I bought into the iPad before I had to buy into the iPhone. (texting is awful on a burner phone). As a creative person I have used Apple products because, that is what my university had in their computer lab. This was in 1986 only two years after the famous 1984 Super Bowl ad. The university had no idea why they really purchased them but, the science and tech students were extremely dismayed when their science lab was taken over by the newly added graphic design classes.

For me I see the iPad as an aid in creativity and reading. (I saw the short comings of the Newton. Yet bought a Palm Pilot. You can read secretly at work!) Apple missed the initial cue on adding an ereader. I had to jailbreak my iTouch to add an ereader. The iPad caught up. It is not a great reader. I changed from the larger iPad to the the iPad mini. More portability. I can store a mobile library which I use on a regular basis. Though I have been entrenched in the Apple ecosystem. Though I know the issues over the years. The prices are crazy high. The products do last and work well.

The iPad is an extra piece of equipment. My iPad allows me to scan (no need to purchase a bed scanner. That saves desk space and money) draw and paint. I can carry thousands of books on to the iPad. How many books does one really read on a laptop? Library apps have gotten better. Hoopla, Overdrive, Libby, RB Digital and Flipster allow you to access your local library collection (Get a Library Card). I have even used my iPad’s camera.

One can make the argument about the power and use of a desktop computer vs a laptop computer. Laptops not having the computing power as a tower computer. Desktops are heavy.

I would agree with you on Apple’s approach to an iPad replacing a laptop is not really feasible. I certainly would not do it. But, not for the reason you have listed. To go from my laptop to an iPad would mean to use subscription software. Which I wold not pay for. I purchased Creative Suite 4 years ago. It works fine on my 2013 MacBook Pro 13" retina. I am careful on upgrading the system. (I am using El Capitan) I do not want to start paying a monthly subscription for software. That is my main issue.

From an observation of how non Apple families use the iPad is quite interesting. The iPad seems to be a product for the family. It sits on the sofa for any family member to use. No one seems to covet the product. At times it is a peace maker. “Play with the iPad until your brother is off the computer”, says mom. Or mom uses it to play Candy Crush while dad watches the game. Ah together time.

Your article brings up some very good points. I would not say it is a total failure as the price of an iPad on a second hand market can command some recoup costs. People are still purchasing them. As auxiliary equipment.

Thank you for your article,

Rox of Spazhouse