When I got my iPad, I also got an external keyboard. It worked okay, but since it wasn’t directly integrated with the tablet, it did have some lag time. My biggest hope is for the tablet to merge with the laptop.
I was unsure of how long it would take for this to happen until the release of the Microsoft Surface tablet. It has a keyboard built into its cover. This is the catalyst that will nudge tablets towards a hybrid laptop/tablet deal. I’m really excited about this new development because it eliminates the need for both a computer and tablet, adds portability, and increases accessibility.
Now, to my point. Rumors are indicating that Amazon is set to release a 10.1 inch Kindle Fire. How much of this is just wishful thinking, it is hard to tell. I have no doubt that the online retail giant can create a competitive larger tablet, but will they lose their original focus?
The competition gap and functionality of large and small tablets is widening. Larger tablets more computer like in terms of power, whereas smaller tablets such as the Kindle Fire and Nook Tablet are more for gaming, reading, and internet browsing.
I would love to see Amazon create a Kindle Fire that would provide both an optimal reading experience and serve as a multi purpose device. There really aren’t that many major adjustments for e-ink Kindles left, at least not any that we know of at this point. We’ll get a glowlight version this year, and maybe color next year.
Maybe a few years from now, the technology will be there to do a hybrid e-reader and tablet. But, considering how quickly technology changes, there may be something completely different hitting the big market by then.
So, basically, I think Amazon definitely has the resources to build a larger tablet that will sell well. But, I would like to see them hang on to their core mission: a better reading experience. Better to excel at one or a couple of products than to make a slew of mediocre ones.