iNews Review

People Want iPads, Not Tablets; 93% of Tablets Are iPads; iOS User Demographics; and More

This Week's iPad, iPhone, iPod, and Apple TV News

Compiled by Charles Moore and edited by Dan Knight - 2011.08.22

Mac notebook and other portable computing is covered in The 'Book Review, and general Mac news is in Mac News Review.

All prices are in US dollars unless otherwise noted.

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News, Reviews, & Opinion

People Want Want iPads, Not 'Tablets'

The Register's Paul Kunert observes that the phenomenal sales success of Apple's iPad shows no sign of abating, while sales for all other tablet competitors are stagnating and channel inventories are building, HP being the latest to correct its prices, trimming $50 off the cost of a TouchPad in an effort to get them moving, with the 16 GB and 32 GB versions now available for $349 and $429 respectively. [Publisher's note: That was before HP announced it was getting out of the PC and tablet businesses. dk]

However, Kunert suggests that shaving roughly 12.5% off the entry level TouchPad and a little over 10% on the 32 GB unit will hardly breathe new life into flatlining sales, citing Salman Chaudhry, Context product manager for mobile computing, observing that in the tablet sector only the iPad is selling well, with inventory on all others building up in distribution due to slow sales, and one of the more likely iPad challengers, Samsung's Galaxy Tab 10.1, now banned from sale in the EU for infringement of an Apple patent. [Publisher's note: This situation has since changed, and the Galaxy Tab is now banned only in Germany. dk] Likewise, only iPad prices have held firm since launch, with all others implementing cuts.

93% of Tablet Owners Have iPads, 94% Who Don't Have a Tablet Want an iPad

Electronista reports that Baird & Co. analyst Jayson Noland on Monday sent out a relatively large study showing that Apple still has a lock on the tablet sector. Out of 1,114 almost exclusively US respondents, about 28% had a tablet, and 93% of them were iPads. Demand from those who don't yet have tablets but want one was even higher, with 94% wanting an iPad.

Infographic Profiles Distinctions Between iOS and Android Users

The New York City-based Hunch Website's ambitious mission is to build a 'Taste Graph' of the entire web, connecting every person on the web with their affinity for anything, from books to electronic gadgets to fashion or vacation spots - at the forefront of combining algorithmic machine learning with user-curated content, with the goal of providing better recommendations for everyone.

Droid vs. iOS infographic
Just a small part of the Droid vs. iOS infographic.

This week, Hunch posted a comprehensive infographic profiling (some might say stereotyping) what they found were substantial differences in taste, politics, income and educational status, and life experience, to name a few, between iOS and Android users.

Android Users 'Sad Hicks' - iPhone Users 'Rich Girls'

Cnet's Chris Matyszczyk says he received an interesting infographic from the folks at Hunch claimed to be based on responses from 15,818 Hunch Website users, that offered a graphic illustration of the difference between Android users and those who prefer iPhones, to wit:

  • Android users are 86% more likely than iPhone users to live in the country.
  • Android users are also 80% more likely to have only a high school diploma
  • Android users are conformists, 71% more likely to say they follow rather than lead
  • Android users are 71% less likely to have ever traveled beyond the borders of the United States
  • Android users are more than 100% more likely to be PC users
  • iPhone users are 67% more likely to have a household income of more than $200,000
  • iPhone users are 39% more likely to declare themselves high-maintenance
  • iPhone users are 18% more likely to be women.
  • iPhone users are 67% more likely to back up their laptops constantly
  • iPhone users are 13% more likely to play a musical instrument

Democrats Prefer iPhones & Blackberry - Republicans Prefer Android Phones

A recent study made by JumpTab showed the US States where particular devices "over-indexed" each other. [Publisher's note: That's marketing speak for "more popular".] For example, it turned out that iPhone users tend to be the majority in North East states, whereas the Android platform is more dominant in the South and South West. Also, Blackberry showed some resilience in particular stronghold States, like New York and Oregon. The study also showed states were cell phone users were actually neutral [ very close the national average] in their choice of device and operating system.

