listen through the speakers or headset – letting you take your music anywhere. You can also buy your music (or videos) from iTunes right from your iPad.
App Store and iBooks
Keep boredom at bay with about 140,000 apps and loads of new books. The LED-backlit screen display allows for reading in dim lighting, and the loads of choices will keep you busy during long flights, nights in or boring meetings. Five of North America’s largest trade book publishers, including Penguin, Harper Collins, Simon & Schuster, Macmillan and Hachette, have signed as head suppliers of the new iBook store.
Notes: Those who love Stickies will love pnote taking on their iPad with its large, on-screen keyboard.
Calendar and Contacts
Just like on your Mac, Calender and Contacts are easily organized, keeping all your information at the touch of your fingertips. One thing we’re not sure of – but would be ideal – would be easy syncing with your Macbook.
The Environment
We also love the eco-ness of the upcoming iPad, designed with specific features to be earth-friendly. This includes a mercury-free LCD display with arsenic-free display glass, as well as being completely BRF0free and PVC-free. It is also made of a recyclable aluminum and glass enclosure.
What Its Missing
We’re surprised that the iPad doesn’t include a camera, wireless sync, and multitask abilities – but we’ll await to see how these might come aboard.
The Cost
The Apple iPad Wi-Fi models are set to launch in late March 2010, and the 3G models in April 2010. For the Wi-Fi versions, pricing starts at $500 for 16GB version, $600 for 32GB, and $700 for 64GB (US Dollars). The 3G is a little sturdier at $630 for 16GB version, $730 for 32GB, and $830 for 64GB (US Dollars). International pricing and availability will be announced at a later date.
Specs
Size/Weight
Height: 9.56 inches (242.8 mm)
Width: 7.47 inches (189.7 mm)
Depth: 0.5 inch (13.4 mm)
Weight: 1.5 pounds (.68 kg) Wi-Fi model; 1.6 pounds (.73 kg) Wi-Fi + 3G model
Display
9.7-inch (diagonal) LED-backlit glossy widescreen
Multi-Touch display with IPS technology
1024-by-768-pixel resolution at 132 pixels per inch (ppi)
Fingerprint-resistant oleophobic coating
Support for display of multiple languages and characters simultaneously
Capacity: 16GB, 32GB, or 64GB flash drive
Processor: The Apple iPad is powered by a 1GHz Apple A4 custom-designed, high-performance, low-power system-on-a-chip
Battery and Power: Built-in 25Whr rechargeable lithium-polymer battery
Up to 10 hours of surfing the web on Wi-Fi, watching video, or listening to music
Charging via power adapter or USB to computer system
See more at http://www.apple.com/ipad/specs/
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bha ka January 27, 2010
Well, I must say that I might have fallen in love…should I wait until April for the 3g model? Cant wait….
zach January 27, 2010
It doesnt come with 3g
Bob January 27, 2010
The version released in March does not come with 3G, however, like bha was saying he was waiting for, the model released in April will include 3G connectivity, with a killer data plan with AT&T, as well as it will be completely unlocked so you can just stick a SIM card in it and it will work on another network.
TJ January 27, 2010
This is just an oversized ITOUCH with the same iphone OS. whats new. 9.7 in screen and a ebook reader. ooohhhh wow
Al January 27, 2010
This is the stupidest most expensive piece of crap ever. Be honest. Lets put away our love for everything mac and see what kind of con game they are trying to pull. $500 for a big ipod touch. In fact in some ways it falls short of an ipod touch. There’s no camera yet. So that means no video chats or picture taking.
They are blatantly trying to develop something to kill the kindle and to take over a new market. I understand how this is important from a business standpoint but I feel like for the first time Apple has fallen short of creating something impressive. They didn’t introduce any new feature or anything we haven’t seen. It is to me a slap in the face as a consumer that they are basically saying our product is better, hipper, and worth more because its a mac.
If you already own an iphone or an ipod touch, or a macbook 13″ what new features are you going to use? This is just a kindle killer – that is all. On to the next product. They didn’t even update the iphone or anything else that was rumored. Apple finally slipped up and made a business move without being good enough at fooling us consumers into absolutely NEEDING a new product.
Justin January 27, 2010
What I don’t get, is Steve Jobs saying this is the most important thing he has worked on… I totally think the iPhone is the most important, not this large iPod Touch.
Eliminator2099 January 27, 2010
It can´t be the most important thing that he had worked on, i think the most important thing for apple its the iPod, then the iPhone and in last position the iMac. that 3 things save the company… and really make a difference.
GENGHIS7777 January 30, 2010
I think you misunderstand the rationale for the product. Until now, computers need a certain amount of training, tweeking and TLC to work.
There are lots of people who don’t have smartphones, or have computers that they don’t get the full value of because they are just too complex.
