All the buzz around the tech world right this moment is how amazing the iSlate or Apple tablet or whatever it will be called will actually be. But let’s think about this for a moment, what do we really need to use this for? Every major selling technology category has a use and a well defined use at that: Desktop Computing is for everything and Anything, Laptop Computing started out for business people to do work on the go and turned into what Desktops used to be; for everything and anything, An MP3 Player was for listening to music on the go, a Cell Phone was for talking and communicating on the go, a PDA was for data retention and planning on the go. Sure, all of these things have started to blur into one, but for the most part they are their own separate categories (a lot of people have iPhones, but a lot of people have the free flip phone as well).
Let’s dive deeper, with the advent of video capable mp3 players, the psp, the iPhone, the iPod Touch and all those cool archos and cowon devices, video is now easily accessed on the go. And as mobile data becomes more and more popular, so is the internet. But there is a discord between the mobile device and the once mobile but now docked laptop.
For starters, It’s very convenient to have all your contacts, your music, favorite videos and pictures as well as the internet and some useful apps (navigation, games, wordpress, etc.) in your pocket, but doesn’t it stand to reason that when given the choice you would use your laptop for all of this over your mobile device? I love listening to music on my iPhone or checking facebook, but when I’m at my computer, wouldn’t it make more sense to open up my internet browser and itunes and do all of that with a nice comfy keyboard, a mouse, and a good amount of screen real estate? For those of you who’d rather use a mobile device rather than a laptop or desktop (I use my desktop whenever I have the chance because of now nice and big my 26in monitor is) you are in the minority.
Secondly, if you have a laptop in front of you while sitting on the couch watching TV (as I often do) apart from the occasional youtube clip while browsing, do you listen to music or watch a movie? If you do, why not watch it on that nice big screen tv you got? (I’m assuming your TV screen is bigger than your laptop screen) The only exception, is watching multiple sporting events, in which case. I understand. Regardless, what is the point of a TV if you’re going to watch everything on your 10-17inch laptop?
Thirdly, if given the choice, would you type a paper or long article (such as this one which is already up to 500 words) on a mobile (touch or physical) keyboard, or a laptop keyboard? I use my iPhone’s keypad to send texts and short emails and occasionally a blog post (read: last nights Jets post, under 50 words). Why put yourself on the fast tract to carpel tunnel by using a small cramped keyboard or tap out with your thumbs on a virtual one when you get a much comfier experience with a full size keyboard?
Now let’s examine this new tablet revolution. The iSlate (I’ll refer to it as that because everyone else does) is supposed to be a larger format iPod Touch. Right off the bat it limits it’s user base to solely the media consumers. No professional (ie. doctor, artist, videographer etc.) will use a tablet unless it runs a full fledged operating system such as windows or OS X or even linux (though on a smaller scale). now that they are out, let’s look at what a consumer (media level) would do with such a device.
Watch Movies: The most immediate draw of such a device would be to watch movies and tv shows on it considering it’s large size. Cool, I agree that it would do this quite well. But in what world is a large format media player ever a good idea? Think of it this way, Archos, while not having the brand cachet that Apple does has released some spectacular 7-9in tablet media players in the past. They do a reasonably good job amd attractively priced. Sure, you might say Apple has the power to will this to be successful, and that’s true but remember there was a time when Apple wasn’t too popular and the iPod was just a gimmicky as an Archos 7. Either way, while having such a device is cool it comes down to practicality. Having 1000 songs in your pocket is practical. Having 1000 songs plus some fun movies in your pocket is practical as well. Having 1000 Songs plus your favorite movies, pictures, apps and the internet in your pocket is the winning formula. Now: Having all of that in a device that is slightly smaller than your laptop…not very practical. why not just carry your laptop or instead of spending (the assumed $1000) on this device, upgrade to a nicer laptop. The macbook is the same cost and infinitely more useful (a full OS, a keyboard, a mouse, runs much more useful full size applications).
EReader: Consider this, your sitting at a mechanic while your car is fixed. A paperback is a great way to pass the time no? They’re light, compact, cheap and easy to hold (Just cradle it with your non-dominant hand and flick with the other). Now, you just bought your fancy iSlate and you’re in the same situation and decide to do some reading on the new Andre Agassi novel (a great book, btw). First off, at 10 inches you’re going to have to use two hands to hold it. And if the iPhone and iPod Touch are any indication, it will weigh a bit and if you want to sip on that free coffee they have in the waiting room: you’ll have to place the iSlate on the chair next to you, take a sip, pick it up and continue reading. Goodbye eating or drinking while reading, something that I think people have been doing for ages. So you get over all of that, a more pressing issue becomes evident; what happens if you drop it? Sure you could say that about anything, but it becomes heightened when you realize that it is most likely going to cost $1000 and have a glossy display and covering, I’ve had the iPhone slip out of my hand countless times and I’ve been lucky. With a screen 3x the size of the iPhone, how lucky will you be? Food for though eh?
