What can the iPad do for the enterprise?

Apple began taking pre-orders for its iPad tablet computer on Friday and also revealed more details regarding the iPad's 3G capabilities, which will include alerts sent to users when they are about to exceed their 3G data allotment.

According to a post on AppleInsider.com, the device began selling at an estimated 25,000 units per hour. Apple said there will be 150,000 apps available for it--including productivity apps--from the moment it reaches the shelves April 3. The iPad WiFi-only version goes on sale April 3, while the WiFi plus 3G version will become available at the end of April. Apple is promising up to 7.2 Mbps over 3G and the device will switch between 3G and WiFi depending on the quality of the connection, similar to the iPhone.   

Users can purchase a data plan via their iPads using a credit card. The two no-contract options available via AT&T include a $15 a month plan for 250MB or a $30 for unlimited use. Under the $15 plan, the iPad will issue three alerts when users are at the 20 percent, 10 percent and zero thresholds. With each pop-up alert, users can add another 250MB plan, switch to an unlimited plan or choose later.  

Though the iPad has been labeled as a consumer device, Tony Bradley at PCWorld offers a few ideas on how it might improve productivity in the enterprise. For instance, sales reps can pull up customer data, keep track of calls and answer leads on the iPad by using an app from Salesforce.com. Road warriors can use a FedEx app to make shipping labels, schedule shipments and monitor their progress. Analysts are anticipating a host of new applications tailored for the iPad, not to mention the work productivity apps already available on the iPhone that will also be available on the iPad.

Meanwhile, Bradley's colleague at PCWorld, Galen Gruman, questions why anyone would pre-order a device--for $500 to $830--before even knowing what capabilities might be restricted on it.

For more:
- see this FierceCIO post
- read this FierceBroadbandWireless article

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