Anytime Apple decides to release something there is a religious fervor that ensues with the blind followers looking to "be the first" on the block to receive the latest and greatest from the California computer giant. The iPad is no exception here. Today is the day to get your own iPad and like always, there are those who're probably lining up to get them.
There are a number of companies in digital out-of-home who utilize Apple products as their core hardware offering. Both Nanonation and Hughes Solutions Group are the leaders that come to mind. In fact, Nanonation recently released iPad applications targeted toward retailers and digital sign providers:
Apple iPad's rich multi-touch user interface, large screen, WiFi and 3G connectivity and attractive price point make it an ideal platform for a number of in-store and back-of-house applications designed to enhance, engage, and excite customers. The iPad expands the application possibilities from what we've currently been developing for the iPhone and gives our clients more flexibility and options for creating innovative and intelligent ways to impact their business.
But before we jump on the bandwagon that Apple is the only creator and thus only operator of multitouch iPad-like devices, it may be wise to take a look at some alternatives to the Apple iPad in order to know what hardware might be best used to target potential out-of-home customers.
Here are a few that come readily to the forefront:
Each have advantages and disadvantages over the iPad. A few of these features can be found
here. There are countless possibilities for similar devices at POP checkouts and for use in product displays for specific items. Because of all the features built in to these devices similar to the iPad, the potential uses for out-of-home applications abound. It will probably only be limited by the creative imagination of the user.