Kitz Forum
Computers & Hardware => Apple Related => Topic started by: sevenlayermuddle on March 16, 2012, 06:16:20 PM
-
I've fancied one for some time, and the rare opportunity to get an iPad 2 at a substantial discount (thanks to the launch of iPad 3) was more than I could resist. I've been getting very anti-Apple recently, thanks to the poor state of some of their OS/X software. Specifically the SDKs and development tools are unbelievably buggy, often crashing several times a day, with highly frustrating loss of data from any unsaved files. But then I get my hands on some of the nicer hardware, like my new iPad, it's absolutely gorgeous and all is forgiven for a while at least. I'm feeling quite quite smitten by the sheer beauty of the thing, and it's a real pleasure to use.
The 'old' iPad 2 is actually best for me as I'll be using it for app development, and it's better to test on the same hardware everybody else is using. But the new iPad 3 has twice the screen resolution and is being launched at the same price the iPad 2 was a few weeks ago. I reckon they're both now bargains, and the high-resolution screen must be a real winner. I'd thoroughly recommend it, as long as folks are aware that it's NOT a PC, and no substitute for a PC. Mine came from John Lewis, the same price as everybody else, but with an extra year on top of the basic one year's warranty.
I now need a case for it. There seem to be loads of choices, from the cost of a couple of beers up towards the cost of another iPad, and with varying reviews on amazon (which I never trust anyway). If anybody can recommend a case closer to the 'few beers' price, I'd be interested to hear. :)
-
Does that mean you are now a "Fanbois"? ;)
Colin
-
Does that mean you are now a "Fanbois"? ;)
Colin
I had to google for that. Cor, I hope not :lol:
Whenever I visit an Apple shop, I still feel it's a bit like visiting the temple of some wacky religious cult. Hopefully, the fact that I still feel that way means my brainwashing's not yet complete. :D
-
Dual boot it with 'Linux' on it. ;) :D
-
Dual boot it with 'Linux' on it. ;) :D
:D
Actually though, one thing I like about OS/X is it's underpinned by Unix, the inspiration for linux.
I suspect (not sure) the same also applies to IOS as used on iPad, iPhone & iPod touch.
Certainly the filesystem as seen in the app's sandbox looks very Unix-like. :)
-
What sort of case are you wanting? Theres 3 main types, snap-on, pouch or hard cover?
The ipad, snap cases are good, my bro has one of those and they help protect it, but the Apple ones arent cheap for what they are.
There are cheaper versions on Amazon starting from around £7, but I cant testify to the quality. My bro ended up getting a 'proper' apple one.
Im not sure if they are still available but I got a combo keyboard /metal case which was on offer for about £20. It gives a bit of heavier duty protection, plus it acts as a nice docking station when charging. The aluminium case does bulk the size of the ipad though if you are carrying it around, but its not that bad.
Id also recommend picking up another charger. I find it handy to keep one in the bedroom and one in computer room... buts thats probably more to do with the fact the plug socket in the bedroom isnt very accessible and therefore its just easier to leave the plug in the socket and just attach the cable. I just picked up one of the cheap imports and its perfectly fine.
-------------------
edit found a link - This isnt quite the same as mine but it looks similar
http://www.amazon.co.uk/IPAD-2-ALUMINUN-BLUETOOTH-KEYBOARD-STAND/dp/B005AF7GZM/ref=sr_1_sc_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1332030306&sr=1-3-spell
magnetic snap on
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnetic-Black-Cover-Stand-Apple/dp/B005KJGAGE/ref=sr_1_11?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1332030545&sr=1-11
-
Does that mean you are now a "Fanbois"? ;)
Colin
I had to google for that. Cor, I hope not :lol:
Whenever I visit an Apple shop, I still feel it's a bit like visiting the temple of some wacky religious cult. Hopefully, the fact that I still feel that way means my brainwashing's not yet complete. :D
You've got it bad then - definite fanbois, worshipping at the Apple temple ...... poor 7lm, and he used to be such good guy too! :'( :lol:
Colin
-
edit found a link - This isnt quite the same as mine but it looks similar
http://www.amazon.co.uk/IPAD-2-ALUMINUN-BLUETOOTH-KEYBOARD-STAND/dp/B005AF7GZM/ref=sr_1_sc_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1332030306&sr=1-3-spell
magnetic snap on
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnetic-Black-Cover-Stand-Apple/dp/B005KJGAGE/ref=sr_1_11?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1332030545&sr=1-11
Hmm, these both look interesting. The keyboard stand is probably what I'd go for, but though I've been referring to it as 'my' iPad (and getting away with it) the fact is it's technically joint as other half & I bought it with shared pocket money. She is adamant that she wants a minimal (size/weight), so I'm leaning towards the second. I'd actually seen that on amazon and dismissed it because of one or two poor reviews wrt quality, but for the price it may be worth a gamble.
