I should start off by being completely honest. I’m a Mac. I’ve only ever owned Apple computers and iPods, and that’s the way I like it. So, as the rumors of the Apple Tablet continue to swirl through the technology realm, one must assume that if true, I will be an immediate fan. The thing is, I’m not so sure. Of everything I’ve read, the Tablet really just seems like a bigger iPod Touch.
Which makes me wonder. What’s the point?
As an iPod Touch owner, I’m very satisfied with what I have, so why would I switch to something larger?
It seems that the answer lies in the explosion of e-reading devices. Assumedly, Apple is creating a bigger screen to making reading easier. So, now we get to my dilemma. I love Apple, but I’m not sold on e-readers. I like print books – the feel of paper and the idea of holding something tangible. And the battle between print and digital media rages on. Will the Tablet be just another reason for people to shift from print books to e-materials? Who knows? For now though, no worries. Apple hasn’t officially announced the Tablet yet, which gives me more time to figure out whether I’ll want one.
One thing’s for sure, it’s bound to be cool.
-Sarah
#1 by CVBruce on December 1, 2009 - 9:45 pm
Sarah, I like the feel of books too, but I also like digital books. I checked the other day, and I bought my first digital book in 2001.
I like digital books for a couple of reasons. I read in bed at night before going to sleep. No matter which book light I tried, it was either too dim for me to see or too bright for my wife. Digital books were the perfect answer. I also like that my current digital book reader, an iPod Touch is much lighter than most books.
I also like that I can carry a whole library around with me. I currently have over 200 books in my pocket. Wherever I go, I have the JPS Tanakh via the Kindle app for the Touch. I like the eReader software, because I can tap on any word in a book and the software pulls up the definition from Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary.
A larger screen like the rumored Apple Tablet, would be perfect for the JPS Tanakh in the Hebrew/English version, which I don’t see working too well on a small screen.
I will be looking forward to see what Apple decides to do.