I have seen some videos saying that that the new M4 iPads are overpriced.   I thought I would make a list of similar products that it can potentially replace to really get a decent estimate of its value.

There is a market out there for portable monitors.  People use them as secondary displays for computers.  Actually, I have one, but not in this quality, so I thought that I would see what they cost.  The closest thing I could find was the model below:

Portable Monitor OLED 15.6 Inch Touchscreen 4K UHD 3840X2160 100% DCI-P3 100000:1 Multi-Touch HDR USB-C HDMI Travel Monitor- This is made under the brand Upperizon and currently sold on Amazon for 559.99.   

While it is slightly bigger than the 13 inch iPad, that could be a plus or minus depending on what you want to carry with you.  

Below are some stats from the iPad

•         2752-by-2064-pixel resolution at 264 ppi
•         ProMotion technology with adaptive refresh rates from 10Hz to 120Hz
•         Wide color (P3)
•         True Tone
•         Fingerprint-resistant oleophobic coating
•         Fully laminated
•         Antireflective coating
•         SDR brightness: 1000 nits max
•         XDR brightness: 1000 nits max full screen, 1600 nits peak (HDR content only)
•         2,000,000:1 contrast ratio

The Upperizon has a slightly higher PPI.  However, it has a lower refresh rate (60HZ vs 120HZ).   The Upperizon has 2 speakers, while the iPad has 4.  The iPad weighs 1.28 pounds, while the Upperizon weighs 1.9 pounds.  The Upperizon is 350Nits vs the iPad’s 1000 nits (1600 nits peak with HDR).  The Upperizon has more inputs, but the iPad has thunderbolt 4.  Also, the iPad would need a capture card for sharing the screen with anything other than a Mac.  The Mac would be a wireless connection, as well.  

As you can see, they both have their plusses and minuses, but the brightness and refresh rate are big deals, so I would expect the iPad display to sell for a lot more.   Hard to put a number on the iPad - just the screen - because there are no comps.  You have to get into the $20,000 monitor range to find something similar with a tandem display.

The iPad can be used in a high end audio system as the media server.  It works well with a dock, preferably with HDMI and USB out.  However, it can feed a USB DAC a bit perfect audio signal and can perform bit rate switching on the fly with music streaming services.  Unlike most streamers, it can play Apple Music’s hi res format.  The only comp that I am aware of right now would be the Fiio R7, but there are big differences between the two units.

The iPad has a 13 inch OLED screen, as mentioned above.  Also, if you want to show the display on a bigger screen, it can fill the entire screen via HDMI or USB-C with Album Art.

The Fiio R7 is currently around $700 ($720 if you want it in white).  It uses a modified version of Android 10.  Android 10 was released almost 5 years ago.  This device comes with its own DAC.  However, reviews show that the DAC has a “ESS IMD Hump”, which means you could pair a nicer DAC to the iPad or if you want to use digital out, you could pair the Fiio with a more accurate DAC.  The Fiio has many more inputs and outputs, which would be great if you wanted to use as a preamp.  The Fiio also has a nice headphone amp, but it uses the same DAC. 

Unfortunately, it is difficult to find an exact comparable because the iPad isn’t meant to be a preamp.  However, the main issue, besides preamp capabilities, is the difference in the screens.  The Fiio uses a 4.97 screen that is 720x1280.  It only has 4GB of RAM vs the iPad’s 8.  It does have the ability to send the video to a TV, but it is boxed in and looks like a mirror of the 4.97 screen.  It should be noted, that the iPad is more portable and can be taken anywhere with a thumb DAC/Amp or even with the well reviewed, dirt cheap, Apple USB-C Dongle.  

While these are different, there are still pros and cons of both.  The iPad’s bigger screen, the extended display feature, the portability, etc.  The newer OS and more RAM could also means it runs smoother.

The Fiio is a better headphone amp and preamp, I suspect many people would prefer a more accurate DAC with their pick of an external headphone amp, but it probably depends on the person.

I personally use the iPad with a Topping DAC (HiDisz or Dragonfly DAC on the road) and a Little Dot Tube amp.  

Wacom One 13 Touch Drawing Tablet with Screen (2023), Full-Laminated 13.3” HD Touchscreen Graphics Monitor - currently $550 on Amazon -  The Wacom has a 1920x1080 resolution, which doesn’t match the iPad.   I believe the Wacom uses an LCD.  The Wacom needs a computer to work.  I am sure there might be some advantage to this Wacom, but the ability to just use the iPad without another computer, while still being able to use with a Mac wirelessly seems like a tough thing to beat.  