But that solid-looking keyboard/stand does look good. We'll be taking it on a trip to the USA in a few weeks, and it would be reassuring to know it was well defended in transit. Looks stunningly good value, too. I'm tempted be either (or both!) of these.
@kitz... have you established whether iPod & iPad mains chargers are interchangeable? I notice that whilst we have one of each and they look 100% identical in every detail, there is some almost unreadable tiny print, grey on white, that suggest the charecteristics are slightly different... iPad specimen is 5.1V @ 2.1A, the iPod device reads 5V @ 1A. I've not yet got around to plugging them in to one another's chargers.
The iPad does seem to be a bit fussy about charging, perhaps it's needs exceed normal USB specifications? When plugged into the normal (3 year old Dell, XP) PC where our iTunes resides, it says 'not charging', whereas plugged into the Mac Mini it charges fine from the USB. That does mean I don't need a charger for the computer room though, at least not while I'm 'working' at the MAC. Which seems to be most of the time come to think of it, cripes, Colin may be right :o
-
>>> I'd actually seen that on amazon and dismissed it because of one or two poor reviews wrt quality, but for the price it may be worth a gamble.
Im also wondering if for £6.50 its worth a gamble - like you say its mixed reviews, but most of the poorer reviews seem to be more irked that its not the real deal apple because of its description.
>>> We'll be taking it on a trip to the USA in a few weeks, and it would be reassuring to know it was well defended in transit.
Going to upset the apple-cart (excuse the pun) here and say that perhaps a lightweight pouch type may be more appropriate. The keyboard cases are very good, but the only thing is to keep them lightweight and slim, there isnt anywhere to store the cable.
>>> have you established whether iPod & iPad mains chargers are interchangeable?
ermmmm... I didnt even know there was a difference. :lol:
Ive been swapping them about and use them interchangeably without any problem. I had bought a cheapy charger ages ago for my ipod and my ipad quite happily charges via that. My ipod also gets plugged into the official ipad charger.
Ive charged my ipod using my bro's ipad adapter... and he too interchanges his adapters for ipod/ipad. He's also recently bought one of thoses docking stations with speakers that does both.
>>> The iPad does seem to be a bit fussy about charging, perhaps it's needs exceed normal USB specifications?
I cant comment on that Im afraid.
I seldom, if ever, charge my ipod via USB - hence me saying I have a mains charger in the PC room. They sync wirelessly and about the only time the ipod has been attached via USB was when first setting it up and for a firmware upgrade. Dangly USB cables out of the front of the PC isnt a good idea when you have an inquisitive Ziggy who thinks they are toys to be pulled on... which is another reason I got the mains charger last year for the ipod.
Because my ipod only came with USB charger and no mains.. I just went out and bought a mains charger that said ipod/ipad.
TBH Ive not had my ipad2 that long, it was an early b/day pressie taking advantage of price cut deal and Ive not attempted to charge it via USB at all yet. Like you I wasnt too fussed about getting the latest and greatest.
The only thing I have noticed is that when charging via mains you can feel the ipad slightly buzz when you hold it in your hands. I thought at first that I had a faulty ipad because this happens with the apple charger that came in the box...and was about to take it back. But if you google, you will see that just about every ipad2 seems to do this.
-
Thanks for all the advice, Kitz.
I'd not noticed the buzzing but I'll know not to worry about it if I do.
I've taken all you've said on board, and I'm still tempted to go for the aluminium stand. Other half likes to look of it more than I expected!
One consideration is that, because I'm using it for development, it spends most of it's day lying on the desk attached to the Mac. That aluminium case looks like it would solve two problems....
1) The iPad can become a useful web browser while I work, thus allowing me to refer to online documentation. In theory I can do that from another window on the Mac Mini, but the SDK software is so appalling that it takes about 30-40 seconds of disk crunching/swapping every time I swap windows. And as often as not it just crashes when I do swap to another window.
2) With the iPad laid flat on the desk I'm paranoid that I'll suddenly realise I've laid a coffee cup on its screen and/or just spill the darned coffee all over it. The alu case looks as if it'll make that a bit less likely.
