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Review: PressReader for iPad

Sam — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 17:00:23 +0000

It’s no secret – the newspaper industry is facing some pretty tough times. Print subscription volumes have been slowly declining year over year, and with it follow print advertising revenues. While many of them have made the transition to online versions and subscription models, they’re still finding difficulty making the it work. Moreover, the online experience has a number of shortcomings compared to its print sibling; desktop news sites have far too many banner ads for my taste (or stuck behind the much accursed pay walls), while mobile versions tend to strip away the photos and graphics that make news reading easy to digest. Even more annoying is the ultra-focused nature of a web experience, driving visitors to read only editor-curated stories rather than allowing readers to browse and discover the stories that matter to them most. With these web deficiencies in mind, PressReader bridges the gap between traditional print and digital newspapers, and does it with the style and flare that you would expect in an iOS app.

In case it’s not obvious, PressReader is a news reader app on the iPad and iPhone (as well as Android devices, Blackberry Playbook and Windows Phone and Windows 7 devices) from PressDisplay.com. In such a saturated space already dominated by the likes of Rupert Murdoch’s The Daily as well as dedicated apps from local news sources like the CBC, National Post and The Globe and Mail, PressReader stands out by simply going back to basics. Unlike all the other apps I’ve already mentioned, PressReader doesn’t try to adapt a print medium for a tablet and fill it with rich media and scrolling newstickers, it simply puts the print version on the tablet. Verbatim and formatted exactly like the print version you would get at the newsstands. Including the full page print ads and classifieds. You can flip through each page either in single-page, or double-page views in full colour, as well as pinch and zoom if you want to read something in greater detail. It’s a bold move and one that I appreciate.

Reading in the traditional newsprint layout format not your cup of tea though? PressReader fully embraces the modern digital reader with a slew of features for everyone. There’s the Smart Flow UI that is akin to Flipboard that allows you to flip through articles one at a time, allowing you to expand to read the full story. There’s also a Listen feature that reads the article back to you in a synthesized voice. Want a wide range of perspectives on an issue? Not a problem. The app features a search function that lets users look up various topics and keywords across selected newspapers, or across their entire library. Lastly, the app comes with the usual retinue of social media sharing options (Twitter, Facebook, email, as well as a Reddit-like voting mechanism) as well as AirPrint and Copy-Paste support, making it a very modern iOS app.

What really stood out for me was their vast selection of newspapers from around the world. PressReader boasts over 280 newspapers from Canada alone, including the national prints such as National Post, The Globe and Mail (including regional editions), as well as local papers like The Edmonton Journal, Ottawa Citizen, Vancouver Sun, Le Soleil, 24 Hours (all the regional editions) and the Toronto Star. Internationally, they have over 300 US papers, over 150 UK papers, as well as regional papers from China, Japan, Slovenia, Russia, Paraguay and even Haiti. Because of its unique way of presenting the news, the app can display newspapers written in its native tongue. While not all the features are available for all languages (Smart Flow and Listen are for English papers at the moment) and not all papers are represented (New York Times and Wall Street Journal are missing), the depth of international content still makes PressReader a truly world class app.

Such richness in features shouldn’t be free, but PressReader isn’t an expensive service either. They offer two plans – one for the casual reader at $0.99 per issue, and another for the serious news junkie at $29.95 per month. The monthly subscription allows for an unlimited number of downloads per month, and is a no-brainer for individuals who subscribe to multiple papers or lack access to international content. Users can set up subscriptions and notifications are sent to the iPad whenever new editions are available. One thing that I’d like to see is the edition being downloaded automatically overnight a la WhisperSync, but I’m sure this is already in the works.

It’s apparent that the folks at PressDisplay have really thought through the news reading experience and have created an app that caters to a wide variety of individuals without making compromises. PressReader will definitely appeal to those who are always on the go, love to catch up on the news, but isn’t always connected (say on the subway here in Toronto). Sounds like most iPad users I know…

I know I loved PressReader, but we’d love to hear what you think. Let us know in the comments below.

