iPad hybrid hype is silly and pointless

I blame the guy that released that iMac prototype that was described as “beautiful” and “innovative” by multiple Apple blogs. It might also be that company that released a pretty hip looking iPad case that makes it look like you’re typing on a MacBook.

Whatever it is, there’s been a lot of hype around an iPad hybrid device lately. A little too much hype. I’m here today to tell you that it’s a bunch of bunk.

First, let’s look at some obvious reasons. On this past week’s earnings call Apple CEO Tim Cook compared a hybrid tablet to an offspring between a refrigerator and a toaster. Some may argue that he should shoot down the idea because he isn’t going to promote a product that Apple doesn’t offer, but nonetheless, I think he believes it’s a silly idea.

Secondly, the hybrid tablet has already been attempted — and poorly — by Microsoft. Instead of meshing or changing operating systems, Microsoft used their current version of Windows and let you click around on it with your finger or a stylus. It was very unintuitive and clunky to use. And the devices were hideous looking.

And then you have the crowds who say, “It’ll be great for business and enterprise!” While Microsoft may have a good chunk of corporate America, you may be surprised to know how successful Apple has been in that sector as of lately. In iPhones alone, Apple beat out Android by gaining 80 percent of all enterprise phone activations this past year, according to TechRadar.com. Everything Apple does makes us change — for the better — the things we do everyday. Before the iPod, we bought CDs. Before the iPad, our legs got warm from laptops. Apple is changing the way businesses operate and helping make day-to-day tasks easier with an iPad. Have you watched any of these profile videos on businesses using the iPad?

Other reasons a hybrid tablet is a terrible idea: Design and weight. It’d be a nightmare and take away the sleek, light and thin factor away from the tablet. You’d be more tempted to use the keyboard and trackpad at all times.

Most importantly — let the people decide. There are plenty of third parties out there changing the way people use their iPad. As mentioned at the top, Brydge has its new keyboard case that mimics a Macbook. TwelveSouth is constantly releasing new products to get the most out of the iPad. Their HoverBar is the perfect compliment to an iMac.

The iPad is a tablet and should be used with our hands. It should be interactive. It should feel alive. Let’s not kill it by slapping a keyboard and hybrid operating system on it. If you want that — go buy a laptop.

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