The iPad 2 received a favorable reception from the market, selling a commendable 3 million units in 80 days (Marc, 2010). This attributes to the fact that tablet devices continue to rise in popularity among prospective buyers. It also portends a great future for the same, since the market base expands by day. Analysts project that tablet devices have the potential of replacing laptops if suitable enhancements are incorporated. This is because of the features and advantages they possess, including portability among others (Picture 1). Consequently, they have been ranked higher that net books for efficiency and versatility.
Strengths
While others may argue that net books are compatible with a wider range of software programs, it is noteworthy that initial iPad devices could be jail broken. This infers to the altering of internal configuration and settings to enable it accept applications from other vendors. Data services also offered another grey area for iPad contrivances. Previous editions were restricted to the AT&T network. The new model is shipped unlocked and can be used with any data service provider, provided they have a micro sim-card.
The device has been designed to accommodate all applications, which run on previous editions of the device, including the iPhone. In addition, the tablet offers an enhanced storage capacity, of up to 64GB. These additions allow it to store more data and access more data sets as compared to the former editions. As a result, it is easier for prospective clients to make a transition from their previous devices to this model. A closer look at the appliance and similar gadgets on the market reveals the iPad 2 as a superior model, since it offers access to powerful hardware and an enhanced screen resolution. At the average price of $400 for a basic mold, it emerges as the competitive option (Kane & Raice, 2010).
Editors, students, secretaries and other interested persons may invest in the appliance confidently, since it is compatible with external keyboards. This feature has been absent from previous versions of the product. The package retails separately and includes a stand and Aluminum keyboard with the relevant cables. In spite of this fact, Bluetooth enabled keyboards can also work with the device. The result is increased efficiency whenever typing tasks are executed on the device.
It also has the ability to support several applications, including ePub and iWork. In addition, the device supports software necessary for image viewing and processing. With these additions, users are able to view and process images for leisure or official business. They can also create documents, design keynote presentations and manipulate spreadsheets whenever they desire. Most importantly, users can access eBooks using this device. It is a reputable reader of the same and performs better than computers and other similar appliances.
Weakness
The major weakness of this model is the resolution. This problem has bedeviled previous devices from the same manufacturer. In addition, the device does not support wide screen imaging. As a result, viewing of movies, music, games and other forms of entertainment may not be possible with this appliance. In the event they are attempted, most results have been unsatisfactory. This has drawn criticism from different quarters, especially detractors.
This factor tends to discourage persons interested in the appliance as an entertainment gadget, thus reducing its market share. In addition, competitors are furnished with a weakness to exploit as they counter the influence of the iPad in the market. To counter this Apple Inc. need to correct the problem by improving the display relayed by the device.
Opportunity
An opportunity to be exploited in order to maximize its effectiveness is allowing third party developers to create applications for use with this device. It is notable that a similar strategy proved effective for previous editions, including the iPhone. The device came with limited applications and benefits; hence, clients maximized their use of these appliances after Apple lifted the cap. This will increase their versatility; hence, their competitive edge against android devices. It is noteworthy that the latter support many applications from different authors. In addition, the enhanced functionality will position Apple’s wares competently, since they will compete equally with Google, Microsoft and many other rival products.
Threat
A threat to the advancement of this device is the lack of adequate distribution channels. It is noteworthy that several distributors received the model late, due to delays at the production stage. This is negative for the iPad, since distribution and retail of other tablets began earlier than Apple’s. Rival producers have also ensured retail stores have adequate supplies of their appliance. Once fixed, the iPad should rightfully assume its place as the product of choice among clients.
Conclusion
Summarily, it is noteworthy that the product has been a success since its introduction into the market. The sales volumes of the product upon release and the fact that it moves significant numbers to date evidence this fact (Marc, 2010). As expected, several firms have placed themselves in direct competition with Apple by releasing devices with a similar application. To their dismay, most of these firms have resolved to contend with playing a secondary role to Apple’s iPad, due to its superiority and brand loyalty established over the years.
References
Kane, Y & Raice, S. (2010). Apple’s New iPad in Production. Wall Street Journal.
Marc. (2010). Two New Apple iPad Models Launching Q4 2010?
Picture 1. Description: Several images of the iPad tablet during its launch. Web.