I'm getting one not because I just fancy having one, but because I will use it for my work and will eventually replace my aging Apple iBook G4.
Yup for work, which means it could connect to an LCD projector, it should have an array of applications that can make and present powerpoint slides. Very simple requirements for me right?
The most logical choice would be the iPad2, which I was ready to get, but then it's very hard to get one! The US Apple Store online and physical stores doesn't have any stocks. The online store promises 4-6weeks shipping time. Now that's a looooooong wait.
What comes next? Well, there's the BlackBerry PlayBook (my next giddy choice). It'll be available in BestBuy by April 19. It can actually be pre-ordered now. And since I am sourcing all these from the US, and a relative is coming home late april or early May, the timing of the release and ordering it now is very logical. But why am I having 2nd thoughts? It's fast, it's capable feature-wise, and most of all, it can sync with my BlackBerry. But there are lots of sketchy details about the PlayBook that keeps me from getting it (now), but the most compelling is the availability of applications. I mean yeah, it's cool to have a PlayBook, but can I do with it? Heck, even the promised Android apps are not yet sure!
Then comes Android tablets. There are plenty of them out there. The Samsung Galaxy, which is not out yet. The HTC flyer, very nifty device, especially that stylus. But the problem I see with HTCs, even though they have wonderful designs, is the OS updates...not really reliable. I will be wondering if they will update the firmware or not. Of course I don't want that to add to my worries.
Then there's the Motorola XOOM. The reference device for Android's Tablet OS, Gingerbread. It's got a big display, and the internals to prove it. I guess I'm bent on getting it. But it seems very elusive. It says that it's available for pick up at BestBuy, but my mom says, she was told that it'll be available next month, hey that's tomorrow!
Again, the iPad2, even though it's a closed-system, is the logical choice. It's got the hardware, I won't have a problem looking for a way to connect it to the projector because of the readily available VGA adapter. Keynote is the best presentation software there is. And there are tons of applications that the kids will like. But it's not available yet and the shelf life is very short!
I just hope the next days will prove positive for the XOOM
Sent from my BlackBerry® wireless handheld