Cars are a complex piece of technology but on the whole I don’t have to know too much to make one work. Computers should be the same.
The iPad is going to make it so that tons more people are going to enjoy more of the potential utility that can be gained from a computer heretofore only accessible to the technically literate.
I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to my friends and family who I know are technically challenged and either don’t have a laptop or are replacing a desktop.
KJW January 27, 2010
I think this device is primarily meant for reading. If your not the type of person interested in reading books, newspapers, and magazines via portable device than this is not for you. This is ultimately a luxury item, nothing more nothing less. Like the Ipod was a high end music storage device the Ipad is a high end book storage device.
Justin January 27, 2010
I totally agree with you that this is a luxury device at this point. Hopefully round two will have some basic ‘computer’ functions.
Joanne January 27, 2010
Any idea if this thing will tether so I can use it for internet and then hook it up to my mac?
Justin January 27, 2010
I highly doubt it, it looks like its just an ‘iTunes Money Machine’ to us at this point… but you never know. I mean, no USB, no tethering… lame!
Rocky January 27, 2010
I have already spent a fortune on apple products (I pretty much have everything) Seems like a great gadget. What it is is an over-sized iPod touch people. My only attraction to it (because I already have an iPod touch) is it’s size and if it has 3GS. I can use my laptop for wifi spots including home. But on the go, I need 3GS
Since I am a current iphone owner and ATT account holder…the 3GS on this device should be free…yes free. The 3GS coverage we already get with ATT is crap. Now those who have this product and purchase the #G version will further bog down ATT’s already miserable network. As if we didn’t have it bad enough!! Sorry folks, but I am not gonna shell out almost $700 for the ipad and another $30m a month to lousy ATT to get additional slow 3G coverage. I’ll just use my iphone for that….enough said.
Phil January 28, 2010
AT&T has a very poor 3G network, but it’s included in the iPad. If you want to use another 3G network you have to BUY an add-on. MAC look great but not worth the price and you can count on many upgrades and price cuts. I’ll wait for Dell to do something like the iPod.
Eliminator2099 January 27, 2010
i´m a very big fan of Apple i have bought a lot of gadgets from the company and im always excited about the new products, but this is just CRAPPP!! I can´t believe he can´t have a tablet with a full Mac OS like all the netbooks in the market that may not be beautiful but instead are useful!! with XP, Vista o 7 or even linux you actually can do serious work to make money what can you do with an iPad??? send mails? storage photos? listen a little music (i said a little because the storage is a joke!! 16GB my ipod touch has 64GB its the same size as the expensive iPad model!) ahhh and one more thing it doesn´t do anything that and ipog touch or an iPhone can do NOTHING… IN FACT AND IPHONE CAN DO MORE BECAUSE OF THE CAMERA AND THE SIZE!!
SALUDOS A TODOS DESDE MEXICO LASTIMA POR APPLE LA CAGO!!
Irene January 28, 2010
I am also disappointed in the news. I really wished that the IPad should have a different name like ITablet or ISlate, but oh well. On another note, I heard Steve Jobs stating that the Netbook was basically a cheaper PC and did really nothing for the consumer like the IPad will do. Yes, I agree that the Netbook is a PC and is a more simple device. But the IPad doesn’t even have a USB 2.0 so that consumers can use their device (with any carrier) as a modem. I mean I don’t want to use AT&T’s 3G Network. You all know why….:( So I would like to use my provider and be able to tether my phone so that I can get better coverage wherever I go. I don’t want to have to lug around a dock either!!!! I wish the IPad was and all-in-one. I understand it is not a laptop, but I think it should be a good competitor to the Netbook. I’m sorry Steve Jobs, the IPad kind of falls short in this area. Maybe next version will be better.
Maarten January 28, 2010
What i miss in the reviews is how this led backlit device compares to the electronic ink used in the kindle and similar devices. If the ebook, or ibook, part should be that impressive i wonder how it compares in that field. The electronic ink is very nice for your eyes.
Justin January 28, 2010
Honestly, I will not sell my Kindle at all… reading on the kindle is a pleasure, and the Kindle is suuper light!
No way I am holding up 1.5 pounds to read!
Max January 28, 2010
I can’t believe they couldn’t throw in a camera in this thing or wireless syncing. I would have to sync my iPad calender seperatly or connect it to a computer every so often. Anybody know if you can even print from this thing?.. Or actually use Microsoft Word on it? I know you can view word documents but what about print them and work on them. I was impressed at first but the more I learn about this thing the more I seem dissappointed.
Hem January 28, 2010
I come to know it is not a multi tasking machine (not sure)
Means is u r browsing Internet u cant run a song in background.
Justin January 28, 2010
Yep, pretty ridiculous!