PressReader [Free + Subscription, iTunes Store], PressDisplay.com

iPad Gift Ideas For the Real Last Minute Shopper

Sam — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 17:00:52 +0000

Yup. The holiday shipping deadline has passed and you’ve found yourself still without gifts for your favourite iPad owner. Or, if you’re like me, you just abhor standing in long lines in crowded malls. Whatever your reason for neglecting holiday shopping this year (again), let me come to the rescue and give you a few last minute iPad gift ideas that won’t force you standing in line, nor would it miss the big day this weekend.

AppleCare for your iPad

This one should be a no-brainer. At $79 from the Apple Store online, you can pick it up on Christmas Day and have it delivered straight to your recipient’s mailbox with little to no hassle. 3 years of parts and labour protection for the iPad is really the gift that shows you care (about the iPad).

Link

Netflix Subscription for the Video Watcher

Still probably the best streaming video subscription service in Canada, Netflix is only going to get better in 2012 with original Netflix-produced content being added into the mix soon. Not only do you get a wide variety of TV shows and movies on the iPad (with their new version of the app), but it’s cross-platform too, giving you access to the same content on the AppleTV, Xbox, PS3 and your Mac or PC. It’s definitely the best value for the video junkie on the go.

Gift subscriptions start at $7.99 for 1 month up to $95.88 for a full year. Comes with a customizable card you can email or print out. A truly flexible gift, no?

Link

Rdio for the General Music Lover

Until Spotify comes up to Canada, I still think Rdio is the best streaming radio service here. Their music library continues to grow and I’m always impressed with how much it continues to grow every time I log in. From Michael Buble to David Guetta and the latest Glee soundtrack, there should be something for everybody.

While they don’t have specific gift subscriptions (shame on you for not thinking ahead, Rdio!), at the very least you can offer to sign them up and pay for a few months of music on their behalf. Pricing is flexible with pure streaming plans at $4.99 (US) a month and a family streaming + download plan (for up to 3 accounts) at $22.99 (US), it’s a pretty good deal.

Link

iTunes Match for the iTunes Junkie

Ok, Rdio may be pretty good for folks who don’t buy anything through iTunes, but for the rest of us, there’s still iTunes Match. The latest cloud service from Apple allows you to sync your iTunes library up to the cloud and allow you to match your library to the cloud and allow it to be played wherever you are. At $27.99 per year, it’ll be cheaper than an Rdio subscription, especially if you’ve spent years and hundreds of dollars building up your perfect music library. The service only allows you to upload up to 25,000 files (with a small number of other restrictions), but anything that’s been purchased through iTunes won’t be counted in the limit. Pretty snazzy, no?

Link (FAQ) – purchase through iTunes.

eBooks for the Bookworm

Continuing in the content consumption theme, who can forget eBooks. You can’t really go wrong with Kindle or Kobo books as gifts. Both services have a pretty vast Canadian library and gift card options, so spend a few minutes and browse – I’m sure there’s something that will catch your eye.

Kindle – Link

Kobo – Link

By now, I’m sure you’re seeing a pretty clear trend. Digital subscription and products are your best bet for the late holiday shopper. With so many great options out there, whatever you get (or whenever you make the purchase), your gift will be well received by your iPad lover.

iPad Security and Best Practices for Administrators

Darlene — Mon, 16 May 2011 13:09:02 +0000

For those of you who work with the iPad in a corporate environment, you may be interested to read the article that was recently published by the Communications Security Establishment Canada (CSEC). CSEC has produced an iPad Security and Best Practices publication to assist Government of Canada (GC) departments when implementing and using the iPad.

The article identifies iPad security deficiencies such as:

Jailbreaking;
Security assurance practices for third party applications;
Data on an iPad is encrypted using AES-256 hardware encryption (the article doesn’t go into detail as to why this is a security issue); and
The enforcement of security policies.

The article recommends the following best practices for securing the iPad:

Only devices with iOS 4.2.x be used;
The administrator should ensure that the full set of iOS policies is enforceable with the chosen Mobile Device Management (MDM) solution;
Use MDM solutions to monitor for the installation of unauthorized third party applications;
Verify that installed third party applications do not introduce any security risks to the organization;
A higher level of security can be provided by use of a thin client solution;
Using and enforcing a password policy pertaining to length, complexity and allowable number of failed attempts in accordance with CSEC’s guidance;
The iPad’s hardware and firmware should not be modified in any way;
Corporate e-mail should be processed through a thin client solution, and the iPad’s native Mail application not be used to send and receive corporate e-mail;
GC departments perform procurement and activation of the iPad on behalf of each user; and
GC issued iPads should not be connected to a non-GC computer (e.g. user’s home computer) to avoid the compromise of the device’s configuration, security policies, and/or settings implemented to protect GC information.

