I know that there are some users that write extensively on an iPad, which is really cool and I know that it is possible. I also know that there is a version of iMovie for the iPad, as well, but that it’s missing some functions that a MacBook version would have. You can post blog entries and even edit photos, which would make Ray Bradbury giddy, but most Apple users that I know do their heavy workloads using a MacBook.
I’ve helped people set up Android tablets before and enjoyed it, but it wasn’t quite for me. I’ve not really made the leap into tablet computing because most of it seems to be focused on consuming media and not creating it.
The new Microsoft Surface Pro is boasting that it can run many of the applications that a desktop running Windows 8 can. The tablet hasn’t been released, so any further commentary from me would be just speculation. We’ll see if battery life or usability get in the way of creativity.
Can it run a full version of Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator? I use those daily and I’m not about to spend money on an expensive tablet and an additional laptop.
It is interesting to note that Steve Ballmer mentioned that software and hardware need to be considered at the same time. I wouldn’t be surprised to see more of Microsoft, traditionally a software company when it comes to computers, making its own hardware in the same set-up as Apple. They’ve got the XBOX and the Windows Phone. (Can I throw in a cheap shot joke about Zune here?)
From a school perspective, I’m just hoping for technology that’s cost-effective and efficiently supplements the curriculum.
Here are the tech specs for the “low-end” and “high-end” (relative terms) tablets:
Windows RT
- OS: Windows RT
- Weight: 676 g
- Thickness: 9.3 mm
- Display: 10.6†ClearType HD Display
- Battery: 31.5 W-h
- Ports: microSD, USB 2.0, Micro HD Video, 2×2 MIMO antennae
- Features: Office Home & Student 2013 RT, Touch Cover, Type Cover, VaporMg Case & Stand
- Possible configurations: 32 GB, 64 GB
Windows 8 Pro
- OS: Windows 8 Pro
- Weight: 903 g
- Thickness: 13.5 mm
- Display: 10.6†ClearType Full HD Display
- Battery: 42 W-h
- Ports: microSDXC, USB 3.0, Mini DisplayPort Video, 2×2 MIMO antennae
- Features: Touch Cover, Type Cover, Pen with Palm Block, VaporMg Case & Stand
- Possible configurations: 64 GB, 128 GB
