Apple iPad Review… and Design Flaw?
I was planning a live broadcast on Ustream.tv today to demo my new Apple iPad. Unfortunately, late last night the iPad flew right out of my hand and did a nose-dive for the floor. See image above. Sickening, isn’t it?
Needless to say, the live broadcast was canceled (for safety reasons).
Now that I’ve sufficiently crash-tested the device, I thought I would give you my promised Apple iPad Review. 
First, your questions about the Flying Apple iPad. I know you have them, so we’ll just go ahead and get that out of the way. If you’ve ever held an iPad in your own hands, you know they have a super-slick feel to them.
I thought the Macbook Pro was smooth to the touch, but the Apple iPad is the smoothest slickest device I’ve ever touched.
While it’s slick feel is part of the “cool factor” with the iPad, I see it as a definite design flaw. That along with the way that it’s weighted. Let me explain…
I was walking through the house with the iPad in my left hand. I had pulled up a website and was heading to sit down, get comfy, and do some online shopping. I was shopping for a new TV stand by the way, which was on sale and in about the same price range as a replacement Apple iPad (which I did not know I might need at the time, of course).
I had the usual 5-finger grip on my beautiful iPad, but when I rounded the corner it slid right off my hand like I was holding a wet eel with baby oil on my palm. It did a flip mid-air, landed on it’s glass face, and shattered – with tiny shards of glass flying everywhere.
Sure I’m a woman with smaller, softer hands than a male iPad user. But still! I’ve heard similar stories of easily broken or shattered glass with the Apple iPhone. My Motorola Droid on the other hand, recently survived a hard fall which left me painfully injured – and it with only a few small cosmetic scratches.
Side Note: the iPad is still operational – if you’re brave enough to use a shattered touch screen. 
Yes I own an iPad Case, which I ordered from Apple.com when I ordered my iPad – along with the wireless bluetooth keyboard and VGA adapter. The case opens like a book, and is great for toting your iPad -not so great for everyday use.
My personal opinion is that if a skin or case is required to avoid easy slippage, it should be included with the product shipment. I’m also inclined to believe that the iPad screen would shatter even if dropped with a case or skin on…
(I don’t recommend you test that theory with your own iPad)
The Apple warranty does not cover accidents, spills, etc. It only covers product defects. The same goes for the extended coverage you can purchase. So they’ve designed a slippery product that tends to fall flat on it’s face, and shatter on impact.
You might consider getting personal insurance coverage for your devices if the thought of shattering a $699 product in the blink of an eye makes you queasy.
My thoughts? You’ll be hearing a lot more of these stories. Much like the accidents and injuries we saw with the Wii controller. The iPad may just need to come with a wristband if they don’t choose to give it a better texture with grip…
Now let’s rewind to a sweeter space in time, when I first unboxed the shiny new iPad and started using it…
Being a brand new Apple customer, just having ordered a Macbook Pro earlier this year, it took me awhile to figure out that I had to connect the iPad to iTunes to get it to work. Once I did that, it was easy sailing from there on out.
I was able to sync my Google Gmail, Calendars, etc on the iPad and from there I was hooked. All of my mobile devices were synced, as well as my desktop system in the home office. Lovely!
The Apple iPad has incredible screen quality, beautiful for sharp video and images. It was perfect for watching Netflix movies through the Netflix App, setting up photo slideshows, etc.
The one thing I really got hooked on was the touch screen computing. Experiencing that with my smart phone was one thing, but on this larger clearer screen it was ideal. The iPad quickly became my device of choice for email, agenda, web browsing, voice dictation – and the majority of my daily work tasks.
The one thing I thought would be a negative in the beginning, turned out to be a positive. I’m referring to the iPad’s lack of ability to multi-task. When you’re doing email, you’re doing email full screen. You have to go back to the home screen, and touch another icon to switch to a different program or application.
Let’s say I’m using the Dragon Dictation app, for example. I talk, it records and transcribes. When I’m done, I copy the text, go back to the home screen, open another application, and paste in the text. Not so bad, and it all happens very quickly.
Once you get used it that, you realize how efficient you are with the lack of distraction. No toolbars, no start menu, no nothing but the actual program you’re working within. I found it very efficient – especially compared to my usual setup of working across multiple screens and systems here at my desk.
All said and done, I fell completely in love with my Apple iPad. I have an appointment with the Genius Bar on Thursday where I’ll be getting a replacement. They told me that they can’t repair the shattered screen, but that they can get the entire unit replaced at less than the price of buying another new unit.