In the dim and distant past, when I first set up home on my own, I used to have was looked after by a highly individual kitten/cat for 8 years. We no longer have any pets in the 7LM household, but I do recall having to make allowances, so I fully understand your comments re Ziggy :)
-
>>> it spends most of it's day lying on the desk attached to the Mac. That aluminium case looks like it would solve two problems....
Yes I must admit that is one of the very handy features of the alu case and what I use it for a lot. It keeps it safe when on my bedside table, as like you I also had the fear of an accidental glass of water situation. When its in the PC room it makes it look like a notebook and really does looks quite smart.
The only slight niggle I do have, is that the charging cable that came with it for the keypad is only about 5 inches long. Its USB which then plugs into the ipad plug or PC and its too pathetically short to reach a PC port. It can easily be resolved with a USB extension, I just havent got around to getting one yet though as it doesnt need charging very often.
>> I used to have was looked after by a highly individual kitten/cat for 8 years.
Yes I have to make allowances. :D Zac was the sensible one whilst Ziggy is just so cheeky and is in to everything.
Zac either used to sit still on my knee or stretched out in front of the monitor and not really bother me too much. Ziggy now thinks he can have prime position.. only thing is he just cant keep still and the slightest movement is a game. He's still a kitten and not quite fully grown yet, so maybe in time............
-
Yes I have to make allowances. :D Zac was the sensible one whilst Ziggy is just so cheeky and is in to everything.
Zac either used to sit still on my knee or stretched out in front of the monitor and not really bother me too much. Ziggy now thinks he can have prime position.. only thing is he just cant keep still and the slightest movement is a game. He's still a kitten and not quite fully grown yet, so maybe in time............
Yes, sympathies re Zac. Ziggy sounds a bit like mine, though. I remember one phase when she loved to 'play' a game that involved clutching hold of any outstretched hands and then running away, or even just the same game with hands that happened to be resting on the edge of the sofa. And her claws were so tiny (and so sharp) that it didn't hurt at all, it was only some time later that you really noticed the lacerations... :)
-
her claws were so tiny (and so sharp) that it didn't hurt at all, it was only some time later that you really noticed the lacerations... :)
Ouch! ^-^
-
I've got an i-pad for sale if anyone's interested
(Many thanks to Uncle Percy for doing the modelling)
(https://forum.kitz.co.uk/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi246.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fgg87%2FUncleUB%2Fipad.jpg&hash=64aa48f65df4f244f17ea89653a093d420cafdd1)
-
;D
-
I've got an i-pad for sale if anyone's interested
(Many thanks to Uncle Percy for doing the modelling)
That picture seems apt somehow... My challenge for this afternoon has been getting something called 'Popovers' to work in my iPad code. :D
But the hardest bit about these Popovers, that needs lots of testing, is 'rotation handling'. Maybe Uncle Percy better brace himself.... >:D
-
But the hardest bit about these Popovers, that needs lots of testing, is 'rotation handling'. Maybe Uncle Percy better brace himself.... >:D
He's braced........ :lol:
-
http://www.amazon.co.uk/IPAD-2-ALUMINUN-BLUETOOTH-KEYBOARD-STAND/dp/B005AF7GZM/ref=sr_1_sc_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1332030306&sr=1-3-spell
For the record, I went for one of these, and I just noticed I've received dispatch notification. I'll be awaiting the postman with eager anticipation for the next few days... :)
-
I've got an i-pad for sale if anyone's interested
(Many thanks to Uncle Percy for doing the modelling)
hahahahaha - very funny :lol:
For the record, I went for one of these, and I just noticed I've received dispatch notification. I'll be awaiting the postman with eager anticipation for the next few days...
Mines not quite the same, but Im well pleased with it due to its multifunctionally for use as keyboard, a stand and although its not a proper docking station in the official sense, it easily becomes one... and lastly its a fairly sturdy case.
-
Tbh I think I'm might like one.My mobile is a Samsung Omnia 7 with touch screen with Windows Phone as the o/s.I am very impressed with the touch screen,didn't think I would be but I am.The only downside is the size is a little small for old tired eyes :oldman:
-
Tbh I think I'm might like one.My mobile is a Samsung Omnia 7 with touch screen with Windows Phone as the o/s.I am very impressed with the touch screen,didn't think I would be but I am.The only downside is the size is a little small for old tired eyes :oldman:
I freely admit, Uncle, I wasn't expecting to like it as much as I do. It was a means to an end for me in my app development hobby, as I wanted to be able to fully target iPad for my apps...I know that iPad users get a bit fed up with iPhone apps, that just look like a big iPhone when used . If I ever get as far as publishing my apps, making them 'proper' iPad apps may even pay for itself in increased revenue.
