A Brief Overview Of The iPad For Newbies

For regular people who have average interests in technologically advanced gadgets, the iPad is perceived to be just another expensive instrument from Apple. By average interests, we mean those who do not make it a point to research a newly launched product nor visit the manufacturer's website with passion.

If they decide to visit Apple's website, they probably have been influenced to purchase the gadget as a result of media buzz and bullish marketing. Non-techies will not think about its pros and cons just yet; what they really want to know is, what exactly is an iPad and what does it do?

The iPad is a mobile computer; it is considered to be revolutionary because it is neither a laptop nor a personal digital assistant. It is unique in its own right most especially because of its tablet frame. It is slightly larger than a netbook by an inch and it does not have a keypad. Its multi-touch screen interface is the basic input method for this device; however, it can also be docked onto a keyboard accessory for fuss-free typing. In addition to its multi-touch screen, the iPad is also programmed to be multi-oriented, so the user can tilt the frame from portrait to landscape according to his preference. Multi-touch means that the user can "tap" and "drag" two items on the display at once by using fingers.

The iPad is mainly designed for information consumption in the form of Web browsing, media, and gaming. Additionally, it can be used to create documents and similar content on a lighter level. The iPad is powered by thousands of apps that allow this device to perform at high-speed rate.

Documents, spreadsheets and slide-show presentations can be created through iWork, which is Apple's answer to Microsoft Office. As for the entertainment apps, there are plenty to choose from.

Basically, the default browser is Safari, which also happens to be created and designed by Apple engineers. As of late, Opera Mini has become available to iPad users as an alternative Web browser.

Media consumption is one of the best offerings of the iPad. The crisp screen resolution lends justice to images, videos and e-books. The enhanced speaker system provides a great output for music and audio.

Internet connectivity is powered by Wi-Fi and 3G. It possesses the highest speed in wireless Internet technology that overrides the speed of the hotspot offered in a specific location. To connect to a 3G network, the user must insert a 3G SIM card from a service provider. Once the owner has completed the 3G network service application, he can switch from Wi-Fi to 3G connection anytime.

App icons are used to organize the iPad display. The user can select his frequently used apps onto his Favorites section and these can be easily accessed.

It sounds like a pretty interactive device, which is what all gadgets are about. Techie experts suggest that consumers should wait a bit longer for the iPad to mature into the industry so we may all see what it can offer that our regular PCs and media devices cannot.