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MUScoop => The Superbar => Topic started by: ChicosBailBonds on January 28, 2010, 12:46:18 AM

Title: iPad??
Post by: ChicosBailBonds on January 28, 2010, 12:46:18 AM
Anyone interested?

I have an iPhone and love it.  Trying to understand why someone would want this iPad.  I can see if you are a Kindle user, than yes.  But it's not going to be able to do high processing things like spreadsheets, etc...right? 

I guess it's for the casual, playful person that doesn't need the computing horsepower but wants to read books, surf, etc? 

Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: Jam Chowder on January 28, 2010, 12:50:54 AM
I, for one, am entirely uninterested.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: Thomas' Danish Delight on January 28, 2010, 01:01:04 AM
Quote from: BirkieWarrior on January 28, 2010, 12:50:54 AM
I, for one, am entirely uninterested.

+1

It's Shaq's iPod.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: rocky_warrior on January 28, 2010, 02:07:30 AM
Ah yes, the Apple Newton 2010. 

Of course, the Newton was actually a technology front leader, that nobody wanted.  This is been there, done that technology that nobody wants.  Oh well, at least the iPhone and iPod touch are still cool (really, I like the latest touch...)

http://oldcomputers.net/apple-newton.html
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: StillAWarrior on January 28, 2010, 07:16:24 AM
Quote from: ChicosBailBonds on January 28, 2010, 12:46:18 AM
Anyone interested?

I have an iPhone and love it.  Trying to understand why someone would want this iPad.  I can see if you are a Kindle user, than yes.  But it's not going to be able to do high processing things like spreadsheets, etc...right? 

I guess it's for the casual, playful person that doesn't need the computing horsepower but wants to read books, surf, etc? 

A guy I work with is planning to run out and get one when they're available.  But, he's a real Apple guy.  I was talking to him about it and he just sees it as a convenient way to surf, look at pictures, etc. in his house without having to go sit at his desk.  For him, it's an add-on to his regular computer, not a replacement.

I'm in the market for a new computer, and I thought about it for about 15 seconds.  About 75% of what we use our computer for would be well served with the iPad.  But I still have to think about that other 25%.  I think we'll be getting a lap top.  I'm thinking about moving over to an Apple MacBook, but I'm not sure.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: mugrad2006 on January 28, 2010, 10:55:04 AM
Here's what I don't understand.  The iPad is supposed to compete with the Kindle in a lot of ways, but fall short in one crucial area.  The Kindle is designed to look and act like you're reading actual text from a book, removing the eye strain that comes from a traditional laptop screen or monitor.  As far as I see, the iPad has a screen just like an iPhone, without any benefits of the Kindle interface.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: dwaderoy2004 on January 28, 2010, 11:06:41 AM
Quote from: LLRj Since 1986 on January 28, 2010, 01:01:04 AM
+1

It's Shaq's iPod.

yeah it's just a giant ipod touch.  it reminds me of the novelty giant remote controllers you find.  interesting, but not really that useful.  I think this will be apple's first big (recent) flop.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: NYWarrior on January 28, 2010, 11:38:07 AM
http://jezebel.com/5458428/graphic-humor-with-apples-new-ipad/gallery/
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: ultimate on January 28, 2010, 11:41:21 AM
Quote from: mugrad2006 on January 28, 2010, 10:55:04 AM
Here's what I don't understand.  The iPad is supposed to compete with the Kindle in a lot of ways, but fall short in one crucial area.  The Kindle is designed to look and act like you're reading actual text from a book, removing the eye strain that comes from a traditional laptop screen or monitor.  As far as I see, the iPad has a screen just like an iPhone, without any benefits of the Kindle interface.


It definitely fall short as an eBook - do NOT buy this as an eBook.  eInk is an awesome technology that you should require any eBook you want to purchase to have.  That is, if you want to actually read on it.

The iPad would be a pretty cool device to have laying around as a digital picture frame that you can pick up and browse the web while chilling at home. While it's probably a really good price for what's all inside it - damn expensive for what I would use it for.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: StillAWarrior on January 28, 2010, 11:50:39 AM
Quote from: dwaderoy2004 on January 28, 2010, 11:06:41 AM
yeah it's just a giant ipod touch.  it reminds me of the novelty giant remote controllers you find.  interesting, but not really that useful.  I think this will be apple's first big (recent) flop.