Music: Really? Do I even have to go into this one? All I can say is that music while you browse or read is nice. But if you buy this for it’s music playing abilities, you’re even dumber than Apple thought.
Photos: Ahh, this is another category which is supposed to be “revolutionized” by the iSlate. All of your photos in this one device (like the iPhone and iPod before it no less) one question: Isn’t that what the TV slideshow is for? Sure large format photos are nice when a TV isn’t around, but that would mean someplace on the go, and wouldn’t something that fit in your pocket be more useful for on-the-go picture flaunting? And if you are taking it on-the-go, a laptop would do the same thing. Case in point…Carry them on an SD card or flash card, chances are any computer or TV you want to display the pics on has one of those on it.
Internet Browsing: True, the iPhone showed that browsing the internet is possible with just your finger. But the iPhone also showed that flash, is perhaps the most essential internet tool in the world. If the iSlate doesn’t have flash, kiss goodbye all useful websites and say hello to 10inch mobile browsing. And here’s the kicker, next time you’re on your computer (I’d assume right now) ask yourself, would browsing really be better if you could touch it? or is that mouse and keyboard combo just perfect? I know I’ve never had a “Man, I really wish I could forgo my mouse for my finger and my keyboard for..my finger!” Sure it works when you’re in a waiting room or when your out and you have an argument to clarify (Polyester WAS invented before Nylon!) but when you’re sitting on the couch, doesn’t a nub or trackpad work just fine?
Apps: This is silly. If the iSlate is going to run an updated iPod OS, how is that in any way shape or form more useful than desktop OS X? Apple would be better making an iSlate app for OS X, a sort of springboard for the full fledged OS that lets you quickly launch the most frequently used things (video, internet, mail, just like an iPhone) but can have shortcuts to things like word and Plants Vs. Zombies (an excellent game) and can always be hid in the background (like dashboard) and the real OS can be accessed. In fact, Apple should release an Snow Leopard release specifically for the iSlate that has this springboard instead of dashboard. Jeez, I amaze myself sometimes. That is sheer Brilliance. Apple, that was another bit of free IP from me at slapchopp.
So there you have it. This thing serves no purpose and is just a niche product. BUT Apple has the brand cachet that will make it sell in droves. You will see the people who wait in line for days, who will pay exorbantly for it on eBay if it is in short supply and those who buy it purely because it is an Apple Product. But Apple gambled on that once before, the Apple TV didn’t sell as well as they hoped because anyone with a brain realized that it was a piece of crap. So I think it will succeed purely on the hype (much like the iPhone, which is actually really good). And so I leave you with a conversation I had with a Apple-Goggle wearing friend of mine who is at times shortsided and very stubborn (I like debating with him lol). He defines the consumer Apple is looking for, someone who will blindly go into battle for Apple and buy something that might not be the best thing for him…For the record, he wants a Kindle as well, I told him nothing will replace the look, feel, and smell of a good paperback regardless of how many books it’ll hold (how many can you read at a time?) but that’s another post for another time.
I posted this on Gizmodo a little while ago (a few hours) and I don’t feel like editing it much, but the message is the same:
He Says: How convenient would it be to have a tablet that could access the internet, play movies and music, run apps and do word processing in something large enough that isn’t hard on your eyes, but small enough that it fits comfortably in your hands?
My Response: while having the internet is nice, sitting on the couch browsing can easily be done with a laptop and has been done for several years now. playing music? why would you if you’re watching tv? playing movies? again, what’s the point if you’re watching tv or a movie, why not just use the big screen in front of you? I also asked him if he’d really be wanting to word process with a touch screen keyboard. I have an iPhone so i’m used to using it but for texts and quick emails not a paper or anything.
He then goes on to say that you could attach a bt keyboard to it for when you need to type something long.
My Response was to say what’s the point of that? why would you carry a tablet and a keyboard regardless of how small it is?! and then you’d need a stand to actually prop it up so you could use it…like a laptop. I then proceed to say that the only practical use of a tablet would be if Apple created a touchscreen macbook of sorts with a full fledged OS X because even doctors use specialized applications that run in proper Operating Systems. This is why you see Convertible notebooks at hospitals so much. He doesn’t really agree:
He says: but the laptop form factor is dated and really can’t be pushed any farther. (I interject by saying, that’s because the laptop form factor is perfect) To which he says that Apple would never release something unless it pushed boundaries or something to that ideallic nature.
