Culture News

iPad screen to get smaller?

By Jason Bogdaneris February 16, 2012

For those who have been following the tablet wars, you'll be forgiven for reacting to the latest news about the new versions of the iPad with a slightly exasperated "now what?" The latest rumor is that Apple is testing a smaller-screened version of its innovative tablet. Currently the device has a screen size of 9.7 inches, but according to analysts it's thinking of downsizing to compete with Samsung's Galaxy Note and Amazon's Kindle, which come in smaller iterations.

The idea that Apple would change its design as a reaction to its competitors is heresy for its devotees, all the more so, since the 9.7 inch design was specifically favored by Jobs as the minimum size needed to appreciate tablet apps.  The fact that users have been complaining that the 0.34 inch thin, 1 and 1/3 pound device is "bulky'' says a lot about how consumer expectations have risen in recent years.

TAGS: app, device, innovation, invention, legacy, market, size, tablet, technology,