Following yesterday’s announcement of Apple’s long-awaited iPad tablet computer, iLounge has polled leading iPod accessory manufacturers and application developers for their opinions on the new iPad.
Answers:
Andy Fathollahi, President, Incipio:
WOW! What a great announcement today – The iPad along with iBooks can potentially change publishing forever.
We have been waiting for this product for years – I personally, will be first in line for this. I’m going to be able to take quick notes, do research, check out blogs and be able to share images of products and devices in a much more effective manner – no more sharing an image from a small 3” screen.
Jackie Ballinger, Marketing, Griffin Technology:
Very exciting! The long-rumored device turned out to be even more than we had anticipated. The concept of creating a new platform in between the mobile phone and laptop segments was indeed a lofty one. Based on yesterday’s preview of the iPad and its features, its apparent Apple has thought through every angle of usage for this device.
As with all Apple devices, the user experience is sure to drive its popularity and success in the marketplace. Apple has again pushed the market forward in another step of technological convergence and we’re excited to begin working on new devices that will add to that experience.
Jon Kromrey, GM Apple Games, Namco Networks:
The iPad will be the new media device that sets the standard for all publishers and developers around the world—it’s not only about delivering media and experiences but giving access to interact and evolve it as well.
Michael Simmons, Marketing, Cultured Code:
It’s beautifully designed, with many segment-changing features. We are impressed by the design, and we think the price point will make the decision to purchase much easier.
Cindy Araujo, Marketing, Macally
We think Apple’s new iPad is an excellent new alternative to traditional laptops for mobile computing. Ideal for mobile entertainment like movies, reading and browsing the internet, with a large vibrant screen and long battery life ….at a very reasonable price to boot…. we think it’s a great product for the consumer electronic market and can’t wait to start working on new accessories which will be available by the time iPad starts shipping.
Answers:
Andy Fathollahi, President, Incipio:
We are, as you may assume extremely thrilled about today’s announcement and have a very robust product line planned for these devices.
We plan to introduce our ever popular feather, the value priced dermaSHOT, the rugged SILICRYLIC, as well as the new the duroSHOT DRX along with a few new fun products.
Jackie Ballinger, Marketing, Griffin Technology:
We released our first collection of cases for iPad yesterday evening following Apple’s announcement. We expect a protective case to be one of the first investments most new iPad owners will make, as they’ll be eager to protect it immediately. Our collection offers a few different styles: an executive folio and slide-in sleeve, as well as colorful silicon wraps and a neoprene sleeve. Of course once we get our hands on an iPad we’ll also be looking at various hardware solutions that will complement and expand the iPad experience as well.
Jon Kromrey, GM Apple Games, Namco Networks:
To start, we’re updating our apps to take advantage of the new device’s gorgeous display, powerful chip set and updated wi-fi support. Being able to reach new players and connect with your friends regardless of where they are in the world is an important evolution of social gaming and in the next few weeks and months we’ll be announcing our titles that support the new iPad as well as many other new efforts.
Cindy Araujo, Marketing, Macally
We are working on protective cases, stands, dock, keyboards, a power pack, cables, and privacy screens.
Answers:
Jackie Ballinger, Marketing, Griffin Technology:
The iPad presents new usage scenarios that open up a whole new world of mobile accessories. Our product development teams are already working on new product ideas for the iPad platform.