1800Mobiles' editors thought it would be interesting to cross-reference the 2008 Presidential election map with the JumpTab map to see if there was any trend between political preference and the phones we use. Take it with the grain of salt, but it turns out the there is an overwhelming advantage for Democrats when it comes to the number of states where iPhones are the leading devices. A slight majority of states that went to Obama also prefer Blackberry phones. Android leading states saw a Republican advantage.

"Now, we know what you're thinking, especially in light of the recent debt deal negotiations: 'Most smartphones are free with service, while iPhones still cost hundreds of dollars. What does that tell you about Democrats and overspending?' says Marcello De Luca, 1800Mobiles.com Cofounder

Notes: certain states had no clear predominant device; and the 2011 electoral map may be quite different from 2008.

Here are all the results that showed the highest combination of iPhone, Android, and Blackberry devices with the corresponding State. As the data showed, there is a clear (more than double) presence of iPhone-Democrat states than any other combination. Ironically, President Obama has been seen using a Blackberry on several occasions, but one must wonder if it was really his own personal device. [Editor's note: President Obama is a longtime Blackberry aficionado. He's also noted to be something of an iPad skeptic. cm] Blackberry-Democrat had a slight majority among the eight states where the RIM device was dominant. Republicans get the majority of Android dominant states by a slim advantage, 10 to 8.

  • iPhone-Democrats: 11
  • iPhone-Republicans: 5
  • Android-Democrats: 8
  • Android-Republicans: 10
  • Blackberry-Democrats: 5
  • Blackberry-Republicans: 3

1800Mobiles.com is an Ecommerce / Editorial web site covering the cell phone industry and cell phone accessories since 1998.

Hyundai to Discontinue Free iPad with Owner's Manuals for Equus Luxury Model

USA Today's Robert Hanashiro reports that Hyundai is about to terminate the interactive electronic owner's manuals on a complimentary iPad bundled with its line-topping Equus luxury sport sedan that the company has ballyhooed in its advertising for the past year or so, and instead will revert to traditional ink-on-paper manuals in the glovebox at the start of the 2012 model year, with 2012 models to begin arriving next month.

Hanashiro cites Hyundai spokesman Jim Trainor explaining that the interactive iPad electronic owner's manuals were only intended as a one-year promotion, although Equus buyers who want the electronic owners manual for their own iPads will still be able to download it.

TSMC Kicks Off A6 Processor Trial Production

China Economic News Service's Steve Chuang reports that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd. (TSMC), reportedly the worlds largest semiconductor foundry by market share, has allegedly started trial production of the ARM-based A6 processor in cooperation with Apple, with the production design to be taped out in the first quarter of 2012 and scheduled to be publicly unveiled in the second quarter at the earliest, according to industry sources.

Accordingly, TSMC has applied its newest 28-nanometer process and 3D stacking technologies to produce the next-generation A6 processor. Believed to be a quad-core design, the A6 will undergo TSMCs cutting-edge silicon interposer and bump on trace (BOT) methodologies. Industry insiders said that the manufacturing will help to pump considerable momentum into TSMCs business growth starting next year, though the company has yet to comment on the deal for the moment.

Apple Cancels Supply Schedule of iPad 3 for 2H11

DigiTimes' Yenting Chen and Joseph Tsai report that Apple has recently canceled its iPad 3 supply schedule for the second half of 2011, forcing a chain reaction with other tablet PC brand vendors set to launch same-level product, who may feel obliged to follow suit and delay their launches. Meanwhile, iPad 2 production in the second half will be maintained at 28-30 million units, according to DigiTimes' sources in the OEM supply chain.

Chen and Tsai say Apple was originally set to launch its iPad 3 in the second half of 2011 with a supply volume of 1.5-2 million units in the third quarter and 5-6 million in the fourth quarter, but sources say Apple's supply chain partners have recently discovered that the related figures have all already been deleted.

It is speculated that disappointing yield rates for 9.7" "Retina" panels featuring resolution of 2048 x 1536 may be the major reason for the delay, with Apple's supply partners Samsung Electronics and LG Display both unable to achieve a good yield.

