Switchfast Blog - The Future of IT

To Enterprise or Not - Tech Analysts Split on iPad

Thursday, January 28, 2010 by Administrator

As we speak, the hype and excitement of the iPad is slowly diminishing as the public discusses openly their criticism or praise. It's no surprise that Apple has utilized social discussion, careful leaked details, and a beautiful product to pay for all the advertising and PR it needs.

In the technology industry, there are many opinions forming. Just like the consumer arena, analysts are split on whether the iPad can be an attractive tool for business.

Ted Schadler, an analyst at Forrester Research, has stated, "... this is an attractive business tool. Laptops will be left at home." He goes on to say that Microsoft will soon build software custom for the Office format. Stressing the ability of messaging and collaboration, Shadler believes "high-net-worth mobile pros" will flock to this product.

Others aren't as confident, noting that the iPad product fails to carry important office productivity tools and lasts a mere 10 hours when Wi-Fi is not running.

Phillip Redman at Gartner Inc. questions Apple's product placement, saying "it befuddles us that Apple seeks to kill the netbook segment."

With Apple making such a big move, what will Microsoft respond with?

Mary-Jo Foley, a blogger over at ZDnet.com for "All Things Microsoft," believes that Windows 7 is the response to the iPad. "Some of Microsoft critics think Windows 7, as it currently exists, isn't enough of a response... that what matters more is the fact that Windows 7 isn't optimized for slate-like devices." Foley postures that the next UI will be aimed at a more natural user experience.

Hit the link for the full article and further commentary.

Until next time -

Matt Hymel

Switchfast Technologies
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