Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.
The 16Gb in an iPad is the equivalent of the hard drive, not RAM - - so it's like saying the new MBP's will come with a 40 Gb HD.

Yes, and no. It's called flash RAM for a reason... it's RAM. That's Random Access Memory. The RAM in the iPhone/Touch/iPad acts as both the storage and memory function. The iPad does not have discrete RAM like a computer.
 
Yes, and no. It's called flash RAM for a reason... it's RAM. That's Random Access Memory. The RAM in the iPhone/Touch/iPad acts as both the storage and memory function. The iPad does not have discrete RAM like a computer.

This is the dumbest thing I have ever read. I mean really, really dumb.

FYI - The original iPhone had 128MB ram. The 3GS has 256MB.
 
Will I want to store more media on the iPad than on the iPod? (Certainly, the photos I carry will grow exponentially, as I'll be able to use the iPad as a portfolio for work as well.)

If the ipad compresses your pictures as it transfers them then that part won't matter. A picture with excellent res for a 1024xwhatever screen shouldn't exceed 1mb per. Probably even lower. In other words, you won't need your 2-3 mb raw files from your camera.
 
I'm waiting to see if movie delete on the iPad is really delete and frees up memory, or if it still needs to sync with iTunes to clear out the memory. If it's a true delete and the camera kit will import movies off SD cards, I might opt for the 32gig 3g version instead of the 64gig wifi only. I dunno..... I might just go big and get the 64 3g version if I can sneak it by the wife. I'm usually a "good enough" buyer and rarely buy "top of the line" anything. I'd sure like to do it once in my lifetime. I might not use the 3g much, but it sure would be nice to have on trips, just in case no wifi's available.
 
If someone wants 32 GB of memory and a 3G connection, than that's pretty stupid. I would go for the 64 GB WiFi-only version. Because come on: you won't carry around your iPad everywhere where possible. You will most likely use it around your house, and most likely you have a WiFi network at home.

And if you bring it somewhere else once, there's a big chance there will be a open WiFi network around. And otherwise you will still have tons of App Store apps and native apps to use.

32 GB + 3G = $729,-
64 GB WiFi only = $699,-

Same with 16 GB:

16 GB + 3G = $629,-
32 GB WiFi only = $599,-

32GB more capacity is really much, and I would choose that. Especially because the iPad is a multimedia device.

I think I'll go for the WiFi only version (so without that black strip on top) with 32 GB or 64 GB capacity.
 
This is the dumbest thing I have ever read. I mean really, really dumb.

FYI - The original iPhone had 128MB ram. The 3GS has 256MB.

Well the bad news is that I'm wrong, but the good news is that I apparently got to help you lift your self-esteem. You're welcome!
 
If someone wants 32 GB of memory and a 3G connection, than that's pretty stupid. I would go for the 64 GB WiFi-only version. Because come on: you won't carry around your iPad everywhere where possible. You will most likely use it around your house, and most likely you have a WiFi network at home.

And if you bring it somewhere else once, there's a big chance there will be a open WiFi network around. And otherwise you will still have tons of App Store apps and native apps to use.
y.

Wow! Reading these posts have generally been very helpful for me. The tech discussions have informed me of its possibilities and its limitations. Seeing others ideas on how the iPad will fit into their life has inspired me for new uses. But I don't understand why people feel the need to berate others (i.e. calling them "stupid") who have a different opinion or need.

If the iPad doesn't fit you don't buy it. If having 3G on it won't be useful for you, don't get it. We all have different devices, live in and work in different places, have different incomes, have different computing needs, even have differences in taste.

I like the quality and reliability of Apple products. I like the sleekness, and yes, sexiness of Apple products. I like that they just work. I know what my needs are and I know what I have and don't have access to. I'm getting an iPad. I think its going to make my life more convenient and I think it's going to be a hell of a lot of fun to use. But, I have not spent one minute going to any other site telling them their device is a sucky, cheap, incomplete device.

Why is it stupid for a businessman who is on the road a lot to get 3G for convenience and connectivity when there is none other to be had. Why is it stupid for someone who doesn't have a smart phone, but still wants the same kind of access to get 3G. Why is it stupid for a father who wants to take a car trip with his family and stay connected at the same time to get 3G. Why is it stupid for someone who wants to stay connected when they are visiting their elderly parents who don't have wifi in their house to get 3G. Why is it stupid for someone who travels abroad and rather than paying $10 a night for internet in a hotel (happening to me right now in Seoul) would prefer to get a local 3G carrier that can be used city wide. Any one of the above reasons make perfect sense, and they all apply to me. But believe me, I won't insinuate anyone is stupid for not wanting 3G.

