There was much discussion (and premature, unsanctioned confirmation) about what must-have, can’t-live-without product would be revealed at this year’s Apple conference. On Wednesday, CEO Steve Jobs officially introduced Apple’s take on the tablet: the iPad.
Apple’s latest “magical and revolutionary device” was met with both oohs and ewws. Design and tech specs aside, let’s take a look at some of the reactions from publishing and branding perspectives.
Digital reading
The publishing industry continues to evolve as traditional print practices are challenged by the demand for online content. With the iPad, Apple is making sure it’s a part of that shift:
- New York Times: Books on iPad Offer Publishers a Pricing Edge
- Pentagram: Five Ways the iPad Will Change Magazine Design
- Mashable: A First Look at the iPad for Publishers
Apple isn’t just entering the e-book reader market — it’s also challenging Amazon with its new bookstore app, iBooks. Publishers Penguin, Simon and Schuster, HarperCollins, Macmillan, and Hachett have already made deals with Apple.
What’s in a name?
As for the name of the new tablet, my initial reaction to “iPad” was “iNotepad”. But the negative responses to the name choice should give Apple pause:
- Fast Company: Apple’s iPad Name Not the First Choice for Women. Period.
- Wall Street Journal: Apple’s ‘iPad’ Name Draws Snickers
- BusinessWeek: Apple’s iPad Name May Lead to Fujitsu Trademark Feud
The tablet won’t start shipping until late-March, which gives the company time to listen, react, and hopefully improve upon people’s first impressions. What was yours?
