Have You Joined the iPad Bandwagon Yet?

Critics have questioned the purpose of the iPad, and defining its niche whilst considering the functions of laptops and smart-phones has indeed been difficult. Is it just a larger iPod Touch? To some it may be, but that’s not the point. The truth is that, much like other technological ingenuities such as the iPhone, or the original Walkman; the iPad has created a need, and is on its way to becoming a household item.

We all have basic care needs, but the role of technology is to serve latent needs, those needs that we may not realize we have. Think to yourself: Was a smart-phone seen as necessary fifteen years ago? Yet, within the last few years, smart-phones have seen exponential growth in sales and will inevitably dominate the mobile phone market.

[pullquote]Think to yourself: Was a smart-phone seen as necessary fifteen years ago? Yet, within the last few years, smart-phones have seen exponential growth in sales and will inevitably dominate the mobile phone market.[/pullquote]

And, contrary to what some critics believe, the iPad does have several uses. More importantly, it has potential. In fact, what the iPad really offers is versatility. It goes much further than simply allowing users to surf the web, check their emails, read a book, or play a game; indeed, it caters to various different users. First of all, the multitude of apps available to users through Apple’s infamous AppStore gives the iPad an instant appeal.

As e-textbooks increase in popularity, the iPad offers a user-friendly and engaging method of learning. Couple this with self-directed learning services like Apple’s iTunes U and various other online learning and discussion resources, and the iPad has the potential to become an indispensable learning tool. The iPad also offers advantages to educators, who can integrate it into the classroom through educational games, videos and interactive quizzes. The business world also has much to gain. More than 50% of US employees admit they have better technology at home than at work.

The inclusion of the iPad in a work environment could serve many different purposes, anywhere from connecting with other employees to making presentations. And, interestingly, health care can also benefit from the iPad with the increasing emphasis on electronic medical records. The iPad is a very portable means for physicians to access patient records and medical history, view medical imaging data or test results, and update patient health information.

The argument here is not that the iPad is perfect, or that it is unequivocally the best product on the market. But, by that same token, we must appreciate what it is, what it can do, and the vast potential that it has. Oh, and we must not forget: the iPad has the “cool” factor that comes with the Apple brand.

ARB Team
Arbitrage Magazine
Business News with BITE.

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