Apple doesn't usually do "yes, we have one too". They usually do "let's make it better and different". That "Think Differently" phrase we heard a few years ago wasn't just some marketing catch phrase. It's been Apple's mantra for years. Let's look at a few examples.
Yes, the original Macintosh was a computer but Apple wanted to make it better and different. The iMac wasn't just another computer either, it was better and different. The iPod was a music player too but it was better and different. The iPhone was a cellular phone but...I'm sure you get the picture.
The iPad is not a netbook and it's certainly not a replacement for a laptop. There's built-in memory but no hard drive, no Firewire connectors, and no USB connectors. That's how they kept the weight down to 1.5 pounds. It has only a headphone jack and the standard dock connector like the iPhone and iPods have.
So that begs the question: What is it? Well, it's an entertainment device. Not exactly sure what that is, are you? You're not alone. People are saying it's nothing but a large iPod Touch. I said that too but every time I did, it just didn't feel right. There had to be more.
Apple has a place in mind with the iPad just like it did with the iPod and the iPhone. Here is one clue I missed but one of the writers for CNet caught. When the iPad was introduced Steve Jobs didn't sit or stand at a desk and do his demo. He sat in a chair you'd likely find in most any den or living room. That was intentional. He was showing you not only how to use the iPad, he was showing you where.
It's what you'll pick up (or fight over!) when you get home. You'll get comfortable and read a book, watch a movie, play a game, check your email, and browse the web. The iPad will not replace your home computer, your laptop, or your cell phone because it has it's own place.
Basically, that's what I believe the iPad is designed for but let's look beyond that. Let's do some of that Apple thinking.
Musicians, writers, and artists are going to find new ways to use it. Salespeople, service people, manufacturing and medical professionals could use the iPad. New applications will be created and existing ones upgraded to take advantage of the better touch controls and the larger screen.
If I could have seen what the iPhone was going to do for software developers, I would have been wise to be in the middle of that. I believe the same thing is going to happen with the iPad and especially with Apple giving the developers 70% of the sales.
Well that's my story and I'm sticking to it. Once again Apple has had a vision and responded. Unfortunately, as in the past, not everyone will "Think Differently".