I think in a sense, you're right.  I think the one big difference is that the ipod touch is really not well suited for surfing the net.  My kids have ipod touches, and they really, really suck for the internet.  I think a lot of people are buying computers and they are nothing more than glorified web browsers and are used for little else.  I think the iPad will be a really nice product for those people.  Another thing a lot of people are using their computers to store/display their digital photos.  Another good use for this device.

Frankly, if I didn't have kids in school who need word processing, power point, etc., I would be willing to consider replacing my pc with an iPad (I'm replacing my pc anyway, it's not like I'd go out and buy an iPad to replace a decent pc).  I don't think that I'm unusual in that I use only about 10% of the capability of my home computer (I use my work laptop a lot).  A simple device that would allow surfing, picture storage and electronic books would be pretty nice.  But, if I'm only going to have one device, it'll have to be a computer.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: ChicosBailBonds on January 28, 2010, 11:52:18 AM
Quote from: NYWarrior on January 28, 2010, 11:38:07 AM
http://jezebel.com/5458428/graphic-humor-with-apples-new-ipad/gallery/

LOL
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: Skatastrophy on January 28, 2010, 12:02:31 PM
Quote from: StillAWarrior on January 28, 2010, 07:16:24 AM
A guy I work with is planning to run out and get one when they're available.  But, he's a real Apple guy.  I was talking to him about it and he just sees it as a convenient way to surf, look at pictures, etc. in his house without having to go sit at his desk.  For him, it's an add-on to his regular computer, not a replacement.

I'm in the market for a new computer, and I thought about it for about 15 seconds.  About 75% of what we use our computer for would be well served with the iPad.  But I still have to think about that other 25%.  I think we'll be getting a lap top.  I'm thinking about moving over to an Apple MacBook, but I'm not sure.

You and your buddy should save yourselves a couple hundred and just pick up a netbook.

Cheaper, you can run more than one app at a time, you can install any application instead of being limited by the apple store, it will support Flash, it'll have USB ports for peripherals, you'll have more than 64Gigs of hard drive space... and last but not least you'll be able to type more than just updating your Facebook status because you'll have a big-kid hardware keyboard instead of the on-screen garbage.  And I suppose don't forget that you'll be able to upgrade your own memory if it gets slow and replace your own battery if it stops holding a charge.

I wouldn't wish anyone to have a Netbook, much less an iPad, as their primary computer.  As a 2nd machine for leaving on your couch or throwing in a small bag a Netbook has significantly more functionality for less money.

I mean... the iPad is just a big ugly iPhone but without the ability to make calls and without a camera.  Apple really missed the mark on this one.

Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: StillAWarrior on January 28, 2010, 01:21:15 PM
Quote from: Skatastrophy on January 28, 2010, 12:02:31 PM
You and your buddy should save yourselves a couple hundred and just pick up a netbook.

Cheaper, you can run more than one app at a time, you can install any application instead of being limited by the apple store, it will support Flash, it'll have USB ports for peripherals, you'll have more than 64Gigs of hard drive space... and last but not least you'll be able to type more than just updating your Facebook status because you'll have a big-kid hardware keyboard instead of the on-screen garbage.  And I suppose don't forget that you'll be able to upgrade your own memory if it gets slow and replace your own battery if it stops holding a charge.

I wouldn't wish anyone to have a Netbook, much less an iPad, as their primary computer.  As a 2nd machine for leaving on your couch or throwing in a small bag a Netbook has significantly more functionality for less money.

I mean... the iPad is just a big ugly iPhone but without the ability to make calls and without a camera.  Apple really missed the mark on this one.

Thanks for the insight.  I read a review of the iPad that said, "Most netbook purchases are based on a 'value' decision for portable and mobile usage, while media tablets will initially be a premium, luxury device focused on the home."  I think this is probably right.  My friend is in a situation where he's going to be buying exactly that -- a luxury device for his home.  He can afford it (and he's an Apple guy), so more power to him.  You and I obviously have different ideas on how to spend our money.

I, on the other hand, am looking for a primary computer, so I'll almost certainly be getting a laptop of some sort.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: Skatastrophy on January 28, 2010, 01:26:36 PM
Quote from: StillAWarrior on January 28, 2010, 01:21:15 PM
I, on the other hand, am looking for a primary computer, so I'll almost certainly be getting a laptop of some sort.