For the complete article please refer to the CSEC article here. Let us know what you think of the article. Do you agree or disagree with what CSEC has documented and recommended?

Zite Personalized News App Hit with Cease and Decist Letter from Publishers

Gary Ng — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 16:40:31 +0000

Zite has been one of my favourite iPad 2 apps so far. This personalized magazine app differs from Flipboard or Pulse because it curates news based on your twitter timeline, Google Reader account, and a smart algorithm. Stories are easy to read and unnecessary ads and links are stripped away. Not only that, it’s a Vancouver-based start up (its technology was started at UBC) that’s created an app worth showing off to friends.

Everybody loves Zite, except for publishers that is. The company has been hit with a cease and decist letter according to Kara Swisher for All Things Digital:

The Washington Post, AP, Gannett, Getty Images, Time, Dow Jones and many other media organizations were part of the action, which you can read all about below.
…“The Zite application is plainly unlawful,” said the letter to Zite CEO Ali Davar, noting all kinds of copyright violations.
In a phone interview with BoomTown this afternoon, Davar said Zite would comply with the letter by shifting the content from its “reading” mode to a Web one, which points to publisher sites.
“It’s a bummer that they did this, but we expected it,” he said.

Zite’s layout is pretty nice, and you should download the current version before the next update is released. This app definitely transforms my iPad 2 into the ultimate news reader.

Click here to download Zite.

[All Things D]

OtterBox 10% Off Coupon Code for your iPad 2 Case

Gary Ng — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 08:23:13 +0000

If you’re looking for the strongest protection for your iPad or iPad 2, look no further than the cases from OtterBox. They are the industry leaders in making some of the best cases for your phone or iPad. We previously reviewed their Commuter/Defender series for the first iPad.

Get 10% Off OtterBox.com via iPadinCanada.ca

The OtterBox team has been gracious enough to give another 10% off coupon code to iPadinCanada.ca readers. Just use code ‘amipic0411b‘ during checkout and you’ll save a sweet 10% off ANY OtterBox order.

The Defender/Commuter Series cases for iPad 2 are coming soon. Don’t worry, because this coupon code is good until the end of June. So when it is released, you’ll be first to find out from us.

Click here to visit OtterBox.com.

What to do with your old iPad 1?

Sam — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 13:00:57 +0000

Wow… What a rush! There’s nothing like a new product launch weekend to get your heart thumping while you’re standing in line waiting for the latest shiny-object. Thanks to Gary and his army of twitter followers for keeping all of us up to date with inventory numbers.

By now, I’m sure some analyst would have made up some over-inflated ridiculous weekend sales number that is sure to wow the stock market and investors [I'm looking at you Piper Jaffray and Gene Munster]. For the rest of us, though, life returns to normal. Or does it?

For the few (or many) of us who upgraded from a first-gen iPad, the hunt begins to find either a new home or an alternate use for their now less-lustrous device. Selling it on eBay or Kijiji may be the financially sound and wise decision, but there’s always concern that the flooding of used iPads on the market would significantly drive down resale value, making the effort meaningless. We, here at iPadinCanada, would like to present you with a few alternatives for your old machine.

Build Yourself An iPad Guitar

Gary already covered the intrepid journey of the iPad Guitar. You can find his coverage here. If that’s not your cup of tea, you can probably make a pretty reasonable iPad shovel or iPad plough. Perhaps I can interest you in building an iPad tennis racquet (please use the back panel) or an iPad oar for your row boat? The possibilities are limitless. After all, the iPad is a magical and revolutionary device.

Try Blending It!

Ever wanted to be like the Will It Blend guy? Now you could with your slightly more defunct tablet! (This is seriously not recommended. The Will It Blend guy is a professional. Do not try that at home.)

