July 30, 2009

Today (or Tomorrow) in Tech: An Apple Tablet?

There are rumors on almost an annual basis that Apple will release a tablet computer one day. Of course, here we sit, tabletless, and observing that the Tablet PC “craze” never really took off. However, the Apple Tablet, if it even exists, or will exist, could be a game changer.

MtK: I would expect, if Apple releases a tablet, that it’ll actually be a very media centric device. I’m thinking, giant iPod touch. They could release it with on-board cell phone guts, however, the giant tablet would require you to hold it up to your ear. 
RP: I think it will follow the form factor of a very large iPod touch, there have been a ton of mock-ups around the internet sharing that concept.  Although, I think its going to be built more like a computer.  With all of the trouble Apple has had with AT&T, I can’t see them giving this guy 3G capabilities.
MtK: I think Apple would be stupid to NOT give it at least 3G. Many netbooks can be purchased with 3G sets in them these days, and connectivity is important to a device like this. Unless, of course, the subset of rumors that suggests this could be a 4G device running on VZWs (or maybe even Sprint’s) upcoming LTE networks.
RP: I think Apple’s one worry with making it 3G would be that it would be cutting into its own cell phone market.  If the iPhone and this new tablet don’t have the inherent ability to communicate or share information, then there’s really no reason to have both.  If they have it running 3G, is it going to have bluetooth? Is this just going to be the largest phone since Saved by the Bell?
MtK: Well, I certainly think an Apple Tablet will lead to a new series of fashion trends. Perhaps a return to cargo pants with giant pockets?;
RP: Couldn’t agree more!  Also, attachments for trendy fixed gear bikes, where it sits tilted on the handlebars so you can be checking your twitter feed while riding through town to your favorite one stop Soy Marketplace.  Do you think the copy/paste will still require the unit to be shaken?
MtK: Actually, due to the unit’s size, shaking would be impractical, so you actually need to find a friend and throw it like a frisbee. Apple balked on this feature at first, but instead they’re calling it “integrated social networking” and adding that as a value-added feature it provides “outdoor exercise”

RP: Possible early application idea: Make an App that turns the entire front of the screen to look like a set of solar panels.  Tout that the application will recharge battery to full after 30 minutes in direct sunlight.  Watch products die a painful melty death.

Let’s take a look at what we would presume are some specs on this device:

  • 9” capacitive touch-screen
  • Retractable latte holder
  • Built in application lets you display the latest hipster fashions on photos of your friends, with a sliding scale from hobo to shops-at-Old-Navy.
  • 240GB HDD or 60GB SSD
  • Adapted to work with White OR Black peripherals or accessories* **
  • 802.11 draft N, bluetooth connectivity.
  • Multiple headphone jacks for multiple listeners. Automatically bills your iTunes account for royalties.
  • Multi-Touch capability
  • Immaphone app allows you to tell people you have a really big iPhone when you actually do not.

*(Apple licensed products only)
**(not available in black)

by mashthekeys

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