Sideways News

Here it is: the gadget that technology fans held their breath for yesterday evening. Apple presented its new iPad - a tablet computer modelled on the iPhone, with functionality that sits somewhere between that landmark device and a PC proper.

In terms of GUI (graphical user interface) and design - both of which set the iPhone apart from its peers at launch - the iPad is undoubtedly a winner, pushing it ahead of the top-end netbooks which are, functionality-wise, its closest rivals.

However, cynics are already questioning the price tag (estimated at US $500 to $700), as well as the presumed need to buy add-ons - a leather carry case which protects the touch screen and doubles as a stand, for instance. It also remains to be seen whether or not there's any improvement in functionality over the iPhone.

There's no denying that it looks the part - and it will no doubt become a must-have gadget soon. The proposed book store and 10" screen make it a superb candidate as a workable e-reader suitable for daily news consumption. But prior to a thorough testing at the hands of the general public, the jury's still out on whether or not the iPad represents a suitable leap ahead for the technology giant - and whether or not it's worth the money.