Interestingly enough the biggest competition for netbooks right now are laptops.  Laptop prices have been dropping steadily to the point that you can pick up a $400-$500 laptop off of Dell Outlet that will let you do anything that you'd like unless you're a software guy or a graphic designer.  It's easy to spend more but why bother when the hottest hardware out there will be obsolete in 2 years?
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: mu_hilltopper on January 28, 2010, 01:47:47 PM
.."obsolete in 2 years .." .. I'd challenge that.  That may have been true 5+ years ago, but right now, the amount of computing power that even the CHEAPEST new PC/laptop has .. is enormous, and far more than what 98% of all users really need for their email, surfing, spreadsheets, document writing.  Even with new web technology, 2010 laptops should be plenty workable for 5-10 years easy -- notwitstanding people slowing them down with crapware, viruses, etc.

(Now .. the iPad may be obsolete quickly as new/better versions will be released every year with more desirable features, making people want to upgrade .. but that's Apple's schtick, forcing people to do just that.  Laptops on the other hand .. download new software and apply.)

Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: Skatastrophy on January 28, 2010, 02:03:42 PM
Quote from: mu_hilltopper on January 28, 2010, 01:47:47 PM
.."obsolete in 2 years .." .. I'd challenge that.  That may have been true 5+ years ago, but right now, the amount of computing power that even the CHEAPEST new PC/laptop has .. is enormous, and far more than what 98% of all users really need for their email, surfing, spreadsheets, document writing.  Even with new web technology, 2010 laptops should be plenty workable for 5-10 years easy -- notwitstanding people slowing them down with crapware, viruses, etc.apply.)

I don't know about 10 years... but you're right.  I was speaking to how long my hardware purchases last me and I'm not a typical user with the amount of horsepower I need. 
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: JWags85 on January 28, 2010, 02:25:07 PM
Quote from: StillAWarrior on January 28, 2010, 11:50:39 AM
I think in a sense, you're right.  I think the one big difference is that the ipod touch is really not well suited for surfing the net.  My kids have ipod touches, and they really, really suck for the internet.  I think a lot of people are buying computers and they are nothing more than glorified web browsers and are used for little else.  I think the iPad will be a really nice product for those people.  Another thing a lot of people are using their computers to store/display their digital photos.  Another good use for this device.

Frankly, if I didn't have kids in school who need word processing, power point, etc., I would be willing to consider replacing my pc with an iPad (I'm replacing my pc anyway, it's not like I'd go out and buy an iPad to replace a decent pc).  I don't think that I'm unusual in that I use only about 10% of the capability of my home computer (I use my work laptop a lot).  A simple device that would allow surfing, picture storage and electronic books would be pretty nice.  But, if I'm only going to have one device, it'll have to be a computer.

How do you think they suck for the internet?  The main issue is the fact that there isnt a lot of free wifi floating around when using it.  When I am at home, I use it to surf the internet all the time when watching tv or lounging.  Once you get used to the screen adjustment settings, its great.

The fact that you can't multi-task is an egregious dealbreaker.  You can't listen to music while typing a document or searching the internet?  Pfft.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: StillAWarrior on January 28, 2010, 02:27:06 PM
Quote from: JWags85 on January 28, 2010, 02:25:07 PM
How do you think they suck for the internet?  The main issue is the fact that there isnt a lot of free wifi floating around when using it.  When I am at home, I use it to surf the internet all the time when watching tv or lounging.  Once you get used to the screen adjustment settings, its great.

I'm getting old.  My eyes aren't what they used to be.  And it's quite likely that I'm not "used to the screen adjustment settings."  But mostly it's my old eyes.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: JWags85 on January 28, 2010, 03:30:40 PM
Quote from: StillAWarrior on January 28, 2010, 02:27:06 PM
I'm getting old.  My eyes aren't what they used to be.  And it's quite likely that I'm not "used to the screen adjustment settings."  But mostly it's my old eyes.

I completely understand.  I just compare it to when I used to go online on my old flip phone, and even my Blackjack now, and its much easier and a better interface.  But bottom line, its still quite small.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: RawdogDX on January 28, 2010, 07:17:25 PM
Quote from: JWags85 on January 28, 2010, 02:25:07 PM
How do you think they suck for the internet? 

