Apple introduces the iPad

It’s official: Apple has introduced the iPad. The Apple iPad is a tablet PC with a 10 inch screen, which basically functions like the apple iPod, only bigger. The iPad will have either 16gb, 32gb, or 64gb of storage. Most impressive is the battery life, which is rated at 10 hours, with 30 days of stand-by time.

During the announcement, Steve Jobs spoke about how the iPad fills a void between the iPod/iPhone, and a typical notebook computer. He also criticized netbooks as cheap laptops. There’s no doubt the iPad will be a huge success, especially for people who want it for media or entertainment purposes. The larger screen is superior to netbooks for movies, viewing pictures, and games. Of course, there are always going to be people who want to push actual buttons especially when typing a paper or writing an e-mail.

So, how much does this cost? The 16gb model will sell for $499, 32gb for $599, and 64gb for $699. Unfortunately, those aren’t 3g models. If you want to add 3g, you’re looking at another $130, which boosts the prices to $629, $729, and $829. There is also a keyboard adapter and stand, for those who anticipate doing a lot of typing. The iPad looks like a fun gadget, but do you really want to spend almost $1,000 for a “computer” with just 64gb of storage?

I would like to have an iPad, but at the current price and specifications, I think I’ll wait. It’s a great entertainment device, but not too impressive when work-related tasks are taken into consideration. As someone who uses a 17″ laptop for work and a 10″ laptop when i’m on the road, I don’t see the benefit of spending the extra money for the iPad. With a 250gb hard drive, bluetooth, 10 inch screen, 9 hours of battery life and a $360 price tag, I think I’ll keep my “cheap” netbook.