I really appreciate all of your input on my post. You’re absolutely right: other tablets do exist. The technology isn’t new; and in fact, I’m aware of a couple that exist out there. However, I’m not so sure Apple’s only new innovation is a finger touch screen. I’m betting there are more innovations than that. And let’s remember, many of us, myself included, prefer the Mac operating system to that of PCs. As you said, we’ll have to wait and see because all of this is speculation. Having said that: I can’t wait! I’m an unapologetic Apple fan, and we’re a pretty brand loyal bunch as you know. Thanks, Paul, for bringing up these important points.

You’ve brought up an intriguing example and I thank you. Segway was hyped for a long time before it finally appeared, wasn’t it? Even though Dean Kamen is an acknowledged genius, the new category creating Segway was an initial flop. Why? We can speculate endlessly. For one thing, Kamen is a reclusive “inventor” if you like. We can argue his is not a powerful “consumer” brand, whereas Apple and Steve Jobs, always highly visible, is a powerful consumer brand. Interestingly, Segway was first presented as a great mode of transportation in urban settings; police officers could and do use it. It was presented also as a great option for senior citizens and people with limited mobility. Of late, the Segway is now being positioned as “green” transportation. As a brand, it has continued to evolve but it still has enjoyed limited success. So what does that say about building brands? Is even a one-hit wonder sufficient?

Thanks, Matt. Enjoyed reading your comments very much.

Thanks for your comments. You made an excellent point: Apple is a master at generating buzz, that is, PR. Few companies can whip up as much excitement in the marketplace as they can. Like every company, Apple does have its own “personality” or culture. Theirs is all about bringing dazzling new technology and creating an aura of “got to have it” among consumers. They’ve had their flops, but more successes than not. It’s going to be interesting to see their “latest and greatest” later this month.

It is everything described in the speculative notes about the Apple tablet.

A 10″ diagonal screen. I can write directly on the screen with a pen to make notes. (It is a full PC with a removable keyboard and pen input).

The only technology it is missing is finger touch-ability.

The only problem I’ve ever had with it, is that it isn’t a Mac.

The world isn’t excited that a tablet will be coming out… They exist/existed… It’s… can you imagine a tablet with the ease of use of a Mac behind it!

Alright… enough speculation…

Thanks for the article!

One word: Segway.

For startups, especially, building press before release is incredibly risky. You risk creating a disconnect between promised features and hype pre-release, before marketers have a chance to test the product and understand how users interact with it.

Eric Reis explains it a hell of a lot better than I can: http://www.startuplessonslearned.com/2009/03/dont-launch.html

Not everyone is Apple, and it’s why so many ignorant Marketers act under the failed premise of the big launch party/build buzz that you suggest.

Do you really think this is going to be another Newton? What makes you think that? I’m the first to admit, Apple fan or not, that not every new product has been a hit out of the ballpark. . .but, let’s face it: they’ve got a pretty strong batting average. Still, I’m more than a bit intrigued about this new tablet. Can’t wait until it’s unveiled. Thanks for your comment, David: you said a lot in only 8 words!

Thanks for weighing in on my post. Much appreciated. Ditto: I’m curious and quite excited about this myself! Just the fact that Apple’s new tablet promises to allow users to interface with many media in a unique way points to the fact that if this delivers as promised, it will be a game changer and a new category creater. As you astutely pointed out: the correlation of price point to capability is going to be a crucial factor in this. Stay tuned!

If you are kidding I’m going to be very angry. If the WSJ is kidding – I’m going to really mad.