Why the iPad (and Apple) continues to disappoint
23 May 2010
2
Previously, I had written about my decision to buy a netbook over an iPad. Having recently spent a week with a netbook and a few days with an iPad, I have not only decided my first instinct was correct, but I’ve also become increasingly disappointed with Apple. Here is what I’ve found through using these 2 devices.
The iPad is a beautiful and well made device—it’s sexy, that’s what Apple does. One thing is for sure, no one will be able to compete with Apple’s touch technology (at least not for quite a while). And the iPad apps are also one of a kind. I have an iPhone, so those don’t impress me too much. So, what is so bad about it?
It isn’t built for multiple windows
If you are anything like me, you have at least 3 (and usually many more) active windows open at one time—switching between one application to another and from window to window. Now, I know the iPhone os 4.0 is fast approaching which will be able to handle simultaneous running applications, but that won’t change my opinion on this one. I like to quickly bounce from window to window.
Take a task like researching a new electronic. Using Safari, you want to open cnet.com for editor reviews, youtube.com for video reviews and possibly amazon.com to read customer reviews (just to name a few). On the iPad, this task is slow and cumbersome. It doesn’t function like Safari on your computer—it doesn’t have traditional tabs. You have to click to open the dashboard of open windows, click one and repeat. Why don’t they just add tabs? It’s not like the iPhone—there is space for this.
Built for entertainment
The iPad is really built for entertainment—things like playing games and watching tv. Yes, you can read email (again, I have an iPhone) and you can use apps that serve as utilities. It just feels like it’s a device that’s built to keep you from every having to be without a screen.
No flash
Flash isn’t something that I’m always dying to see, but it just feels like a childish battle between Adobe and Apple.
Storage space
64 GB (the most expensive option) is just not enough—and there is no way around this. I’m a huge fan of things like box.net and dropbox, but Apple has set up file upload limits for these online storage apps. Knowing this makes me doubt the addition of a usb port anytime soon. Apple, it seems, would rather you spend the money to upgrade your entire device (or be forced to have to constantly edit your storage choices).
Conclusion
I’ve never doubted Apple. I’ve never been anything but smitten with any of their products. But, as they start to rule the trendy application market, they have become increasingly snobby limited. Their products are the best in their category—and they know that. Things like the iPod, the iPhone and the iPad are all far superior to their closest competitor.
Who is the iPad perfect for? People who don’t need anything but email and internet. The apps are a huge bonus. If you regularly use a powerful mac, and your work depends on it, the iPad is really just a frivolous purchase. Do I want one? Sure, if I have money to blow. But, it definitely can’t do anything my iPhone or MacBook Pro can’t.
I just feel like I’m in the middle. I’m stuck. I have decided on a netbook—but I do know that it won’t be near the product that Apple could create. But, then again, I can’t wait around for Apple. It doesn’t look like they will be producing anything like a netbook anytime soon. They have the Air (too much) and the iPad (too little). And it looks like they are happy serving those 2 markets. Apple likes to tell us what we need instead of giving us what we want. Gotta respect that, but it is frustrating.
2 Comments
James Smith João Pessoa, Brazil says...
“I agree. I have currently in my home, 3 Apple laptops and an iMac as well as a Windows netbook and a 10 y/o Windows tablet (Walkabout HH3). Any of these, even the old HH3 will do more than the iPad. True, the new touchscreen stuff is great, but what does it do that I am not already doing?
I think as far as the iPad has so many shortcoming, there’s a big worm in that Apple.”
Christian says...
“I love you guys, but don’t really agree here. That said, I have yet to purchase one. I’ve learned never to purchase the first gen apple products. Soon enough second gen comes out and makes me wish I had waited. This is purely business strategy for them. Your list of complaints will probably be addressed one release at a time. Purely because they’re a business and will make more money this way.
THAT said… I’ve been to so many business meetings in the past few months where business folks have iPads used for business. Presentations are quick and slick, you can hook up to a big display, and show a preso really nicely. But I agree with your list of demands. My biggest gripe is that they need to make it more of a device. Add a USB port for a flash drive, that would be one major improvement.”