Apple Issues ‘The Game Changer’?

The media world is buzzing with the launch of the iPad but it will take some time to decipher if this new product by Steve Jobs and Co. is, in the American vernacular, a ‘game changer’. Jobs has already described his new product as “a dream” and this might not just be marketing hyperbole. The big question seems to be “isn’t this just a big iPhone?.” And when I was able to test-drive one a few days ago (friends in high places) that, too, was my initial reaction. But, after a few minutes I quickly realized, as is often the case, the beauty and execution of the device is pretty stunning.

I am an Apple user, but not a mega-fan, as many are (I don’t walk around evangelizing), so let me send that out right now. What I’m most interested in, about the company, is how they brand and market themselves (but that’s another discussion). When we get back to this device, what strikes me most is the way they have leap-frogged over the current crop of e-readers like Kindle. One of the new, and striking features of the iPad is the download store featuring books to buy, much like iTunes does for music. And the experience is wonderful. Apple has also apparently made deals with the biggest names in publishing (Penguin, Simon and Schuster etc.) which will make the book world very interesting indeed for the next few years.

So, is this a bridge between the smartphone and the laptop? Kind of. But it also offers a strangely unique experience. All of the Apps are there that you’d expect and web browsing, but the feel of it is different and the A4 experience isn’t a hindrance but rather something that feels right. My only reservation is the idea of sitting in a public park with a very expensive gadget on your lap. Can you imagine the spate of muggings that will occur in the next twelve months? I’ll wait ‘til they drop the price enough for the muggers to own one. Enjoy.