Apple’s new iPad device is destined to disappoint (and not just because of the unfortunate name). Analysts predicting iPhone-like success are going to be let down. Here are 5 reasons why:
#1) Battery Life — The iPad has been pitched by some as a “Kindle-killer.” But with a 10 hour battery life, it will never compete with dedicated eReaders like the Kindle and Nook. Those devices can go 150+ hours between charges, and because of their eInk screens, can be used in full sun.
#2) No Multi-Tasking — Want to have IM and a browser window open? Too bad, you can only do one at a time. A cheap netbook from Dell has much greater utility (and is a few hundred dollars cheaper).
#3) Virtual keyboard — An iPhone-style keyboard is fine for IMing and short emails, but is it really sufficient for word processing and larger tasks? No. Once again, netbooks have the advantage.
#4) $30/month for 3G — The standard $499 model comes only with Wifi. Clearly that’s not good enough for travelers. But if you want the 3G model, which starts around $800, you also have to cough up $30/month for AT&T 3G. I can’t see anyone who already pays for 3G on their smartphone subscribing to this.
#5) No Flash support — Around 90% of video you watch on the web is powered by Flash. Countless sites integrate Flash into their designs. No flash support means a lousy web experience. Yet another area where netbooks clearly outperform the iPad.
