The apple i-pad

[bigfoot3000]

Is this just a touchscreen computer? Looks good and the apps seem to be the main selling point. What are your initial thoughts on this?

[LeMarchand]

Over-priced and over-hyped. Another triumph of marketing over substance.

[237SJ]

Met someone last night who was playing with one. It was lightweight and great for travelling. She was raving about it. It was her husband`s and she was not interested but once she got her hands on it she wouldn`t give it back (the ipad that is)

[TTG]

It's a good piece of kit to show off technology but that's all. I don't need one.

[4getmenot]

so how does it connect to net? Is it all wireless or do you have one huuuuuuuge sim card?

[LeMarchand]

Apparently it can help you pull, though: http://www.edibleappl...-device-chick-magnet/

[rojash]

"Is this just a touchscreen computer?"
No, it's a touch-screen fashion accessory

[bigfoot3000]

Lol@rojash so you don't think that all laptops will end up looking like the i-pad? I think they will.

[4getmenot]

well I wouldnt want to carry it about anywhere

[hc4361]

No usb port so can't connect keyboard, external dvd player, camera, camcorder, ipod, mp3 player, usb headset......
Doesn't support Flash, so no gaming or video
No card reader, so you can't see your photos
No camera or webcam
Doesn't support multi-tasking, so does one thing and one thing only at a time

The worse thing for me is the size and shape. It's too big to operate with one hand, you have to use two hands to watch a dvd unless you either prop it up or sit hunched over your lap.
If you carry it about you will need some kind of cover, otherwise the screen will get scratched.
It's too big to slip in your pocket.
I'd much prefer a fully functioning netbook, which is just as portable but far more practical.

[ethandron]

we're seriously considering one, just looking into it all at the moment so am very interested in all your comments too.
we have a 'proper' computer and a laptop but feel an i-pad would be very useful with all the travelling we do, would use it for email and browsing. better than an i-phone for us as that's too small, and smaller and neater and therefore more portable than the laptop. we're looking for something that will connect to either wifi or mobile phone network and doesn't have the worry of viruses, firewalls, etc. seems the i-pad fits the bill. going to an apple shop tomorrow to have a good look.

[Mattk]

I think it looks cool but it strikes me as a very over priced netbook. sure it does some fancy things with apps but frankly i don't care!

I may reconsider when v2,3 or 4 arrive!

[bigfoot3000]

Sounds crap hc4361!