A few things that haven't been covered...
This review is from: Apple iPad 2 MC773LL/A Tablet (16GB, Wifi + AT&T 3G, Black) NEWEST MODEL (Personal Computers)
If you're considering a tablet, the only rational choice is the iPad 1 or the iPad 2. Anything else you there is too expensive/too buggy/lacking support/etc. As someone who owns a desktop but no laptop, the iPad 2 is just perfect. A laptop would often be redundant, though it would be handy for working outside of the home. With the iPad, I will use it all the time both in the home and elsewhere.I will try to add some comments that haven't been covered:
* I find that 16gb is fine, though this may change if app sizes get much larger. I don't intend to store my music or a bunch of videos on this. Videos can be streamed, or added as-needed, and I rely on DropBox to store files - it lets me view and edit files between my desktop and my iPad.
* Part of the reason the iPad is perfect for travel is that you can use it in any position, unlike a laptop, where you have to find a seat.
* It won't ever got hot or overheat. Personally, I've had a couple laptops expire on me due to overheating. You always have to keep them on a firm surface so you don't block the vents. The iPad doesn't have these problems (I think that the Macbook Airs similarly will never overheat). You no longer have to grab a tray or giant book to set your laptop on when using it in bed.
* Terrific value. All hype aside, the design, durability and capability of an iPad 2 is such that I would expect to pay much more. You can find a cheap laptop for the same price, and it will be capable of much more. However, the iPad will accomplish 95% of what you want to do on a computer, and will open doors (via apps) to new and totally unexpected experiences.
* Browsing the web is better on the iPad. At least, it often is. It's certainly better to take your iPad on the couch than to hunch over a laptop on the coffee table. Though the screen is small compared to a desktop screen, it's equivalent to working on a bigger screen because of how close you will be. Scrolling and navigating a webpage with your hand is a qualitatively better experience than using the tools we've become accustomed to (mouse, trackball or trackpad). I guess that's why sci-fi movies always depict computers with touch interfaces in the future. Moving the page around and adjusting the size of everything by hand never gets old.
* Just like with my iPhone 4, I rarely sync my iPad 2. I'm not a huge fan of iTunes. I can sync occasionally to back-up my apps. I don't use iTunes to manage files (again, I rely on Dropbox). Dropbox and Evernote are must-have apps on all my computers and portable devices.
* Safari can use some work. I prefer the tabbed browsing, not having to switch windows. There are some alternative browsers (I bought 360 Browser, which is good), but Apple won't let me select those as my default browser. I don't use Safari on my desktop, but even if I wanted to sync my passwords and history, I don't think it'll let me (it will sync bookmarks through iTunes though). I really wish Apple would loosen up so that Firefox or Chrome would be available, and that one of those could be my default.
* As cool as the smart cover is, I spent my money on a wireless keyboard instead. I really don't think the smart cover is going to make a difference as long as I take other measures to protect my screen. I may skip the HDMI adapter as well - it would be fun, but there is never a time that I will need to project my iPad on my HDTV.
In summary, if you think you'd like it, you'll probably love it. If you are just kinda curious but content with your current set-up, you can save yourself the money. For the same price, you can get an adequate laptop running Windows 7. I think this is a great alternative though.
The coolest computer product I own
This review is from: Apple iPad 2 MC770LL/A Tablet (32GB, Wifi, Black) NEWEST MODEL (Personal Computers)
So I held off getting an iPad until the 2nd generation - why? Because by the time I realized it was more than a 'silly' toy everyone was talking about the 2nd generation.I am VERY glad I did and here's why:
1. The 2nd generation is much faster than the original.
2. The design, while very similar is more sleek and lighter.
3. The cameras are a great addition.
Video Skype works great on this tablet - the cameras make showing people things FAR simpler due to the front and back placement.
Convenience - I take this to class and with the addition of a bluetooth keyboard I am able to easily take notes in class while carrying FAR less than my laptop in weight.
- The battery life is excellent! This thing can go for two days without a recharge! And that's with fairly heavy usage (try that with a laptop!)
- The app store is getting better all the time - there are plenty of applications that make using this extremely convenient without having to take the laptop around (it weighs around 1/5 that of my laptop)
- even if you bring the charger - it's far less bulky than the laptop charger.
This really is the future of mobile computing. The touchscreen is extremely responsive, the machine is very fast - wifi works extremely well.
The majority of my iphone apps work on this tablet.
The only issue I have is the reflective screen - I am not a fan of the reflective screen and have ordered a matte screen protector - not because I feel it needs protecting, but because I want to be able to read in various lighting conditions.
If you waited the first time - wait no longer - very much worth it in my mind.
Awesome for my small business!
Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: Apple iPad 2 MC987LL/A Tablet (64GB, Wifi + Verizon 3G, White) NEWEST MODEL (Personal Computers)
I run a small business installing high-end sound systems in large houses. For the past 17 years, my staff and I always had to carry a camera and pen/paper to take pictures and make notes when assessing a house for wiring it up. Wasn't the easiest because pictures were at one place (camera) and the notes at another (notepad).We had thought of using iPads earlier, but the lack of a camera made it just an extra piece of equipment to carry around. Well hello iPad 2 with front and rear camera! This has completely changed our business making operations far easier. It's only been 2 weeks so far, but it looks very promising. Trashed all cameras and notepads, and handed my 4-people staff team the new iPad 2s. Did my first assessment earlier in the week using my iPad 2 and just being able to click pictures and make notes right on it is so SO cool, and increases operating efficiency significantly. Plus, having an app to run panel demonstrations for customers right on the spot is priceless when it comes to making a sale. All notes are made right on the iPad itself and neatly stored away by customer name.
Often folks wonder whether one really needs the iPad. The commercial application potential for this device is so massive (think hospitals - doctors probably won't need to carry the lame forms any more, design teams, possibilities are endless). Mine is a very microscopic company and we are feeling the immediate benefit of this fabulous device and the apps, and what they can do for our business. Now on to the next challenge, finding a good app developer for a commercial app for our business. Any suggestions?
