OT: Android Tablet Thread

[Rodster]

Yeah but the big question IS will Amazon lock-down their Tablet like Apple. Everyone speculates it's Android but they haven't said a word. Still a Tablet at a huge savings would be big for them. I also think they would offer discount prices on purchases thru their store much like their Kindle Book program.

[dbdynsty25]

Yeah but the big question IS will Amazon lock-down their Tablet like Apple. Everyone speculates it's Android but they haven't said a word. Still a Tablet at a huge savings would be big for them. I also think they would offer discount prices on purchases thru their store much like their Kindle Book program.

My question is pretty simple. They've seen how quickly an item can sell if priced right (Touchpad)...so it would behoove them to price their android offering like their Kindle...and lock you in to using Amazon stores for everything. They would make an absolute KILLING that way. The hardware is just a means and medium to move amazon product. I just wonder if they recognize that. Otherwise they are just another Android tablet.

[pk500]

I'm all over an Amazon Tablet. I love buying from Amazon so it's a guaranteed purchase. Even if it's Android based it should still be good for Amazon because like I said they sell apps, e-books, music, games, and rent movies and videos.

So you'll own a Galaxy Tab, Touchpad and Amazon tablet. What's the point? To do with tablets what Imelda Marcos did to shoes?

[Rodster]

Yeah man i'm the Imelda Marcos of tech gadgets. My goal is to have a different Tablet to use everyday of the year.

[Rodster]

Yeah but the big question IS will Amazon lock-down their Tablet like Apple. Everyone speculates it's Android but they haven't said a word. Still a Tablet at a huge savings would be big for them. I also think they would offer discount prices on purchases thru their store much like their Kindle Book program.

My question is pretty simple. They've seen how quickly an item can sell if priced right (Touchpad)...so it would behoove them to price their android offering like their Kindle...and lock you in to using Amazon stores for everything. They would make an absolute KILLING that way. The hardware is just a means and medium to move amazon product. I just wonder if they recognize that. Otherwise they are just another Android tablet.

I think they have seen what's happened to the TouchPad and the rumors floating around is that the Amazon Tablet will be sold at or slightly below cost. If they tie you into their stuff plus allow you to do browsing etc I agree they gain by selling loads of Tablets especially if they do a Tablet program like Kindle where you get discounts on related stuff you buy.

Amazon is the biggest retailer on the net and they've got crazy money. I can see them doing it and being successful.

[RobVarak]

My question is pretty simple. They've seen how quickly an item can sell if priced right (Touchpad)...so it would behoove them to price their android offering like their Kindle...and lock you in to using Amazon stores for everything. They would make an absolute KILLING that way. The hardware is just a means and medium to move amazon product. I just wonder if they recognize that. Otherwise they are just another Android tablet.

In theory, you're right. But HP is taking a bath on a per-unit basis for Touchpads. You can't just take an unlimited amount of abuse on something to make it a loss-leader without serious financial repercussions. Just ask Sony.

[dbdynsty25]

My question is pretty simple. They've seen how quickly an item can sell if priced right (Touchpad)...so it would behoove them to price their android offering like their Kindle...and lock you in to using Amazon stores for everything. They would make an absolute KILLING that way. The hardware is just a means and medium to move amazon product. I just wonder if they recognize that. Otherwise they are just another Android tablet.

In theory, you're right. But HP is taking a bath on a per-unit basis for Touchpads. You can't just take an unlimited amount of abuse on something to make it a loss-leader without serious financial repercussions. Just ask Sony.

Oh I'm not saying 100 bucks...I'm saying between 200-250. So they are still cheaper than the rest of the 10" competition. So basically just enough to pay for the parts and assembly. Essentially no profit from hardware. Make it all software/downloads.

[JackB1]

My question is pretty simple. They've seen how quickly an item can sell if priced right (Touchpad)...so it would behoove them to price their android offering like their Kindle...and lock you in to using Amazon stores for everything. They would make an absolute KILLING that way. The hardware is just a means and medium to move amazon product. I just wonder if they recognize that. Otherwise they are just another Android tablet.

