Why I Think the iPad Will NOT Disappoint.

OK, there has been a lot of hype and counter-hype about Apple's new iPad this week. All the Windows-heads and tech folks are crowing about how this is nothing more than another Apple love-fest and that the device really isn't that special. Nothing more than a large iTouch, they say. Right now, this week, that's sort of true. But it won't be for long, and here's why.

First, the app model. Apple has mastered the art of micro-selling and micro-paying. Their new bookstore takes Amazon's online store to the next level visually as well as business-wise. Publishers are going to set their own prices, not leaving most of the value of the more impressive titles on the table. Magazine and newspaper publishers finally have a way to sell monthly or annual subscriptions that rival the convenience and visual appeal of their print products, while at the same time providing advertisers with an even more compelling medium for their messages. This will only get better over time as new apps, OS upgrades, and software enhancements improve the device every week. One thing Apple needs to do is open up the reporting a little so publishers can see what their products are doing for customers.

Second is the design capabilities the iPad will support. For starters, check out Sports Illustrated's demo. Magnificent. It crushes even the print version while losing none of the visual benefits of a magazine.The newspaper layouts I've seen, like this one of the New York Times, are equally impressive. As a real advocate of print designs, I can really get on board with this. I am willing to pay for something this comprehensive and attractive, which keeps the publishing business model alive. I know it takes time and talent to create beautiful publications, and I respect and support that.

As we are quickly learning, the era of internet connectivity is punishing businesses that don't add value outside of the actual control they have over a market (such as distribution), and publishing has suffered more than most because their revenue was almost exclusively derived from control over said distribution. The iPad provides two benefits right away: they get some measure of financial and distribution control back through the Apple store, and they can design visual and editorial value back into the actual publication itself.They can even start localizing news and information they provide on the fly based in your current location.

This is a CONSUMER device. When I view it in that light I am blown away. I can SEE how I would use and ENJOY it every day. Books, mags, papers, software, music, videos, games. Wow. Hey, Santa...?