... But I've been genuinely impressed, it works beautifully and most of what you want to do is quite intuitive. A quick internet search will of course provide instant help if you're stuck. Downsides are the obvious ones.. all too easy to make selections by mistake such as when passing it to somebody else to look at. And in some lights screen does look messy with fingerprints, more noticeable somehow than on a small phone screen.
Mines not quite the same, but Im well pleased with it due to its multifunctionally for use as keyboard, a stand and although its not a proper docking station in the official sense, it easily becomes one... and lastly its a fairly sturdy case.
The keyboard/stand arrived yesterday and very pleased I am. I need to get used to what I can do with it, but it certainly renders it much more usable for apps such as email. Value for money very good too, although I see it's gone up to £19:50 from the £16.09 I paid a couple of days ago. Isn't it nice when that happens? ;D
The keyboard only covers the screen though, so I've also ordered one of these, currently at £2.99 & free shipping...
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Targus-inch-Hard-Leather-Slip/dp/B004075MTI/ref=sr_1_16?ie=UTF8&qid=1332331385&sr=8-16
That should make it a bit safer for transporting, especially the US trip... we'll take it on board as hand luggage of course, but even then the overhead lockers get a bit crammed sometimes. I can't find the Targus case anywhere else at anything like that price, I can only assume the 'mustard' colour is unpopular. But for £2.99 I can live with it, even if I do get a craving for a hot dog every time I use it.
-
I freely admit, Uncle, I wasn't expecting to like it as much as I do. It was a means to an end for me in my app development hobby, as I wanted to be able to fully target iPad for my apps...I know that iPad users get a bit fed up with iPhone apps, that just look like a big iPhone when used . If I ever get as far as publishing my apps, making them 'proper' iPad apps may even pay for itself in increased revenue.
... But I've been genuinely impressed, it works beautifully and most of what you want to do is quite intuitive. A quick internet search will of course provide instant help if you're stuck. Downsides are the obvious ones.. all too easy to make selections by mistake such as when passing it to somebody else to look at. And in some lights screen does look messy with fingerprints, more noticeable somehow than on a small phone screen.
Like you... it was the combo of my ipod and ATV that made me want the ipad.. I just seemed to struggle with the small screen too much.
I am impressed but there is one thing that REALLY niggles me and thats the lack of Flash. I paid for the device - its mine... and I feel that I should be able to put on what app I want.. just because Apple has a huge problem with Adobe Flash... shouldnt mean they should be able to stop me putting on Flash if I want to and understand the risks of doing so. :mad:
I didnt realise quite how many sites I visit (such as the BBC and other information sites and institutions) use flash on their pages.
The keyboard/stand arrived yesterday and very pleased I am. I need to get used to what I can do with it, but it certainly renders it much more usable for apps such as email. Value for money very good too, although I see it's gone up to £19:50 from the £16.09 I paid a couple of days ago. Isn't it nice when that happens?
Indeed it is... mine was £20 and Im glad you managed to get it in time at the lower cost. :)
The keyboard only covers the screen though,
Thats why when you mentioned taking it abroad I suggested you may need a pouch type. The alum keyboard cases offer better protection than the snap ons, but dont do what pouches can.
I've also ordered one of these, currently at £2.99 & free shipping...
Wow that is a bargain! It has got to be the colour!
That pouch looks like it may take the keypad case as well. When you get it, will you please let me know if they both fit in as if so I may order one too.
-
Wow that is a bargain! It has got to be the colour!
That pouch looks like it may take the keypad case as well. When you get it, will you please let me know if they both fit in as if so I may order one too.
I'm hoping it will, though won't be too disappointed if it doesn't. I'll let you know. I've just seen the dispatch notification, so it's in its way, not as I only ordered it at breakfast time.
-
. I've just seen the dispatch notification, so it's in its way, not as I only ordered it at breakfast time
... and still no sign of it , despite supposed dispatch by royal mail:(
Clearly it's too soon to complain, but it wouln't be the first time an amazon merchant had turned to have a suspiciously high 'lost in the post' rate.
Let's hope I'm wrong. :fingers:
-
Royal Mail isn't doing too well with on-time deliveries at the moment - I had a before 1pm next day delivery turn up 3 days late this week. Contacted supplier who is tearing his hair out - over 50% 0f his "premium" shipments are delivered late at the moment.
Colin
-
>> Royal Mail isn't doing too well with on-time deliveries at the moment
It doesnt... Im awaiting a parcel that I was expecting this morning from Royal Mail, but no sign, and Ive noticed of late 1st class can take up to a week.