Unknowneater January 28, 2010
I think it’s a good idea.. but the fact that it’s so limited in space so badly (only 64 gigs?!) how can it compete with the netbooks?? And no multi-tasking? Wow.. if it had more space, and had the ability to support non-USB charging, more space and a more flexible storage space
Philip Dahl January 28, 2010
I agree with most of the comments on here. Basic computer functionality would invite a larger range of users on the go. The mobile UI is going to be its downfall. iPad with an OSX leopard interface would invite designers to run native computer applications on the go and allow for a familiar multitasking interface, addressing the issue of being able to run music while chatting and writing emails. This would still be a plus for Apple since they know that more users are familiar with the iphone/ipod touch UI they could potentially ween these users into getting their high end hardware like an iMac or macbook. I was excited about this until I saw the ui and mobile safari without Flash capabilities will not allow me to have “the best internet experience” I can have.
In short, a tablet computer (with osx) would have been better then the glorified ipod touch. And I’d imagine the development of the software wouldn’t be too costly or hard to implement. The components are there, now open up the flood gates and give me touch capabilities for my familiar applications like Photoshop and Flash.
Justin January 28, 2010
Photoshop, and file management, huge mistake not to include some ‘basic’ computing essentials.
Kimball January 28, 2010
I think that this is definitely not one of the strongest offerings from Apple in recent years – so much so that I wrote an article about it on my blog:
http://www.kimballlarsen.com/2010/01/27/new-apple-tablet-is-announced-and-the-world-yawns/
Otty January 28, 2010
Another funny iPad “review” here: http://www.askdog.com/2010/01/28/where-can-i-find-apple-ipad-reviews/ Apple should not have over-hyped it…
Brandon January 28, 2010
If only it ran real Mac OS X instead of the locked down iPhone version.
I have serious reservations about letting apple decide what software I can and cannot run on a $500 device I paid for.
That being said. If at some point apple caves on that point and makes this an open platform, like android. I would absolutely buy this thing!
jbrish January 28, 2010
For all you haters out there, I don’t think you have even evaluated what the target market for this device is for.
I love apple and how it’s made my computing world a simpler place with form and function. I do own a 15′ macbook pro, iphone, ipod nano and everything that follows suit because it works and does what it was designed to do.
Now think of what the ipad is designed to do and who it’s intended audience is. Click on the link here http://astheria.com/design/why-the-ipad-changes-everything to read this full article and take in the ipad from a new perspective.
Cody January 29, 2010
What the iPad needs is more than just entertainment and user interface delights- it needs to become a TRUE tablet and get the Adobe Suite on board. That would be phenomenal. In the eyes of a designer, I want to use the tablet for more than enjoyment, and with all these beautiful new specs, it is very capable of amazing things. Not to mention that it’s a huge, huge opportunity for video game design. I honestly can’t wait to see where they take this concept next. Good luck, guys. http://ironandbone.wordpress.com
mandeep January 29, 2010
no flash , no multi tasking , no camera , … wd better wait for 2-3rd generation !!!!
Jef January 29, 2010
I’m a fan of the apple products, but surfing the net without flash …
Steve please wake up,
The ipad is nothing more than an oversized ipod touch, but you can’t put it in your pocket.
It completely misses its purpose.
When flash is integrated, I’m the first one waiting of the steps of the store.
Alchemy January 29, 2010
I’m surprised that so few people get this device.
Sure, Jobs saw an opportunity to exploit a market opened up by Amazon. Clearly the price was set to kill the Kindle DX – and it will.
The iPad can and will revoltionise mobile computing. As an iPhone user, the potential is obvious. Add iWork applications and you get a suitable mobile office – most people (probably not those commenting here) need very little power from their computers. The iPad provides what, I am sure, will be an elegant, powerful device.
Those who want a netbook or notebook will buy them. Maybe this is campus computer, maybe more, I bet it wins and wins big.
Al January 29, 2010
Apple has created so many revolutionary products it is about time the make a dud. What they needed to do is to update the mac book air and have the screen be removable like the Lenovo U1 tablet which can function as both a netbook and tablet. They would have murdered both industries if they had done that. The Lenovo concept would be awesome with an apple design.
Here’s the Lenovo tablet/netbook:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-5DYuVN6nuY
Gabriel January 29, 2010
Good day,
I’m in love with my Nexus One ( just updated yesterday -firmware- its so much better now the 3G & more faster charging time ) ( we still have the 2g iphone & 3gs but were using it as MP3 player in our cars – RIDGELINE & PILOT)
I called my friend who’s working on HTC in Houston – (he’s senior engineer-the best guy to ask about software & phones) ( USA-HTC repair center is in Houston,Texas )
We’re transplant from California – he worked with APPLE before & myself with Honda R&D and now we are in Texas ( hes in Houston, I’m in the best city in the USA – AUSTIN,TEXAS).
