Apple just announced the launch of the iPad, Apple's rumored tablet computer. Judging from what we have seen so far, the iPad is basically a very large iPod touch with a modified interface. According to Steve Jobs, the device will be far better than an iPhone or netbook for browsing the web. The iPad will also feature most of the standard apps we have become used to on the iPhone platform, including maps, contacts and a calendar.
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One of the areas that Jobs stressed during the presentation is that the iPad will be a great device for browsing the web. All the standard apps like the calendar and email apps have been redesigned for the larger screen. The new interface, from what we have seen so far, looks extremely crisp and has been greatly simplified to accommodate the multitouch interface.
Photos, Music and Videos
The iPad will also feature an iPhoto-like application with integrated maps and advanced slideshows.
Unsurprisingly, the iPad will also feature an iPod, which can display iTunes LP album art.
Maps
During the presentation, Jobs also highlighted the maps application, which, thanks to the large interface, looks very nice and also features Google's StreetView imagery. Before the event, there were quite a few rumors that Apple was going to announce its own mapping service, but judging from this, Apple will continue to use Google's maps.
Mac, iPhone and App Store
Steve Jobs opened today's presentation by talking about the iPod ecosystem. According to Apple, the company just sold its 250 millionth iPod. Jobs also announced that Apple now has 284 retail stores that had 50 million people coming through its doors last year.
Developers have now created over 140,000 applications for the iPhone platform and consumers have downloaded over 3 billion app.
Regarding the Mac platform, Apple announced that it ended its holiday quarter with 15.6 billion in revenue from the Mac platform. Most of the computers Apple now sells are laptops. Jobs stressed that Apple is now the world's largest mobile devices company.
Before talking about the tablet, Jobs also recapped Apple's history in the laptop business. Specifically, Jobs wondered if there was space in the market for devices that fit between a laptop and a smartphone. A device you could use for watching videos, enjoying music, playing games and reading e-books.
Jobs also took a jab at netbooks, which, according to Apple, aren't really good at doing anything.
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