Exactly. The primary reason that everyone has an issue with the iPad isn't because of the lack of a camera or a USB port (those are secondary). The primary offense is the closed nature of the device. It's attempting to replace a very open market type of device, a netbook. And with just about any netbook on the planet I can install any OS I want and any software I want. With the iPad, I can install any iPhone App that Apple permits me to, and that's about it. A competing web browser? Nope. Competing mail client? Nope. Those "duplicate iphone functionality", so Apple says 'take a hike'. I don't mind companies shipping devices with default settings and software that simplifies the experience for the consumer. But when you cross the line and prevent me from changing that once it's in my possession, now you're controlling me instead of enabling me.
Hmm. Did you write this same rant when you purchased a PS3, or XBOX, or any other gaming system? What about your TV? Cause, you know, they are completely closed system that do not allow games from other systems to be played. . Nor do they enable some one to do spreadsheet work, word processing, etc. I guess you also go to Wendy's and demand a herb-crusted penguin on a sesame seed moon rock, a side of turnip halos, and an Elk blood shake. This just goes to show that the customer is not always right. Especially when the customer is demanding something that the company is not selling and has no intention of selling.
As mentioned before, this is more an appliance than a netbook or laptop. Yes, its a big ipod. I actually have no problem with that. I like my browsing experience on my iphone but do wish it had a bigger screen. I love reading books on it before i go to bed. Its absolutely great around the house. Plus, i don't have to wait for it to boot up for a minute or two just so i can reference the weather, a factoid, or play a short game while I'm waiting for dinner. Its more like a gaming console. Albeit one that has several functions. Its not for you. I'm really sorry. I hope that you'll be able to find some other device that allows you to completely control every single component in its case and comes with software that allows you to do anything you want it. With no limitations. Linux is right up your alley.
But this is obviously not for you... or for that matter, most of the rest of the techies out there in internet land (even though most will probably end up with one eventually). However, those who bought the iPhone or iPod Touch will probably snap these up Why? Much like the iPhone was panned when first released by all the techies about lack of physical keyboard, no flash (remember when Jobs told the world it was the whole internet in the hand despite the lack of flash... yeah that really killed the iphone), closed system, etc. those things just don't matter to the average person on the street.
Much like console gamers, they want something they can turn on without waiting for boot-up times and game loads, play immediately, and not have to futz around with computer settings, monitory calibrations and game optimizations. Its not that there stupid or sheeple, its just that, like you, they know what they want. And they appear to want something simple, reliable, and easy to use. I would be great around the house. It would be great traveling.
<end rant>
About the camera thing: I would love it but I think Apple is seeing more the limitations of ATT's network and thinking that putting a camera for video conferencing is going to completely destroy it. Pretty much making the vid camera useless. Plus I can't imagine how ridiculous it would look to hold this up like a camcorder.
, greets