Which I suppose is better than the several pieces of mail that I never got at all just before christmas.
They were from different people, one of them being kimi , another from my brother and yet another from an old school friend. None of the items turned up. I find it a bit strange that 3 people saying they sent cards that never arrived more than a bit strange.
-
Interesting comments, I've very rarely had a problem with Royal Mail. I could put it down to good local posties but my stuff always seems to get here on time no matter where it's posted from, so it's not just the postie.
I did have a very annoying experience with one of these 'unbranded' white van deliveries last week. The guy had failed to get a reply at the door of a neighbour down the lane, and he'd then tried other houses down the lane who were also out, til he got to me... by now about 300 yards from the addressee. I signed and accepted, and he promised he'd leave a note to say I'd got it. Needless to say, he never did leave that note, and I didn't have their phone number, so it was down to me to walk all the way down there to tell them I'd got their parcels, they'd no idea.
Anyways, thanks for the encouraging comments, I hope to submit a slightly sheepish reply soon saying my iPad case has arrived safe and sound :)
-
The RM 'Special delivery next day' service has a tracking system, and your supplier should have given you the tracking number. I've used this service three times in the last couple of months (twice to receive things and once to send an item) and all three arrived mid morning the next day, and the tracking information was up to date. So I'm always a little sceptical when suppliers blame RM - it's just too easy to do.
-
My parcel arrived this morning.
Didnt hear the bell at all.. but I had one of those red and white RM cards through the door saying "Look in Green Bin".
-
The RM 'Special delivery next day' service has a tracking system, and your supplier should have given you the tracking number. I've used this service three times in the last couple of months (twice to receive things and once to send an item) and all three arrived mid morning the next day, and the tracking information was up to date. So I'm always a little sceptical when suppliers blame RM - it's just too easy to do.
Agreed - the one that was late in coming went a very roundabout route according to the tracking info. The supplier gives the tracking info in his shipped notification.
Colin
-
Well, my £2.99 case was supposedly dispatched by RM on Wednesday so I'd hoped to see it Thursday, then Friday, then Saturday. And today... you guessed, afraid not. Without perpetuating the "who's to blame" debate, my experience has always been (Christmas excepted) that items sent by RM either arrive within a day or two, or not at all. You then have to hassle the merchant, who either hassles RM in turn, or sends another item, or gives a refund.
But this afternoon I was in town and bought what i think is the same case (in black) from John Lewis at £15.
http://www.johnlewis.com/231459936/Product.aspx
Yes, it was five times the price, but it's a lot more than five times better ('infinity' springs to mind) as it actually exists, whereas the other one doesn't yet. I'll be chasing Amazon's merchant for a refund but, even if the mustard one shows up, at least my sister's birthday gift in May will be sorted at little expense as she's also an iPad(/hot-dog?) fan. :graduate:
At first impressions it does seem like very good value even at £15, well made and good quality. It adds quite a bit of bulk, but I regard that as good as I want it for protection in transit. And it adds about 50% again to the weight according to my kitchen scales which is quite noticeable, though less than I expected. And the (magnetic) flap folds over and shuts with a satisfying 'clunk'. But this is beginning to sound like a 1970s car review, better stop. :D
Wow that is a bargain! It has got to be the colour!
That pouch looks like it may take the keypad case as well. When you get it, will you please let me know if they both fit in as if so I may order one too.
...responding to Kitz's comment is of course the main reason I've composed this short review and, sadly, it doesn't quite take the keyboard. You can get it in without undue force, and I may still use it, but it is a squeeze and whilst that nice clickety flap flap folds over nearly all the way, it doesn't quite snap shut. :(
-
Thank you vm 7LM.
Its a shame that it just doesnt quite fit in the keyboard too or else I would have ordered one, as they do look smart (colour aside).. and the black one is very smart.
There isnt a John Lewis near here unfortunately so I cant just wander down and have a look taking my ipad and keycase with me :lol:
It is a while now since you ordered hotdog case and I would have thought that it really should have been there by now and hopefully you dont have to do too much chasing with the amazon reseller.
-
Well I just got home from the US and, guess what.. a parcel laid on the doorstep, containing a mustard iPad case. But it turns out to have been a fib that it was dispatched by Royal Mail, TNT were in fact used. I can only wonder how long it was laid there, could've been up to a week. Good job it was only worth £2.99, but a good example of why I (personally) have more trust in good old RM!
