Can the iPad replace the desktop or laptop?

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Originally Posted by Dorje

Think of it this way, all of Apples iDevices (pod/pads/phones) will use some version of the iPhoneOS or iPhone Operating System. Just like Windows or Mac OSX, new updates to the OS can be added to existing devices... provided thier hardware is supported.

I don't see any logical reason why Apple would not allow a first gen iPad to update to the iPhoneOS 4 if and when it comes out. I could see them being jerks and charging a small fee for the software update the same way they do with Mac OSX between major versions. But not simply locking out early adopters all together after the first year. After 3 years possibly, after 5 years for sure they would stop supporting the 1st gen ipads with the latest software updates.

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Well iPad and iPhone don't use the same OS...they are similar, but only at its core. So basic updates will trickle down to it...but major releases will either be released in tandem or separately. Apple charges for major releases on iPod Touch, but not on the iPhone...the iPad is about 2x as much as the iPod Touch..so we might get free updates...but I wouldn't count on it....tho the first update if it is quickly will more likely be free.

On the issue of charging for OS upgrades for the iPad, we'll have to wait and see... However... The iPhone gets "free" upgrades. The iPod Touch requires payment. This is NOT purely a choice on Apple's part. It's an issue of how revenue is recorded for the devices and laws surrounding the issue of adding additional functionality to these devices. The iPhone is monetized over time due to the required service plan. The iPod Touch is sold outright. There is a difference in the way the IRS looks at these things and what laws and FTC rules apply due to the difference. This is a little bit of an over-simplification, but I think it accurately reflects the situation.

Given this, I think it's fair to say that we will probably have to pay for Major OS upgrades (as is the case with OS X, by the way) but will not have to pay for point releases.

I don't have a problem with this. I'm buying the device in the form it's in. If I want the additional functionality, I'll pay for the upgrades. If not... well... no one is holding a gun to my head (or wallet).

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Originally Posted by KiltedTim

On the issue of charging for OS upgrades for the iPad, we'll have to wait and see... However... The iPhone gets "free" upgrades. The iPod Touch requires payment. This is NOT purely a choice on Apple's part. It's an issue of how revenue is recorded for the devices and laws surrounding the issue of adding additional functionality to these devices. The iPhone is monetized over time due to the required service plan. The iPod Touch is sold outright. There is a difference in the way the IRS looks at these things and what laws and FTC rules apply due to the difference. This is a little bit of an over-simplification, but I think it accurately reflects the situation.

Given this, I think it's fair to say that we will probably have to pay for Major OS upgrades (as is the case with OS X, by the way) but will not have to pay for point releases.

I don't have a problem with this. I'm buying the device in the form it's in. If I want the additional functionality, I'll pay for the upgrades. If not... well... no one is holding a gun to my head (or wallet).

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iPod Touch major updates are only $10...so I'm not too concerned...the last major OSX update was only $30....they aren't in the business of screwing people on upgrade..it's not windows.

You're right gentlefury. Unlike some software companies who shall remain nameless <coughmicrosoft>

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Originally Posted by Sonny Burnett

Remember, this is the first iteration of the iPad. From a logical point of view, within 5 to 7 years the touch screen tablet will replace the notebook. It is inevitable!

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Good point and totally valid supposition...