Last Wednesday Apple finally unveiled its much anticipated new product- the Apple iPad. At just half an inch thick, and one and a half pounds in weight, this multitouch device features a large 9.7 inch screen and crisp LED-backlit display. Designed for media consumption, the iPad is ideal for checking email, viewing photos, watching videos, and surfing the internet. At a surprisingly low entry price of $499, analysts suspect it will give the e-reader market in particular a run for its money.

Early criticism has surfaced however, regarding the iPad’s inability to multi-task. As with the iPhone, the iPad only allows for one window at a time. "It looks very nice but having no Flash, camera or multi-tasking, and very limited business apps makes it look more like a companion device so far," says John Eaton, president of Eaton & Associates. But even as a simple companion device, the iPad has already generated interest in the tablet market. Only time will reveal the iPad’s success; will it prove to be as revolutionary as the iPod? Wi-Fi models begin shipping in late March, 3G models begin shipping in April.