About 4 years ago I paid a brief visit to the mac rumor mill only to find a new batch of speculative whispers proposing an upcoming tablet computer by Apple. Following some much needed research into the significance of this rumor, I was able to discover why this item would not only be a great new product, but would also revolutionize the personal computing industry. At the time my understanding was that there had been one major generational upgrade. When the personal computer was first introduced, the keyboard was the primary mode of control and the user interface was solely based in text. The first shift came with the introduction of a Graphic User Interface (GUI) and the mouse as a companion input device to the keyboard. For the first time, users were able to graphically control their computer. As I read the tablet rumors, I was struck with awe at the concept that we were literally on the verge of a second major shift in personal computing. By introducing the tablet computer, we would finally be able to cut ties with the limitations of keyboard/mouse computing. I was thrilled to see that Apple was the company that was going to officially propel us into the future. While other tablets have come and go, none of them have been able to successfully "make a go" of the new technology because of, what I believe to be, one flaw... lack of a functional multitouch system. After 4 years of rumors, concept art, and wild speculation, Apple delivered a press release that hinted at a major product release that was likely to be the tablet. Excitement began pouring out of the pleasure center of my brain and commenced filling me up with an adreneline-like energy.
On the day of the keynote, however, all of my pent up excitement was disappointedly deflated. While I was hoping for a "game changing" tablet device that would literally change world history, all I was left with was the iPad. Now don't get me wrong, I believe there is a market out there for the new device and I honestly believe it has incredible potential. With that being said, I feel the need to quickly take a moment to discuss a few of my concerns.
Problem #1 - It's just an extra device.
The Man-god-Jobs stood on the stage and wielded his omnipotent powers to proclaim to his cultish following that they had created a new category product that bridged the gap between the Notebook market, and the iPhone/iPod Touch market. I believe this proclamation to be FALSE. The question is this: If I have my Macbook Pro in one hand and my iPhone in the other, what technological feat could I possibly have that is not satiated by either device? What possible need would I have to tote around BOTH a notebook AND iPad?
Problem #2 - No camera
Since the Man-god-Jobs' announcement, there have been a number of sources that indicate that the iPad has space and architecture built in to support a camera. Screen shots of the user interface indicate that it should have a camera. Why didn't Apple include it? Was it simply a cost saving move? Could you imagine the possibilities if they had included it? Business users and general consumers alike could use the camera to video chat NO MATTER WHERE THEY WERE. The potential uses would have truly made the iPad a wonderful tool and literally could have convinced me I needed one.
Problem #3 - AT&T
'Nuff said. I grow weary of them in so many ways. My secret desire is that Apple's drunken stupor will wear off and they will realize exactly who they are in bed with. As their eyes slowly peek open and the sunlight begins pounding on the sloshed leftover remains of their brain, they carefully roll over with desperate hopes they will be able to go back to sleep. As soon as the light is no longer beating on the lids that were set to cover their sensitive retinas, they venture out one more time to peek at the clock only to realize that something.... no... someone is in the way. A quick assessment is done to see if they can remember what they did last night but the siren call of the leftover slosh is deafening. All they know is that they have a massive hangover and they are laying next to this guy. (President of AT&T). If I had my way, Apple would realize the err of their ways and bolt for the door while exclaiming, "sorry baby... I have a meeting I have to get to." My hope is that one day they either open the discounted 3G offerings to all wireless carriers or at least move to a more stable one.Take-Home Message...
While I'm devastatingly unimpressed with the iPad in its current state, I truly hope that the second generation will be a dramatic improvement and that the iPad will be able to realize its full potential as a game changing product.
I'd love any comments you have to make. What is your opinion of the iPad? Is it a success or will it be an absolute failure?