It’ll be interesting to find out exactly what that price is 
To all the happy iPad users out there – I’d love to hear your thoughts! Here’s hoping Apple comes up with a solution before too many others lose their grip on this butter-slick beauty…
Best,
Next: My Experience at the Nashville Apple Store
p.s. It’s worth noting: I’ve been handling gadgets & electronics for 14+ years. I used to own an electronics shop in the city (my first business). I have NEVER dropped a gadget before now. The iPad was designed slick as a wet eel.
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oooh. that’s gotta hurt. In fact, I haven’t even seen one in the flesh and your picture almost reduced me to tears. My iphone slipped out of my hands in the lab a few weeks ago but luckily it just kinda bounced across the lab.
But that feeling of panic you get as it flies through the air sucks.
At least it makes for the most interesting review I’ve read so far
Follow me @marceglon on Twitter.
“the most interesting review I’ve read so far”
Thank you Marc – LOL. Much better if I’d done my review as a live interactive broadcast as planned, but this will have to do for now
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Lynn – WOW – what a story. I would have totally have cried when it dropped but you took the experience and blogged about it. I have been using it to take digital notes while reading books to capture ideas, topics, keywords, etc as well as enjoying watching movies on it – what a glorious screen! I’d be interested in what else you are using for your productivity on it. Shifting from the multi-tasking mentality to the singletasking has been challenging but ultimately beneficial. My only wish is that we could listen to Pandora while simultaneously using another program.
Follow me @TarynP on Twitter.
I actually laughed. It was a bit of a shock how it just slid right out of my hand and flipped midair before shattering face down… I mean, what do you do?? I’ve become very attached to the iPad since I started using it, and use it on a daily basis – so I’m definitely missing it. My dilemma is that it cost $699 and it’s not covered under warranty and not personally insured. Do I call it a loss, or spend what it takes to replace it??
Obviously I’m going to replace mine, but I doubt many people could. The only real solution seems to be to insure them. I do wish they offered that as an option like Verizon does with their equipment…
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Update: It cost me $349 plus tax to replace it with a new iPad. And 5 hours out of my day (4-hour round trip plus an unpleasant hour in the Nashville Apple Store, which I hope I never have to revisit!).
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“plus an unpleasant hour in the Nashville Apple Store”
You would think they would bend over backward to help you after such a terrible experience!
Follow me @mikesmind on Twitter.
I’ll be sharing the details of that experience in an upcoming video.
Watch for it
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
I just had to show this review to my wife. I just bought her an iPad for her birthday Monday while we travelling in Atlanta. I showed her again and again. lol
I am so sorry to hear you broke it so soon.
I had the same concerns about mine slipping out of my hands, so I decided to leave the Apple “book-type” case on it at all times. It took a little time to get used to (about a day), but now I love having the case on it. It gives it a nice, toned-down look when closed (and helps me avoid the crowds that inevitably form when I take it out in public). And those little raised ridges around the case actually absorb quite a bit of impact force. Lastly, the leathery feel of the case provides much more grip than the sleek surface of the unit.
I bought my case from Apple, so I’m not sure if we have the same one. I am looking into some different options now. There are a variety of backs and covers for it, so I’ll be making my selection soon.
I still stand by my thinking that no device should require a case in order to safely use it, without that case being included in the purchase of the product. It’s definitely a design flaw when you have to buy a third-party product to use it safely.
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I was not happy with the Apple iPad Case I purchased from Apple.com. Since you own one, try using it as a stand like they advertise – either portrait or landscape. See how flimsy it is? Any bump will knock it on it’s face when propped in that position as shown on the box it came in…
I traded mine at the Apple Store for another. Which is just as bad. I’ll be comparing & reviewing cases next!
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Check out this stand. Pretty interesting. It’s just a stand though, not a case…
http://www.twelvesouth.com/products/bookarc_ipad/
Follow me @techshaman on Twitter.
I’ll check it out, Zack – thank you! I’m on a quest to find the perfect cover/case/stand and will be sharing the details in my next blog post. Stay tuned!
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If you really want to bling it out, try vajacases.com
Ouch, damn Lynn that’s a bummer…
Wondering, didn’t any of the staff drop one before they released it?
Surely someone noticed that?
They must have had one their hands a few times before it went out.
