When we think of tablet computers we immediately think of the Apple iPad. After all, it pretty much re-invented the market and with over 25 million of the first version sold, and analysts expecting the same kind of sales figures from the Apple iPad 2, it's an impossible device to ignore.
It's a great looking device that appeals to those already using an Apple iPhone, while at the same time has the flexibility and functionality of a laptop. However, the idea of tablet computing is nothing new, as the Microsoft Tablet PC has been around for over 10 years offering a similar user experience.
If you're a small business and have already integrated an Apple iPhone into your workplace, the iPad offers you the same level of flexibility with a bigger screen. That said, you may find that it won't readily replace your laptop. The big difference is that this latest generation of tablet computers has closer ties to your mobile phone than your desktop PC or laptop, so can be used far easier when out and about. It's no wonder mobile phone operators like Motorola, LG and even BlackBerry, have released their own tablet computers, competing not only against the iPad but also more traditional computer vendors, such as Acer, Asus and Samsung.
WHAT YOU NEED
As we've already pointed out, the basic tablet computer combines the best features of your current laptop with the flexibility of a smartphone. That doesn't mean you should be looking to replace either, it's just that you may well find some tasks work better on a tablet, allowing you to leave the larger laptop in the office for more everyday tasks.
Tablets are built around the same basic technology as your laptop, so you'll still find a processor, memory and hard drive in place, with some models offering more or less depending on the price point. However, the big difference is that everything is centred around the touchscreen display. Currently, the most popular options are between 7-10 inches in size, but it is expected that screens as large as 12 inches may well be offered in the coming months.
As tablets lack a keyboard, you type emails and messages directly onto the screen using a 'virtual' keyboard. It's the same principle as on your smartphone with the benefit, however, that the larger display space means the keys are full-size so far easier to get to grips with.
Just like your laptop you'll find an array of ports and features on offer. A camera on the back means you can take still images and even record video, while if you're interested in video conferencing then look for a model with a front-facing camera too.
The big difference between a laptop and a tablet computer is in the operating system and this will make the biggest difference when it comes to the options available to your business. USB ports come as standard, so you can add peripherals, such as memory keys, portable hard drives and even an external keyboard if you so wish, while the additional of HDMI on some models means you can hook your tablet up to your HD TV or data projector to give large scale presentations, or simply to relax.
Apple iOS
There may be plenty of tablet choices on the market but undoubtedly Apple is the number one tablet choice right now and the Apple iPad runs on the Apple iOS. This is the same operating system found on the iPhone and iPod Touch, so if you already use these devices you'll be familiar with its look and feel. Designed for use with multimedia, you'll find an amazing array of apps, games and media available. However, with its consumer focus you may well find that it lacks a breadth of business software support. For example, it doesn't support Adobe Flash, so you won't be able to use this in presentations or view them on web links.
Google Android
Google Android is proving popular in the smartphone space and is possibly the largest threat to the Apple iPad. Android offers a cheap and accessible alternative to manufacturers and is used in devices from computer manufacturers such as Asus, Acer, Dell, as well as mobile operators, like Motorola and LG.
As with iOS, the platform can also be found powering Android smartphones but has the added benefit of plugging directly into the ever-growing array of Google apps and services. So, you'll find access to Gmail, Maps and Google Docs all fully integrated into the device. That said, you'll need to make sure it's compatible with your office software as this can still be an issue.
Microsoft Tablet PC
The big difference between Microsoft's Tablet PC operating system and the likes of iOS and Android is that it's built on the Windows platform, so looks and acts more like a computer platform than a smartphone operating system.
Tablet PC is an integral part of Windows 7, which means that even if you're not currently using a touchscreen laptop or PC you'll be able to familiarise yourself with the tools on offer. More importantly for your business, it means that Microsoft has gone to great lengths to make sure it's compatible with all your office software. So, while Tablet PC may not feel as cutting-edge as the iPad, it may well make a better business buying decision.