iPad: Electronic Platypus or the Future of Computing?

Even with the improvements brought by the larger screen, reviews of the iPad have been somewhat mixed. While everyone agrees that it's simple, elegant and easy to use, some people want it to do more. They complain about the fact that it doesn't offer the advantages of a "real computer." We think this misses the point entirely. For many people, a traditional computer is unnecessarily complicated. Instead of complex file-saving systems and numerous peripherals to be plugged in, everything with the iPad is basic and intuitive. This is a good thing.

Using a typical PC or Mac is analogous to driving a car 100 years ago. In those days, drivers also had to be mechanics. Without a thorough knowledge of what was under the hood and under the carriage, you weren't going to go very far. It's not a perfect analogy, but an easy-to-drive iPad is a big advance, especially for those who just do the computer equivalent of Sunday driving.

Over the next few months we'll share more observations on the iPad and other devices like it. In the meantime, we welcome your comments and experiences as well.