Is The iPad Mobile?

Thanks to Apple for the picture.

Let's see if we can clear up something that a few people are scratching their heads about. It's about the new iPad from Apple. There's a lot that is innovative and new about it, and Apple has done a really good job of creating a product that is going to be disruptive (in a good way).

The question is, what's the best way to think about the iPad from a "use-it-on-the-go" perspective? Is it more like a laptop, which people generally only use if they are in a place they can sit down? Or is it more like a mobile phone, which is so small and light that people generally carry it wherever they go, and use it in situations that a "real" computer would be impractical (such as standing in line at the supermarket)?

To understand where the iPad (and other such tablets) fit, you have to understand something called mobile context. What does it mean? In essence, the physical aspects of the device determine how, when, and where it is used. And THAT largely determines the mental and emotional states that your prospects are in when they visit your website.

A laptop, while somewhat mobile, is bulky and troublesome enough to use that people won't carry it on their person at all times, and even then won't always be using it. As noted, it's hard to use a notebook without a place to sit. And even then, an internet connection may not always be available.

A smartphone, instead, is easy to take almost anywhere. It nearly always has an internet connection. It's easy to quickly and spontaneously use, and just as quickly put it away. It's much easier (and much less dangerous!) to use while moving around in the world.

That's mobile context. A mobile phone has it. Notebook? Not really.

So what about the iPad? Is it a laptop, or a mobile device?

The interesting thing is that it's both. It's like a notebook computer in many ways. However, it nearly has as much mobile context as a cell phone.

It's too big to fit in a pocket, but small and light enough that it can be carried in a pack or purse. That makes it an easier decision to take it along just in case you need it. It is easy to start using - you don't have a long boot up cycle - and just as easy to quickly put away. And service plans are available that give it an always-online internet connection.

This is an important and interesting aspect of the iPad. It fits a new niche in the market, in a way that changes people's behavior.

And that translates into more prospects using your company's website while on the go.

If you need your company website to look better on mobile phones, call us toll free at 877-707-6624 (or reach us in other ways).

Be successful,
Aaron Maxwell