Apple introduced their newest device, the iPad, to much fanfare yesterday.  I was surprised to hear the mixed bag of reviews. Everyone seemed unanimous that the iPad looks cool and that it will be a quality device (Apple doesn’t make junk), but there was also a strong amount of skepticism on whether the consumer will lay out $500 for such a device.

It’s way too early to tell if the iPad will be a big game changer for eBooks, but I’m optimistic that it will be a hit with consumers. Here are a couple of reactions from a novice digital guy:

1. Multimedia capability could be a double-edged sword as it relates to eBooks. The ability to watch videos and link to other Internet content from eBooks is a definite plus, but we’re still dealing with a backlit display. E-ink offers a display that’s easier on the eyes for long-term reading. I use my iPhone exclusively for reading my Kindle titles, but I have to admit that my eyes grow weary after a while. For those eBook readers who consume content exclusively on their PCs, the iPad will be very attractive alternative.
2. Another distributor is good! We don’t’ have a lot of detail, but it appears that Apple’s iBookstore supports epub, and I think it’s great to have another channel to distribute our products. It can only help the digital publishing industry!  I’m curious about what DRM solution they chose (if any).
3. Amazon sold a lot of Kindles this Christmas. A lot of people have bought into Amazon’s Kindle system already, so the Kindle iPhone app will be a good iPad option for current Kindle owners who don’t want to manage two different eBook libraries.  And I’m sure Amazon will ramp up their iPhone app with the new iPad SDK.
4. Price is on the high side. I think $500 is still high for the average consumer to shell out for an eReader.  I’m an Apple fan, but will everyone else be wowed?

Overall, I’m impressed with the functionality of the iPad. It’s a step down from a laptop, but a step up from a smart phone (I like the keyboard dock). I can see iPad being a game changer in the textbook and education area. I know my daughter would prefer a device like the iPad to read all her textbooks instead of dragging home 80 pounds of books home every night!

In conclusion, I’m already counting down the days until it’s released in the Apple store! However, I’ll think I’ll wait the 90 days for the 3G model.