Inspirational Technology

Apple Tablet Rumblings (again)...

MacRumors is reviving the rumors of an Apple tablet. I'm of course am absolutely dying to buy something like that. However given what I've said about Tablet PCs I also have to feel the same way about Apple's prospects for launching a device into the category. It's just doesn't appear to be a winning market.

It seems what uptake of Tablets exists is occurring mostly in the corporate arena, not exactly Apples strong area. I think this is primarily based on price, as in reality I see the Tablet being something that should have strong appeal to the home user. At least it probably would if it was even slightly marketed toward that arena.

For me the appeal of the Tablet is for media (i.e. digital music, movies), web browsing in a relaxed manner, holding a digital library and note taking. Of these only note taking is probably outside the realm of what most people would do with their home computer and that's not entirely outside it either. The tablet form factor should also be very good for digital photography and video editing. Neither of those generally require significant amounts of text editing (at least they don't with decent software). Combine it with wireless printing and the ability to hook up to a TV and it should be a pretty compelling solution within the home.

Hmm, now that I really think about it, maybe Apple should make a tablet and aim it at this market. Of course if PC makers can't get the price down, it's not too likely Apple will either and tablet prices are still way too high. Ugh, all I know is I want a tablet. I'd much, much rather have one from Apple, but I fear I'll have to settle for a Tablet PC.