Are you considering buying an iPad/tablet to replace you're aging laptop/netbook?

I bought an iPad but certainly did not buy it to replace my laptop. The iPad is a mobile device that with current shifts in how we communicate, collaborate, and compute (cloud computuing for example) can handle many tasks of the traditional computer. But a good 'ole computer with its processing power will be around for a long time.

i am 28 and a small business owner. we are building new software that is more efficient and are interested in using an android tablet or ipad to take to customer locations. we are waiting for print capabilities in order for it to be used for business purposes as well.

maybe steve jobs can make the ipad hover so we don't actually need desk space or lap space for it. now that'd be cloud computing.

I am truly enjoying the convenience of my iPad but see it as a supplement rather than a full replacement (at least at the moment). I am testing several apps that allow the iPad to get rather close to laptop computing but there are still compatibilty issues when it comes to updating and syncing Office Docs if you live in a PC world. The other major issue is storage and data access. It's amazing how quickly your data usage can add up depending on your usage, and I find more ways to use my iPad everyday. There are also issues with viewing certain websites, depending on how they are built. We already know about the lack of Flash capabilities but another example is when a site requires scrolling within an area on the site...you can't, because of the touch screen. Hootsuite is one example (shout out to Hootsuite for an app).

The iPad is not a replacement for the power user's computing but it can probably beat out a netbook as a secondary machine. I definitely look forward to see how it grows.

I am not interested . Nothing on an iPad I can't do on my phone and ny phone fits in my pocket . IPad are good for old people though with bad eyes and young children for games. It keeps them quiet on trips. Other that that, its a big phone with no service lmao

I wouldn't mind an iPad sometime in the future. It is a gadget between an iPhone and a laptop. I think the iPad will be used for new type of activities, e.g. presentations on the spot, entertainment piece for the family with games, reading magazines and books on the go, etc.

I have been impressed by all that I have seen so far when it comes to the iPad. I never buy first generation devices so I won't get the new iPad but I would consider getting iPad 2 whenever it comes out. I do feel that this format will replace my urge to get a netbook. I do feel that I would rather have an Android powered version because I currently have an Android cell phone and I would assume both would be able to interact together. I can't see the iPad replacing my notebook computer anytime soon but it would be nice to not have to carry such a heavy device on business trips.

Yes, we have invested in ipads for presentations to small groups.

Great discussion, Brent!

Unfortunately, I had my laptop stolen a couple weeks ago, so I'm shopping for a replacement right now. I really liked my Macbook, so I'm trying to determine if an iPad can satisfy all my personal needs like the Macbook did. I have a work laptop, so I can accomplish any task at hand when it comes to work. But like JB said, "I never buy first generation devices". However, $600 for an iPad compared to $2000 for a Macbook is a big price gap. I guess I need a comparison guide handy, Macbook vs iPad: Which one is right for you?

As far as small business needs go. Focus Adviser, Michael Dortch put together a great Brief on Small Businesses and iPads. (http://www.focus.com/briefs/information-technology/five-reasons-your-small-bu...)