Thoughts on the “new iPad” (AKA iPad 3)

It’s been a year since my last entry (so bad of me), but with the release of the “new iPad” I had to comment.

I’m still loving my original iPad from May 2010 – yes, I do call it “Mr. Smudgy.” Although it’s close to 2 years old, it’s still going strong and able to handle anything I give it. The release of the iPad 3 does have me concerned since I know Apple will eventually make it obsolete by not updating the software to run it. Already, iPhoto for iPad is for version 2 or later since it requires a front camera to use it. Why this is necessary is beyond my comprehension because you can easily get photos from an iTouch via iCloud or simply use the Apple supplied SD card reader to transfer images from a camera. Apple can’t be that short-sighted so I must assume they want people with the original iPad to considered upgrading now.

While some aspects of the new iPad are attractive (ability to create a Wifi hotspot for one) but there is nothing truly compelling me to upgrade. Thanks, Apple, for making such a great product in the original iPad. It’s one of the best technology investments I’ve ever bought.

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Do I want the iPad 2?

Don’t misunderstand — I love my iPad 3G. I take it nearly everywhere with me. I’ve gotten used to the weight and I have a new shoulder bag to tote it around. I took it to Spain last December and it worked beautifully with a MiFi rental from XCom Global.

I sometimes wish the iPad were lighter but I wonder if the iPad 2 is appreciably different. I’m not lusting for the dual cameras on the iPad 2, either. Also, I’m lucky to have the discontinued unlimited data plan on AT&T and I can use it nearly everywhere I go.

What I really covet is the Smart Cover! I need a light but effective cover that can double as a stand when I type on the iPad. That fact that it also turns the iPad on or off is just the icing on the cake.

Apple, please make a Smart Cover for the original iPad!

 

Yes, I got my own iPad 3G!

I waited until the 3G version came out and bought the top of the line. It arrived on May 7 and has been my trusty companion ever since. Our relationship was easily set in cement that first weekend because I was sick and couldn’t sit at the computer for very long and I needed entertainment in the worst way. The iPad is a godsend!

I have the unlimited plan from AT&T so while waiting at the doctor’s office I could surf to my heart’s content. I get good reception in Metro stations and in some of the tunnels, too. I haven’t tried to upload every app in creation and most of the ones from my iTouch work just fine on the iPad.

Is it perfect? Of course not. In some environments the screen is horribly reflective and it’s very headache making, Sometimes the keyboard is a little too sensitive but that will take practice. And, yes, it’s very smudgy.

However, if you are Ike me and don’t really need a laptop but would like to keep in touch, surf, Facebook, watch movies & TV, listen to music and read books, this could be the device for you.

Now I’m on the lookout for a decent bag and perhaps some Bluetooth headphones. Any suggestions out there?

Yes, I did write this entry from my iPad but the Woodpress interface is a little chunky and hard to figure out how to publish.

 

“I shall call him Smudgy.” Real-world iPad annoyances: A timeline | Rafe’s Radar – CNET News

Real-world iPad annoyances: A timeline | Rafe’s Radar – CNET News

How cheap can you get! Apple puts out the iPad and doesn’t even include the Chamois that the iTouch and iPhone get. This is a device that begs to be touched and you know it’s going to look ugly real quick.

The article goes on to moan about other issues and omissions – mostly warranted I have to admit.

However, I still want one.

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Tags: Apple, iPad, touch, gadgets, iTouch, iPhone, technology, computer

 

Sept. 16: Jobs Quits Apple in 1985, Returns in 1997

Sept. 16: Jobs Quits Apple in 1985, Returns in 1997

Courtesy of Wired.com, this is an interesting note in tech industry history. I hadn’t realized that his ouster and return were on the same date. You’d think as a major Mac addict I would be more knowledgeable. I’m somewhat geeky but not that geeky.

IMHO, the best thing that ever happened to Apple (and to the computers and tech industry in general) was the return of Steve Jobs to Apple. The iMac and the iPod have completely changed the way we use technology today.

Thanks, Steve!

Tags: Apple, Mac, SteveJobs, technology, computing, iPod, iMac

 

Happy Birthday, Macintosh!

Jan. 24, 1984: Birth of the Cool (Computer, That Is)

I can hardly believe that the Mac is 24 years old! I missed seeing the groundbreaking ad during the Super Bowl but I already knew it was coming. I was one of the few who were already working with the pre-Mac Lisa computer that Apple tentatively introduced the year before. Little did I know then that the Mac would change my career and my life.

I am a graphic designer today because of the Mac. The computer was not the green screened machine that used DOS. It did not intimidate me – it welcomed play and work. I remember using the first release of Pagemaker on my Mac SE with it’s dual disc drives and 20MB hard drive. I was constantly popping out the discs to save or use other features. I also remember playing the first version of SimCity on the 9-inch grey screen – often going on until 3am!

I know the iPod has done wonders for Apple – it really brought Apple products to a different audience – but it’s the computer that is the staple of my world. From my G5 at home to my G5 at work (dual displays on both), the Mac will always be a part of my life.

Thanks, Apple!

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Tags: Apple, Mac, computers, design, revolution, life, culture, 1984

 

The New Apple Mac Pro – I WANT ONE!

Apple – Mac Pro

I know I don’t really need it. I just want it. It would be a very expensive way to upgrade to Leopard.

But I still want it.

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Tags: Apple, Mac Pro, upgrade, Leopard, desire

 

Beautiful but only 16GB!?

Apple – iPod touch

I suspected this would be the next iPod news but I’m disappointed that it’s only 8GB or 16GB.

For a starting price of $299, it’s more than a little pricey. I love the technology but I’m loath to part with the capacity of my 20GB iPod. However, I must admit that I don’t use all 20GB so the 16GB might be more than do-able for me. The Wi-Fi capability is brilliant so that may be thing to get me to buy.

I must admit that I use my shuffle more than my iPod – it’s just more convenient.

technorati tags:Apple, iPod, touch, technology, gadget

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The new Mac keyboard – I got one!

I mentioned this little beauty earlier this month and it arrived to today. I plugged it in immediately and it’s exactly what I hoped for. It’s quiet, has a great touch; it’s very slim and sleek. I’m very hopeful that it will remain crumb free and will be much easier to clean than the old one.

 

New iMac keyboard? I want one!

Posts tagged Apple at Engadget

Rumour has it that this is the new keyboard for the redesigned iMac. I don’t want an iMac, I just want the keyboard. Apple is scheduled for a press event tomorrow so I hope I find out then if it’s true.

I’m on of the those people that eats at my desk and lots of crumbs and debris fall between the keys (yucky) and no amount of compressed air shot into it seems to jog it loose. Do those iSkin things really work?

technorati tags:Apple, keyboard, technology

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