Here’s the big scoop guys, GOOGLE wants some share on HTC board & they will invest in the company for more products to be made by HTC for them, like the ultra advance tablet & more advance phones that is way better than the so called old technology ipad & iphone, who are just good in aesthetic appearance with APPLE logo on it (ill bet all my money that whatever piece of crap they will make, people will buy it because of the name APPLE) BUT if its EMACHINES that can do anything & will make your life happy, still people will not buy it because its EMACHINE, people did you get it???
Thats all for now…
Take care buddies & gurlies…
God bless ya’ll
Gabriel January 29, 2010
Good day,
I’m in love with my Nexus One ( just updated yesterday -OTA- its so much better now about the 3G signal & more faster charging time ) ( we still have the 2g iphone & 3gs but were using it as MP3 player in our cars – 09 RIDGELINE & 09 PILOT)
I called my friend who’s working on HTC in Houston – (he’s senior engineer-the best guy to ask about software & phones) ( USA-HTC repair center is in Houston,Texas )
We’re transplant from California – he worked with APPLE before & myself with Honda R&D and now we are in Texas ( hes in Houston, I’m in the best city in the USA – AUSTIN,TEXAS).
Here’s the big scoop guys, GOOGLE wants some share on HTC board & they will invest in the company for more products to be made by HTC for them, like the ultra advance tablet & more advance phones that is way better than the so called old technology ipad & iphone, who are just good in aesthetic appearance with APPLE logo on it (ill bet all my money that whatever piece of crap they will make, people will buy it because of the name APPLE) BUT if it is EMACHINES that even can do anything & will make your life easy and happy, still people will not buy it because its EMACHINE, people did you get it??? wake up!!!
Thats all for now…
Take care buddies & gurlies…
God bless y’all
Scott January 29, 2010
I think that Apple knows what it is doing. It would be bad biz to kill the momentum of the iPhone, it’s newest bestest product. They are not quite done bringing iPhone to the world so a separate “handier” netbook was the way to go. I am a programmer looking forward to what kinds of mobile apps I can bring to my clients that doesn’t require them to put both hands on a mini netbook keyboard or go blind on the 2×3 inch smartphone face paging and paging to get to the data. I’m sure that even the released version will be better than the one we saw at the kickoff event. Apple tends to play it’s cards close to the chest. I think that the iPad is made for the folks that need that size and the touch capabilities – like doctors and hospitals, schools, etc. Wouldn’t it be sweet to fill out a interactive form on one of these at the hospital instead of the mounds of paperwork you typically see?? It has a niche and the economy will sort it out soon enough. I will wait to see and touch one before I judge too much. I think more is on the way either from Apple or the secondary market (me!). Enjoy everything.
King February 9, 2010
Poor. Of course apple will make bucket loads of money on this but seriously no multitasking? Cmon
Erick February 10, 2010
I have looked at all the reviews and yes the IPad does not come with Java, a camera, or a few other features…but nothing is perfect right? I mean everything cam be improved. Personally i think that Apple intended to make the IPad without these features so they would be able to sell as many IPad’s as they can and then in the not to distant future come out with a new model with these features to make even more money…see Apple is not stupid, they know how to make money. This is a very clever marketing plan. The addition of Java and the camera as well as longer battery life will improve on the IPad so much that it will become a wiz on the revolutionary market. In my opinion i believe that the name “IPad” was chosen because it would obviously be made fun of by just about anyone but it will help spread the word for there product. The hit comedy “Mad TV’ immediately aired an episode with a video poking at apples very selective name for there new product and not only did it spike the amount of people searching very impatiently for the long awaited product from Apple. Be warned that the increased popularity of the IPad will most likely be a small but sure disappointment to consumers who buy this item. Given the amount of views on the reviews posted on YouTube, this item will not only sell out very quickly but it will most definitely be used in every day life. One very large problem with the IPad in the economy we live in theses days is that walking around with a expensive piece of equipment like this is a sure bet for thief’s and bully’s to target you and your devise. There is no doubt that this large yet slim idem will boost crime and there will very quickly be many disappointed people either crying over there stolen IPads, or carrying there IPads home in pieces. Apple is saying that the expected battery life will be approximately 10 hours…given the reputation on other Apple products, running 3D apps, and Internet browsing will most likely cut battery life in half to about 5 hours of use. I appreciate that Apple wants there new products light and thin, but if we have to sacrifice the amount of time we can use there products, I wouldn’t mind if there was a little more weight or a bit more thickness to ensure longer battery usage. All in all the IPads has so many expectations on what i can do and there is many things that can be done to improve this item. Hopefully Apple gets there updated models, and new products a little more shock and awe with better features, battery life, and to get serious on sizing.
Erick Donaldson, Age 16, British Columbia, Canada