In theory, you're right. But HP is taking a bath on a per-unit basis for Touchpads. You can't just take an unlimited amount of abuse on something to make it a loss-leader without serious financial repercussions. Just ask Sony.

And HP just announced they would produce more TP's in the upcoming weeks. Why would they do this unless they had something up their sleeve?

[wco81]

Rumor is that Amazon would sell at cost or even subsidize the hardware, expecting the recoup and profit from content sales. The console model.

With consoles, you can't load any games which aren't licensed, so the manufacturer gets a cut of every game sale.

Would the Amazon tablet not be able to load music, video and other content purchased elsewhere? Or pirated content? Then Amazon may have problems making money.

Or if it locked out other content, then it may not be terribly popular, even if it undercut everyone else.

[Naples39]

I think everyone is getting a little carried away with Touchpad stuff. HP is killing it, and selling it for way less than cost---it is not a sustainable strategy. Amazon or HP selling at cost is more like ~$300, I would think.

I had ordered 2 units from HP small business, eventually getting an order confirmation last friday. I called them today to ask about order status, and they said my order was placed before the deadline to get one, but they are currently out of stock. My order will be fulfilled when more stock comes in. I don't think HP is doing more production runs as means of taking orders anew.

[dbdynsty25]

I think everyone is getting a little carried away with Touchpad stuff. HP is killing it, and selling it for way less than cost---it is not a sustainable strategy. Amazon or HP selling at cost is more like ~$300, I would think.

That's what I just said.

The only people that are getting carried away with the Touchpad stuff are people in the Touchpad thread. It's a fad...based on hype. It really is only an internet browser...and in six months...when no new software comes out, they'll collect dust.

[Rodster]

And HP just announced they would produce more TP's in the upcoming weeks. Why would they do this unless they had something up their sleeve?

They don't Jack have anything up their sleeve. The way it was explained was that HP has loads of unused parts inventory way beyond the norm to satisfy warranty repairs. If they don't use the parts they lose more as those parts are going to waste.

So it's basically purge your parts inventory and sell it off or not use them and lose more. And like you said if they want to make WebOS a viable platform that's the way to do it. Flood the market with as many low cost TouchPads as you can. That's in case someone like Samsung is interested in buying it.

[pk500]

I think everyone is getting a little carried away with Touchpad stuff. HP is killing it, and selling it for way less than cost---it is not a sustainable strategy. Amazon or HP selling at cost is more like ~$300, I would think.

Agreed. The Touchpad will be a viable Web browsing, email and media consumption device for a few years to come. But anyone who thinks HP and app developers are going to support this machine after the euphoria from this fire sale evaporates is nuts.

The Touchpad has a future in the hands of homebrew operators and hobbyists. If you're the type who likes to hack, flash and tinker with electronic devices, then you probably can get decent mileage out of the Touchpad as a relatively current piece of technology. People do the same with modding consoles, but it's a niche community, at its largest. Sort of like Linux as an operating system compared to Windows or Mac.

But if you think the Touchpad will compete with the iPad or Android devices in terms of stability, speed, apps and functionality a year from now without extensive modding, you're higher than Sputnik.

It's a GREAT deal for a device that will be seen as a basic, entry-level tablet in six to nine months. Nothing wrong with that. But don't try to stack your can of Spam next to a porterhouse or filet a year from now.

[Rodster]

Would the Amazon tablet not be able to load music, video and other content purchased elsewhere? Or pirated content? Then Amazon may have problems making money.

Or if it locked out other content, then it may not be terribly popular, even if it undercut everyone else.

Can you do the above on an iPad 2 especially pirated content? I don't think Apple will allow you do go around their ecosystem.

That's one of the reasons I went with a Cowon MP3. I don't have to deal with additional software to load my stuff onto the player. But like I mentioned earlier supposedly there's another rumor that Amazon to entice people into their service will offer discounts for content purchases made on their Tablet much like the PlayStation Plus program.

[Naples39]

Would the Amazon tablet not be able to load music, video and other content purchased elsewhere? Or pirated content? Then Amazon may have problems making money.

Or if it locked out other content, then it may not be terribly popular, even if it undercut everyone else.

Can you do the above on an iPad 2 especially pirated content? I don't think Apple will allow you do go around their ecosystem.

