It all started on 27 January 2010 – the day Apple altered technology – and the world – for the future.

The introduction of the iPad caused more than just a blip on the radar screen. Although many potential users condemned it before they even took it out of the box, initial sales of this innovative multitouch device seemed to benefit more rather than less because of the backlash of criticism. Two years ago, few people believed that one could create a market for this kind of product – but Apple and Steve Jobs got it right and produced the goods. Not only did Steve confound the opposition, but he also told the world that they “needed” the iPad – and they believed him – and the continuing extensive sales is converting more unbelievers daily. With slightly more than two years since the launch, Apple can still show the world the power contained within this device:

• It gives consumers a powerful and functional device
• It is an inspiration and reference point for the competition, but it also establishes a new category for tablet PC’s
• This technology is quickly overtaking the more traditional products such as desktops and laptops

iPod Touch on Steroids

Can you remember the first comments about the iPad when it was first released? Many people said it merely mimicked an iPhone but with a bigger screen. The comparisons were inevitable and probably logical, however, many potential users did not realize this technology was entirely new and any alternative would be a long time coming. Although the Cupertino Company was dead set on releasing the iPhone as fast as possible – which it did successfully – Steve Jobs was already busy creating a tablet even back then.

Today criticism of the iPad is still rife, but is becoming increasingly unwarranted as the iPad is now a well-established tool that has permeated tens of millions of homes across the globe, and it is ideally suited to several professional sectors and industries. Now that the popularity of the iPad has been undeniably established, the competition is flocking to grab a slice of the tablet market.

The Future May Be Thinner Than a Compact Disk

Technically speaking, early criticism of Apple’s first and second-generation iPhone related to omissions rather than capabilities – for example, it was often stated that the iPhone was “horrible” because it had no camera, and the iPhone 2 was “plain” because it did not have USB ports or a Retina Display. Despite the fantasies or the desires that each technology promotes, Apple’s iPad is now pure reality and has become a part of everyday life.

When Apple presented the first-quarter financial report for 2012, it disclosed sales totaling more than 16 million iPads, but the current CEO, Tim Cook, said that he wants the iPad to be respected more than just for the units sold.

Apple has already introduced their services and products to the education world by entering universities and schools worldwide. iPads are not only out to beat electronics but also it seems they are out to beat books as well. Technology is well on the way to replacing pencils and paper with tablets – electronic chalk anybody?