I read somewhere that Apple is trying to get the networks to drop their TV episode prices. There is even talk of a cable-like monthly subscription price where a bundle of shows/channels can be had for a single monthly uplift.

I never bought an iPod, although we did recently for our kids. In fact, aside from that, I don't think I've ever purchased original anything from Apple, although I've owned a number of second-hand macs over the years.

But I may break that taboo with this device. I've been a closet Apple fan and have used Macs off and on since mid 80's.

I want to casually read websites, books, newspapers, maybe flip through pics, watch some vids, from my couch, bed, or on my lap on the train/bus ride in to work. I want a handwriting note-taker. And, I want it to "just work" well, smoothly, and then have access to bunch of other attendant apps.

I'm a big keyboard guy (unix admin), but you really have to be committed to a certain frame of mind when you go to the keyboard.

There is another frame of mind, however, when you're simply reading, writing, and "exploring". It's one of deep introspection. This is the device for that. Any device that centers around a computer and keyboard does not take that other frame of mind into consideration, and that's why this device is appealing.

I think technologists are offended by this device, because it's not really for them. I mean, they can use it and enjoy it, but it's not a technologist's tinkerer hobby device, and that's why they don't like it.

iPods and iPhones were small enough to be relegated to an also-ran device. This is probably the first device that threatens the technologist's hold on computing devices, because people who just want to use computers as a means to an end can actually use this thing for most of their screen-time now (TV viewing and gaming aside, at least at first).

It's actually quite healthy for well-formed individuals, now that I think about it. It will probably encourage more book-reading and handwriting.