That's one of the reasons I went with a Cowon MP3. I don't have to deal with additional software to load my stuff onto the player. But like I mentioned earlier supposedly there's another rumor that Amazon to entice people into their service will offer discounts for content purchases made on their Tablet much like the PlayStation Plus program.

The iPad will play any mp3, whatever the source. Also there are a variety of movie players for the iPad covering just about every video format.

The bottleneck on the iPad is the appstore blocking pirated apps, but that doesn't really apply to audio/video files not playing on the iPad.

[DivotMaker]

Also there are a variety of movie players for the iPad covering just about every video format.

Does this also include converting Movies from a DVD to use on the iPad? If so, can you recommend on and is it in the App Store or 3rd party?

[dbdynsty25]

Also there are a variety of movie players for the iPad covering just about every video format.

Does this also include converting Movies from a DVD to use on the iPad? If so, can you recommend on and is it in the App Store or 3rd party?

Just use Handbrake. Google it. Free program...converts virtually any format to iPad/iPhone compatible formats.

[dbdynsty25]

The iPad will play any mp3, whatever the source. Also there are a variety of movie players for the iPad covering just about every video format.

But...and it's a huge one...you're stuck using iTunes to load it. That's the point Rod is trying to make with bringing up the Cowon's. They can be plugged into any computer and they show up as a flash drive. iPhones and iPads have to be tied to an account through iTunes...unless they are jailbroken of course.

Same thing with my Galaxy Tab...just plug it in and access all of the internal files and browse them with what is essentially Windows Explorer when either on the Tab or through the USB Interface. Stuff you can't do on an iPad.

Also, things like downloading Mp3s (podcasts or whatever) directly from an internet browser to the Tab is invaluable. Again, you need an app to do that on an iPad.

Those are the little things that set Android apart FOR ME. Yes, from an overall package standpoint...no one is going to rival Apple...no one. That's fact and I don't think they will ever really be challenged in the mp3 or tablet field.

[Naples39]

Also there are a variety of movie players for the iPad covering just about every video format.

Does this also include converting Movies from a DVD to use on the iPad? If so, can you recommend on and is it in the App Store or 3rd party?

AFAIK to get the movie off a physical DVD you're going to need separate ripping software on your PC. The appstore only sells software that runs on the ipad itself, and obviously the iPad doesn't have a physical drive. That said, I'm sure you can find some software online (probably free) to rip DVDs on your PC.

Once ripped, apple's built in movie player plays mp4s. There are a lot of movie players on the app store for different formats, but I use VLC (was free, now pulled). I also use AirVideo, which runs a server off on your PC and streams basically every video format to a $3 app on your iPad. It works really well. I cancelled cable this summer and if I want to watch TV I plug my iPad into my TV via HDMI and I can watch any video I've downloaded to my PC on the couch and big screen.

[Naples39]

The iPad will play any mp3, whatever the source. Also there are a variety of movie players for the iPad covering just about every video format.

But...and it's a huge one...you're stuck using iTunes to load it. That's the point Rod is trying to make with bringing up the Cowon's. They can be plugged into any computer and they show up as a flash drive. iPhones and iPads have to be tied to an account through iTunes...unless they are jailbroken of course.

I thought Rod was saying you're limited to buying mp3s from iTunes, which isn't true. Honestly mp3s aren't a big priority for me so I don't pay much attention, but I think you can load mp3s onto an iPad through mediamonkey. I think I did that a while back.

But yes, iTunes is unavoidable for many iPad functions.

[DivotMaker]

AFAIK to get the movie off a physical DVD you're going to need separate ripping software on your PC. The appstore only sells software that runs on the ipad itself, and obviously the iPad doesn't have a physical drive. That said, I'm sure you can find some software online (probably free) to rip DVDs on your PC.

Once ripped, apple's built in movie player plays mp4s. There are a lot of movie players on the app store for different formats, but I use VLC (was free, now pulled). I also use AirVideo, which runs a server off on your PC and streams basically every video format to a $3 app on your iPad. It works really well. I cancelled cable this summer and if I want to watch TV I plug my iPad into my TV via HDMI and I can watch any video I've downloaded to my PC on the couch and big screen.

