iPad vs. Google Tablet. - Can a Tablet be useful in Educational Atmospheres?

Google is developing a device that will be very similar to the iPad. Even though Google has not yet announced publically that this is true, there are many hints that the Google Tablet will come out and be a great competitor to the Apple iPad.  It is said that the Google Tablet will use and be based from the Android operating system.  At first the technology software, Chrome OS was being discussed to use in the Google Tablet but now that Apple has all these apps that Chrome OS does not have.  The Android operating system on the other hand already has applications that will be used for the Google Tablet.  The ironic thing here is Google CEO Eric Schmidt was asked in January about hat he thought about the Apple iPad and he states, "You might want to tell me the difference between a large phone and a tablet."

I have had a lot of thought about tablets and how cool and fun it would be if it was used in schools.  It would be awesome if all a student needed to buy were a tablet such as the iPad where it would have all their textbooks, readings, and everything they needed for class.  A student could take notes in class and even type their papers; there might not even be a need for laptops anymore.  It is mush lighter and easier to carry around then book and a regular laptop. 

I can think of many applications that a tablet would be great for education, particularly earlier grades.  A tablet with the right software that is designed right there can be great lengths taken into the technology of reading, writing, and math programs.  With a tablet a student could zoom in and out on text, just like reading a book. 

I do not think the Google Tablet (Google Pad) will steal the bulk of the tablet market from Apple’s iPad, since it is much later after the iPad.  Now so many people are getting the iPad, and becoming increasingly more and more enjoyable with it.  For work, school, and entertainment the iPad does almost all the things an average user needs.  It is very easy to use and it is the efficiency level is out of this world.  

Check out the Google Tablet:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TDIxxJOPd5A

Google Tablet Dimensions

Height:

5.91 inches

Width:

4.33 inches

Depth:

1.06 inch

Weight:

225g

7" Touch Screen

Wi-Fi/ Camera

Apple iPad Dimensions

Height:

9.56 inches (242.8 mm)

Width:

7.47 inches (189.7 mm)

Depth:

0.5 inch (13.4 mm)

Weight:

1.5 pounds (0.68 kg) Wi-Fi model;

1.6 pounds (0.73 kg) Wi-Fi + 3G model