All iPads Apple needs to step up the functionality of the iPad so it can replace the MacBook

[Aluminum213]

The form factor is almost perfect with the iPad, just need to include some actual uses to it besides just relying on iPad apps


I'm talking about being able to actually download files from the web on the iPad onto iTunes, USB connection...

 

[GGJstudios]

The form factor is almost perfect with the iPad, just need to include some actual uses to it besides just relying on iPad apps


I'm talking about being able to actually download files from the web on the iPad onto iTunes, USB connection...

You're talking about two completely different devices. The iPad is not a notebook computer, and cannot do everything that a notebook can do. It runs a completely different operating system, has completely different hardware configuration, and has limitations that prevent it from being able to handle many of the more advanced tasks that a notebook can handle. Why on earth would Apple want to kill a profitable notebook business by creating overlap between the tablet and notebook? Fortunately, they're too intelligent to do such a thing.

 

[zhenya]

The iPad isn't intended to replace a laptop computer wholesale. It is a complementary device that is slowly evolving into taking over for computers bit by bit. It won't happen overnight, and to try to make it do so would ruin it. (See the Microsoft Surface Pro)...

Also there are plenty of ways to download files to an iPad. A straight-up USB port we will never see, so don't hold your breath.

 

[gotluck]

There are many iPad apps that communicate well over SMB wirelessly with windows machines. That was the straw that pushed me over the edge.

Documents by Readdle & Nplayer pretty much save the iPad for me.

When the jailbreak is out you can pretty much do whatever you want. Even USB OTG (through camera connection kit) has worked on previous jailbroken ipads.

 

[Brittany246]

The form factor is almost perfect with the iPad, just need to include some actual uses to it besides just relying on iPad apps


I'm talking about being able to actually download files from the web on the iPad onto iTunes, USB connection...

I agree with that, but I don't think it was ever meant to replace a laptop.

They should allow us to save files on our ipad so we don't have to rely on something like Dropbox or Google drive. Yesterday I tried to see if I could upload a word file to my school's scholar site, and I could only choose photos from my camera roll.

 

[Mainsail]

Fundementally, a tablet is a hand held device designed to work with a touch UI. A Laptop is designed to work with keyboard and trackpad interface. They are very different devices that overlap somewhat in functionality.

Hybrids (Laptops with touch screens or Tablets with attached keyboards) are trying to find a market, but it is a tough proposition, since fundementally different UIs require different operating systems and hardware. So far, these hybrids have largely confused customers with a hot mess of options that don't particularly do anything well.

Eventually, these form factors might merge into something useful and compelling to consumers, but it will probably require compromise of wieght, portability, battery life, cost, etc.. However, with so much content pushed to the cloud, there is less reason for a single hybrid device, since folks can access their information seamlessly on multiple devices.

 

[ditzy]

You do realise that Apple doesn't want the iPad to replace the MacBook.

 

[L T]

Why would Apple merge 2 product categories by bringing the iPad into line with the MacBook, then they would only sell 1 to a consumer. Rather than currently people will buy a MacBook for work and an ipad for play/productivity

They'd lose money

 

[Bengy66]

It's pretty clear that you might get half your wish in near future. My personal opinion is that with an IPad Air now you will see an IPad Pro in the future. Maybe keypad cover, iWork built in functionality, and the 32 GB entry level pricing.

 

[Macalway]

It's an interesting idea.

I imagine we will see some netbookish options down the road

 

[Aluminum213]

You do realise that Apple doesn't want the iPad to replace the MacBook.

Apples business is close to nothing with iMac and the MacBook continues to shrink

 

[GGJstudios]

Apples business is close to nothing with iMac and the MacBook continues to shrink

With Apple still selling over 1 million Macs per month, it is hardly "close to nothing".

 

[iapplelove]

Apples business is close to nothing with iMac and the MacBook continues to shrink

eventually, maybe 5-10 years. laptop sales will continue to fall while mobile devices mainly tablets will continue to rise.

 

[NovemberWhiskey]

You're talking about two completely different devices. The iPad is not a notebook computer, and cannot do everything that a notebook can do. It runs a completely different operating system, has completely different hardware configuration, and has limitations that prevent it from being able to handle many of the more advanced tasks that a notebook can handle. Why on earth would Apple want to kill a profitable notebook business by creating overlap between the tablet and notebook? Fortunately, they're too intelligent to do such a thing.

Um, that's kind of OP's point. He wants the ipad to be as functional as a notebook computer.

While I agree that it would cannibalize Macbook sales, I don't think that is the main reason why they exclude these features.

Also, I don't see any point in being anti-progression simply to fit the status quo that a corporation set.