Sources from panel players also pointed out that the high resolution 9.7" displays require a much larger backlight source, and the iPad 2's single edge light bar is only marginally able to reach satisfaction levels, which could also contribute to a delay in the launch for engineering to be modified.

Apps & Services

Converse Conversation Translator App

Converse appConverse appPR: It's not quite the Star Trek "Universal Translator," but Converse is a language translator app for conversations. You can use its unique dual-keyboard layout to have real conversations with real people.

Converse currently translates between English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, and Dutch.

New in Version 1.1:

  • Improved connection checking
  • New design
  • New loading screen
  • New "not connected" screen
  • Performance tweaks

System Requirements:

  • Compatible with iPad.
  • Requires iOS 4.0 or later.

$4.99

Accessories

Kingston Wi-Drive Wins Best of Show at Flash Memory Summit

PR: Kingston Digital, Inc., the flash memory affiliate of Kingston Technology Company, Inc., a world leader in memory products, has announced that its Wi-Drive has been chosen by the Flash Memory Summit as a Best of Show award winner for 2011 in the Most Innovative Flash Consumer Application category. The award was handed out at the Flash Memory Summit Best of Show Awards event in Santa Clara, Calif.

Kingston Wi-DriveWi-Drive allows users to wirelessly view documents and media files, and choose to share them with others, while on the go for work or pleasure.

"We are honored to have received the Best of Show award this year as Wi-Drive is truly an innovative Flash memory-based wireless solution that extends the storage capacities of Apple devices," says Andrew Ewing, Flash memory business manager. "Wi-Drive allows users to wirelessly view documents and media files, and choose to share them with others, while on the go for work or pleasure."

The Flash Memory Summit conference, held once a year, is dedicated entirely to Flash memory and its applications. The summit features exhibits and technical sessions that bring together Flash vendors, engineers, system designers and other professions. Wi-Drive was reviewed by a panel of industry experts prior to the show. Winning products were evaluated according to the following criteria:

  • Distinctiveness of the application, technology, or product
  • Central use of Flash memory as a solution or innovation
  • Technical and business significance to the general marketplace

• The judges of the Flash Memory Summit Awards Committee had the daunting task of selecting the Most Innovative Consumer Application from such a large pool of quality submissions, said Tom Coughlin, Summit Chairperson and President of Coughlin Associates. We are proud to select Kingston Digital's Wi-Drive as a wireless, portable storage device that allows users of the Apple iPad, iPhone and iPod touch to expand their storage.

Wi-Drive began shipping in July and is available in both 16 GB and 32 GB capacities. Through the Kingston Wi-Drive app from the App Store, three users can simultaneously watch movies, listen to music and view photos or documents. Its sleek, extremely portable and functional design allows users to view their files anywhere, without having to rely on cloud-based technology or Internet access.

To learn how users can easily enhance the storage capabilities of the Apple iPad, iPhone and iPod touch, a video demonstration and more information is available online.

Logitech Tablet Keyboard for iPad

Logitech Tablet Keyboard for iPadPR: The compact Logitech Tablet Keyboard For iPad keyboard combines the best of traditional keyboards and laptop keyboards, for a great experience wherever you use your tablet.

  • Does double duty - On the go, the carrying case helps protect your keyboard. And once you arrive, it converts into a sturdy stand for your iPad that's adjustable to just the right angle.
  • Speaks Apple - The keyboard pairs easily with iPad (and even iPhone or iPod touch ) over Bluetooth wireless. Use it on your desk, lap or anywhere within 30 feet of your iOS device. (Actual wireless range will vary with use, settings and environmental conditions.)
  • Plays along - You get media controls like play, pause, volume up, and volume down, right at your fingertips.
  • Gives you options - The separate stand means you can place your iPad just where you like it in landscape or portrait mode for more freedom than other types of portable keyboards.

