Ok, so I’ve had this iPad for a month now. Has it brought about unalterable changes in my life?
Not quite, but I’m still very happy with it and can see how it’s already altering some things about the way I work and manage my life.
And, of course, there are the things that need improvement but I’ll get to that later.
Starting with the good stuff, the hardware itself is outstanding, solidly built with an excellent display. Those who complain about the glare are right but it hasn’t been a problem, especially since since I don’t plan to use it in direct sunlight anyway.
There have also been reports of wireless problems but that’s hasn’t affected my unit. I’ve had no difficulties connecting and staying connected with a good strong signal. I don’t regret not getting the 3G model (and another bill from AT&T).
As to the software, some claim the iPad is just a big iPhone and I suppose there’s something to that. But the extra screen real estate makes a huge difference for many applications and the Phone OS on the iPad is excellent, very fast, very responsive.
So, what’s in need of upgrading?
I’ll join the chorus of those screaming for multitasking. It doesn’t bother me not having it on the phone but on this new format it is essential. We’ll see if Apple really does get it right when version 4 of the OS arrives in the fall.
I especially want to leave a browser page open while I switch to something else without it having to reload when I come back to it. Very annoying.
The other apps I’ve got are good or very good but none rise to the level of excellent yet. Some of the developers seem to have a good understanding of how to create software for the iPad and their stuff just needs a few tweaks.
Others? Well, it’s a good thing they were free. Except for Keynote which is rather disappointing for the price. Hopefully they will fix the problems in an update or two.
I was going to add a list of the apps I’m using to this rant but it’s running longer than I planned so maybe I’ll post that later in the week (if anyone cares).
Finally, the virtual keyboard on which I’ve been typing this is really quite useable, very good even. I’ve become rather adept at four-finger non-touch typing.
Hi Tim,
I care!
Seriously, I’d like to know what apps you are using – and your impression of the iPad for students.
Thanks,
Doug
The biggest thing that is standing in the way of using it as a really productive device is the lack of an ability to upload files from the iPad to the cloud. The DropBox app allows you to download from your DropBox account to iWork, but not back… I know the iWork.com thing is a solution, but come on… MobileMe? DropBox? Those have to be two-way for it to be really useful, or else it isn’t really the device I need.
Chris is exactly right and that lack of ability to connect with outside storage is one of my big disappointments with using Keynote on the iPad. The only way to get presentations on and off the device is by physically docking it with iTunes. That makes no sense considering all the emphasis Apple is putting on wireless connectivity. Maybe the folders in version 4 will correct the problem.