Tag Archives: web

First impressions: Apple iPad

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My first impression of the Apple iPad is: I like it. It’s pretty much what I imagined might be announced, and it would work nicely around our home for its intended purposes: browsing the web, checking emails, reading news and weather, viewing photos, videos and movies. I can even see myself reading some PDFs and eBooks with it that I just can’t get into on my iPod Touch and MacBook Pro.

The reimagined iWork gives a hint of how apps can be optimized for both mobility and multitouch. It would be great to see Boxee develop something for streaming content, from both online channels and via UPnP devices. I’m sure our son would love watching YouTube on it as well.

Initially, I thought the 3G-capable models would appeal only to those who work and travel, but then it occurred to me maybe I wouldn’t need to shell out the big bucks for FiOS at home if we had such a wireless connection, esp. since it’s unlocked and pay-as-you-go. Just a thought.

What I’m most excited about, though, is using an iPad to make music: I can already imagine running iPad-enhanced versions of BeatMaker, 8Bitone, synthPond, technoBox and especially TouchOSC as a multitouch controller. And, dare we dream of a mobile Ableton Live? With the iPad’s larger surface and faster processor, a lite version with virtual instruments Impulse, Simpler, Analog, Tension and a handful of basic effects would make a great audio sketch pad.

MobileMine

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I’m lovin’ my recent birthday present from my wife: a shiny new iPod Touch. It’s quite a step-up from my 2nd gen iPod (which served me well for six years, despite its monochrome display, bulky form, dwindled battery life and lack of a dock connector).

It’s handy to check email, news feeds or the weather from (almost) anywhere, in addition to having music, pictures and movies at my fingertips. Browsing for music and apps without needing my laptop is also convenient, albeit a temptation to splurge (since I buy much of my music from Amazon MP3 rather than iTunes these days, it’s not quite a one-stop-shopping experience).

Some of the free apps I’ve found useful so far: Facebook, Exposure, Evernote, Twitterific, Remote, WeatherBug, Othello, WordPress, BoxOffice, Last.fm, Pandora Radio.

Someday I hope to get an iPhone 3G, but for now the iPod Touch is my perfect PDA.

Five questions (and answers) on design and marketing

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I was recently asked to answer some questions about my work in design and marketing by a co-worker for use in a class project. In the interest of discussion, I’ve decided to post them here for your consideration:
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iPhones among us

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iPhone imageYes, I want an iPhone. No, I’m not rushing out to buy one yet. Most of the reviews I’ve read have been glowing, with its sleek form and usability being at the top of the list. AT&T EDGE network limitations and activation glitches aside, Apple seems to have exceeded most peoples’ expectations. I’m most drawn to having a Wi-Fi enabled web browser in my pocket than its other features (OK, I’m also itching to replace my second generation iPod).

But, I’ve found it’s often better to wait about six months before purchasing any new product line. That way there’s time for any bugs to get fixed and necessary features to be added (not to mention a potential memory bump). I guess I’m a conservative-early-adopter. Still, it seems Apple has once-again reinvigorated a banal marketplace with its design research and expertise. Hats-off to that,