I thank everyone for the knowledgeable, wise and insightful comments I have read. But, I trust that everyone can and will make their own decisions on what is best for them.
 
If the ipad compresses your pictures as it transfers them then that part won't matter. A picture with excellent res for a 1024xwhatever screen shouldn't exceed 1mb per. Probably even lower. In other words, you won't need your 2-3 mb raw files from your camera.

Point well taken. So, going from 100+ to a few thousand will have an impact, but far less to be concerned about.

Thanks.

Still think I'm going 64GB :)
 
Wow! Reading these posts have generally been very helpful for me. The tech discussions have informed me of its possibilities and its limitations. Seeing others ideas on how the iPad will fit into their life has inspired me for new uses. But I don't understand why people feel the need to berate others (i.e. calling them "stupid") who have a different opinion or need.

If the iPad doesn't fit you don't buy it. If having 3G on it won't be useful for you, don't get it. We all have different devices, live in and work in different places, have different incomes, have different computing needs, even have differences in taste.

I like the quality and reliability of Apple products. I like the sleekness, and yes, sexiness of Apple products. I like that they just work. I know what my needs are and I know what I have and don't have access to. I'm getting an iPad. I think its going to make my life more convenient and I think it's going to be a hell of a lot of fun to use. But, I have not spent one minute going to any other site telling them their device is a sucky, cheap, incomplete device.

Why is it stupid for a businessman who is on the road a lot to get 3G for convenience and connectivity when there is none other to be had. Why is it stupid for someone who doesn't have a smart phone, but still wants the same kind of access to get 3G. Why is it stupid for a father who wants to take a car trip with his family and stay connected at the same time to get 3G. Why is it stupid for someone who wants to stay connected when they are visiting their elderly parents who don't have wifi in their house to get 3G. Why is it stupid for someone who travels abroad and rather than paying $10 a night for internet in a hotel (happening to me right now in Seoul) would prefer to get a local 3G carrier that can be used city wide. Any one of the above reasons make perfect sense, and they all apply to me. But believe me, I won't insinuate anyone is stupid for not wanting 3G.

I thank everyone for the knowledgeable, wise and insightful comments I have read. But, I trust that everyone can and will make their own decisions on what is best for them.
I have misplaced the word "stupid". I'm sorry.

I just mean that now a days almost everyone has a WiFi network at home, and if not the neighbours have one. 3G is nice, but I think it's a waste of money because you will be in range of a WiFi network kinda like everywhere. Even at the Mc Donalds WiFi is free. You will pay an extra $130 for 3G without doubling the capacity. For an extra $100 you will double the capacity.

And sure, for a businessman who travels through the country it can come in handy. I was more focused on the personal-side.

Sure. Everyone should decide what fits for that person. For businessmen 3G is a must.
 
If someone wants 32 GB of memory and a 3G connection, than that's pretty stupid. I would go for the 64 GB WiFi-only version. Because come on: you won't carry around your iPad everywhere where possible. You will most likely use it around your house, and most likely you have a WiFi network at home.

And if you bring it somewhere else once, there's a big chance there will be a open WiFi network around. And otherwise you will still have tons of App Store apps and native apps to use.

32 GB + 3G = $729,-
64 GB WiFi only = $699,-

Same with 16 GB:

16 GB + 3G = $629,-
32 GB WiFi only = $599,-

32GB more capacity is really much, and I would choose that. Especially because the iPad is a multimedia device.

I think I'll go for the WiFi only version (so without that black strip on top) with 32 GB or 64 GB capacity.

I don't know, I probably could survive with 16GB and 3G but I don't think I could survive with 64GB Wifi only.

That's just me. I have tons of content, it's just I like the Internet the best. You can always find something to read/do on the net. Talk to friends, e-mail, etc.

It is definitely an awesome argument though. However, I think I'm going with the sweet spot, 3G 32GB if I can resist the temptation of getting on one April 3rd.
 
I don't know, I probably could survive with 16GB and 3G but I don't think I could survive with 64GB Wifi only.

That's just me. I have tons of content, it's just I like the Internet the best. You can always find something to read/do on the net. Talk to friends, e-mail, etc.

