It is only fitting to write a blog on the new iPad on the day of its release to the public. Described as a "magical" piece of new technology by Apple's one and only Jony Ive (Senior VP of Design), the iPad bridges a gap between consumer electronic products, the gap between a laptop and a PDA or cell phone. However, is it a necessary product? Hear what banker, Jon Byron has to say. “I can do everything on my MacBook Pro, cellphone and BlackBerry,” Mr. Byron said. “I don’t need any more devices. I already have six phone numbers and enough things to plug in at night.” Though this is only one consumer's opinion, it seems to be the thought process for many. This is a first in it's product type launch and as is the case with all first generation gadgets, it will have it's flaws. While it is a neat piece of equipment and very capable, I know that I do not see the immediate need for it.
Brad Stone of the NY Times describes the purpose of tablets as this: "Tablets are intended to allow people to watch video, browse the Web, play video games and read books, magazines and newspapers everywhere they go without the bulky inconveniences of a full-fledged laptop." With this said, I'm sure new uses will be added to this list, just as new uses for the iPhone were invented by a vast amount of developers. Apps will be created and adapted for iPad usage bringing a new multi-touch experience to you.
From the marketing perspective, looking at the iPad from a need/want angle, we will immediately see that this falls into the want category. Wants, which are derived from needs are relative to the consumer. Satisfying needs are more universal and akin to everyone. However, when you look at the iPad, you may ask your self the question, why would I want this if my cell phone and laptop already cover my technology needs? Time will tell us whether this new product will be adopted by mainstream consumers and time will also tell us if this new technology category is here to stay or just a passing fad.
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