With jesting aside, perhaps you want some practical suggestions for your old iPad. Well, here are a few:

Share The Love

There’s definitely nothing wrong with sharing the love of tablet computing with those you love. The iPad 1 is barely a year old, and I’m sure it’s still in very good condition. Giving it to a family member can really help with their day to day routine. Besides, if you get them hooked on it, they may finally stop using that old Windows XP machine that you have to support remotely.

Help the World

Lastly, why not try to do some good for the world with your old device. CNET has a Gazelle site set up where you can sell old gadgets, with all proceeds going to Japan’s Red Cross. Looking to help closer to home? See if you can round up a number of fellow iPad owners and donate your iPads to a local school. I’m sure they will go a long way in continuing to improve technological literacy for kids, and help cash strapped schools with their computing needs.

Live in the US? Apple has partnered up with Teach for America to donate old iPads to teachers in low-income communities too. Donate your old tablet at any US Apple retail location.

Regardless of what you end up doing with your old iPad, just make sure to do a factory reset and wipe the entire system clean. You wouldn’t want your browser history being shown to the world.

As for me, I’ll probably hang on to the iPad 1 for a little longer and see what other practical uses it has around the pad. What about you? Are you planning on selling it? Giving it to your 2 year old to play with? Let us know in the comments below.

iPad 2 Review: Thinner and Faster–Should You Buy It?

Gary Ng — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 07:30:35 +0000

Last year skeptics questioned Apple’s iPad when it was announced and predicted that it would flop. Of course, analysts were proved wrong as the iPad sold almost 15 million units in nine months, and talented developers turned the iPad into one giant success.

The next generation iPad 2 brings a thinner design, lighter weight, dual cameras, and faster A5 processor. I will explain my experience using the iPad 2 since launch day. Is the iPad 2 a worthy successor compared to the original iPad? Let’s find out.

Unboxing the iPad 2

Nothing new here, just your typical Apple unboxing that leaves you giggling with joy. If you’ve unboxed an iPad before, you’re not seeing anything new. Inside you’ll find the iPad, charger, 30 pin USB cable, and some simple start up instructions (and of course two Apple stickers). The iPad should really come with a cleaning cloth and headphones. Maybe one day, right?

The iPad 2 has an excellent plastic wrap on it, so if you’re waiting to buy a case you could technically ‘slum’ it until your case is purchased. The experience won’t be great, but if you’re one of those obsessive freaks that like to keep their gadgets in tip top shape, I know you’ll be doing this.

I will be applying an invisibleSHIELD to my iPad 2 (save 20% off with coupon ‘iphoneinca’). Speaking of which, I was able to sell my first iPad for top dollar thanks to ZAGG. My buyer couldn’t believe the mint condition my iPad was in, thanks to the invisibleSHIELD.

In case you missed it, here’s the iPad 2 unboxing trailer Apple forgot to post on the web:

First Impressions Out of the Box

Immediately after picking up the iPad 2, I noticed how much thinner and lighter it was compared to the old iPad. The curved edges make a huge difference in how the unit feels in your hands, and the thinner feel makes you realize how ‘fat’ the iPad was in the middle. It’s a real treat to hold the iPad 2. Apple achieved this by making the glass and batteries thinner.

As always, you’ll need to activate your iPad by plugging it into iTunes. When you think about it, this step is completely unnecessary for those that want to play with the iPad 2 right out of the box. Since the iPad 2 is curved, plugging in the 30 pin cable isn’t as easy as before. Part of the pin connector is exposed–you’d think Apple would come up with a flush mounted 30 pin connector? Once activated, the familiar iPad homescreen is there, right in front of you.

The Home button seems closer to the surface, and the button press feels better compared to the original iPad. Maybe that’s just me. The mute/orientation switch, also ‘slides’ better too. There seems to be a tiny bit of acceleration that helps you glide the switch back and forth. And, you’ll be happy to know that iOS 4.3 now brings back the option to turn the switch back to lock orientation, instead of mute (thank you Apple).