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You would think so. Apparently this is a KNOWN issue, as the sales reps at Best Buy are pushing their insurance option to buyers for that very reason – they’re telling customers they are easily dropped & shattered…
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
That sucks! I’ve lost 2 iPhones the same way, both I thought were in my hand until they slipped out. I feel your pain:))
That stinks – were you able to get them repaired/replaced? I’m curious what it cost you?
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Geez Lynn,
You DON’T mess around when you do “crash test” reviews – do you? LOL
Seriously, tho … Sorry to see this happen to you. Sometimes, I think engineers design these things for the WOW factor only and forget that they do need SOME sort of durability considering that people DO drop (or knock over) things occasionally. Maybe they design it that way deliberately! Sell more that way. heh heh
Maybe see if they (or some other vendor) have some sort of rubberized boot it could fit in that would give you better grip on it.
Hope ya get your new toy replaced soon!
Rick Wilson aka CorpRebel
Follow me @corprebel on Twitter.
Yeah, I expect we’ll see a lot more of this. I can’t imagine standing in line at the Starbucks with it and getting slightly bumped by someone accidentally. That thing would fly! I will be ordering a rubber backing, a screen protector, and using my book-style case (purchased from Apple) when I get back into a working iPad – but that’s definitely going to hinder the convenience factor. A lot.
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Update: Scratch the Apple iPad Case. I replaced it at the Apple Store yesterday. I’ll do a review/update on cases, covers, etc next. Most of them SUCK.
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Ouch. So much for slick being appealing with electronics. Apple definitely forgot durability with that one.
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Yeah, and unfortunately this product was designed for mobility. For being more usable than a handheld mobile (ie iPhone) and less bulky than a laptop. One of the selling points (via Ed Dale) was being able to easily pass it from person to person. Definitely something you’d want to be super cautious about given the slickness…
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Thank you for the warning Lynn, about both the iPad and the iPod. I have a condition that results in my dropping things on a regular basis. Fortunately I’ve found a make & model of mobile phone that cruises through it all. I just have to hope that I can continue finding them on eBay every time I leave one in the countryside somewhere east of London …
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We might need to look into wristbands like they have for the Wii
LOL
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That is SO something that would happen to me! I’m adding that to the list of reasons NOT to buy an iPad.
Okay it’s the only thing on the list. But I needed something, anything, to balance out the 5328 reasons I really want one. I had to decide between new toys and the 30DC San Diego event this year. The result is that I am iPadless because I GET TO MEET YOU!!!! WOOT!
Maybe you’ll let me look at your new one. Not hold it. Just look.
See you then!
Follow me @anniebinns on Twitter.
I look forward to seeing you there, Annie!
I am hoping to have a new or working iPad with me on the trip. That’s all I was planning to bring actually. And if I do (I will!), you’re welcome to check it out in-hand
I’ll just have to pour molasses on your hand first. haha
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Update: I did get my iPad replaced yesterday, so come find me in San Diego and we’ll play
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Try e-grips. You can get them at Radio Shack for around $10 (last time I bought them.) Simply peel and stick
Thank you Jeff – I’ll check those out
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Anti slip and rubber cases are quite popular on my blog, for this reason. The iPad is one slippery sucker!
I would have had a coronary had it happened to mine, but alas it is still in the box. My middle class guilt won’t let me unbox it. lol.
Too pricey a toy! I know I know, that’s debatable.
So question is, when you get a replacement. How will you protect it or prevent this from happening again, a second time? Do tell.
Follow me @eBookReaderGeek on Twitter.
BTW … Nice blog (and appropriate for this topic), Missy!
We’re gonna try and keep Lynn outta trouble with the next one she gets. heh heh
Rick Wilson aka CorpRebel
Follow me @corprebel on Twitter.
Thanxs, Rick! Glad you like the site.
Follow me @eBookReaderGeek on Twitter.
I’ll be stuck ruining the look & feel and convenience of the device by “clothing it”. No other option, unless they get smart and come out with a version you can actually handle reasonably.
Mine is the first incident, but others will pop up as people get more comfortable with their iPads, and more people get their hands on one. Mark my words
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p.s. Thanks Missy – I’m browsing your blog today! I’ll be selecting several options and doing a full comparison review.
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Geez, after spending at least $500 you are forced to use itunes to get the iPad to work. And I thought MS was evil incarnate. Boo Apple!
Follow me @nar321 on Twitter.
Make that $699 – I got the 64 gig version.
