Back in July 2009, Slashdot published my predictions for the recently announced Apple iPad. How'd I do compared to specs announced this week?
On the money:
Predicted: "The MacPad will be a fantastic device for browsing the Web." Apple: "navigating the web has never been easier or more intuitive"
Predicted iBook store Correct!
Predicted display: 10" Correct!
Predicted iPhone OS Correct!
Predicted bluetooth, headphone jack and microphone Correct!
Super close:
Predicted cost $599 w/ 2yr data contract, actual $499 - 699 WiFi, $529 - 829 3G
Predicted data plan to cost $19.99 - $29.99 monthly, actual $14.99 for miniscule 250 GB, $30 monthly unlimited
Predicted battery life 8 - 12 hours, Apple says 10.
Predicted 64 - 128 GB, actual 16 - 64 GB
Predicted Actual weight Weight: 12 - 16 oz. weight, actual 24 oz.
Predicted dimensions of 11" x 8" x .33", actual 9.56" x 7.47" x .5"
Predicted fold out stand. Actual - case accessory folds out into multi-configurable stand.
Wrong:
Predicted name: MacPad, actual: iPad
Stylus and note taking: Dead wrong.
Camera for video conferencing. Nope.
No tethering
What most surprised me?
The iPad is fast. It's based on an Apple chip design which will drastically improve Apple's profit margins and device performance and battery life on many of its future products.
This device is relatively inexpensive. $499 for the basic WiFi configuration.
This device may work great with VOIP e.g. Skype, iCall.
The degree of innovation in the gesture-based user interface and sophistication of first generation iWork applications for the iPad.
Applications I expect to see:
- Universal remote for home entertainment e.g. Boxee but better
- Finally, a good to do list application
- Screen sharing to my Mac via WiFi or WAN
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