Are ebook readers about to be discarded in favor of the iPad? After the big launch of the Apple iPad, tech geeks are frantically pacing the floor, anxiously looking to the day when they can finally get their hands on this device. The iPad versions built with WiFi are expected to be shipped by late March and the 3G models are to be shipped starting April. It's no shocker actually; a person who uses Apple products are a different kind, loyal and have stayed devout to Apple.

It seems like Steve Jobs still got his touch, creating a product which will be flying off the shelves, no doubt. Perhaps hordes of Apple followers will meander in long lines at the nearby Apple Store, standing by for when the iPad will finally go on sale, harking back to the iPhone launch. But with all of the buildup surrounding the iPad, will it overshadow the popularity of other ereaders like the Kindle and Sony Readers? So we can come to a verdict, let's take a look at the iPad closely.

It's not cheap with prices starting at 499 dollars and topping out at 829 dollars, and why wouldn't it be more than a bit pricey? True, the iPad is an ebook reader but it does a lot more than that It looks like a huge version of the iPhone, minus the call capabilities. You'll be able to view high-def movies, stream TV shows, browse the web, and play games on it. The large 9.7-inch IPS touch screen is up to Apple's high resolution standards. It comes with a storage capacity of 16 GB, 32 GB or 64 GB flash drive.

With such storage capability, this gadget will obviously hold a library much larger than your typical ereader. Books are coolly arranged on a “book shelf”. You can just tap the book you would like, and enjoy reading it on a high-resolution, LED backlit screen. While most existing iPhone and iPod Touch apps will also run on the iPad, special apps purposely created for the iPad are expected to come out too.

Here's a problem, however. The iPad will only be associated to Apple's own ebook store, and these books are not compatible with the Kindle and other ebook reader market dominators. If you've got a wide collection of ebooks already on another ereader, you'll have trouble reading them on the iPad. While it is still not confirmed as yet, word has it that iBooks will sell for 12.99 dollars and 14.99 dollars.

The Apple iPad is portable, lightweight, and most likely really fun to tinker around with. But if you don't need all of the “other stuff”, the ereaders available now will suit you just as well. But if you are a hardcore Apple fanatic, then Jobs and his team have manufactured yet another brilliant product for consumers. With fantastic clarity and capabilities, you're going to “iLove” this multi-tasking gadget. The Apple iPad will match perfectly with your MacBook Pro, AirPort Express, Magic Mouse and iPhone.

Tags

Computer Hardware & Accessories, GPS Devices, Mobile & Cell Phones