Well I got my iPad early yesterday morning and I've been using it now for the past 24 hours. I've had several client meetings yesterday and had the opportunity to start putting the iPad through it's paces. I will of course provide a more detailed review in a week's time - I don't think you can accurately comment on this device without really using it over a period of time. The unit I got was the 64 GB WiFi unit; still not available in Canada but I had it brought up from the US.
I've capture a little video of myself below where I talk about a few initial observations. Already I can tell you that this device will indeed change the consumption of content. While I was conducting a GoToMeeting working session where the participants in the meeting where viewing my screen, I was referencing other documents off of my iPad. I've got DropBox already installed and that basically gives me access to all my documents. I was able to open a number of PDFs and Excel documents right on my iPad without the need to interrupt what I was viewing/sharing on my laptop. It was an absolute joy to use. What struck me the most about the iPad, besides the sheer elegance of the device itself, is how it seems to fade away while you are using it. When looking at web pages, it really feels like you are holding that page and not some device showing you that page. I felt the same way while viewing PDF documents. The display and the feel of the device all make the consumption of content the front-and-centre aspect of what you are doing.
In short, after a full day of use, I can say that the iPad doesn't replace the laptop or the iPhone, but it does indeed augment them. People who rail against the iPad as not being up to the task of replacing a laptop have missed the point. It is a unique device that fills a need that has been unanswered for some time. I look forward to continuing to use my iPad and sharing my further thoughts on it as a business tool and a personal tool.
How did you get an iPad already? Did you go to the US? I was thinking of driving to Buffalo. Is that where you got yours?
Posted by: Sams | April 07, 2010 at 07:22 AM
Great overview. Can you do one with the camera a bit more on the iPad. The interface is so sweet. Would love to see more. Can't wait till they start selling them here in Canada. I'm hoping to get the 3G version, but would like to hear from you how the WiFi version is working out for you.
Posted by: Mark | April 07, 2010 at 07:27 AM
I would be very interested in knowing how the books are and how it functions as a book reader? Can you buy books yet?
Thanks
Grace
Posted by: Grace McDonald | April 07, 2010 at 07:37 AM
It would be great if you could do a review of some of the top business applications you think are of value. Enjoyed the video but would like to see more video of the iPad screen directly. Thanks!
Posted by: Richard O. | April 07, 2010 at 07:53 AM
What do you think will be the real killer aspect of the iPad? So far, all the things you mention can be done with a laptop or netbook. I think the iPad has some real strengths, but I've yet to see exactly where it's sweet spot is. I look forward to your future post with more details on how you've been using it.
Cheers
Dennis
BTW - great post on Sprouter. I'll have to check that site out.
Posted by: Dennis | April 07, 2010 at 08:42 AM
Let's see some close-up shots of the iPad itself. Less talking and more ACTION!!
Don't want to see anything confidential in your documents but would like to see you working with Excel so I can gauge how effective the iPad might be for me.
tx
Posted by: Bruce | April 07, 2010 at 01:56 PM
Nice. Glad you didn't unbox or go through the same-old-hype stuff. Be sure to give us the warts as well! I'm getting an ipad when they arrive here in Calgary, but I know that it won't be perfect. No tech is. I read your blog for the balanced pros and cons. The stuff that works and the stuff that only kinda-works. Maybe your full review can be more written stuff, some pics and a little video of some of the apps in action.
Cheers
Posted by: JasperCasper | April 07, 2010 at 07:55 PM
Thanks for dropping by the office with your new iPAD. So do you have MicroStrategy reports coming through it yet?
This is really nice, simple and directed to some very specific use cases. I think this would be perfect for executives as well. Very nice.
Posted by: Stephen Hayward | April 08, 2010 at 08:54 AM
This is an outstanding written post, Thanks for yet an additional insightful post, as normally!
Posted by: Puma Shoes | August 18, 2010 at 08:47 PM
Good review, I need to read more before make a final decision, thanks for the article.
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