And you can’t sign up for an iTunes account without a credit card
The worst of that was that it wasn’t in the instructions. As I showed in the recent video, it was just an image on the screen – that took me *forever* to figure out. A no-brainer to seasoned Apple users, but if they are marketing outside their database… they should write instructions to get the iPad turned on and running.
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Update: I did finally end up finding the directions, on the back of a small postcard like insert.
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I do agree that the iPad is the slickest piece of tech to hold which is why at home it always out of the Apple case. I always put it in the case when I leave the house though.
I find the weight makes me concentrate more when I’m holding it.
The picture at the top of this post almost made me cringe. My first thought…how could someone treat an iPad like this!
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Well I can guarantee you it wasn’t done on purpose!
It sickening to see $699 shattered in half a second. I have about $1000 into the iPad total when you include the accessories I purchased. I think Apple needs to offer an insurance plan. Great continuity option for them! The warranty and extended coverage they offer only covers product defects – nothing like this.
It’ll be interesting to see how things go at the Genius Bar. This is my first trip…
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Update: I hope I *never* have to go back to the Nashville Apple Store. That place was a mad house – very loud, very cramped. The guy that helped me was “matter of fact” about the whole thing and a bit nonchalant for my taste…
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Try visiting MacAuthority! We have quite a few different cases, and I’d be glad to open any of them up to let you try them out for your review. I’m the service manager there, and I’m still looking for the perfect case for my iPad, too, so I’m looking forward to your reviews.
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Thank you Matt! Where is MacAuthority – a site, or local store? I just followed you on Twitter, so feel free to get back to me there with the details.
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
I don’t know for sure, but Best Buy was the only place you could get insurance for the iphone, and I think they are going to sell the ipad also.
I’m really surprised the extended warranty doesn’t cover accidents
That’s just depressing. I’m the queen of clutz, so I’d probably have one broken within 24 hours or less!
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I’m going to do some research on insurance options. We all need it – imagine what you have invested in the gadgets alone in your home office. I know mine is a substantial dollar figure!
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
I will buy insurance (even if it is overpriced) for any future electronics that are not bolted to a desk. Crazy things can happen out there.
A friend was walking down a sidewalk in a university town the other day, in daylight. Some people were dumping water on passersby and drenched his new Blackberry, rendering it unusable and not covered by warranty. Wished he had insurance.
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Ohhhh
That’s just dirty! Unfortunately things like this happen. Fortunately with the Blackberry or any mobile device through your service carrier, you DO have the insurance option. I purchased it for all my devices through Verizon and it’s super cheap. Even with our $50 deductible per claim, it’s worth having (and we’ve used it a few times).
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Great review and sad story. I heard tons of incidents like this with iPhones. The glass they use seems not really indestructable.
But in the other hand this review wouldn’t be as good without the cool pic of a finished off iPad and the story behind it.
I really have loved the iPad. It quickly became a part of my daily work routine. I look forward to getting this repaired/replaced so we can reschedule the live interactive review broadcast!
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Another thing I will add, is how Apple took “screen protectors” away from their website a month or two ago. It was the talk of the blog o sphere, as many didn’t understand why Apple would pull these.
But it was good news for third party providers of iPad screen protectors. lol. God never closes a door, without opening another.
Follow me @eBookReaderGeek on Twitter.
I was just looking at some of the screen protectors on another site. I think I’ll get and test a few options to see what works best for me in everyday use. But no more crash-testing
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Hey Missy – they don’t carry them at the Apple Store either. Or they didn’t have them in Nashville yesterday. A shame!
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
There are lots of iPad screen repair places that will repair it for ~$160. Don’t get ripped off by the “geniuses” at the Apple store.
NB: I don’t have any relationship with these companies. In fact, I hate pretty much every Apple product ever made! But I do hope you can get it repaired for far less than the Apple Store will charge (they charge A LOT.)
-Erica
Follow me @ericabiz on Twitter.
Do you happen to have any links, Erica? I called the only local shop I know and they are not yet offering iPad repair – they are still waiting on word from their supplier. The quote I got was a couple weeks out and around $220.
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They DID charge a lot. $381 (after tax) for a replacement. They don’t offer repairs yet.
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Oooo, ouch!
If/when I get one of those things, I will remember to hang onto it!
I’m from central Minnesota, and I just read that a Minneapolis area high school is requiring students to have an ipad! Wow, that changes things!
Good luck!
Matthew Zinda
Follow me @matthewzinda on Twitter.