I then pointed out to him everything I just told you…He looked at me and said “I don’t know, I think it’d be perfect for me” Fanboys, what’re you going to do with them? Case in point: During this same time, I had another friend tell me how the sealed battery in he 17in Pro “Revolutionized” the way he thought of battery life. Really?? Again, another post for another time…
7 Comments
Comments RSS TrackBack Identifier URI
While I’m on board with many “everyone has to have Apple because it’s Apple” rants and some of these points are valid, I still believe these opinions are shortsided and premature. While Apple may just want the sales and I am a firm opponent to their pricing scheme, their thinking is what creates innovation that others may not realize.
I wouldn’t doubt at some point, someone said, “why do you need a small screen, and tight keyboard that costs twice as much as a desktop computer.” Sure, mobile computing in general is more understood than specific designs, but before internet and smaller components, there were people who questioned the need and cost of laptops. And, it was too expensive for most, but it has led to something we all rely on now.
So what’s the need for this tablet? I can think of many. As technical support for doctors offices in the past, I can see a need for a nice tablet. OS doesn’t really matter. If they run Cytrix or if it’s a web-based app which are becoming more common, it will probably be compatible. Entertainment? There are plenty of times that you may be able to sit and be comfortable and not have a TV in front of you. I could use a laptop, but if these become commonplace, why not have one instead? OK, for the keyboard. Well, you can use a BT keyboard, and I usually know when I’m going to need to do that. If I’m on vacation, or hanging out at home, it actually is more convenient to not pull out the mouse or fight with the small sized touchpad and buttons. And, for years, I’ve been looking for a tablet device for in-car internet/media and home control around the house.
So, I like the idea of the device. It seems your argument is more about Apple than the technology even though the technology is what you question. If it’s made by Dell, runs Windows (or Linux), and costs < $300, would your opinions be different. Mine would. I do think Apple's device will be expensive and I probably won't purchase it for that reason. But that's the issue. We don't know what it is or what it will become. The gimmicky iPhone/Touch have led a revolution of multi-touch, large-screen, internet-enabled mobile phones like Driod and Pre (which I was looking for long before and have depended on since.) They took a great idea from Apple and made it better and cheaper. Let's just see what comes and enjoy the results.
@ncg35
Congratulations, you are my first comment haha.
anyways, I value your input.
As I have stated in my article, I do own quite a few Apple gadgets (macbook, iPhone, various iPods, Magic Mouse, Keyboard etc.) and I don’t have any beef with Apple. I merely think that in trying to bully a new technology onto us, Apple is just pawning it off as a way to”revolutionize” another thing that we do.
Sure, your argument about a cheaper tablet, wouldn’t everyone? I love OS X and I use Windows and Linux all the time and have no qualms with either of them. But in today’s economy price is indeed a big factor. A 300 dollar tablet can co-exist nicely with laptops, A 1000 dollar tablet can only co-exist if the company behind it has the adoration of millions. I don’t particularly like the way Apple does certain things, but I have to respect the way they can manipulate people into buying their stuff.
And I do question the technology, I took everyone of the supposed main uses and broke it down to why a laptop will suffice. This is a frivolous device, that I do not think can be denied.
As for in-car media and around the house control, I could suggest plenty of remotes to control pretty much everything in your house (I have one from Universal Remote Control that controls my lights, my alarm, my two tvs, my ceiling fan, and my heating/cooling) And while I agree that an in-car tablet in place of a conventional deck would be awesome, at the supposed 10in do you really think that is how this will be marketed?*
*Although, it would be cheaper than most high-end car decks, i’ll give you that.
Feel free to reply and I look forward to your comments!
Happy Reading! -V
First, I must admit Ithat I’m surprised at the upbeat response. Many people take criticism (not that I was really criticizing) to their articles very personally. So I appreciate the positive response. It clarified your explanation of the original article.
Honestly, as minor as it may be, I think the thickness and weight is the biggest concern. There will always be a reason you want a 26″ over 17″, a 10″ over a 15″ and need a 3″ over a 10″. So, in that case, I think it’s good to have options. (Is a 10″ too big for a car? Depends on the car and purpose. I’d bet give it 30 years and they may be standard). I think your article would be more accurate if you were comparing current tablets (convertible) to the iTablet. It’s verticle and niche, but there are many conveniences to not having a clamshell design. If Apple creates the exact same device currently available, but it’s stylish, thin and fun, then it will be a hit. (As it would be with anyone else.) This is designer jeans syndrome and it’s not limited to technology. But there are justified complaints to carrying a 2″ think convertible with a fragile hinge.
