iPad Already a Game-Changer

It turns out that Apple introduced the iPad 2-3 months ahead of its availability to keep it secret. The device needed FCC certification, and that semi-public process would have broken the cone of silence that Apple creates around its products. But, it also turns out that putting availability 60 to 90 days into the future has created a period of anxiety for Amazon, Sony and any other company that has products or plans for something tablet-sized. Simply put, the game is changing already. Amazon had a run-in with publishers over book prices, and it’s still not settled. Gates-Ballmer have commented on the iPad, noting that it’s really not that big of a deal—or at least, not something Microsoft would create. The number of software developers in the App Store has skyrocketed. Now there are rumors that Amazon will give away Kindle’s to its Prime, upper-level loyalty customers. The company may also be exploring future Kindle designs that incorporate a color screen. I say, let the industry simmer and stew. There is nothing that kick-starts innovation and change more than having a competitor. In fact, just saying you’re a competitor seems to get things moving in the technology world. It all makes for an interesting read. But you must ask yourself the ultimate question: are we all better off because of all the changes that have already occurred because of the iPad introduction? Well, we don’t even know how the iPad might affect the world of music, browsing, writing, presentations, and photography (all iPad capabilities) until the device reaches consumers. But in the important world of publishing, the changes look positive: book prices will go up, reflecting a fairer price point for writers and buyers. Other publishing segments are jumping in, including comic books, magazines and newspaper, giving them increased exposure and potential revenue. And in general, the “printed” word is getting more attention and respect, which is always a positive thing. If I were Steve, I’d be on the telephone all day talking deals with content providers—come on board! But I’d also be resting quietly at home after work, knowing that the industry is slowly changing, even before the iPad hits the market.