The Launch of iPad can Change the Fortune of Tablet PC Industry

Although, Tablet PC was here for a long time, it was unable to make any dent in terms of popularity. When Microsoft launched Tablet PC in 2001, it ends up a major flop. But, the advancement of touchscreens and wireless technology made the market perfect for new Tablet like iPad. Mr Baker of Gartner research firm commented that you can use iPad anywhere such as your living room, Class room or Coffee Shop.

Apple had a plan for a long time to launch such a product that sits between Smartphone and Laptop. As per Mike Gartenberg, vice-president of strategy and analysis at research firm Interpret, Apple answered the questions of the users that why they need the tablet. He further added that the reason is that you will get everything like iPod, iTunes, multi-touch, the applications in this device as well as you will also be able to avail the additional features like iBook store and productivity. But, blogger and Apple watcher MG Siegler of TechCrunch has a different take. He thinks that iPhone is a must have gadget , but, iPad is not.

Endpoint Technologies projected that 4 million iPad will be sold by the end of 2010. Gartner also believes that the number may go up to nine million. Mr. Gartenberg said that Apple is going to jumpstart the market and others will follow. Apple disclosed during the launch of iPad that it had recently sold its 250 millionth iPod. One analyst predicted that iPad is going to eat up the future sale of iPod. It can also consume e-reader market in the long run.

“The gadget is a premium mobile device, not a computer; as such we see some iPod Touch buyers stepping up to the iPad, but consumers looking for an affordable portable computer will likely stick with the MacBook line up,” said Gene Munster of Piper Jaffray.

Some analysts also pointed out the flip side of the device because it does not support multi-tasking ie. to run more than one application at a time. Also, it does not support video and animation on the web because it does not have Camera and Flash.

The 32GB iPad will cost $599 (£376) and a 64GB is going to cost $699 (£439). All of the devices are wi-fi enabled and users can pay extra $130 (£81) for a 3G version.The wi-fi version of the iPad is supposed to go on sale worldwide by the end of March and  the 3G version is going to hit the store the end of April.