Is the iPad hype justified? It never is, in my opinion, for a consumer product release. But there is something romantic about worldwide attention being given to innovation and invention (even if this is the second time Apple has attempted this).
Nethertheless, the top-line notes to take out of the official release are:
1. Apps – Apple is again one step ahead of Android (until the Android OS for netbooks is released) in multi-device transportability for apps. This is good news for developers and publishers. And to users who want to transfer apps bought on an iPhone or iPod Touch onto a newly purchased iPad. Expect more reach of apps to more people by more developers of more apps.
2. Read/Write – unlike Kindle, which is strickly a reading device, iPad is definitely a read-write device. In other words, the iPad is taking on the netbook (small web enabled laptop computer) market.
3. Gaming & enhanced graphics – this part of iPad is anti-Kindle and establishes a new level from where developer imaginations can run wild.
Speaking of gaming, check out the graphics in this demo video from the event earlier this morning. Impressive stuff.
If you are looking for more in-depth coverage, below are my favourite articles so far:
My colleague at Mojo/Myne Simon Morgan in Sydney writes about his Kindle and thoughts on iPad.
Mashable’s in-depth coverage of iBooks store.
Wired’s coverage of gaming on the iPad.
Kotaku’s coverage of gaming on the iPad.
