If you missed the $99 TouchPad special
maybe you will have a second chance:
http://arstechnica.com/gadgets/news/2011/09/poor-sales-may-have-rim-gearing-up-for-playbook-fire-sale.arsI have a Playbook and contrary to some BS reviews it's really nice product. Both hardware and software.
The lack of "Native e-mail client" is actually an advantage in my book since I hate the e-mail client on the iPad2.
It has better camera and speakers than the iPad2 and I actually like the touch interface better.
However:
2 things - battery life is not good.
If I leave the tablet not plugged in the charger after couple of days the thing is dead. In contrast the iPad2 could stay unplugged for days and when you turn it on the battery is exactly where you left it.
And here is the big one:
I am now realizing that the 7" form factor is maybe dead on arrival.
With smart phones now available with 4.3" and even 4.5" screens - why do I need to carry a 7" tablet with me when I am on the go?
At home for web surfing on the couch 10" tablet is better. Period.
The way I see things - smart phone + tablet is the new "personal computer"
The tablet doesn't need 3G or 4G - you tether it to your phone when using outside and use WiFi inside.
( I am not crazy about paying for 2 data plans! )
Would I buy $99 Playbook - for sure. $149? - Great deal.
But I don't expect this kind of firesale.
Most likely they will drop the price from $499 to $299 trying to slowly clear the inventory.
RIM better come out with 10.1" tablet soon, update their phones with the QNX and drop most of the models.
They should have 3 models.
Their stock really took a beating yesterday. Hope they survive. They really make the best keyboards for handhelds.
On the new Bold 9900 you could touch type without looking at the keyboard.
