With the UK launch of the Apple iPad still not due until later this April, it seems like we will just have to wait and see whether the touch screen tablet will be as well-received locally as it was when it launched in the US just a couple of days ago. Initial reports are placing sales figures at the 700,000 mark with some predictions stating that Apple can be looking at 1 million sales by the end of the week.

So just how good is the iPad? It is a really big question considering that the device does not offer any existing function that we need or is not present in another electronic gadget. What it does however, is bring us the internet, electronic books and entertainment media in a medium that is easy to use for everyone.

The two big functions right now are web browsing and eBook reading. As a web browser, even the lack of Flash does not stop plenty of people from appreciating the finer points of touch screen based browsing. Unlike a smart phone, the large screen on the iPad provides a web experience that matches that of desktop computers. With the touch screen interface, the controls are far more intuitive than using a mouse and keyboard.

Apple also places its eBook functions as a major selling point, and for good reason. The built in Apple iBooks app makes full use of the touch screen features. It is perfect for first time eBook readers, but fans of the Kindle would miss the older controls.

Fortunately, Apple has allowed the use if the Kindle application as well. The great thing about this is that you can log in to your Kindle account using this app to access any books you already have in your library.

Get to know more of how the iPad is faring for users at ZDnet.

Bookmark and Share