Christmas and technology seem to go hand in hand, and there are very few gadgets that make the top 5 list from year to year, but Apple seems to consistently make the top of the most coveted gifts list.
From the iPod to the iTouch to the iPhone to the iPad, Apple seems to corner the market on the new “must-have” gadgets for techies and beyond. In fact, every time we think that Apple just can’t do it again- they do it again. But what of the new challenges facing them in 2011?
The tablet is not a new concept; in fact, there were products similar to the iPad already on the market in some version or another prior to its launch this past April. Is it the Apple name and image that helps it to sell new technology that isn’t necessarily all that new? It is true that Apple has a way of packaging technology that makes it seem fun and accessible, but they are not always as cutting edge as they are given credit for. As far as tablets, Apple has officially re-energized the market.
Industry experts has done some comparisons and found that the Apple iPad has one true competitor, the Samsung Galaxy Tab. The Galaxy costs a bit less and is smaller and lighter than the iPad making it more easily handled while reading a book. The screen quality is comparable, but is smaller on the Samsung tablet which may make it less desirable for TV or movie viewing. Battery life on the iPad is 10 hours where a charge of the Galaxy will last about seven hours.
Ultimately, what the experts found is when it comes to tablets, you really do get what you pay for and you will pay for what you get. Choose wisely.