Using the iPad 2: It Runs Snappier Than Before

The first and obvious test with iPad 2 was to launch Safari. I noticed immediately everything felt much more “instant”. The original iPad wasn’t a slouch in any regard, but there were delays at times when launching apps. Now, with iPad 2–those delay are gone. Swiping between pages, loading of web pages, and apps, is much faster than before. Obviously, if you’ve never used the original iPad before, you’ll be impressed with the speed. I would compare this speed bump to moving from an iPhone 3GS to iPhone 4. Noticeably faster, enough for you to realize this thing has a dual core processor.

iPad 2 has more memory than before, and this ultimately has made the iPad experience even better than before. Web pages now stay loaded when switching between tabs, as iPad 2 now has 512 MB of RAM. Multitasking and opening and exiting apps are a joy on iPad 2. The newest signature apps from Apple, GarageBand and iMovie are smooth as butter on iPad 2. We have yet to see the new dual core A5 processor be put to the test.

As for battery life, my iPad 2 had an 88% charge right out of the box. I haven’t charged the unit since I started using it on late Friday night, and with my light usage it still stands at 40% four days later as of writing this review. I’m pretty sure I’ll be able to squeeze out another 3-4 days of light usage. To think that a dual core processor would enable the iPad 2 to retain 10 hours of battery is impressive. Early reviews showed even more than 10 hours of battery life.

The iPad 2 screen sports the same display as last year. However, my unit appeared brighter and slightly crisper than my original iPad. Both units were manually set to 50% brightness, and iPad 2 was brighter. Either that, or the ambient sensor was not working properly on my original iPad. Even at full brightness, the original iPad screen did not look as good as iPad 2.

Got Cameras? FaceTime Now Comes to the iPad 2

Sporting dual cameras, the iPad 2 is now FaceTime-ready, joining the iPhone 4 and fourth generation iPod touch. The rear camera can record videos in HD 720P, and the front camera is VGA resolution. Photobooth is fun to play around with, but the novelty wears off quickly. It is really weird using a camera with a 10″ screen–it’s almost kind of trippy. I’ll be honest though, the iPad 2 cameras aren’t very good. Images are grainy and suffer from noise in low light. Then again, how often would you use your iPad 2 primarily as a camera?

Taking pictures with it feels slightly awkward, compared to holding a point and shoot or SLR. For me, the camera should be better but I can understand why it’s not. It’s not easy manipulating the iPad 2 to take photos. The screen is so large, you end up holding it further away to snap pics–an awkward feeling.

Introducing My New Favourite Piece of ‘Tech’: The Smart Cover

When I first saw the Smart Cover in action during the iPad 2 keynote, I was very intrigued. It’s ingenious and innovative to use 31 magnets (thanks iFixit) to help hold the Smart Cover to the iPad 2′s edge, and to keep it flush along the front, plus when it’s manipulated into a stand.

I opted for the grey polyurethane, and the material feels similar to the original black iPad case. Latching the Smart Cover to iPad 2 is brainless and easy. In typical Apple fashion, it just works. The magnets are strong enough that I can dangle my iPad 2 just by holding onto the Smart Cover. There are tiny plastic pieces that protect the iPad 2′s aluminum frame from constant snapping on and off. What’s interesting to note is that even with the Smart Cover applied to the iPad 2, it’s still thinner than the original iPad.

Folding and unfolding the Smart Cover into its triangular shape is, in a weird way, gratifying. Maybe it’s the childhood memories of manipulating magnets coming back to my mind. When molded into the triangular shape, the microfibre side is exposed to the elements. You can flip it around and fold it so the polyurethane is on the outside, which I have been taking time to get used to.

With the Smart Cover, you soon realize how much time was spent pressing Home or Sleep button, then “Sliding to Unlock” with the original iPad. iPad 2 automatically wakes upon lifting the cover. We can satisfy our insatiable desire to get online faster than ever before.

Here’s a quick review of the Smart Cover:

Should you buy the iPad 2?

Lots of my friends and family have asked me this–and it’s a question that’s pretty simple to answer. If you are an existing iPad owner, the differences include a faster processor, thinner design, and cameras. They are nice upgrades, but not game changing. It’s a good next step up from the original. That being said, it is only worth the purchase if you absolutely must have the need for cameras and want the latest model. Other than that, save your money for the next generation iPad 3.