Anyways, the iPad was a great enhancement to the trip, which was for a conference event. Perfect for unobtrusively checking mail during the duller moments, and for instant research to add substance to the topics that caught my interest. Among fellow delegates in fact, I noticed those with iPads probably outnumbered those without. :)
-
oh well better late than never.. but like you say I wonder how long its been on your doorstep for?
>> I noticed those with iPads probably outnumbered those without
They do seem to be quite common now! :D
... or if not on someones wishlist. I imagine a few will also have taken advantage of the price reduction due to the ipad3.
-
I have noticed that you guys have been mentioning a keyboard for the i-pad ? Does the i pod just fit in a dock so you can use a conventional keyboard instead of touch typing on the screen
I know people have said its no replacement for a pc,but what really can't it do?I know for example there is no dvd/cd drive.
Some point this year I want to replace my desk top pc with either a lap top or a tablet, the problem is the arthritis in my legs makes it uncomfortable sitting in a computer chair for lengthy periods so I was wanting something I could use sitting on the settee/or arm chair.
I really fancy an ipad,I think they look 8)
At present the most i use the pc for is general browsing,shopping,online financial stuff(banking etc),listening to music(+Youtube etc).
Hoping when I get a faster internet connection I can stream things like sporting events etc.
Oh and the odd bit of printing
Any advice will be welcome :)
Edit,whats the best size to get..16,32,64MB......and is there much difference between ipad 2 and 3
-
>> Does the i pod just fit in a dock so you can use a conventional keyboard instead of touch typing on the screen
The ones that 7LM and I got arent true docks because the ipad doesnt sit in them and re-charge. Instead they have a 'ledge' which the ipad can sit in (either horizontal or vertical) and they connect to the ipad via bluetooth.
You have to charge the keypad separately, but Ive found mine holds the charge well (weeks) and I dont need to plug it in that often. Ive not had it long enough to comment more on this as Ive only had to charge it a couple of times so far.
Its an easy matter to sync them up.. once youve done that then you can forget it - in fact you dont even need to have the ipad on the ledge to use it.
The keypad is like a normal keyboard just a bit smaller - it feels more like a keyboard that youd find on a notebook than a full size stand alone keyboard. But other than that - yes it means you type anything via the keypad rather than touch screen.
>>> I know people have said its no replacement for a pc
Hardware
It isnt - no cd/dvd/usb.... and lack of conventional storage as it doesnt have a hard-drive and uses flash memory.
Lack of external storage - It uses I-tunes to sync with music/videos on a conventional PC/laptop.
Screen Size could still be a problem for some although its easy to pinch and squeeze to zoom in.
You may run in to problems with printing as you can only send to a printer that is compatible with Airprint (http://support.apple.com/kb/ht4356).
The camera in the ipad2 is p00. It takes rubbish pics in low light.
Software
Whilst there's lots of 'apps' for the ipad. Apps are just small applications and you cant put full programs (like word, photoshop etc etc) on it. There are some quite sophisticated apps that you can pay for, but they dont have the full functionality of programs that we are perhaps used to using on the PC.
>> i use the pc for is general browsing,shopping,online financial stuff(banking etc),listening to music(+Youtube etc).
Its great for general browsing, music and streaming and social networking sites.
Browsing
Big downside for me personally is the lack of Flash. I didnt realise just how many websites do actually use Flash.
Most of the social networking sites have an i-device app so You-Tube, and other social networking sites work fine.
There is an app you can install called 'Puffin' which I use. It allows you to view some flash based sites. Puffin has advantages and disadvantages. I use the lite version which can sometimes be slow.. I dont know about the full version and if that is quicker. However using Puffin its like going through a proxy so everywhere thinks you are coming from Canada.
There is also a forum app (tapatalk (http://www.tapatalk.com/)) which is used by a lot of mobile and i-device owners. I am thinking of installing it on kitz.co.uk - as more sites are beginning to be accessed via mobile devices. However the site currently works just fine when viewed via an i-device.. the forum software just makes it a tad easier for doing things like replying to posts, and adding attachments etc.
Streaming
Quicktime streaming works fine. - Flash doesnt work at all !!!!!
Some sites you stream from need to have an i-device 'app' available. Some do, some dont.
The BBC iplayer and 4OD also have i-device apps so these work fine. ITV player doesn't work.
One thing I have noticed though is although there is a huge range of programs covered on the bbc iplayer for the i-device.. there does seem to be more (and kept for longer) on the traditional iplayer list accessed via the PC.
BBC i-player (and ITVplayer) wont work using Puffin as the BBC/ITV think your location is Canada rather than the UK.
