Apple on Wednesday introduced its “latest creation,” an ultra-thin, multimedia tablet device that it calls the “iPad.” The device, which CEO Steve Jobs called a “magical and revolutionary product,” resembles a large iPhone, and is meant to take up the space in between an iPhone and a Mac laptop computer.
The device will range in price from $499 to $829, depending on hard drive size and 3G or lack thereof. The first version will arrive in 60 days (on or about March 29) and the 3G-enabled version will arrive in 90 days (April 29.)
Weighing 1.5 pounds and boasting a 9.7-inch screen, the iPad performs numerous functions: It can be used for Web browsing, email, photos, music and video viewing, gaming and, through a new book-reading application called iBooks, e-book reading. The device can also easily access both the iTunes Store and the App Store, in addition to the new iBook store.
A few more notes on the iPad:
– The device will come in 16, 32 and 64GB versions, selling for $499, $599 and $699 with with WiFi only, and $629, $729 and $829 for the WiFI and 3G version . It also offers 10 hours of battery life.
– All devices will include WiFi, and some will also offer 3G coverage. AT&T is offering a data plan offering 250MB for $14.99 a month, or unlimited data for $29.99 a month, plus free use of AT&T WiFi hotspots. The arrangement does not require a contract and can be canceled at any time.
– The iBook store includes cooperation with several book publishers. The store and reader application also give the reader the option of changing the font of any book.
– A software development kit has been released for the new device.
– On the environmental front, the iPad is free of arsenic, BFR, mercury and PVC and is “highly recyclable,” Apple said.
– A version of the iWork software has been released for the iPad.
Visit our sister site, Appletell, for more on the unveiling of the device.
