They are great machines for what they are but they aren't computer replacements and Apple (in my experience) don't sell them as such. The virtual keyboard is great for typing short things but I wouldn't want to type a thesis one one, they don't support Flash so sites with embedded video won't play on them (the BBC have their own app and iPlayer that do work though). All movies etc. need to be loaded via a connection to another computer via iTunes (just like an iPod), Google Earth is installable direct from the iTunes app store without another computer (as long as you are connected to the Internet, 3G is very slow for big installs though) Online banking etc. works well as long as you bear in mind that all options/items need to be selected by tapping on the screen, so AB for instance is a little tricky as hitting the correct topic on the left can be a little hit or miss. In general Macs, and iPads don't need antivirus software and suchlike as fewr viruses have been written to attack them, as they become more popular this may well change of course. In short I love mine but wouldn't have only it and no computer, plus the new version has been released and prices on the MKI have dropped by £100.