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The Future of Publishing

When you think iPad think couch

This past weekend I read and watched many reviews on Apple's new iPad. What many of the reviewers were trying to figure out was how this new device would be used. Some looked at it as competition for the laptop. Others said it was like a oversized iPod touch. Still others wondered why the iPad did not have a built-in camera. Finally one reviewer said something that made sense to me. He said the iPad was for use on the couch because it is more a receptive device than a creative device.

Perfect.

He is right. I would not use an iPad as a replacement for my laptop. Instead I would use it while relaxing on a couch. Much like I'd read a book or watch television. In fact, I'd use it instead of paging through a book or flipping through the television remote.

From a publishing perspective, if people use the iPad in place of a conventional book then it is important to publish in all formats from print to digital. Early evidence shows during the first weekend over 200,000 books were downloaded. With around 300,000 total units sold during that time this means two book downloads for every three iPads sold. A huge number given the general slow pace of digital downloads sold in relation to how many e-books have sold industry wide most weeks.

Beyond the number of books downloaded so far, growth in iPad book sales will undoubtedly explode over the next several months. The reason is because, unlike other so-called e-readers, the iPad has a full color display and allows added content to be embedded in its pages. For example, imagine reading a cookbook and being able to click on a color photo and have a video screen appear showing the actual preparation of the recipe. Or how about a book about a famous musician whose recordings can be accessed from the pages of the book.

In the next several months, as developers are able to create new apps, the iPad will benefit from a wealth of new programs that no one yet has imagined.

We are only just scratching the surface on the capabilities of this ingenious device.

What do you think about the Apple iPad?

Can you see yourself owning an iPad at some point?

How would you use an iPad?