If you’ve never owned an iPad before, this is the time to buy one. iPad 2 builds on the successful iPad, and brings features we longed for last year, and Apple delivered. This next generation iPad is thinner, faster, lighter, and has cameras–all for the same price, plus the exact same battery life. The only problem right now is where to find one. Canada gets theirs on March 25th.

FAQ: Canadians Buying iPad 2 from the USA; What You Need to Know

Gary Ng — Thu, 10 Mar 2011 05:43:32 +0000

Updated – March 10, 2011. New questions at the bottom.

iPad 2 is released this Friday in the US. However, given the close proximity Canadians are to Apple Stores near the Canada/USA border, it’s going to be Christmas for Canucks too. If you’re looking to buy an iPad 2 from the US, here are some tips that you need to know about.

Most of this info is modified from our first FAQ about buying the first gen iPad from the US. We’ve updated the FAQ to help out the next generation of early iPad 2 adopters. Let’s get started!

How much does an iPad 2 cost in the US?

- WiFi models: $499/16GB, $599/32GB, $699/64GB
- WiFi + 3G models: $629/16GB, $729/32GB, $829/64GB
- Add on local State tax to the above purchases.

How much are iPad 2 Smart Covers in the US?

- Polyurethane: $39; Leather: $69

How much is the Apple Digital AV Adapter for streaming 1080p to my TV?

- $39

How much is the iPad 2 dock?

- $29

What colours do the iPad 2 come in?

White or black.

What other stores are selling the iPad 2?

Best Buy, Target, Walmart.

Can I use 3G iPad 2 models in Canada on Rogers, Telus, and Bell? Are they unlocked?

Yes. We confirmed they are unlocked. However, you MUST buy the AT&T GSM version for it to work in Canada.

Does my US iPad 2 warranty extend to Canada?

Yes.

Do American Apple Stores take Canadian credit cards?

Yes. You’re in luck too, since the Canadian dollar is above parity!

Will I have to pay duties on my iPad 2? What about HST?

From iPadinCanada.ca reader Cal:

The 10-digit harmonized system (HS) code for iPads is:
* 8471.30.01.00 in the U.S.
* 8471.30.00.00 in Canada.
Both countries use the World Customs Organization tariff item description of “portable automatic data processing machines, weighing not more than 10 kg, consisting of at least a central processing unit, a keyboard and a display”. The iPad falls under this tariff classification, as do computer netbooks and notebooks.

So, no duties on iPad, but Canadian taxes, yes.

Will Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) care how many iPads I bring back in one day?

No. As long as you declare, you’ll just pay Canadian taxes on the total value of your iPads. I called CBSA to confirm this.

Is there a limit on iPad 2 purchases? I want to bring back 5 for my friends and family.

Apple last year had a limit of 2 iPads per person/credit card. That might happen again this year. Bring an “iPad wing man” to help out if you need more. We’ll find the limits soon, and update this FAQ.

Will I have to create a US iTunes account to use iPad 2 in Canada?

No.

I really, really want an iPad 2 from the US this Friday (and weekend). How should I prepare?

Prior to leaving Canada, Google the numbers/addresses of Apple Stores, Best Buy/Walmart/Target stores, and also Starbucks locations (for free WiFi–and calling via Skype plans). Bring a lawn chair as you might be prepared to wait in line.

Will Applecare purchased in the US work in Canada?

Yes.

What time will US Apple Stores sell iPad 2? What about ordering online?

5pm local time for stores. Online ordering starts at 1am. Canadians cannot order from Apple.com. I suggest you find an “Amerifriend” to order for you. Or, try a mail forwarding service; although last year orders from Borderlinx were cancelled by Apple. Best bet, get a friend to order for you that lives in the USA.

Will I pay Canadian tax on the total before US State tax, or on top of it?

You will be charged Canadian tax on the US total that includes taxes. So if you paid $546 US for iPad 2 from Washington State ($499 + 9.5%), coming home you’ll have to pay HST on that amount. So, $546 x 12%. Boo!

If there’s a relevant question we missed, please let us know in the comments and we’ll include and try our best to answer it. Anyone heading South this Friday and the weekend?