It is definitely an awesome argument though. However, I think I'm going with the sweet spot, 3G 32GB if I can resist the temptation of getting on one April 3rd.
Sure, if that fits you. I just find it ridiculous that it costs an extra $130 to add 3G connectivity without extra capacity. If it was like $130 extra for double the capacity and 3G, than that would be much better in my opinion. Don't forget you also have to pay for 3G and not every carrier has microsim.
 
I have misplaced the word "stupid". I'm sorry.

I just mean that now a days almost everyone has a WiFi network at home, and if not the neighbours have one. 3G is nice, but I think it's a waste of money because you will be in range of a WiFi network kinda like everywhere. Even at the Mc Donalds WiFi is free. You will pay an extra $130 for 3G without doubling the capacity. For an extra $100 you will double the capacity.

And sure, for a businessman who travels through the country it can come in handy. I was more focused on the personal-side.

Sure. Everyone should decide what fits for that person. For businessmen 3G is a must.

A very decent response. I had just gotten fed up with the general tone, and smugness of many of the posts.

Admittedly, it is a good debate for people with limited resources to think about which features are most important important them. The answer may not be as automatic as they may think at first glance. Fortunately, I'm in a position where I don't have to chose and will happily snap up a 3G, 64GB at as soon as it's available.

However, I will also probably skip the next 1 or 2 versions at least, unless they offer some mind-blowing new feature(s), and no, a camera won't do it.
 
Sure, if that fits you. I just find it ridiculous that it costs an extra $130 to add 3G connectivity without extra capacity. If it was like $130 extra for double the capacity and 3G, than that would be much better in my opinion. Don't forget you also have to pay for 3G and not every carrier has microsim.

I'm not saying it's not ridiculous LOL. I just find more value in the 3G. Everyone is different. If I didn't care about 3G I would most likely go 64GB since I'm ready to spend $700 :)
 
If someone wants 32 GB of memory and a 3G connection, than that's pretty stupid. I would go for the 64 GB WiFi-only version. Because come on: you won't carry around your iPad everywhere where possible. You will most likely use it around your house, and most likely you have a WiFi network at home.

And if you bring it somewhere else once, there's a big chance there will be a open WiFi network around. And otherwise you will still have tons of App Store apps and native apps to use.

32 GB + 3G = $729,-
64 GB WiFi only = $699,-

Same with 16 GB:

16 GB + 3G = $629,-
32 GB WiFi only = $599,-

32GB more capacity is really much, and I would choose that. Especially because the iPad is a multimedia device.

I think I'll go for the WiFi only version (so without that black strip on top) with 32 GB or 64 GB capacity.

I think it's pretty arrogant of you to think that everybody has wi-fi at home. I for one don't so the models with 3G are appealing to me. Due to my living conditions getting Wi-Fi at home when I moved in was cost prohibitive, especially since I do not own my residence. So for me, it was easier to get a 3G card for my laptop. Now wherever I go I don't have to worry about a connection. I always have the convenience of a connection whether there is WiFi in the area or not. My contract on that 3G card up at the end of the summer, so maybe at that time the wi-fi installation may not be as expensive as it was 2 years ago. The 3G card option may be a little more expensive, but the convenience of knowing I can get online with my laptop anywhere is well worth it. Because of this the 64GB w/3G is the way I plan to go. I was expecting the iPad start at $999, so the $829 price point is far better than I was expecting.
 
I am getting the high end one. 64 gig + 3g. I want the gps. Plus, I am planning to only use the $15 per month plan for just browsing the net. If I want to download games or movies, I would need to preload it at my house via wifi or other hotspots. Ocassionally, I may opt for the 30 per month, though. It depends.
 
I am getting the high end one. 64 gig + 3g. I want the gps. Plus, I am planning to only use the $15 per month plan for just browsing the net. If I want to download games or movies, I would need to preload it at my house via wifi or other hotspots. Ocassionally, I may opt for the 30 per month, though. It depends.

What a waste of money.. You can almost get a Macbook.
 
What a waste of money.. You can almost get a Macbook.

I, for one, already own a MacBook Pro. I will max it out as well, because I need 3G and I'm going to want to make sure it will have enough room to carry everything I want. It's worth it to me to get another device that is smaller, much lighter, and (I suspect) a lot more fun to use. Which, by the way will take care of more than 90 percent of my mobile computing needs.

