Looking for life beyond the edge.

Apple Tablet – iSlate – iPad

Well, I’m not really sure what to think here. From all the rumor sites I’ve been reading I’d like to think that the device isn’t going to be an “iPhone on Steroids” like many say. I can’t see myself running out to buy one if it does exactly what my iPhone does except on a 10″ screen. I also thought I’d never have a use for a smart phone or thought that Facebook would catch on so I guess time will tell maybe an iPhone on steroids would be something I’d use.

As for my wishlist I’d like to see a cost-effective (read: CHEAP) device that bridges functionality between iPhone, eReader,  Netbook and a Macbook. I would like it to have the capability of a Smart Phone with 3G data connectivity (but not required), App Store and Mobile Phone usage, Netbook like portability and basic functionality and some basic laptop functions as well.

There are many days where a tablet device would fit my everyday lifestyle and my laptop would sit on my desk and be used for things like graphics design, video editing, photo management and chatting with a physical QWERTY keyboard and large screen. I think that in business we could see the tablet fulfill many roles that we’re attempting to fit laptops and smartphones into. Also, the ability for it to also be an eReader and eliminate me having to carry a Kindle or like device around as well would be nice.

Multi-Carrier in the US for the iPhone

It was only a matter of time before every carrier in the US had the iPhone. If this rumor turns out to be true then I’ll welcome the change. Now, you won’t see me moving from AT&T but at least all the AT&T haters can return to the networks that they’ve sold their souls to in a previous life. Right now the biggest thing I hear from my friends is, “If the iPhone comes to Verizon – I’m getting one” or “I’m switching back”. It will free up congested AT&T networks for people like me who chose to stay.

Let me remind you of one small thing – though the iPhone is an amazing device – Verizon and Sprint still has a CDMA crippling network that doesn’t allow DATA AND VOICE AT THE SAME TIME. Now, you might say, no big deal. Really? As a heavy Verizon BlackBerry user before switching to an AT&T iPhone let me point out some annoyances that a supposed Verizon iPhone would have

• Slower Data
  • Sure, if we take your Verizon iPhone out into the middle of nowhere and my AT&T iPhone you’ll have EVDO and I’ll have Edge to use for data. You win the speed advantage there. However, as we drive back to the city you’ll still have EVDO and I’ll have 3G – now I win. Since I spend 99% of my time in 3G enabled areas I’d say for me having faster coverage where I spend most of the time is important – not having somewhat fast speeds in no-mans-land.
  • One other thing to think about is how data intensive the iPhone can be. Most of my applications rely on data to function and it is nice to have mobile broadband speeds when using such apps. These same “quick” transactions will be noticeably slower with EVDO.
• No Simultaneous Data and Phone Usage
  • When I had a Verizon BlackBerry I didn’t think this was a big deal – until I started using apps and tethering. There was nothing more annoying than me trying to tether so I could use my Laptop and miss 6 phone calls because I was using my BlackBerry as a data device. Then as I would stream data onto the phone and I’d end whatever application and get 3 voice mails. I also hated being on a call and needing something that requires data on the phone and having to either “call back” or do without.
  • I’m sure you’re sitting there shaking your head saying, “How much does that really apply?” Well, I can’t count how many times I’ve been on a conference call where someone says, “Let me e-mail you this doc” and I pull it up on my iPhone for viewing… while connected to the call. I am all the time talking to people who need directions and I use the Map app to find out where they’re at and give them directions. I often talk on the phone while playing an online game or multitasking in some fashion with an app that uses data. Bottom line is that once you’re used to doing data and voice at the same time – going without would be difficult.
• Worldwide Coverage?
  • Will the Verizon phone have CDMA and GSM capabilities such as the BlackBerry World Phone edition? If not then a CDMA phone would be lacking for international travelers but then again if you’re on Verizon this may not be a huge issue for you.

As for what else will be revealed tomorrow I’m not sure. New software for the Tablet, new iPhone OS, who knows! I’m exicted and plan on doing a “Post-Release Blog” to see how my predictions and thoughts added up. Feel free to comment!
Later,
- JM