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I don't want to make assumptions without seeing some data on this, but do people really think that the 10" iPad is too big? I can understand a fiscal reason to

by jblock 14y ago

I don't want to make assumptions without seeing some data on this, but do people really think that the 10" iPad is too big? I can understand a fiscal reason to make smaller iPads, but I struggle to see any vast ergonomic benefits to a slightly smaller device.

bradmccarty 14y ago
My only (and I stress ONLY) argument for a smaller tablet is for reading. Back when the original Galaxy Tab launched, I was hugely impressed by the comfort level of reading on the device. The iPad, even for my big hands, feels unwieldy when it comes to trying to read books on it.
spaghetti 14y ago
The only activity I can think of that benefits from a smaller size is typing. I have large hands and typing while holding my iPad in either orientation is cumbersome. Even if typing is easier I don't think I'd purchase a smaller Apple tablet unless it fits in my jacket or pants pocket like an iPhone. My ideal mobile phone/tablet is the largest iPhone that doesn't require another carrying bag. To keep things easy for developers the pixel dimensions would be the same as an existing device. The pixel density could vary with the smaller screen size.
achompas 14y ago
Awesome--you have two wildly different opinions responding to you. I agree with both: the iPad weighs too much for long-term reading, and it's too clumsy for typing. A 8" iPad would hit the right mix of portability and comfort.
jsz0 14y ago
The benefit is mostly to reach a bigger market without cannibalizing the existing market too much. It would be awkward to sell a cheap 10" tablet that is really 'good enough' to most people along side an expensive 10" tablet. How do you explain the differences and justify paying 30-50% more? The only reason they can get away with selling the same sizes of iPhones is due to carrier subsidies. They can make money on the low end devices. If a consumer was walking into a store to buy a 3GS off contract they would likely not pay more than $200 for it. Apple is getting more like $350-$400 from the carriers for a 3GS.
- bradmccarty 14y ago
  Great point here. I think that the Mini (if it happens, if that's the name, etc) will be another gateway drug just like the iPod touch. I remember Steve smiling kinda smugly about people who wanted the OS and the apps but didn't want the phone. The touch was how Apple got them in the door. Now translate that to a tablet. For $200 you can get a device that has, inarguably, the best apps marketplace, at its disposal. Android tablets will have an especially difficult time keeping up with that, except for the ones that are purchased by people who simply don't like Apple and its ecosystem.
r00fus 14y ago
Not too big, but too heavy for casual reading in bed for long hours. 10" tablets are really the most awesome you can get if you're looking at spec docs or pdfs in a non-desk situation.

by jblock 14y ago

bradmccarty 14y ago

My only (and I stress ONLY) argument for a smaller tablet is for reading. Back when the original Galaxy Tab launched, I was hugely impressed by the comfort level of reading on the device. The iPad, even for my big hands, feels unwieldy when it comes to trying to read books on it.

spaghetti 14y ago

The only activity I can think of that benefits from a smaller size is typing. I have large hands and typing while holding my iPad in either orientation is cumbersome. Even if typing is easier I don't think I'd purchase a smaller Apple tablet unless it fits in my jacket or pants pocket like an iPhone. My ideal mobile phone/tablet is the largest iPhone that doesn't require another carrying bag. To keep things easy for developers the pixel dimensions would be the same as an existing device. The pixel density could vary with the smaller screen size.

achompas 14y ago

Awesome--you have two wildly different opinions responding to you. I agree with both: the iPad weighs too much for long-term reading, and it's too clumsy for typing. A 8" iPad would hit the right mix of portability and comfort.

jsz0 14y ago

The benefit is mostly to reach a bigger market without cannibalizing the existing market too much. It would be awkward to sell a cheap 10" tablet that is really 'good enough' to most people along side an expensive 10" tablet. How do you explain the differences and justify paying 30-50% more? The only reason they can get away with selling the same sizes of iPhones is due to carrier subsidies. They can make money on the low end devices. If a consumer was walking into a store to buy a 3GS off contract they would likely not pay more than $200 for it. Apple is getting more like $350-$400 from the carriers for a 3GS.

bradmccarty 14y ago
Great point here. I think that the Mini (if it happens, if that's the name, etc) will be another gateway drug just like the iPod touch. I remember Steve smiling kinda smugly about people who wanted the OS and the apps but didn't want the phone. The touch was how Apple got them in the door. Now translate that to a tablet. For $200 you can get a device that has, inarguably, the best apps marketplace, at its disposal. Android tablets will have an especially difficult time keeping up with that, except for the ones that are purchased by people who simply don't like Apple and its ecosystem.

r00fus 14y ago

Not too big, but too heavy for casual reading in bed for long hours. 10" tablets are really the most awesome you can get if you're looking at spec docs or pdfs in a non-desk situation.