Overview of the new Apple iPad

The Apple iPad is a new product from Apple that bridges a gap between a Smart Phone and a Netbook. The Apple iPad is a tablet computer that is essentially a big touch screen with all user interaction being done by finger movements on the touch screen.

Announced by Steve Jobs on the 27th January 2010 the Apple iPad is described by Apple as their most advanced technology in a magical and revolutionary device. We call it... a really big iPod Touch, and in fact it looks very similar with the now recognisable Apple design.

The Apple iPad is predominantly an internet based machine which requires an owner to have internet access to fully make use of the iPads capabilities. As a standalone computer without internet connectivity, the iPad is little more than a very pretty ornament.

The Apple iPad in a nutshell

The Apple iPad allows you to:

• Surf the web
• Send and receive emails
• Store and view Photos
• Listen to music
• Watch Videos
• Read books
• Play Games
• Run Apps
• View Maps
• Organise contacts and Events

All of this is done through their beautiful touch screen interface similar to the iPhone and the iPod touch.

Apple iPad Variations

There are two distinct variations of the Apple iPad. Firstly there is the iPad Wi-Fi model which as the name suggests allows you to connect to the internet through your own Wi-Fi connection or at one of the many Wi-Fi hotspots around the globe. Secondly there is the iPad Wi-Fi + 3G model which has integrated 3G cellular technology allowing network access from anywhere on a mobile or cellular network.

Both the Apple iPad Wi-Fi and the Wi-Fi + 3G come in 3 memory sizes, these being 16GB, 32GB or 64GB. This memory is similar to an iPod or iPhone based on flash drive technology for no moving parts and instant access to data.

Apple iPad Summary

The iPad must not be thought of or compared directly with Notebooks and Laptops as it is very much the first of a new generation of machines. It will appeal to a broad range of people, although anyone who wants to do any serious computing will find it lacking in certain areas. Would you call this piece of techonology a "Cheap Apple Ipad"? Well that all depends on your point of view and if you consider the Apple iPad price to be worth while.

Overall, the iPad is a great piece of technology and a real innovation from Apple. It is highly matched to the online user of today who wants looks, style, online features and the latest must have tech. Should you buy an Apple iPad, we say YES, however keep an eye out for Free Apple iPads and iPad deals as you may find a Free iPad popping up with mobile phone and mobile internet contracts.