The Apple iPad is without any doubt the phenomenon of the last years. Apple received in the meantime many awards and developed this new tablet PC. In this review, I would like to give a closer look to whether or not this product is a "must-have fun product" or actually "a business used product".
© Apple
Battery
If Apple wants to become number one in business for tablets, the battery should last for at least one full working day. The iPad2, according to the specifications, has approximately 10 hours and it seemed only very slightly exaggerated. When the brightness is set to about 75% (which is clear enough!), I had access to a full day of meetings, mails and surf without any battery complains. This is certainly a hugh advantage of the iPad.
Portability
The iPad 2 is compact, lightweight and comfortable to hold. It is a pleasure to bring it with you every day! If you plan to read many mails, the iPad will not disappoint you. Do you prefer to write? You can use the keyboard or buy a separate pen (along with the special app) and just use your iPad as a notepad. Using one of the new iPad 2 smart covers, it feels even only more pleasant. The only downside is that while walking, I fail to type on the iPad. But I am not able to do so on a notepad ... So the portability is another strength of the iPad.
Multitasking
iOS4 & 5 is a standard multitasking concept. With a double click on the home button, you switch from one program to another without having to close. So you can Skype with a colleague and receive and answer emails or use the Internet (Safari) and follow stock prices. Already the third strength of the iPad.
Cameras
Cameras are not exactly the things that a business user will desire and yet, I think this feature on the iPad 2 has become very popular in certain business fields. Think of contractors who use pictures (or videos) to see the evolution on the field or in worst case, to have a picture for eventual claims. For business use, the rear camera is a useful advantage. The camera is especially useful for a conference call with several colleagues, where it is pleasant to see during his explanation what your colleagues shows with their hands. So if this is really a strength, it will depend on your job specifications.
Security
Currently, the main problem is still security. I will not say that an iPad is an unsafe product or that there is a vulnerability, but Apple delivers too little details about the security and creates not enough tools for an ICT department to close the system for confidential information of the company. Blackberry is able to do so and the results are known! This is a weakness!
Conclusion
The iPad 2 is undoubtedly a fun and interactive device but is currently focusing on leisure. Step-by-step, the iPad 2 does capture the business market, but Apple should focus on the right places. Once the security can be changed by ICT departments, it could be the next standard tablet on the business-market!
Best regards,
Sven Michiels