Well for starters they don't support flash.  So good luck finding a porn site that works. 
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: reinko on January 28, 2010, 07:59:10 PM
FWIW, Cuban is a fan and dude is saavy businessman...

http://blogmaverick.com/2010/01/28/talking-the-ipad-kids-making-money-and-video/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogmaverick%2FtyiP+%28blog+maverick%29&utm_content=Twitter
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: The Lens on January 28, 2010, 08:22:47 PM
Cuban brings up some interesting points but many parents do the same thing now with their iTouch or iPhone.  Keeping your kids occupied became a nice side feature of the iTouch / iPhone.  But IMO what made the the iPhone so successful is that is solved a problem.  EVERYONE needs a phone.  This one allowed you to combined your phone with your MP3 player (how many of us in 2004 said if I was smart I'd invent a way ]only have to carry one of these around [Chocolate tried]) and if you're not too email crazy, your blackberry. 

What life need does the iPad solve?  Still seems like too much of a luxury item.

I bought my first Mac in '93.  Currently have a iMac from '05 and am fighting with my wife over do we buy a Macbook or iMac now as a replacement.  I have an iPhone, so does my wife and we've each had 3 iPods.  We have no interest in the iPad.  I can't imagine Steve Job is excited about my reaction.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: reinko on January 28, 2010, 08:26:11 PM
Right Lens, it is a luxury item right now.  2 years from now when it is 1/2 the price with a lot more features I think it will catch on more.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: 77ncaachamps on January 28, 2010, 09:34:54 PM
Quote from: RawdogDX on January 28, 2010, 07:17:25 PM
Well for starters they don't support flash.  So good luck finding a porn site that works.  

Believe me...I've seen sites that don't need Flash on some buddies' phones.

This *may* be a big deal to some people: the Apple faithful...the trendy folks...tv/movie types that use that stuff in their shoots (product placement, I know, but still)...people who hate having to flip open a laptop (I know I do!).

Sounds like the portability and weight will make it seem like a lesser laptop without sacrificing some of the power.

I truly think that this product is really not for the normal joe consumer but angled for the educational centers: universities, high schools, etc. Thus solidifying their brand with future generations. Something Apple has done well...
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: StillAWarrior on January 29, 2010, 07:11:58 AM
Like I said above, I think this is going to be a luxury item...at least for the time being.  Honestly, I see this as the ultimate coffee table book.  Allows you to read books, look at pictures, surf the internet and play games.  However, I'm not currently in the market for a $500 coffee table book.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: NavinRJohnson on January 29, 2010, 07:51:30 AM
I think its gonna be huge, and may end up being the final death blow for a lot of print media. The kindle is probably in trouble as well.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: Skatastrophy on January 29, 2010, 08:18:05 AM
Quote from: NavinRJohnson on January 29, 2010, 07:51:30 AM
I think its gonna be huge, and may end up being the final death blow for a lot of print media. The kindle is probably in trouble as well.

Apple has loaded the iPad up with DRM (digital rights management).  What that means is that any books, music, etc that I put on my iPad I won't be able to share.

Why would I buy an overpriced iPod Touch that won't even have the functionality of the other Slates/Tablets being released THIS YEAR?!  The HP Slate (http://www.engadget.com/2010/01/06/the-hp-slate/) for example.  The Slate can run games, is multitouch, can run Kindle software... and it's running Windows so I can do whatever I want on it. 

It would be one thing if the iPad were running OSX, but it's not.  It is severely limited compared to its contemporary competition.  I'm not saying that you guys are definitely wrong, but to me this looks like another Macbook Air: Something that a couple fanboys purchase, but a product that is ultimately done in by superior competition.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: NavinRJohnson on January 29, 2010, 08:35:27 AM
Quote from: Skatastrophy on January 29, 2010, 08:18:05 AM
Apple has loaded the iPad up with DRM (digital rights management).  What that means is that any books, music, etc that I put on my iPad I won't be able to share.



You mean like the iPod/iTunes? Lord knows what a failure that was.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: Skatastrophy on January 29, 2010, 09:00:26 AM
Quote from: NavinRJohnson on January 29, 2010, 08:35:27 AM
You mean like the iPod/iTunes? Lord knows what a failure that was.

If you don't understand you could ask questions instead of being sarcastic.

ePub, the DRM standard that Apple is using in their iBook store, makes all books/content purchased incompatible with any other device.  This means that any content you purchase will not be able to be loaded onto any other eReader.

This is not the case with music bought off of iTunes.  Music from iTunes was made DRM free as of April 2009.