That’s an expensive requirement
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Hi Lynn,
It really hurts when a precious thing drops out of hand and causes damage. Your iPad picture tells it all. I had few occasions where my handphone dropped and flew into few pieces on a train ride. I had to gather all the pieces and fix-it back. My surprise it works!
Thanks for sharing your lesson learn Lynn and the reviews too. Sure the next one from Genius will be good.
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[...] このiPadの持ち主はブロガーのリン・テリーさんで、家でむき出しのiPadを使っていたところベビーオイルがぬりたくられたウナギのようにツルンツルンなiPadの裏面を支えていた手が滑ってしまい、床に落としてしまったそうです。 [...]
I can’t read your reply, but I was told the story was big in Japan. I was given this link: http://ht.ly/1JUSD Will have to find a way to translate both
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Heh, something about small and slippery, oiled female hands, LOL! and then “buy it anyway and use a jacket of rubber / silicone.”— I think there might be a little lost in translation.
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Thanks Zack – LOL haha
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
I was seriously considering getting an iPad. I love the idea of touch and distraction free use. Plus I wanted to use it edit like a notepad. But after seeing what happened to yours so easily, I highly doubt I’ll get one. There is a Linux based “slate” device similar to the iPad coming out in a few months and it’s less than half the price.
I hope they come around and take care of you. I’m one of those that believes in customer service over products.
Follow me @Cosminsky on Twitter.
My hope is that they redesign the iPad so that it can be used as-is without fear of shattering $500+ in an instant. A slight grip to the back, a shatter-proof screen, whatever it takes. This gadget is too high priced to be “disposable” or to be easily ruined in everyday use.
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
I had the original IPhone and dropped it hard on pavement twice and while it got a bit beat up it did not break, I also have the IPhone GS, dropped it once, not so bad and it’s perfect.
My guess is they did not do “crash tests” on the IPAD, but should have. I would expect a class action law suit soon which forces Apple to create a shock proof protection device. Some people can just run out and buy a new one when the existing one breaks, but for some it’s a purchase they have saved up a while for and it’s heart breaking and very upsetting to lose it because it’s literally a little too slick.
I think it’s funny to see Google and Apple in battle the way Apple used to batter Microsoft, and Google will likely have an Android IPAD which is cheaper, and better built perhaps soon. If they can do an IPAD type device for say $300 instead of $700 Apple may have some real competition on their hands, especially when they have to be enticing Apple buyers who have to choose between replacing a broken IPAD or trying something new like the HP Touch Device with the Slick Palm OS..
I think Apple needs to get knocked off it’s high horse…
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I would love to see an Android version of the iPad. I use a Motorola Droid as my smartphone and that thing can really take a beating. I took a brutal fall recently which left me terribly bruised and with 4 visits to the chiropractor to get my back and neck fixed. The Droid was in my pocket and took the impact along with my right hip – and all it has is a few cosmetic scratches. Amazing.
I’ll definitely keep my eyes peeled for that, and if one comes out you can expect a comparison review here at ClickNewz.
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
I wonder if we will start to see iPad injury blogs sprouting up like has happened with the Nintendo Wii! You would think they would have done a bit of usability testing…
I’m guessing that will be exactly what happens.
And I predict future iPads will all come with wristbands.
LOL
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Thanks for the objective review, and for showing us here the results of your unplanned crush-test
(though I`m really sorry this happened to you) Well this slickness of the iPad may be looked upon both as a very attractive design solution and at the same time a really annoying design flaw. I think armband would reduce risk to some extent, though maybe with it an iPad would look some less cool. Cases are also not very convenient to use permanently and their protection may be not really secure. So I think Apple designers should think properly about this problem and solve it as soon as possible…
I agree… my thoughts exactly!
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Nice to see this… our physician users are testing #Ipad on safari to make house calls in our ” Virtual office ” model. Thanks for the head’s up!! We need to let our doc’s know to get a skin asap… I have had this experience with other kinds of devices, blackberry storm, for example, but I’ve dropped my iphone and ipod many times, and they weather the storm. Some of it may be that it is a larger screen and sounds like it fell squarely on the screen face down…
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That was definitely the interesting part, Natalie – that it flipped mid-air due to the way it’s weighted, and fell flat on it’s glass face. I doubt it would have incurred as much damage otherwise…
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[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Jonathan Fields, Robert Nelson. Robert Nelson said: From @lynnterry: Apple iPad Review… and Design Flaw? http://www.clicknewz.com/2380/ [...]
