Apple introduces us to the iPad

28 January 2010

Listen and download: MP3

iPad image from apple.com.au

At least a few of the rumours were true:  Apple did indeed unveil their latest portable device today. It’s not called the iSlate or the iTablet though.  It’s not being billed as an eBook reader either, although it does do that.  It might even give the Amazon Kindle a run for its money.  It’s the latest in a fairly unsuccessful line of tablet PCs but it almost needs a catergory of its own. Its called, simply, the iPad.  That’s a picture of it above.  And yes, it’s like a hotted-up version of the iPod Touch.  Or big iPhone without the phone.  It’s coming in March and it could signal a huge change in the way we think about portable devices and even personal computing in general.

Technology journalist and keen Apple-watcher Danny Gorog joined me earlier today to chat about this flashy new gadget, follow the MP3 link above to hear our conversation. Or read on for a summary of some of the more interesting media coverage.

Full coverage of the iPad unveiling in San Fransisco is provided at tech-news websites CNET and Engadget.  Engadget also wrap up their thoughts on the iPad with a special editorial, although the feeling overall seems to be one of disappointment.  Funnily enough the hype didn’t live up to the reality!

There’s more information about the new chip powering the device at Tech Radar and at APC Magazine. Ian Paul an PC World summarizes what we still don’t know about this new gadget.

The New York Times talks about how the iPad blurs the lines between devices and  Jonathon Green writes on the ABC’s opinion and analysis website The Drum about how Apple is “re-writing the business of communication and media” and that this device has the potential to transform the magazine and newspaper industries.

Finally Adam Turner, a regularly contributor to the Tech Stream, asks the question “Is there room for Apple’s iPad in Your Life” in his Gadgets on The Go section of the SMH.  As you can imagine there’s some interesting comments!