iPad Finally Arrives! More than a Smartphone, More than a Reader..

After all the speculation and rumors, Steve Jobs launched what’s called the iPad,
the latest phenomenon from the Apple factory. Initial impressions are definitely driving
high amounts of expectations from the product as to how it might deliver to a new
segment of consumers – tech savvy, gadget lovers – who want to have various media at
their finger tips, on an ultra-light mobile device in an untethered manner! It definitely
seems like the iPad will deliver this – with the price point starting at $499 for a 16GB
device, going north to $699 for the max of 64GB for the WiFi model, there surely is an
opportunity for the product to be popular. The infusion of the 3G model in approximately
3 months from now will add flavor to the iPad, making it faster and more ubiquitous in
terms of connected usage. Although the pricing is about $130 higher than its WiFi sibling,
Apple understands the fact that the 3G would be a major pull for the die-hard fans –
those who will keep itching for the next three months without any complaints! The
actuality that Apple will have an unlocked version that can be used on other GSM carriers
goes to show that they believe this version will take off impressively.

This product is without-a-doubt coming out at a perfect time.  As many users are looking
to their smartphone as a way to manage their lives, update statuses on social networking
sites, browse the internet wherever they are, etc., the iPad will offer all of that in a very
aesthetically pleasing product.  Although the product may be too large for day-to-day
errands or business meetings, it’s perfect for students and frequent travelers who would
rather not carry around a large notebook everywhere they go.
 
Finally, Apple’s new iPad signifies another step towards the convergence between
smartphones and mobile computers.  It’s more than a smartphone, less than a notebook,
but just the right personal device for everyday users.  The iPad will likely be the best
selling electronics device of 2010.  Obviously, we feel that the predecessor’s behavior will
highly impact how the next generations of iPad will do. Till then we will keenly observe
the progress of Apple’s latest baby and keep watching this space for more on the iPad!

Steve Jobs demonstrates the Apple iPad