When the iPod came out there were no devices that came close to their sleekness or functionality.  This was the same with the iPod Touch and the iPhone.  This is not the case with the iPad which, like the Macbook Air, falls significantly short of the functionality offered by competing devices while being significantly more expensive.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: spiral97 on January 29, 2010, 09:13:40 AM
If this thing supports handwritten note entry then this looks like a great way to replace paper notebooks in classrooms.  Imagine being able to annotate your books directly and insert pages for lecture notes in line.. one notebook for all your classes (and for all your semesters).   While I've not seen any indication that it does support this, if it doesn't the sensitivity of the screen makes it seem like a software only limitation that could be fixed.. this concept would grow big time if it also supported linking with other people's pads to do collaborative work.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: Skatastrophy on January 29, 2010, 09:20:00 AM
Quote from: spiral97 on January 29, 2010, 09:13:40 AM
If this thing supports handwritten note entry then this looks like a great way to replace paper notebooks in classrooms.  Imagine being able to annotate your books directly and insert pages for lecture notes in line.. one notebook for all your classes (and for all your semesters).   While I've not seen any indication that it does support this, if it doesn't the sensitivity of the screen makes it seem like a software only limitation that could be fixed.. this concept would grow big time if it also supported linking with other people's pads to do collaborative work.

That (the lack of page numbers in books and the lacking ability to take notes) has always been a big gripe about the Kindle.  Honestly your description sounds a lot like the Microsoft Courier (http://gizmodo.com/5369493/leaked-courier-video-shows-how-well-actually-use-it?autoplay=true) (very cool vid if you have the time) which has been rumored to be releasing mid-2010.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: StillAWarrior on January 29, 2010, 09:20:23 AM
Quote from: Skatastrophy on January 29, 2010, 09:00:26 AM
"...the iPad...falls significantly short of the functionality offered by competing devices while being significantly more expensive.

I think a lot of people would say that this is a fair description of all of Apple's computer products.

Not necessarily saying I agree with that sentiment, but it certainly is out there.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: Skatastrophy on January 29, 2010, 09:23:19 AM
Quote from: StillAWarrior on January 29, 2010, 09:20:23 AM
I think a lot of people would say that this is a fair description of all of Apple's computer products.

Not necessarily saying I agree with that sentiment, but it certainly is out there.

True.  And I'm guilty of being an anti-Appleite.

Sorry if I seem to be pushing an agenda... but I honestly believe what I'm telling you and I have the deep technical experience to back it up :P
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: NavinRJohnson on January 29, 2010, 09:37:39 AM
Quote from: Skatastrophy on January 29, 2010, 09:23:19 AM

Sorry if I seem to be pushing an agenda... but I honestly believe what I'm telling you and I have the deep technical experience to back it up :P

That's clear...most people don't, however. Put yourself in the shoes of an average consumer, and not a techno geek, and this thing is going to kill. Realistically, as far as competing products go, there's 1 (Kindle), maybe 2 (nook) that have both similar products and some of the marketing muscle to push it. If MS gets involved, that's another story. Take the kindle, and add the web, video, etc. capabilities along with the multitude of additional apps, for not much more money, and its not close. Beyond that, the newspapers are going to flock to this as an alternative to print, because it will give them some ability sell adds.

People will love this for the same reason they love their Blackberries and iPhones, because it puts everything in one place.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: Skatastrophy on January 29, 2010, 09:48:19 AM
But if you're dead-set on an Apple product why not just get an iPhone?  It can do more and it will cost less.  That's not hyperbole.  The iPhone can do everything that the iPad can and more.  Plus it can fit in your pocket.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: NavinRJohnson on January 29, 2010, 09:57:49 AM
Quote from: Skatastrophy on January 29, 2010, 09:48:19 AM
But if you're dead-set on an Apple product why not just get an iPhone?  It can do more and it will cost less.  That's not hyperbole.  The iPhone can do everything that the iPad can and more.  Plus it can fit in your pocket.

You want to read a book or newspaper on your iPhone?
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: reinko on January 29, 2010, 10:05:13 AM
Quote from: NavinRJohnson on January 29, 2010, 09:57:49 AM
You want to read a book or newspaper on your iPhone?

You want to pay $500 for an e-reader?
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: NavinRJohnson on January 29, 2010, 10:14:31 AM
Quote from: reinko on January 29, 2010, 10:05:13 AM
You want to pay $500 for an e-reader?

Well a 'comparable' Kindle goes for what, $300-350? At $25/book, and $0.50-0.75/ print newspaper, why not? Throw in the wi-fi, web, audio, video capabilities without being tethered to a desktop or traditional laptop and it becomes an extremely practical device.

