Before all of you Apple Ipad enthusiasts jump to conclusion, when I say “the Ipad is bad” I am referring to the 1970s euphemism meaning good, exciting, fantastic and extraordinary. The latest incarnation of the Ipad is designer sleek, chic and computer geek unique. That said, in the spirit of Open Source, GNU and Internet advocates that rally behind calls of “free and open” Web, the Ipad is padlocked tighter than a gated community in the Hamptons.
First, in the best anti Open Source pro-consumerism, non-code sharing spirit Apple sells you this sleek little device and then forces users to buy the apps, other software and digital media (movies, music) from the Apple store. In a move that would rival early robber baron monopoly capitalists like J.P. Morgan, Andrew Carnegie and John Rockefeller, Ipad inventor Steve Jobs has limited web surfacing to only one browser—the Apple developed Safari browser. Maybe that is not a bad idea considering that the Safari browser is super fast and has a great RSS read feature.
To further exert their muscle (and influence) over the consumer class and computer Geeks the Ipad blocks the use of any site using Adobe Flash—which is currently used by 75% of all sites employing web videos. Then to add injury to insult (i.e. a little Epson salt in the wound) the Ipad will not give tv/movie re-run lovers access to Hulu.
But though I am tempted to cry foul, while booing and hissing vehemently at this “in your face” display of power, I can’t help but be a fan of the Ipad’s futuristic design, seamless technological effectiveness and Job’s business savvy and unmitigated gall.
However, should you choose not to plunk down $500.00 for the Ipad or be opposed to Apple’s not wanting to play in the computer world sandbox then here is a list of Open Source Ipad alternatives.
• Neofonie WePad• iFreeTablet• Touch Book• Tablets from Taiwan
• Google tablet
I am torn philosophically concerning free and open source computer platforms compared to Apples closed, insular technology, but at the end of the day I probably would not turn down a gift of an Ipad. I am interested in seeing the larger models, and look wait to see how libraries will use the Ipad in their day to day activities.