Thanks!

[dbdynsty25]

The iPad will play any mp3, whatever the source. Also there are a variety of movie players for the iPad covering just about every video format.

But...and it's a huge one...you're stuck using iTunes to load it. That's the point Rod is trying to make with bringing up the Cowon's. They can be plugged into any computer and they show up as a flash drive. iPhones and iPads have to be tied to an account through iTunes...unless they are jailbroken of course.

I thought Rod was saying you're limited to buying mp3s from iTunes, which isn't true. Honestly mp3s aren't a big priority for me so I don't pay much attention, but I think you can load mp3s onto an iPad through mediamonkey. I think I did that a while back.

But yes, iTunes is unavoidable for many iPad functions.

Again...software that you have to install to be able to use your device. That's the point. Plug my phone or my tab into any computer (even my Macbook, ahhh the devil) and I can manage everything on it. iTunes/MediaMonkey, whatever...it's software you have to install.

The beauty of Android is it's non-connected feel. Get a new phone, sign into google account on the phone...voila. All emails, calander info, contacts, applications...everything...all there. Sure, you have to re-download some apps, but the day to day stuff...already there. No computers required. That is the one huge advantage they have over iPad/iPhone. It may be the "only" real advantage, but it's a big one to me.

[Rodster]

The iPad will play any mp3, whatever the source. Also there are a variety of movie players for the iPad covering just about every video format.

But...and it's a huge one...you're stuck using iTunes to load it. That's the point Rod is trying to make with bringing up the Cowon's. They can be plugged into any computer and they show up as a flash drive. iPhones and iPads have to be tied to an account through iTunes...unless they are jailbroken of course.

I thought Rod was saying you're limited to buying mp3s from iTunes, which isn't true. Honestly mp3s aren't a big priority for me so I don't pay much attention, but I think you can load mp3s onto an iPad through mediamonkey. I think I did that a while back.

But yes, iTunes is unavoidable for many iPad functions.

Sorry for the confusion. Yeah my question was 80% needing packaged software to access and transfer your content. The other 20% you answered as I didn't know you could buy stuff for your iPad outside of iTunes.

[pk500]

But...and it's a huge one...you're stuck using iTunes to load it. That's the point Rod is trying to make with bringing up the Cowon's. They can be plugged into any computer and they show up as a flash drive. iPhones and iPads have to be tied to an account through iTunes...unless they are jailbroken of course.

My biggest beef with all Apple portable devices. Apple hardware is gorgeous, and a lot of its software is intuitive as hell, such as Garageband. And then there's iTunes, one of the most bloated, unintuitive pieces of file management sh*tware foisted on humanity. Its sole purpose is to drive revenue to Apple, not to create any sort of intuitive file transfer interface for its users.

All USB devices should just be recognized as external drives on a PC or a Mac without the need for a clunky middleman.

[wco81]

Everyone shits on iTunes but hundreds of millions of people use it. Actually, hundreds of millions of credit cards associated with iTunes, which is why some think Amazon could give Apple a run for the money, because Amazon also have tons of accounts with credit cards stored.

I just use playlists to manage audio, which changes every day with podcasts. I plug it in and don't pay attention to what it's copying over because I set it up to sync the podcasts and music playlists. I can't store the entire library on the devices I have anyways so set up the playlists once and sync multiple devices.

I've purchased very little from iTunes -- a couple of apps and one audio book. I don't store video on iTunes. I could but I tend to delete video after viewing it so I store it in a temp folder or an external drive. Air Video and Zumocast, both free apps., will stream or transcode just about any video format over to iPad. Only thing I noticed was that the higher bitrate BluRay rips will stutter on the first iPad. That's something likely to improve with newer tablets.

Apple's main business isn't selling content and getting a 30% cut (I think it may be actually much less on music and video than in apps.). They claim not to be making that much money off the iTunes store, just enough to cover bandwidth costs. Amazon OTOH would need to make money on content, if they sold the hardware at cost. But I don't know how they would prevent at least MP3s from playing. On video, it's more complicated because video codecs have a lot of royalties going to many parties. So again, any video outside of Amazon's store may have to be played through 3rd-party apps. or a hacked tablet.