You guys can disagree all you want. I don't really care. I'm just telling you these things are going to be huge.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: spiral97 on January 29, 2010, 10:21:35 AM
Quote from: Skatastrophy on January 29, 2010, 09:20:00 AM
That (the lack of page numbers in books and the lacking ability to take notes) has always been a big gripe about the Kindle.  Honestly your description sounds a lot like the Microsoft Courier (http://gizmodo.com/5369493/leaked-courier-video-shows-how-well-actually-use-it?autoplay=true) (very cool vid if you have the time) which has been rumored to be releasing mid-2010.

Now THAT is something that will definitely take off among students and more.. the camera is significant..  looks like it has a wifi connection but not sure about cellular.. not so much interested for voice calls but for data.. though this could give rise to conference and sharable white board capabilities.  Add a GPS and this becomes a large map.. incorporate the various sensors the iPods and Droids have in them and you can rotate it and use the top "screen" as a TV while working in the bottom..  This has some serious potential and makes the iPad look dusty already.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: StillAWarrior on January 29, 2010, 10:22:12 AM
Quote from: Skatastrophy on January 29, 2010, 09:48:19 AM
Plus it can fit in your pocket.

See my post yesterday about surfing the net on the iPod touch.  For me and my aging eyes, reading on a pocket-sized device is very difficult.

Also, with respect to iPhones, where I live the AT&T network is a problem.  Virtually everyone I know with an iPhone complains about the poor coverage and dropped calls.  My work is going to be providing smart phones, and a lot of us would like an iPhone, but we're really worried about the coverage.  Even my Apple-loving friend that I've mentioned in prior posts doesn't have an iPhone because of this issue.  He's hoping Verizon will come around soon.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: LON on January 29, 2010, 11:00:12 AM
Quote from: StillAWarrior on January 29, 2010, 10:22:12 AM
See my post yesterday about surfing the net on the iPod touch.  For me and my aging eyes, reading on a pocket-sized device is very difficult.

Also, with respect to iPhones, where I live the AT&T network is a problem.  Virtually everyone I know with an iPhone complains about the poor coverage and dropped calls.  My work is going to be providing smart phones, and a lot of us would like an iPhone, but we're really worried about the coverage.  Even my Apple-loving friend that I've mentioned in prior posts doesn't have an iPhone because of this issue.  He's hoping Verizon will come around soon.

AT&T sucks when you are outside of major metro areas.  For example, until a few months ago I didn't get 3G coverage while in Appleton and Green Bay (try to keep track of fantasy while at Packers games, you can't load the simplest of websites, truly frustrating).  Milwaukee has good-to-great 3G coverage but once you get a few miles past Menomonee Falls it tapers off drastically.  If you're in Chicago (or other metro areas much bigger than MKE) the 3G is basically =/> Wi-Fi.


There is NO WAY AT&T let's go of the exclusivity of the iPhone.  They need to improve their network because places like NYC had to put a moratorium on selling the iPhone around Christmas due to all the "data hogs."
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: StillAWarrior on January 29, 2010, 11:16:16 AM
Quote from: LancesOtherNut on January 29, 2010, 11:00:12 AM
AT&T sucks when you are outside of major metro areas.  For example, until a few months ago I didn't get 3G coverage while in Appleton and Green Bay (try to keep track of fantasy while at Packers games, you can't load the simplest of websites, truly frustrating).  Milwaukee has good-to-great 3G coverage but once you get a few miles past Menomonee Falls it tapers off drastically.  If you're in Chicago (or other metro areas much bigger than MKE) the 3G is basically =/> Wi-Fi.


There is NO WAY AT&T let's go of the exclusivity of the iPhone.  They need to improve their network because places like NYC had to put a moratorium on selling the iPhone around Christmas due to all the "data hogs."

I'm in Cleveland, and the people I talk to here say it's a real problem.  My brother in Phoenix loves his iPhone and doesn't report any problems.

I've heard varying things about AT&T's exclusivity, but none seem to suggest that AT&T is in the driver's seat.  I've heard that Verizon is coming, and I've also heard that Verizon can't have it until they make some sort of change in their network that is more technical than I understand.  I'll gladly defer to someone who knows more about this issue than I.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: muwarrior87 on January 29, 2010, 11:46:51 AM
Last I heard there was a hold up between Apple and Verizon with Verizon wanting to keep V-cast instead of moving over to Apple's software.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: ChicosBailBonds on January 29, 2010, 11:52:08 AM
AT&T coverage in eastern Ohio sucks ass.   I was there for a funeral in November and couldn't believe how pathetic it was.