Logitech Tablet Keyboard for iPadSystem Requirements

  • iPad 2
  • iPad

3-year limited hardware warranty

Package Contents

  • Keyboard
  • 4 AAA batteries (preinstalled)
  • Case/stand
  • User documentation

Logitech Tablet Keyboard For iPad sells for $69.99

Versetta Handbags and Cases Deliver Form and Fashion for Female iPad Users

PR: Scott Creations LLC has announced the availability of Versetta handbags and cases. Versetta bags are designed specifically to make carrying and interacting with your iPad simple and intuitive - like it was supposed to be. Each bag features an incorporated frame, with a protective flap, which securely holds the iPad (version 1 or 2). Once the flap is opened, the iPad, and its ports, can be accessed without removing it from the bag.

Versetta Angela iPad handbag in Sunny Yellow

While the benefit of having your iPad bag double as a work station is obvious, it's Versetta's style and color choices that are exciting customers. Whatever one's personal preference in bags purse, tote, satchel, hobo, attach - there's a Versetta bag available, in colors ranging from business black and brown to turquoise, pink, sunny yellow and trendy coral.

"The Prima collection is a line of women's fashion handbags in sought-after colors and styles. Women who appreciate fashion and technology will appreciate the freedom from frumpy, stuffy laptop bags, and will love Versetta handbags quality construction, material and hardware. No longer do women have to dig in their purse to find their tablet, nor do they have to carry a separate bag to carry their iPad safely and securely," says Susan Scott, founder of Scott Creations LLC.

The Affari collection is classic designs for professionals who have embraced today's technology. Lawyers, executives, realtors, road warriors and medical reps will welcome the ability to work on-the-go. All bags have an exterior compartment with a frame to hold your iPad 1 or 2 securely. The padded protective flap keeps the iPad safe and discreet when not in use.

Versetta handbags are now available online for purchase. Scott Creations LLC, the manufacturer of Versetta handbags, will take orders through their website.

The fully functional online store will process all credit cards, issue gift certificates, and create wish lists for their clients. Retailers can also contact Scott Creations LLC directly through the web site to carry the popular handbags in their stores.

Techy Moms

"We introduced the Versetta bags and cases at the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show and received rave reviews," says Scott. "iPad enthusiasts, particularly the Techy Moms, were thrilled to find a truly fashionable solution to easily access and interact with their tablet computers."

Scott Creations LLC was founded in Illinois in 2010 by Susan Scott of Morton, IL. Scott partnered with Janice Wong in 2011 to expand the company's vision to create high quality fashion bags for technology users.

Acme Made Announces Stylish Cases for iPad 2

PR: Acme Made has introduced new safeguard solutions for the iPad 2.

Product summaries (more detailed descriptions and links below):

Orikata is a case, inspired by Japanese origami, and the perfect fit for your iPad 2. Featuring a clever flip port, it does not cover the rear-facing camera. Its soft microfiber liner and thoughtful details make this a stylish case that does not sacrifice on protection. Available soon be in vegan-friendly polyurethane "leather". ($49.99)

Infinite Angle is a unique case that allows unlimited angles for comfortable viewing and typing on your iPad 2. Using a smart strap element, the ultra-thin Infinite Angle adjusts to the user's desire while securely storing your iPad 2. Using vegan-friendly materials, including a velvet lining, your tablet will be fully protected without blocking the rear-facing camera. ($59.99)

Orikata: A Shiny New Convertible For Your iPad 2

Acme Made has debuted its new slimline Orikata cases. With an exacting fit for the iPad 2, the Orikata leverages complete docking and play-through functionality within its unique case design.

Orikata case for iPad 2Taking cues from the Japanese art of origami, the Orikata's folding elements reconfigure in a snap, providing a remarkably stable stand for cinema viewing or keyboard mode at optimal ergonomic angles.

Available in vegan-friendly PU leather with red top stitch details, the Orikata offers a clever flip port for the rear-facing camera and a soft microfiber liner.

"As the most recent addition to our line of premium accessories for emerging Apple mobile products, the Orikata is among the best designed, most functional iPad 2 cases on the market," says Kirk Thornby, Acme Made Senior Vice President. "The top-of-the-line protection features and thoughtful details that define the Orikata make it the breakaway leader in the iPad case market. You've truly never seen anything like it."

