After the success of the iPhone, many people wondered where Apple would go next, with many predicting they would release a touchscreen-enabled tablet PC. That speculation proved to be correct, and the device that everyone was speculating about is the Apple iPad.
Designed to fill a niche between mobile phones and laptops, the Apple iPad is what is known as a tablet computer, although to call
it that seems to be a disservice, as it implies an underpowered PC, which is far from what the Apple iPad actually is. A more accurate statement is to say that the Apple iPad is something of a chameleon, becoming whatever the user wants it to be, although it is perhaps best described as a 'couch browser', an internet device designed for easy surfing without needing to use a more cumbersome laptop and keyboard, and its thinner, more compact form factor makes the Apple iPad more of an 'instant companion' type of device.
Every interaction with the Apple iPad is made through the beautiful 9.7-inch glass touchscreen. This screen truly is beautiful to behold, with its large size (and the fact it the Apple iPad supports multitouch) making it even more rewarding to surf the web on. The sublime screen also sports an oleophobic coating, making it much more resistant to fingerprints, and easier to clean any smudges from. The rest of the Apple iPad's body is made from a single piece of aluminium, and at only 13.4 mm thick, it is a joy to hold and use.
However, because the Apple iPad uses the iOS operating system (just like the Apple iPhone 4), it is so much more than just a screen to view the internet on. The inclusion of Apple's famous App Store allows the user to buy, download and install a wealth of extra software, including 3D games, which look stunning on that big screen. Apple iPad also includes iBooks, Apple's e-book reader, which includes its own store, allowing the user to buy, download and read books right on the Apple iPad, without ever having to switch to any other device.
So, in conclusion, the Apple iPad is not just a tablet PC. Nor is it just a 'couch browser'. It is one of those truly special devices which can change itself to best fit your needs. Combined with an exquisite aluminium body, the Apple iPad easily deserves the description it has be given: it truly is magical.