Darren Herman

I’m probably a few weeks late for this review but thought I’d toss one out into cyberspace anyway.  Let me start out by saying that I absolutely love the vision of Apple and this product has the potential to create a new usage occasion.

To keep it short and brief, here are my thoughts:

Dislikes:  the typing experience.  I think the keyboard on the iPhone is much easier to use then the iPad in terms of spatial portions.  When in portrait mode or even landscape, it just doesn’t feel right when you type.  Not a fan.  Additionally, I think I should have waited until either the 3G version hits the stores or until there is ubiquitous wifi.   The iPad works perfectly in the office (b/c of wifi) but once I take it outside, the functionality becomes limited.

Example:  I have been bringing the iPad onto the train in the morning and evenings during my commute and have been catching up on RSS Feeds.  I haven’t done this in over a year!  While I am excited that I can read the feeds in transit on a great screen, I cannot comment on them nor read anyone else’s comments.  The lack of connectivity gives this iPad more of an iPod Touch feel.

Likes:  ability to take the web with me wherever I want without the hassle of having a laptop.  I’m thinking that if this had a better typing experience, this would be the ideal travel computer for airplanes.  If you do not have a Netbook and are trying to use a full size laptop on airplanes these days, it’s tough because of limited space.  The iPad is a perfect solve for that… but typing again, is a pain.

Overall, I love the experience and the product.  I think the 3G version probably is a better product due to mobility outside of Wifi zones for the person who wants to stay connected.