Streaming with the ATV
I also use it a lot with my ATV (Apple TV which my parents bought me for xmas). As well as the traditional streaming that you can do with the ipod/ipad to the TV, the ATV can mirror the ipad screen.
Mirroring means that anything on the ipad screen can be output to your TV. Now used with the keypad (not how earlier I said the ipad doesnt have to sit in the keypad for it to work), this means that I can mirror the ipad to tv and just use the keypad on my lap to control what I see on the TV.
For me personally I really love the ATV/ipad/keypad combo. I dont have sky and despite forking out for a digital aerial to be installed, I have problems with freeview. This has opened up a whole new world for me. Stupidly I can stream live programs from the BBC with much better quality than via digital freeview.
On demand... wow... I love all the documentaries available, and so far the science and nature section of the BBC has kept me well entertained. Theres lots and lots of other sections too which Ive hardly begun to explore.
This to me has been fantastic... however where I am does seem to be a blackspot for digital due to the stupid wales transmitter and its ridiculous that I get better quality via my internet access.. this wont be the case for everyone.. so someone else may not perhaps feel this is such a major aspect to them.
>> whats the best size to get..16,32,64MB
I opted for the 32GB... based on my previous experience with an ipod touch, therefore I had a rough idea how much storage I personally need. Someone like my dad would easily get away with 16GB.
Some-one who is going to store lots of movies on it for viewing later will need more.
Ive just thought of another option which you may ponder over and thats 3G/wifi.
I have the basic wifi model, paying for 3G wasnt worth the expense for me personally.
If I take it anywhere I just hook up to wifi, but if you are someone who is going to use it a lot 'on the road' then you'd probably need 3G.
>> is there much difference between ipad 2 and 3
The info above is based on an ipad2. It depends on how much you want to pay I guess and what you need it for.
For me the ipad will never be able to replace my PC therefore the ipad 2 fills my needs and the additional cost for ipad3 wasnt worth it for me.
For more details see
http://gettoptens.com/10-differences-between-ipad2-and-the-new-ipad3/
Overview
On the whole, I love mine, it opens up a new world for me. I love being able to sit on the sofa and browse. Lots of times I may want to quickly look something up and the ipad comes out. I can take the ipad practically anywhere.
In no way shape or form though can it ever replace a PC/laptop though.
----
edited to add info about 3G/wifi option.
-
Thanks Kitz. :)
No flash :o I am surprised....I see the Samsung Galaxy Tab has it ?
Can't put full software programmes on....Not too bit a problem I suppose.Can you have something like Google Picasa?
-
>>> No flash :o I am surprised..
Yep.. lack of Flash is my one BIG moan about the ipad.
Its supposed to be mine, and if I want to put Flash on it and understand the risks.. then I should be able to.
Not because Steve Jobs and Adobe have their own issues. (Google the subject then make up your own mind why!)
You can put flash on, but only if you jailbreak the OS. My ipad is too new to consider me wanting to worry about possible breaking of guarantees.
If you feel flash is important then you need an android tablet not an iOS one. Swings and roundabouts I did some heavy weighing up over it.
AFAIK not google picassa (Steve Jobs again (http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/steve_jobs_dismisses_googles_picassa_support_on_ipad/)). There may however be something similar in the app store (http://www.apple.com/ipad/from-the-app-store/).
-
just to re-inforce kitz's list, one example of something the iPad CAN'T do... better half had to give a presentation at that conference; The organisers provided two choices for connection to the projection equipment (1) take the presentation on a memory stick and plug it into their own PC, or (2) take along a laptop and connect it via VGA. The iPad can do neither of these (no USB, no VGA), so we had to take along a hulking great (in comparison) laptop as well as the iPad, just in case she wanted to make any last minute changes.
I believe there may be apps that can view/edit Powerpoint docs, and Apple do sell a VGA adapter, but it's all extra spend and complexity, whereas a PC can 'just do it'.
And one more thing... the iPad(/Pad/Phone) won't run Java applets. One reason is, I believe, that Mr Jobs decreed that the perceived performance of the devices had to be as perfect as possible, whereas Java includes an additional layer of processing which can slow things down, and increase CPU/battery usage. I'm not necessarily agreeing with Apple on that one, but I can at least see that side of the argument. Not sure whether or not the same 'defense' could be applied to Flash?
