Windows changes a lot from version to version, and then depending on the particular install of office, the umpteen diferent browser options etc etc each machine is different. I would even go so far as to say that the very fact people can use windows machines at all would indicate that windows is more intuitive, because there is no way to actually “learn” it.

What I like about apple is how they put the bits together. I have itunes because it was the only easy way of getting legal digital copies of movies onto to my laptop to take with me on my trip. I can actually play those movies on my network, whereas with vista machines I can’t even always play music I have ripped from a CD I own if it’s on a different part of the network. With apple you can have your phone, your music player, your TV, your home network, you pad … and generally have them all work well together and with online content.

Very tempting.

What turns me off of apple is the cost, and the attitude,

It’s like those “I’m a mac. And I’m a PC” ads. I’m much more a shcleppy, socially inept middle aged nerd that muddles through than I am cool, laid back Mac. The commercials actually make me sympathize with PC and be proud to own one … which I’m sure wasn’t exactly the intent.

Back to the iPad, I visualize using it the way you would take a newspaper, magazine or book with you on the bus, train or plane. Commuting to work or school, or showing friends your “stuff”. As such the 3G connectivity would be a major part of the package, as would ruggedness and durability.

I’ll be interested in your experience with it, although I won’t be getting one anytime soon ( quie happy with my netbook for now )it has caught my attention.

As for the ease of use… my observation is that Apple really does do a better job than the competitors. There are a lot of features shared between Windows 7 and Mac OSX 10.6, things like the quicklaunch bar/dock and the like, but on the Mac they seem more intuitive. “Fit and finish”, I guess is what you’d call it in the car world. It’s like when I sit in my Acura, all of the controls fall to hand without a lot of looking around. When I sit in a similar vintage GM product, the same functions are all there, but I perpetually have to poke around with inconveniently placed and fiddly buttons.

I’m on the list to get notified when it becomes available, so we’ll see.

I do have to say that they have the right concept: a portable information device rather than computer. Though the cost of data via cell network in Canada still prohibits it being all it could be.

But for someone that only uses the computer to download music, send e-mail and surf the web, it looks like and ideal concept.

Mind you, it already has the moronic apple built in battery. I expect it will also have the traditional apple overheating problems, and some of the assorted other technical glitches that the apple true believers insist don’t exist or actually proof of superiority.

One thing apple has done well, is cross platform integration. ( I realize it’s actually all the same OS, which helps. ) The fabled apple intuitive ease of use is BS, but they have realized that people want easy access to their digital stuff where ever they are.