The Apple iPad, Microsoft Courier, Microsoft Surface

Update 1: Uh oh, I just read that there's no Flash support. Crap, that's a negative since so much content is actually formatted and delivered via Flash. Also, there's no camera, I forgot to mention that earlier. That's not so great either.

Update 2: Wow, most techies that I know are slamming the newly announced iPad. The main grumblings seem to be originating from the view that the iPad is basically an expensive, neutered laptop. It has the downsides of both the iPod (50% glass, no lid for protection, lack of keyboard, lack of Adobe Flash, lack of multitasking, etc) and a Macbook (size).

Update 3: I'll point out that it's the techie crowd right now that is not too excited about the iPad from a technical perspective. That said, there is a market for this device without a doubt, in that a realistic worst case scenario is that it stays confined to it's own niche users.

The Apple iPad has been announced and will be ready to ship within the next quarter. I have mixed feelings on the product at a cursory glance, but I'll withhold judgment for myself until I actually have a unit in my hands and have the ability to properly evaluate its technical merits as well as its user experience. So far it looks quite nice, but I have questions in my mind as to the battery life of the device as well as servicing options. In addition, since it runs a custom version of the latest iPhone OS, I wonder what's different from a application development stand-point. The pricing doesn't seem too bad as I would expecting it to be closer to the $1,000 mark.

However when compared to the Microsoft Courier, I think I'd rather go with a Courier. I like the dual-screen booklet format, and I'd sooner trust Microsoft with a more open development model than Apple.

I've also had the chance to mess quite a bit with optical multi-touch technology, and the opportunities apparent from a HCI stand-point are amazing. I have no doubt that in the coming several years it will become more commonplace, despite Microsoft Surface not shipping as expected.

A more thorough update to come within a couple of weeks.