The Apple Dilemma

I am not among the first to think that Apple has revolutionized the way that we think about mobile computing and devices. The iPhone and iPod are both revolutionary devices which have not only created their own massive market segments, but have also carved out a permanent niche for Apple in portable electronics. This being said, recently Apple unveiled it's latest creation, the iPad. At first blush, the iPad seems intreseting, seamless in it's integration and another wonderful device from Apple. However, upon closer observation, this illusion is simply that, merely smoke and mirrors. So why is the iPad leaving so many people (including dedicated Apple consumers) in the lurch?

First, in a struggling economy, price is is essential to marketing a new product. At $500 for the lowest level iPad (with very little storage and no 3G), this product is placed well above comparable netbook computers.

Secondly, with a device that supposedly is revolutionizing mobile computing, it would seem that functionality would be key to Apple's strategy in such an emerging market. The idea of a tablet computer with the processing power of a netbook is a great idea and could provide a solid source of future revenue, however, most netbooks run a complete operating system (Windows 7 starter or Windows XP). The iPad simply uses the same operating system that the iPod Touch employs with a few minor modifications. Therefore, you still have difficulty in installing productivity software such as Microsoft Office, as well as browsers such as Firefox and other useful programs that may not be included in the app store. This is neither functional nor practical.

Third, there is no built-in webcam or camera device at all on the iPad. This comes standard with almost every netbook that you can purchase.

Finally, 3G costs extra. As aforementioned, price is becoming incrasingly important to the consumer and the more that price climbs, the less valuable this device becomes. The over $150 you have to add in order to simply get 3G capability is a distinct disadvantage when compared with most cellular providers whom you can typically get a free 3G card with contract. Additionally, as an iPhone user, I already have to pay a hefty sum for the iPhone data plan and with the iPad, I will have to pay for that data again as an additional cost. This seems repetitive and rediculuous becuase with the other cell phone data providers, I can share my unlimited data with any other device via a usb cable (called tethering).

In summary, I found the iPad to be a promising thought that was poorly executed and lacks the power of becoming a major force in mobile computing (it is essentially a bigger iPod touch). You are much better off purchasing a cheaper (and better equipped) netbook.