May
20
The Apple iPad 2
Magical. That is the best word to describe the iPad 2. I’ve spent less than three hours on my new iPad and in that time I’ve:
1. Made it my social media hub by loading the Hootsuite app
2. Made it my news hub using the Pulse app as well as the CNN app
3. Loaded the ABC app for sitcoms and shows (wish NBC had an app for their shows)
4. Added the Kindle app so that I can access our family library of Kindle books
5. Added a selection of music from my iTunes library so I can listen to music while using the iPad
6. Rented and watched a movie with my wife (No Strings Attached with Ashton Kutcher and Natalie Portman)
7. Using the WordPress app I’m writing this blog post entirely on the iPad
I have limited experience with Apple products (my wife has an iPod and so i’ve used it along with iTunes), but have had no problem figuring out how the iPad works. Additionally, typing is easier than I thought it would be. For longer emails or posts that require images, charts or video a laptop or desktop would likely be easier, but for basic correspondence typing on the iPad works great.
Recent research shows the number one use for the iPad is simply browsing the web. I understand why after using mine. It becomes such a rich experience, especially when you tie it in with social media apps like Flipboard. You end up browsing articles and video from your friends posts/tweets since more of the content is shown than just the link (check out the Flipboard example here to see what I mean).
When the first iPad came out there was a lot of talk about the inability to multitask. I was in agreement as it seemed that capability would be necessary in today’s fast-paced world. No longer do I feel this way. If you want to multitask on the iPad you are missing one of it’s most simplistic and beneficial features: rich content one app at a time. I would argue that the iPad is the digital equivalent of stopping to smell the flowers on a hike. You can enjoy amazing content and go deeper using apps that do a great job of sifting massive amounts of online information.
Because of this, the iPad is the minimalists dream. It is the one device that will keep you connected, informed, and entertained. After less than three hours of messing around with mine I can assure you it does all three with ease.
I feel like I’ve only scratched the surface of what this thing can do. The sign of a good product is one that can pleasantly surprise even after the user has had it for awhile – I fully anticipate more fun surprises as I continue to use my iPad. As my exploration continues on this new device, I will keep you posted on what I find. If you have had an iPad for awhile, what have been some of your favorite uses (apps, entertainment, productivity, etc.)?