-
All this discussion has got me tempted now, but I'm leaning more towards a Motorola Xoom - it does support flash, and it does have a USB port, and it's quite a bit cheaper than the iPad ((£280-ish for 32 GB). I expect someone is going to tell me why it's a bad choice, so feel free. :)
-
. I expect someone is going to tell me why it's a bad choice, so feel free. :)
Well, you won't be able to purchase my first $1 app which I hope to publish quite soon now. But you may regard that as a reason to avoid iPad, of course :D
Seriously, the volume and quality of apps is probably the iPad's saving grace. Kitz recently discussed airplay which I've not yet played with, but I see it mentioned in the latest mythtv release notes too... if I ever get that to work I'll feel very smug indeed. All I need is the time to play with it all (I thought being 'retired' was meant to provide more free time, not less?).
-
Before I bought mine I went into PC world and spent a bit of time handling the available tablets. I liked the Galaxy but it was as much as the ipad3. IIRC there was a cheaper Asus one, but it really didnt appeal - I dunno didnt feel right (yeah yeah woman thing). Some of them feel heavy and harder to hold, but since its a hand held device I felt that it was important.
At the time I was looking anything decent, wasnt any cheaper than the ipad. I dont know if that has changed in the past 5 weeks to compete with the lower price of ipad2's?
TBH eric I think you will probably be one of those much happier with an Android tablet.
I was already on an Apple path due to my ipod touch and ATV - they all just work together so well and Apple makes it so easy to integrate with anything else Apple. If it wasnt for what I already had, I probably would have gone android.
Although I love my ipod/ipad/ATV, I dont like how Apple is so rigid in what you can and cant put on devices. I also dislike how they make upgrading any of their equipment nigh on impossible.
Yes there are lots an lots of apps for i-devices, but I have a 'droid phone and their apps arent too far behind.
And one more thing... the iPad(/Pad/Phone) won't run Java applets. One reason is, I believe, that Mr Jobs decreed that the perceived performance of the devices had to be as perfect as possible, whereas Java includes an additional layer of processing which can slow things down, and increase CPU/battery usage.
Yes Java is another thing, but it hasnt affected me personally as much as Flash. This does all seem to go back to Jobs and him not liking much that wasnt Apple.. dont Apple and Google 'have a thing' now? It gets me why we cant use what we like and bear the consequences even if it does 'slow' things down.
Im sure there are much more knowledgeable debates about Apple and what they do and dont let you do, and their reasons for it.. but as an end user I find it annoying that a manufacturer should decide what I can and cant do with my device.
Hence me feeling that eric in particular would be much happier with a android device.
In a few months I may look at jailbreaking, but atm I'm not touching the o/s.
I think one of Apples main selling points is that they make things simple, easy to use... and boy do they have a damn good knack of making their stuff look and 'feel sexi'.
Kitz recently discussed airplay which I've not yet played with,
I love it.. apple makes it so easy.. mirroring takes it one step further... then add in the keypad. Used it with my router, my broadband connection and my TV and a whole new world opened up to me.
Downside it mostly only likes Apple - yes I can browse my PC via Airplay... but you guessed it, I can only browse anything listed in i-tunes. I guess if I had a Mac then I'd be fine.
-
All this discussion has got me tempted now, but I'm leaning more towards a Motorola Xoom - it does support flash, and it does have a USB port, and it's quite a bit cheaper than the iPad ((£280-ish for 32 GB). I expect someone is going to tell me why it's a bad choice, so feel free. :)
Just seen them for £249 on amazon
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B004SG6BK0/ref=nosim/?tag=hotukdeals-21
-
Oh dear, it's very tempting...
-
RRP: £479.99
Price: £249.97
:o
They certainly have come down in price... less than 2 months ago there really wasnt much difference costwise between android touchpads and the ipads.
Looks like there possibly has been a massive price reduction in response to the cheaper ipad2's.
I think I can hear erics wallet rustling from here :lol:
-
I think I can hear erics wallet rustling from here :lol:
The neighbours are complaining about the noise. ;D
-
I think I can hear erics wallet rustling from here :lol:
The neighbours are complaining about the noise. ;D
..... and the sudden flurry of moths?
Colin
-
Eric,follow these simple rules...
1) Lift carpet
2) Remove large wedge and place in back pocket
3)Log on to Amazon and place order..............simples. :D
-
Thank you for your financial advice folks. And I'll have you know there are no moths in my wallet. :oldman:
-
>> And I'll have you know there are no moths in my wallet. <<
They all died of starvation. ;)
-
(https://forum.kitz.co.uk/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.emotionless.co.uk%2Femotes%2Fv%2Faxe.gif&hash=6bd330ede67189bb645dd3fbca3dd4273f7389c6)
-
>> And I'll have you know there are no moths in my wallet. <<
They all died of starvation. ;)
... either that, or he isn't a Yorkshireman!
Colin