Apple Finally Unveils New iPad, Tablet-based PC

Apple unveiled its latest invention, dubbed the "iPad" at a press conference yesterday and to millions of potential television viewers. So, what does the iPad look and feel like?

iPad: Hardware Details

Some suggest that the iPad is essentially an oversized iPhone with longer battery life and a larger screen.

And, unlike most laptops, netbooks, or tablet PCs, the iPad doesn't have a flip-top design. Instead, the iPad is merely a tablet, weighing only 1.5 pounds (about twice as heavy as Amazon's last Kindle) and comes preloaded with the standard iPhone fare, including Safari, Music, Videos, Calendar, etc. Its dimensions are about 9.5x7.4 inches, and in typical Apple fashion, it's a fairly well-built and comfortable device to hold.

The iPad's buttons also closely emulate the iPhone. It features a Home button near the top, a sleep/awake button, silencer, and volume controls. There's also a headphone jack, speakers, and importantly, a dock connector for hooking the iPad up to a keyboard.

The screen itself employs LED-backlit technology, and 1024x768 resolution display. The recent unveiling allowed reporters to load up several different movies, all of which looked vibrant on the device's touch screen. (Source: macworld.com)

iPad and iPhone to Share Apps

The main appeal of the iPad will surely be the number of apps available for the device; similarly, it's for the same reason why the iPhone has had such great success over rival firm RIM BlackBerry.

According to PC Magazine, "virtually all of the Apple App Store's 140,000 apps will work on the new iPad, either running them with pixel-for-pixel accuracy in a large black box or in full-screen mode." (Source: www.pcmag.com)

iPad: Initial Criticism

Main criticisms of the iPad tablet thus far include how the tablet will handle multi-tasking applications, and of course, how one will manage typing on the tablet.

Most notably, the device is simply too big for someone with small or average-sized hands to use their thumbs to type while holding the iPad upright. Sources suggest that typing even while hovering over the device at a table is tricky, too; however, company chief Steve Jobs recommended users try resting it in their laps. Whether or not this is going to be the most comfortable or desirable position for working away is a matter of debate.

Comparatively, using the iPhone's keypad took great patience at first but is beloved by many mobile users. It's certainly possible the same will be said of the iPad.

The iPad is expected to retail for $499. (Source: wsj.com)