It used to be that a cpu’s speed, amount of memory, and harddisk space were among the key factors that differentiated computers in the retail market. I think the iPad’s release was yet another sign that the retail computer market has largely been merged into the market of internet-enabled devices. Now what matters more is how well a home computer can surf the web. CPU-speed has been substituted in importance with the network(s) supported (wifi, wimax, att, verizon, etc.) ; more focus is given toward how nice the display (size, weight, touchscreen, etc.). The software, however, continues to be a crucial factor as indicated by the flurry of complaints that the iPad does not support Flash.

Having said all of that, I think the iPad is a real disappointment as a home computer and internet-enabled device. Apple should un-invent it and release something worthwhile a year from now. I predict there will be many who feel similarly disappointed by the iPad, but will still buy it with the hope that support for the iPad today will enable Apple to bring something to market that is not a disappointment. I wish them good luck. Some others will probably get it because, if nothing else, it’s a cool touchscreen-toy.