The Orikata is available immediately for $49.99.

The Infinite Angle iPad 2 Case with Infinite Possibilities

Acme Made has been designing new protection for the MacBook, MacBook Pro, MacBook Air and iPad 2 alongside accessories for all manner of laptops, eReaders, digital cameras and smartphones.

Infinite Angle iPad 2 CaseA tailored fit for the iPad 2, the Infinite Angle case offers unlimited viewing and typing angles alongside revolutionary in-case instant on/off functionality for convenient power savings.

How so infinite? The Smart strap element allows the Infinite Angle to be set at any angle for stable, comfortable viewing and typing. Created ultra thin, the Infinite Angle leverages complete docking and play-though functionality that safely ensconces your iPad 2 in a sleek, modern, highly functional jacket for the duration.

Constructed with vegan-friendly materials, the Infinite Angle's soft-touch velvet lining and ports that permit in-case operation of the rear-facing camera are mindful details that separate the Infinite Angle from competing products.

Acme Made Senior Vice President Kirk Thornby says: "The most recent addition to our line of premium accessories for existing and emerging Apple mobile products including the MacBook Air and iPad 2, the Infinite Angle provides breakthrough innovation with the instant on/off functionality while offering the greatest variety of iPad 2 viewing and typing options available in the market."

Top-of-the-line protection mindfully executed for your iPad 2, the Infinite Angle embodies the precision, practicality and A-list aesthetic behind Acme Made's motto: Designed Protection.

The Infinite Angle is available immediately for $59.99.

Targus Versavu 360° Rotating Stand & Case for iPad 2

PR: The Targus Versavu 360° Rotating Stand & Case is specifically designed for the iPad 2.

Targus Versavu Keyboard and Case for iPad 2The Rotating Stand/Case features a unique, patent-pending mechanism that frames the Apple logo and allows the iPad to rotate both vertically and horizontally while in the case.

Targus Versavu Keyboard and Case for iPad 2For optimum comfort, this case offers three viewing positions including a lower angle which is ideal for typing on the screen. The form-fitted design securely holds the iPad in place while the hard-sided exterior provides a sturdy, protective cover. The soft interior lining adds color and protects the device against scratches. The thin design makes it easy to carry inside of another case adding little weight or thickness to the iPad itself.

Targus Versavu Keyboard and Case for iPad 2The 360 Rotating Stand/Case for iPad 2 provides full access to all iPad functions so the iPad can be fully operational without leaving the case. Pairing an executive appearance with seamless functionality, the 360 Rotating Stand/Case for iPad 2nd Generation provides an attractive and functional way to carry and use the iPad.

Targus Versavu Keyboard and Case for iPad 2The Versavu Keyboard and Case includes a QWERTY, low-profile keyboard that provides tactile feedback to the user to improve typing accuracy and speed while maintaining a quiet typing experience. The keyboard is Bluetooth and can be charged inside of the case for an easy-to-sync, cable-free user experience, and includes a scratch-resistant frame around the keyboard to prevent the iPad from touching the keys when the case is closed and ready for transport.

The Versavu Keyboard and Case also includes an easy to locate, built-in holster for a pen or stylus. Featuring a soft interior lining to protect the iPad, Versavu provides full access to all iPad functions so the device is fully operational inside of the case.

Features

  • Built-in Stand - Case converts into a stand to hold the device upright for handsfree viewing of video, online books and more
  • Hard-Shell - Hard-shell design offers a molded exterior to protect fragile glass displays that are prone to damage when bent
  • 360° Rotation - Making it simple to transition between landscape and portrait options, the 360° feature allows for more viewing versatility while keeping your device in the case.
  • Functionality - Features a patent-pending 360 technology that frames the Apple logo and allows the iPad to rotate inside of the case in both portrait and landscape modes; includes a wireless Bluetooth keyboard
  • Material - Hard-sided exterior and scratch-resistant interior provides quality protection for the iPad 2

Specifications

  • Color: Black/Gray Interior
  • Exterior Dimensions: 12" x 1.5" x 8.5"
  • Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty
  • Weight: 1.4 lb.

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