Since its release in 2010 the iPad has enjoyed immense popularity and millions have been sold worldwide. But what is an iPad exactly? The iPad is a tablet computer with a screen size of 9.7 inches, about the size of a comic book. You can use it to surf the Internet, send and receive email, play games, read a book, newspaper or magazine, listen to music and watch video. The greatest advantage of this device is that it is so much lighter than a laptop computer and more portable. You can take it just about anywhere. The disadvantage is that it is too big to fit into your pocket or a small purse. The price of the iPad depends on the amount of storage capacity you want to have (16, 32, 64 or 128 GB) and whether you want the latest edition or not. As of this moment, the price varies between 200 dollars (iPad 1, or 2) to just under 1000 dollars for the latest edition (128 GB Wi-Fi + Cellular). If you do not have access to a wireless or cellular data network, additional costs are also needed in order to use the Internet. Without an Internet connection, you will not be able to enjoy the many benefits of the iPad.
There are iPads available for Wi-Fi, Cellular (3G or 4G network) or both. With Wi-Fi you can connect to the Internet in the same manner as you do with your desktop or laptop computer. Free Wi-Fi service is now available in many libraries, shops, hotels, and restaurants around the world. Often this type of connection is broadband and faster than 3G/4G. But the cellular data network comes in handy when Wi-Fi is not available. If you are on the road a lot, this can be a handy feature. You will need to have an active data plan with a cellular network provider in order to use it (in the US, AT&T or Verizon for instance).
Popularity
It is not so surprising that the iPad has become so popular. You can easily browse the Internet, read email, update an appointment, listen to music, play a game, read a book, magazine or newspaper and much more. You can do all of this with the help of small programs, known as apps. There are a number of terrific apps already included on each new iPad, but there are lots more available in the App Store. Many can be downloaded for free, while others are offered for a small price of just under a dollar. Whether it’s recipes, horoscopes, movies, celebrities, news or health information, there is bound to be an app for the things that really interest you.
You can also use the iTunes app not only as a music player but as a way of transferring photos, music and videos to it from your computer.
Getting started with the iPad
It is not hard to learn how to use an iPad, but if you want extra help, the iPad for SENIORS book is just what you need! Everything is explained in a straight forward, step by step manner. Many topics are discussed such as creating an email account, connecting to the Internet, downloading apps, and working with photos, music and video. If you would like more information about this title, visit the website accompanying the book for more information www.visualsteps.com/ipad .
Like all of the books from Visual Steps, this book is written using the Visual Steps method. Learn more about this method, by visiting: www.visualsteps.com/method