Aha! This is a known issue according to Joel’s conversation with the guy at Best Buy:
http://joelcomm.com/blogging-from-a-ipad.html
Interesting…
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[...] though. It is a great reminder how fragile some of these slick technology can be. Photo courtesy of Lynn Terry Category : [...]
Oh, that is horrible! I have the black Apple case on mine and it doesn’t come off. It won’t for sure now. I am super glad I bought the accidental warranty when I bought mine from Best Buy! Other than that, I am glad you love it. I know I love mine!!!!
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I’ve learned my lesson about buying from Apple.com. From now on I’m going with Best Buy. Period. It’s a shame that Apple doesn’t offer ANY type of accident insurance with their products. I have all of my Verizon devices (Droid, Netbook, 3 other mobile phones) insured through them…
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Update – I also ordered the black Apple iPad Case with my original purchase. As you can see on the box, it shows you can use it as a stand in portrait or landscape positions. Try it – it’s very flimsy. It wouldn’t take much (the wind blowing, even) to knock the iPad right over.
I traded mine in yesterday for a different cover/stand, which is equally as flimsy. I’m on the hunt for something that actually works… Just a caution!
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Lynn,
I didn’t read all the comments and this may have been covered. If you purchased your iPad with an American Express card they will replace it with a new one as long as it is within 90 days of purchase.
This protection is good up to a $1000.00 purchase and covers, lost, stolen, or damaged items.
Hope this helps,
Jim
I used the debit card through my business checking account…
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Great review and very sad to see a shattered iPad. It’s a definite cautionary tale and your telling it is valuable and well received. I consider myself warned!
A thought occurs to me though (just taking devil’s advocate for fun here): if it had rubber grip-ee things on the back you wouldn’t be able to slide it in and out of a sleeve very easily or across a couch or bed. And would they not gradually gather lint and fuzz and look awful after a while? Didn’t you mention that part of the joy of it is the great, smooth feel of it?
It seems like we also don’t carry our laptops around like we do an iPad, yet we haven’t changed our expectations in terms of durability and usage. Is it reasonable to expect the durability and portability of a phone along with the functionality of a laptop, but with easier handling. It’s definitely a new, ‘tween device with unique needs that encourages and requires new behaviors. Mapping old expectations onto this more delicate, new device is obviously not going to work. Or should it?
However, I also note that because it’s a new device that encourages new behaviors (e.g. WAY more handling and carrying and sharing than our laptops) it seems that durability would be a higher priority on Apple’s part. I imagine there will be a marketing bullet point about the 2nd generation iPad noting improved drop resistance or some such (the new anti-gravity iPad! cool, I totally want one
).
I hope Apple can find a way to make the iPad more durable and find a compromise between ease of handling and safely hanging on to it. In the mean time I’ll still be getting mine soon and thanks to you I will not underestimate the slippery eel factor of this unique, new device.
A final thought occurs to me. Best Buy and similar companies make a killing on their insurance since most people never use it. I wonder how long they’ll offer insurance on the iPad if fragility turns out to be a major issue. hmm…
Follow me @techshaman on Twitter.
One of the perks to having an iPad is how much easier it is to pass hand-to-hand vs a laptop. Being able to share easily from person to person. It’s a cross between a cumbersome laptop and a smart phone – which is a one-person personal device.
I’m looking into cases, protectors and other accessories. I do have the Apple Case which I purchased at the same time as my iPad, but it’s not near as convenient to use as it seemed on their website when I bought it…
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Question, Why should you even need insurance on something this pr icy?(iPad, in case anybody wonders what the —- I’m posting about)
Follow me @nar321 on Twitter.
Robert,
Are you saying that just because something is “pricy” that it should be covered by the manufacturer even if the consumer is negligent (even accidently)?
I mentioned to Lynn earlier on Twitter that I dropped (accidently) a new Dell notebook on the floor earlier this year. I bought it for about $1500. The drop messed up the screen & hard drive. Is that Dells fault and they should replace it? That’s why one has insurance. Well I SHOULD have had insurance! LOL But I didn’t in this circumstance so I paid full price to replace the notebook. It was MY problem.
Why have insurance on a house? It’s “pricey” too! LOL I know it’s only comparing apples to oranges but principle still remains, IMO.