So...no, I think it will be money well spent.
 
the 64 gb chip/whatever is actually $118, there is a breakdown of the ipad parts and pricing at http://www.businessweek.com/news/20...t-as-little-as-219-isuppli-says-update1-.html

To be clear, a 16 Gb chip costs Apple $29.50, so the mark up on the memory chip alone, to the 64Gb wifi model is only $111.50 ($699-($111.50-$29.50)=$610.50).

Similarly, the mark up from the 16 Gb to the 32 Gb is $70.50 ($599-($59-$29.50)=$569.50).

Similarly, the mark up from the 32 Gb to the 64 Gb is $48 ($699-($111.50-$59.50)=$647.00).


(Note: I have no problem with Apple making a profit - - I encourage it in businesses. I just want to know the mark up.)
 
After the announcement, I quickly decided to plan on ordering the 32GB WiFi+3G model for $729.

The more I thought about it, the wife and I already have 2 iPhone 3GS models and those have served us well.

Most hotels have WiFi, and nearly every McDonalds does.
Many times in a pinch when no 3G is available and Edge is glacially slow, I have pulled into a McD's parking lot just to get WiFi. :)

I was in Europe for two weeks last fall, traveling with iPhone only, left the MBP at home for a change.
It was very easy to find free or cheap WiFi when I needed it.

So...
Friday I plan on ordering a 64GB WiFi only for $699.
I'll go for double the memory which I think will come in handy and extend the useful life of the unit.
 
After the announcement, I quickly decided to plan on ordering the 32GB WiFi+3G model for $729.

The more I thought about it, the wife and I already have 2 iPhone 3GS models and those have served us well on 3G for up to a week when traveling.

Most hotels have WiFi, and nearly every McDonalds does.
Many times in a pinch when no 3G is available and Edge is glacially slow, I have pulled into a McD's parking lot just to get WiFi. :)

I was in Europe for two weeks last fall, traveling with iPhone only, left the MBP at home for a change.
It was very easy to find free or cheap WiFi when I needed it.

So...
Friday I plan on ordering a 64GB WiFi only for $699.
Done.

I have a similar situation but different outcome. I'm trying to talk myself out of getting the 3G version. However, when I was in Europe last year I bought a SIM Card and had unlimited internet everywhere on my iPhone for 10 Euro. Not bad. However, my phone was unlocked. I'm not sure i'll be able to do that with new iPhone. And current unlock for 3.1.2 with that baseband causes wifi issues for me.

So, even if I just use the 3G once, and definitely if I use it internationally, I feel it will be way worth it. The chance of me using 64GB of content on a week trip is slim to none (I feel). The chance of me using 3G on a week trip is 100%. So I need to get the 3G. The only thing making me want the Wifi is that it comes out sooner :).
 
I am getting the high end one. 64 gig + 3g. I want the gps. Plus, I am planning to only use the $15 per month plan for just browsing the net. If I want to download games or movies, I would need to preload it at my house via wifi or other hotspots. Ocassionally, I may opt for the 30 per month, though. It depends.

The GPS feature is important to me. If the functionality is similar to the dedicated GPS units sold by Garmin, it will be a killer application for me.

Has anyone any information as to which GPS chip will be used?
 
The GPS feature is important to me. If the functionality is similar to the dedicated GPS units sold by Garmin, it will be a killer application for me.

Has anyone any information as to which GPS chip will be used?

Most likely it's the same integrated 3G chipset like the 3Gs. :)
 
What a waste of money.. You can almost get a Macbook.

I was actually planning to get a MacBook for what I need, which is basically a portable device to schlep back and forth to the school where I teach English half-time, to do limited word-processing (class handouts, routine paperwork, and the like), internet access for quick research or finding literary texts online, e-mail, and playing music and videos for instructional purposes in class.

My problem is, I don't really need a new computer, nor even especially want one, since I've already got three at home. I especially didn't find myself getting excited about buying a low-end laptop, which is all I could justify paying for (and even that is a bit of a stretch, since most of what I need I can do (with a bit of squinting and fumbling) on my iPod touch.

The iPad seems just about perfect for what I need. (I'm assuming there will some kind of support for direct printing, somewhere down the line. I can live without that, but it will make life a lot simpler.)

What I'm saying is that, for me, the idea that I can almost get a MacBook is a non-sequitur. I can get a MacBook. I don't want a MacBook. I want an iPad.

I'm leaning toward 64K, wifi only.
 
Register on MacRumors! This sidebar will go away, and you'll see fewer ads.