Out here in So. Cal, it's fine.  Basically AT&T built their network around population centers, but you get too far out of them and it's brutal.  I still think they will keep the iPhone exclusive contract, but we'll see.  We are partners with AT&T so we hear a few things, but nothing official.

For the iPad, I just don't really get it.  I have a Kindle that was a gift, I hardly ever use it.  I love my iPhone but I could never see myself buying what amounts to being a bigger iTouch.  If it's going to be that big, it better have some serious PC horsepower and act like a PC

This device makes me feel like someone is walking around with one of those large digital picture frames.  Maybe it takes off, but I honestly have some serious misgivings on this one.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: mwbauer7 on January 29, 2010, 12:00:50 PM
Quote from: StillAWarrior on January 29, 2010, 11:16:16 AM
I'm in Cleveland, and the people I talk to here say it's a real problem.  My brother in Phoenix loves his iPhone and doesn't report any problems.

I've got no problems with AT&T in Cleveland and the east side...
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: ChicosBailBonds on January 29, 2010, 02:24:32 PM
Quote from: mwbauer7 on January 29, 2010, 12:00:50 PM
I've got no problems with AT&T in Cleveland and the east side...
Go further east....Chardon, Painesville, Geneva.....it's really bad.  Mentor isn't too bad, but not great either.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: StillAWarrior on January 29, 2010, 03:30:20 PM
Quote from: mwbauer7 on January 29, 2010, 12:00:50 PM
I've got no problems with AT&T in Cleveland and the east side...

I'm curious if you've got an iPhone?  I know that sometimes certain hardware gets better reception than others.  Two people that I work with have iPhones and both told me they have terrible reception.  We work on the East side (on Chagrin just East of 271) and they live on the East side (one in Aurora and one in Univ. Hts.).
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: Hards Alumni on January 29, 2010, 03:38:24 PM
Quote from: ChicosBailBonds on January 29, 2010, 11:52:08 AM
For the iPad, I just don't really get it.  I have a Kindle that was a gift, I hardly ever use it.  I love my iPhone but I could never see myself buying what amounts to being a bigger iTouch.  If it's going to be that big, it better have some serious PC horsepower and act like a PC

This device makes me feel like someone is walking around with one of those large digital picture frames.  Maybe it takes off, but I honestly have some serious misgivings on this one.

This is also my impression of the iPad.
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: ChicosBailBonds on January 29, 2010, 04:04:05 PM
Quote from: NavinRJohnson on January 29, 2010, 08:35:27 AM
You mean like the iPod/iTunes? Lord knows what a failure that was.


That's what tunebite was created for...to strip that DRM.  I don't share music files, but it did piss me off that when I bought something off iTunes I couldn't use that song on other things....like creating family videos on DVD, etc.  Tunebite will strip the DRM so you can use the songs that purchased for other needs (not sharing mind you).

Title: LOL - The MAC WHEEL Computer and hooking up the iPad to your hooch
Post by: ChicosBailBonds on January 29, 2010, 06:33:32 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch/v/9BnLbv6QYcA



http://www.youtube.com/watch/v/8eF0y0IfpPU



http://www.youtube.com/watch/v/3I-JByPDJm0
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: wildbill sb on January 29, 2010, 07:27:01 PM
Good stuff, Senor!  Very funny.
Title: Re: LOL - The MAC WHEEL Computer and hooking up the iPad to your hooch
Post by: MUEng92 on January 30, 2010, 08:12:58 PM
Quote from: ChicosBailBonds on January 29, 2010, 06:33:32 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch/v/9BnLbv6QYcA



http://www.youtube.com/watch/v/8eF0y0IfpPU



http://www.youtube.com/watch/v/3I-JByPDJm0

That reminds me of one of my bigger complaints of my Itouch.  Why can't I watch Flash videos?  Is it a technical reason or another example of Apple's stubbornness/snobbiness?
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: ChicosBailBonds on January 30, 2010, 08:31:00 PM
http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2010/01/ipad-flash/

Flash and Apple
Title: Re: iPad??
Post by: ChicosBailBonds on January 30, 2010, 08:33:19 PM
http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2010/01/ipad-flash/

Flash and Apple
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