Maybe my view for the mentioned items is to have more options for cheaper. I agree there are remotes for all items and they are cheaper than an Apple tablet I’m sure. But honestly, a $350 remote to just control some devices isn’t a much better value than a $700 “tablet/remote” that can also display video, conference calls, browse the internet, display music lists, check in your groceries (one thing I’d like to do with a “tablet”), etc. Maybe $900 – $1,100 is a bit high, but not as bad as we think. Your concern about the OS is completely justified, but iPhone Apps have offered a lot more than we originally thought. We can share files, control devices, communicate, browse, even transcibe speach (fairly well and for free). The large programmer base and low costs are a big attraction with apps. There are a lot of possibilities with that.
I think the biggest separator which you indicated is the touch aspect. Many people haven’t begun to think outside the box with this. PC’s were always limited with wires and keyboards/mice. You can’t feasibly hang a desktop or laptop on the wall for convenient and stylish access. The touchscreen, wireless tablet, just opens up the possibilities. Unfortunately, it takes Apple to make people interested. I’ve wanted this for years. I think the loweiring costs of touchscreen options and wireless internet have been the major restraints.
There is a device that fills this void for me. It’s called the Acer EeeTop. It’s
still a bit big & heavy and not as pretty as an Apple device, but for $450, built-in cam, touchscreen, wireless, and full-function PC allowing other options, it’s a great deal for innovation.
Overall, I think it just comes down to something new. The nettops, while good and bad, created a low-end device that allowed people to realize they can browse the internet and check email for cheap. A lot of people (including 80% of my acquantances) like that. Apple knows Asian companies will build low-end, cheap devices – a dime a dozen. They want to stand out and it has made them a lot of money. You really can’t blame them for sticking to their successful plan.
Good site, BTW. Keep blogging.
Hey! I would agree, the size of the device will be key. Apple is known for it’s slim design profile but weight has never truly been one of their strong points. Any device of substance (iPhone, Macbook, iMac, not iPods) have been on the heftier side. My macbook weighs 4 pounds, which it not terrible but some might say it is an issue, and the iPhone weighs a good deal for a smartphone. Don’t you worry though, this iSlate will be one good looking device. As for the convertible argument, most computers now adays have very fragile hinges (read new macbook) and convertibles are actually very slimming and good looking (look at the thinkpads, they are the best example).
As for the iPhone OS, yes they have made great strides with the software at hand but it is still limited by it. By jailbreaking, I can do all the things that most iphone users wish they could (most important of which is backgrounding and keeping a connecting active when the display is sleeped) I’ve come to terms with the OS for my mobile device (although I am now a bit bored with it), but for my do everything tablet, I’d much rather prefer a full fledged OS that does everything you mentioned (Apple has shown that they can artfully integrate layers of information on a desktop) and also allows me to tool around in the back-end. And for the record, the remote I have is 100 bucks
Though I also have a $500 remote for my home theater, but that was a bad purchase.
And I will once again agree that a touchscreen is a pretty nifty interface, I have one for my desktop. But I would not go so far as say that it can completely replace the mouse and keyboard. Though, if you really want to hang this on the wall then an iSlate might be just what your looking for.
I like that the eeeTop is a full fledged computer. I think that it is a little on the frivolous side true, but at that price point, I really can’t complain about it too much. And as you know, I really do commend Apple for it’s business strategy.
Happy Reading! -V
I have to agree. I can’t think of the point of the “iSlate” – I can’t imaging typing on it without a real keyboard and an angled screen.
I love tablet PCs -everything a laptop does and more. The handwriting recognition for note taking is great so you can use it as an electronic notebook. But, you have a full keyboard for typing.
The iSlate will sell though because lots of people have to buy anything new from Apple. And, you will see other companies (already seen!) coming out with slates.
All of your points are similar to what I have thought about this.
@Dave
Thanks for commentating!
It’s more that I can’t justify how much money you will have to spend for how much stuff you get. Sure, you get this really nice piece of kit that’ll definitely look great and will feel great because let’s be honest, apple makes a good product. But, how can you justify that for what it does.
I love tablets too, they really are that little extra. But without a proper Operating System, it really is just a novelty.
I will also conceed that there must be something said about the high price for art. Some people view high tech items as art pieces and thus they cost a lot. I hold this view when it comes to audiophile based audio equipment, but that’s really it. I use my MacBook because A) it is a capable computer B) I like being able to switch between OS X and Windows. The fact that it looks really well and is solidly built are bonuses.
Thanks for reading the blog, Happy Reading! -V
[...] Refer to My Previous Post on the Ridiculously Named “iPad” (iPaq anyone?) [...]