Who’s buying a $499 Apple iPad tablet computer?

When CEO Steve Jobs introduced Apple’s new gadget in an Apple Special Event at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts January 27 in San Francisco, California- the world listened with excitement but so far have been getting mixed reviews starting with its name: “iPad.” iPad, you have to admit sounds like a feminine product used for women’s monthly period. While jokes are running around for its name, those who have tested the product on its unveiling are hailing the unit- calling it fast.

That’s not the only issue with its name though.

“Japan’s Fujitsu says it launched an iPad years ago, and the name has also been used for small engines, bra inserts, and even adult nappies. Fujitsu’s trademark application for the “iPad” name with the US Patent and Trademark Office is still pending, said Fujitsu spokesman Masao Sakamoto in Tokyo. Apple has been embroiled in trademark disputes with other companies before, including Cisco Systems, which launched its “iPhone” before Apple. The two companies settled the dispute in 2007, agreeing to share the name.” (Yahoo news)

WHAT is an Apple iPad?

It is a one-piece tablet computer with a big touch screen, larger than an iPhone but smaller than a laptop. Think of it as a cross between an iPhone and a Macbook. The iPad comes with software including a calendar, maps, a video player and iPod software for playing music. The hand-held, touch-screen tablet can display books, play movies, and surf the net.

Breakthrough deal in US- out in the market by March; International deals by June- iPad 3G models are unlocked using new GSM micro SIMS.

The iPad is half an inch thick, it has a 9.7-inch (24.6cm LED display) touch screen with 1024×798 pixel resolution and it comes with 16, 32 or 64 gigabytes of flash memory storage. It will sell for as low as $499 for 16 GB of storage. (Third-generation wireless capability will cost $130 more.) AT&T is offering data plans without contracts: $14.99 per month for 250 megabytes of data, or $29.99 for unlimited usage. iPad’s battery will last up to 10 hours. The device is expected to start shipping at the end of March.

So who’s buying?