iPad

I'm loving my new iPad. It has been a while since a gadget has grabbed my attention so fully (the iPhone notwithstanding...I've only had it four months). I really haven't been into computers and gadgets over the years but this thing makes me want to learn to program.

The best thing about the iPad is the inspiration it provides. You feel like you're working with a computer from the future. Using your fingers instead of a mouse is just...cool (and surprisingly not a hassle). The onscreen keyboard takes some getting used to but it doesn't take long to get the hang of it. I'm writing this post on it now.

My only complaint so far is the obstacles Apple puts in your way. The primary way to get files on and off the iPad is through itunes, which can be a pain. It makes the iPad less of a computer and more of a peripheral. Some apps such as Airshare and various online storage sites are useful for working around this but why not make it more direct (use that camera connection kit to connect a usb flashdrive)? Importing and exporting via email works also but is not always convenient. In short, the file management and storage will keep it from being your primary computer. It really can be inconvenient.

Also, the software is still lacking. The iWork suite helps but better compatibility with MS Office would be great. Im sure this will be fixed in short order. The app store created a gold rush for mobile phone software development, and iPad specific apps are just getting started. I imagine in a year this thing will be a serious threat to laptops.

There are more drawbacks to be sure, but there are with any device. For the first gen, there is a lot to love.

PS...I gave my three year old my iPhone the other night, and we played Battleship over Bluetooth (I used the iPad). We are living in The Future.