CES 2011: Revenge of the Other Tablets

Sam — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 14:00:43 +0000

If memory serves, CES 2010 was the year Tablets came into common parlance to mean more than just pills or ancient runes found in archaeological dig sites. In fact, tablets were so big last year at CES, that every manufacturer and OS maker were pushing their contender in the space including Microsoft, Palm, Dell, Fusion Garage [remember the JooJoo], Notion Ink, and countless others.

Sadly, most of those are still vaporware or became dead on arrival when the iPad was announced only days later.

So what’s different this time round? Why are there so many posts on our favourite tech blogs about Microsoft having another go at the tablet, or HP[alm] announcing a few tablets this year too? Do they possibly think they could stand a chance with the giant iPad elephant in the room?

Of course they do. Each of the contenders this time round spent the past year looking at Apple’s success in building this seemingly inexistent space, looking for holes and attacking them with fervor. A prime example would be Samsung’s Galaxy Tab. While it’s not perfect, it’s attacking Apple from their weakness in their large form factor. Here’s a quick look at what some of the interesting tidbits that’s floating online.

A true tablet OS war is looming

One of the big lessons learned through 2010 is that not every OS is meant to be on a tablet. WebOS, probably a very suitable tablet OS, was scrapped after Palm was acquired by HP earlier last year. Windows 7, while seen as a viable contender, didn’t have the touch UI support needed to make the experience intuitive. Android, while free and open source, wasn’t optimized for the tablet, and won’t be until Gingerbread [or even Honeycomb] is released, a full year after tablets began to surface. Let’s also not forget the QNX running on the Blackberry Playbook. Yea…let’s not forget that. [I actually forgot about the Playbook.]

2011 is proving to be very different. Not only is HP reviving the WebOS for the tablet, but we’re also expecting to hear from Microsoft about Windows 8, which is rumoured to be built with tablets in mind. Google’s agile development framework is finally paying off and we’ll be expecting plenty of juicy tablet features in future versions of Android. With 5 competitors vying for dominance, 2011 could be the year where the tablet OS matures.

Meeting Form with Function

As I alluded to earlier, the form factor [and not just size alone] will play a big role in how competitors react to Apple in 2011. Samsung’s opening salvo of a 7″ tablet is potentially pre-mature, and may turn off others from a similar size. Dell’s Streak, at 5″, could thrive in a niche micro-tablet market for folks who don’t want an iPhone/iPod. However, there are a variety of ways other hardware manufacturers can approach the form factor question. A tablet that sits in between the iPad and the Galaxy Tab could fit quite well. Also, changing the screen’s aspect ratio could become a game changer in itself [though I have my doubts about it].

There’s definitely a lot of room to explore here. For example, take a look at Dell’s Inspiron Duo [the detachable tablet/netbook concept] recently released was quite innovative too. However, I fear that most manufacturers would try harder to become innovative than to focus on the user experience and focusing on form and function. This might be the fatal downfall of other tablets.

Why Competition is Ultimately Important

So as fans of the iPad, we should sit back and ask ourselves – is competition really that important? Wouldn’t it be better if Apple just owns the tablet space in 2011 just as it did in 2010?

The answer is a resounding no.

At the end of the day, Apple can’t think of every brilliant idea that can fit in a tablet, nor would they opt to include every feature that they develop. Competition allows for the users and the open market to speak out on which features are needed but missing [multi-tasking and copy-paste], which ones simply don’t work [external antennae], or which ones are sorely wanted but will never make it in [Flash].

Besides, it’s about time that the iPad proves that it’s the best machine out there…until the iPad 2 gets announced. So I say bring on the competitors at CES and let’s see how everyone reacts this year.

Based on what you, our dear readers, have seen online, which non-Apple tablet or feature excites you most? What would be the biggest surprise this year at CES? Let us know in the comments below.

iPadinCanada.ca OtterBox 10% Off Coupon Code!

Gary Ng — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 08:05:49 +0000

Have you been waiting to pick up an OtterBox Defender or Commuter case for your iPad (read our review here)? The wait is over as our friends at OtterBox are offering an exclusive 10% off discount code for iPadinCanada.ca readers!

All you have to do is enter the code amipic0111a during checkout. Time to ring in 2011 with some savings! Thanks OtterBox!

Click here to visit OtterBox.com