The Apple iPad is a touch screen device that many describe as a cross between a net book and a smart phone. While this is a bit true, it is also misleading. First off, unlike the Apple iPhone, the iPad cannot make or receive calls. And unlike net books, the tablet is not a mini-computer, but more of an internet reader –it even lacks multi tasking which is a basic and obvious necessity for net books.
Talks about potential exclusive deals for the iPad have been going around but many believe the possibility of another situation like the O2 iPhone lockdown is quite unlikely. While the iPhone is a product for an already existing smart phone market, the tablet market has yet to be established. In fact, it is believed that the iPad would be the device that establishes the demand and make people realize the need for such a device.
Exclusivity to a single operator for a month or two would be definitely disadvantageous to Apple; a move that they cannot risk if they want their tablet to succeed. As expected, Apple is currently in talks with both UK based mobile network operators and gadget retailers regarding the marketing of the iPad. More options would definitely mean better choices for consumers.
The Apple iPad is expected to arrive late this coming April and it will be available in both the 3G and non-3G versions. The US release of the tablet will be held much earlier by April 3, but only the 3G version will be available to the market. According to reports, the reason for the delay in the UK release could be linked to the recently announced problems with China-based manufacturers for Apple.
Get to know more about Apple’s plans for the UK release of the iPad at Mobile Today UK.
March 30th, 2010 at 9:52 am
[...] many Apple fans are very excited about the upcoming Apple iPad touch screen tablet. In some ways, the new device serves as a very specialized alternative to the [...]