Can the Ebook Reader Compete with Apple iPad’s Bite?
Are ebook readers about to be exchanged for the iPad? After the much-talked about launch of the Apple iPad, tech geeks are restlessly pacing the floor, anxiously waiting for the day when they can finally get their hands on this device. The iPad models equipped with WiFi are expected to be shipped by late March and the 3G models are to be shipped starting April. It’s no surprise actually; a person who uses Apple products are a rare breed, loyal and have stayed devout to Apple.
It seems like Steve Jobs still got his touch, coming up with a product that will be flying off the shelves, no doubt. Perhaps scores of Apple followers will meander in long queues at the nearby Apple Store, standing by for when the iPad will finally go on sale, reminiscent of the iPhone launch. But with all of the hype surrounding the iPad, will it destroy the popularity of other ereaders such as the Kindle and Sony Readers? So we can come to a conclusion, let’s take a look at the iPad closely.
The device doesn’t come cheap with prices starting at 499 dollars and topping out at 829 dollars, and why wouldn’t it be more than a bit pricey? Yes, the Apple iPad is an ebook reader but it does a lot more than that It looks like an over-sized iPhone, minus the phone functions. You can view high-def movies, stream TV shows, browse the internet, and play games on it. The humongous 9.7-inch IPS touch screen stays true to Apple’s high clarity standards. It is equipped with a storage capacity of 16 GB, 32 GB or 64 GB flash drive.
With such storage capacity, this device will obviously hold a library much larger than your average ereader. Books are cleverly displayed on a “book shelf”. You’ll simply tap the book you want, and enjoy reading it on a high-resolution, LED backlit display. While most existing iPhone and iPod Touch apps may be used on the iPad, special apps purposely developed for the iPad are expected to come out too.
Here’s a problem, however. The iPad will only be connected to Apple’s own ebook store, and these books are usually not compatible with the Kindle and other ereader market dominators. If you’ve got an ample collection of ebooks already on another ereader, you won’t be able to access them on the iPad. While it remains not confirmed as yet, word has it that iBooks are going to sell for 12.99 dollars and 14.99 dollars.
The Apple iPad is portable, lightweight, and most likely really fun to tinker around with. But if you don’t need all of the “other stuff”, the ereaders available now will do just fine. But if you are a true-blue Apple fanatic, then Jobs and his team have manufactured yet another exciting product for consumers. With amazing clarity and capabilities, you’re going to “iLove” this multi-tasking gadget. The Apple iPad will fit perfectly with your MacBook Pro, AirPort Express, Magic Mouse and iPhone.