I have never owned a non-Apple personal computer. My first desktop computer was an Apple -- bought back in 1984 or thereabouts (I forget the exact year) and my daughters, starting at age two and six years of age, have grown up with them.
I bought an Apple iPad the first day the 3G (wireless) model became available (April 30, 2010), and I have found it incredible.
My wife and I live in various locations around the US (Boston, Los Angeles, San Antonio, and Williston [North Dakota]) following our grandchildren around, and could not afford to have wireless / internet cable in each of those locations. The iPad is perfect for our situation. In addition, while traveling, we are guaranteed wireless access wherever we end up. It truly is remarkable.
I didn't have the iPad yesterday while traveling because my wife had it in Los Angeles, where I am now.
This morning, without getting out of bed, I was able to catch up on all my e-mail, and update my blog using the iPad. I minimized my comments due to fact I was using the virtual keyboard, but now I'm up and about, and the iPad is in its dock with the not-so-miniature keyboard, and I can type to my heart's content.
I do not own stock in Apple, Inc. (Another mistake I made.) But not owning stock in Apple, Inc., I feel comfortable recommending one for a family member or yourself for a Christmas gift.
The second generation iPad is likely to be released in about two months, February, 2011. It will have at least one camera, maybe two (front-facing, and rear-facing) as well as a USB slot. I can only assume the price will go up if these add-ons are included. I have no need for either the camera or the USB slot. It's very possible the price of the first generation iPad will go down if the model is discontinued when the new model comes out. But even if it isn't, I am likely to get a second first-generation model, if only so my wife can keep hers (which I bought for her) and I will have one while traveling. They really are magical.
The 250 megabyte download on a monthly basis for $25 cannot be beat. If one doesn't download movies, the 250 megabytes is more than enough for e-mail and routine internet surfing.
Wow, wow, wow --- I just checked ATT iPad plans to make sure I was correct on the pricing, and wow, am I surprised! ATT has now lowered the monthly rate to $14.99.
That's incredible. The competition for wireless access must be huge.
Update: see comments below regarding ATT 3G coverage in North Dakota. Here's the link regarding ATT coverage: http://mobile.engadget.com/2010/06/23/atandt-seals-deal-on-verizons-divested-alltel-marhttp://mobile.engadget.com/2010/06/23/atandt-seals-deal-on-verizons-divested-alltel-markets/kets/.
Comment: I got a kick out of this requirement that Verizon sell Alltel wireless; it was a huge gift to ATT as far as I can see. What a great country. ATT, by the way, raised its dividend and is considering a 300 million share buyback.