As for the iPad …The iPad’s design isn’t necessarily a design defect but I’d agree that it could have been designed a bit better. The WOW factor of Apple products is what sells. One pays ALOT of money for something good then they need to be more careful. But accidents happen. I’ve paid the price MANY times for my “accidents” over the years. heh heh
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I would love to see Apple offer an insurance option from their site. It would be a great continuity option for them – and a great option for their loyal customers. I have purchased a Macbook Pro and the iPad directly from their website. I now regret that and wish I would have purchased from Best Buy where I could have also purchased insurance coverage on both devices.
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Yep! That would be smart of Apple to provide that type of insurance option for their customers. Really surprised hearing that they don’t. The insurance racket is quite the cash cow.
Follow me @corprebel on Twitter.
Sorry to hear about the slip. As an iPad owner, I TOTALLY AGREE that it’s too slick. I installed Zagg’s Invisible Shield on mine and it solved that problem and protects it from any and all scratches. Affiliate link for Zagg is – http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-3471046-10542639 – I LOVE my Zagg – and I’ve installed it on a friend’s ipad as well. It’s a must if you own one.
Follow me @andytraub on Twitter.
Thanks for the link, Andy -I’ll check it out
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Hmm. Well, I was going to get an iPad fairly soon, but maybe I’ll hang in there for a “stickier” version. Probably not. I’ll just apply a bit of “stickum” to my fingers prior to handling the pad. Stickum? It’s what football players put on their hands to help them “catch” the football and hold onto it.
I did drop my iPhone a couple of times so far and she’s still ticking away nicely.
Follow me @standubin on Twitter.
“Stickum” was pretty much outlawed because of Fred Biletnikoff and Lester Hayes with the Oakland Raiders back in the mid 70s. But it WORKED! LOL
Follow me @corprebel on Twitter.
Woo, not a very nice photo. Anyway surprising that it still can display a nice picture like that an old fashion TV would have a problem doing that
If a case is needed to get a grip I cannot really see the point in making a “slippery” design in the first place. Maybe buy a pair of those washing gloves that the old dish washing lady in school had.
Thanks for the review and good luck with your next iPad.
Thanks Olle, I agree. I’m off to the Apple store today to see what the verdict is. I should be coming home this morning with a working non-shattered iPad. They told me over the phone that it would be $299 or less, so I’m heading in with my equipment and my mastercard. Wish me luck!
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Update: They assumed I had a cheaper iPad. It was $349 plus tax to replace
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Looks like Apple makes about a 50% margin on iPads so it appears they replaced yours at cost + shipping and handling, etc.
http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9150045/Apple_makes_208_on_each_499_iPad
Like Glyn mentioned, it seems they would include a better case and all necessary adaptors at that rate. I bet we see prices coming down in about 6 months or as soon as the early adopter market is saturated. (No, I won’t wait till then to get mine though.
)
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I don’t regret buying mine early (I actually pre-ordered) but will be watching with great interest as to how things unfold over the next year. Thanks for the link too -that’s pretty much what I assumed!
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Just seen the mess of your poor iPad. We are still awaiting them in the UK, so have not yet come up against this problem. I know my home insurance does not cover portable electronics but there are lots of specialist companies offering mobile phone cover. No doubt they will have to extend it to cover iPads as well.
Follow me @camphonereview on Twitter.
I’m going to ask my insurance agent about a rider on my policy. Am also looking into other insurance options to cover my Macbook Pro & iPad, plus a few others…
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
[...] このiPadの持ち主はブロガーのリン・テリーさんで、家でむき出しのiPadを使っていたところベビーオイルがぬりたくられたウナギのようにツルンツルンなiPadの裏面を支えていた手が滑ってしまい、床に落としてしまったそうです。 [...]
Hey Lynn! Much better case for the iPad is the incase one. Here’s a review on it http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EDU1c-x8RJo
-Sent from my shiny 27″ iMac
Follow me @redsxtreme on Twitter.
Thanks David – checking it out! I traded my Apple iPad Case for an Incase “protective grip cover w/stand” and it sucks – all the way around. Keep an eye out for my update & review on cases and covers.
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Ouch! That looks painful to the pocketbook. I’m actually surprised that the iPad still seems to function with a screen that is so damaged. Apple really should offer insurance plans for their pricey gadgets.
I hope you have a shiny new iPad today. Now, you just have to practice your death grip.
Follow me @Abbyink on Twitter.
Death Grip – LOL
The problem is that it’s designed to hold in one hand, and use with the other, as it’s a touch screen handheld device. I have decent sized hands for a woman, but smaller & softer than a man’s of course, and was giving it the good 5-finger grip while using the other hand to shop online… when it flew & crashed. *sigh*
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Lynn,
That is a sad story! wow! I don’t remember you ever publishing a sad story before, but I guess I’ll recover.
Will you be able to keep us posted on how much you get the replacement unit for?
If you can’t get a replacement unit, will you still buy a new unit again?
I have a desktop, and I’m considering a small laptop to take with me on the go, but I don’t think the ipad can be used your only PC. Your thoughts?
The iPad quickly became my working device of choice. There isn’t much you can’t accomplish on it. I still used my Macbook Pro for video editing, and my desktop PC for product development (has all the software I need)… but everyday work, the iPad rocks.
I did end up getting it replaced for $349 plus tax (half price). It was a hard decision, but I had almost $1,000 invested in it already when you include all the accessories. I decided to go ahead. And I now own one of the only $1k+ iPads
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
p.s. I try to keep things positive & upbeat around here, but I like to share *everything* – the good, the bad and the ugly (see photo at top of page – lol).
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
This could be useful for your Lynn: Eco-Vue Leather iPad Case http://www.computeralliance.com.au/parts.aspx?qryPart=11306
Follow me @ishabluebell on Twitter.
Isha,
Hmmm … Your link goes to a hard drive dock not an iPad case.
Follow me @corprebel on Twitter.
Same here. I did a search at the site and didn’t find ANY results for iPad. Have another link, Isha? I’d love to check it out.
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
[...] Apple iPad Review (warning: not for the faint of heart!) Subscribe to [...]
Hi Lynn
They definitely need to do something about the design put some grip or something on it.
The price alone should come with all adaptors and cases as these guy’s probably make the iPad in bulk for a few dollars.
Glyn
Follow me @glynlafferty on Twitter.
I agree – it should come with a case. Period. And the site & store both need to start carrying screen protectors.
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
“Somebody’s gonna have to cry some tears. I guess it must be up to me.”
–Up To Me Bob Dylan
I’m so sorry Lynn, I gave you the wrong url. The Eco-Vue for iPad, link should have been:
http://www.straitmac.com/jforum/posts/list/1723.page;jsessionid=BFE5221CAFCE9BB131747619176F0132#6773
and this is the link he gives to a shop with the actual product for $50:
http://www.marware.com/products/iPad/Eco-Vue-for-iPad
Follow me @ishabluebell on Twitter.
Thanks Isha – checking it out!
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Wow, it’s a known issue that people drop their iPads and break them. I’m sorry that you dropped and broke your iPad, but you did drop it and you did break it by dropping. I don’t see how that’s a manufacturing defect, sorry.
A manufacturing defect would be something like the touch screen isn’t accurate, or the screen falls out if you hold the iPad in a certain way that sort of thing. Accidental damage caused by someone dropping the device is not a defect, unless the device is specifically designed to be dropped. The iPad, isn’t designed to be dropped, so there’s no defect there.
Follow me @rafaelmarquez on Twitter.
Hi Rafael,
I don’t consider it a product defect, but rather a potential design flaw. The Apple iPad is designed to be held in one hand, and used with the other – it’s a touchscreen device. With a super-slick back (it’s “cool factor”), this presents a serious issue for all users.
I didn’t actually drop my iPad at all. It flew right off my hand during use, because even with a good 5-finger grip the backing is simply too slick to get any kind of grip on it. So dropping it is one thing, but it slipping right out of your hand due to the design – definitely a potential design issue in my opinion.
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Nice review Lynn. Sorry this happened to you. This is the key reason why I couldn´t recommend the iPad to my audience for travel. I´ve found my MacBook to be pretty durable on the road. But, when I held the iPad I pictured a broken screen, just like in your photo. I´m hoping that the next gen will improve it´s durability…and hopefully start with that slick feel. All the best.
Follow me @careerbrksecret on Twitter.
Here´s my iPad review if you´re interested. http://careerbreaksecrets.com/1090/jeffs-blog/why-the-ipad-and-career-break-travel-don´t-mix-yet
Follow me @careerbrksecret on Twitter.
You might want to try the Otter Box. I have one for my iPhone and I love it. http://www.otterbox.com/ipad-cases/
[...] was misquoted the price for repair/replacement of my shattered iPad, because they failed to ask about my product specs before giving me an “at the most” [...]
[...] Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard with my iPad. These were important to me after my experience with the iPad shattering after sliding right out of my [...]