I should mention that Wacom has some units that also contain the computer, but the one I see that is currently available on Amazon has a 16 inch screen and cost $2499.   They had a 13 inch version in the $2000 range (using an old Dell link to see the price).   Of course, a 16 inch screen means more weight on the go.  It weighs 4.7 pounds compared to 1.28 pounds of the iPad.   You could also carry along a MacBook Air (2.7 pounds) with the iPad and still have less weight to hall around.   If you bought a MBA  ($999) and the iPad ($1299)  you would come out ahead on price (even with the cost of the Apple Pencil), too.  Also, you could split them up when you only needed one of them.   Not saying they are perfectly comparable, but I do think it shows that Apple isn't pricing the iPad Pro too high for what you get in return.

Camera - The iPad can be a scanner or even a photography tool (though I would use it sparingly that way).

Book Reader/Note Taker - A 10.3 inch Remarkable 2 currently costs $549 -  The Remarkable is a black and white screen which is fine for reading books, but PDFs, Magazines, and anything you want to read with color (RSS feeds, etc) would be better on the iPad.  The Remarkable feels more like paper when writing, but many have "Paperlike" or other versions of removable clear covers that can replicate the feel...while still being able to remove to go back to the clearest picture possible.
 
Laptop replacement for some people?  If you need Pencil input, touch, a removable keyboard, the only real competition is the Windows Surface computers.  Those run full Windows which is a big advantage over iPadOS for some people, but on the other hand, it runs Windows, which could also be a downside for some people.   For me, it is not a replacement, for just about every other person I know, it is.  I saw a video where a guy was complaining because it did not have a batch mode in the Files app...yeah, like most people care about that.  Now lets see the guy use a Pencil on his Mac screen...or remove the keyboard from his MacBook Air...I am waiting.!! LOL

Portable gaming machine - with the new retro games, Apple Arcade, Steam (streaming), Gaming apps, it has become a much better portable gamer over the years.  You can pair Xbox or PS controllers to it these days, as well.  It can also be a display for your portable gaming device with a capture card.  There is really no comparable because it all comes down to which games you want to play, but its a lot of fun and the screen size, resolution, and speakers best all individual gaming machines.

Portable Video Machine - Do they still make portable DVD players?  This is better if you want to watch movies from just about any service or watch Youtube.  You can also download your own movies or stream from Plex.  Not sure anything comes close (especially with the cellular option), the gorgeous display and the great speakers. ​

Of course, the list above is based on my own use cases.  However, I am sure there are more that I missed based on other people's needs.  If it just replaced the top three things on this list, we are looking at a savings.   The fact is that the screen is a technological marvel and those in the tech community seem to be downplaying what Apple did with this design.  The fact that this is probably the best screen on any consumer item ever just gets looked over because we have a bunch of sad sacks crying about iPadOS not doing all the things they can do on a Mac.  

So, I was reading MacWorld and saw an article entitled “Are we in a Post iPad Era”.  I found it quite interesting, especially when compared to the much different Cult of Mac article “Should you buy a MacBook or iPad?”  

To begin my article, I just want to show a few stats from 2023:

According to Canalys, Apple sold around 54 million iPads in 2023.   According to Statista, Apple sold 21.9 million Macs.   This is far greater than a 2 to 1 split in a year when Apple didn’t even release a new iPad model.

So, out of the gate, the numbers look more like a post-Mac era.  Apple still has the greatest market share in the tablet market, while Macs make up less than 10 percent of the PC market.  Let's be honest, the vast majority of "professionals" use Windows.

So lets look through some of the points in the article:

“But rumor has it Apple has been investigating foldable screen technology, which might conceivably someday allow you to carry an iPhone-sized device that folds out into an iPad-sized device. While it might not be a powerhouse in the class of the iPad Pro, it does mean a possible world where the iPhone might start eating away at the low end of the iPad market. After all, why carry two devices when one might do?”

So, even under this possible future change to the iPhone, it “might start eating away at the low end iPad market”.   This would assume that those willing to spend whatever Apple charges for a foldable iPhone are the same folks buying the cheap iPad.  Not sure how true that is and I am not sure a foldable from Apple would be all that popular for the people buying the low end tablet.  According to a quick Google search, today, the largest unfolded Android phone on the market is 7.8 inches.  That is small compared to 11 and 13 inch iPads.   Maybe it will replace the mini for some people, but it won’t replace those that are buying larger iPads.    Also, in his own prediction, it doesn’t spell a “Post iPad era”.   

The next theory is , "a convertible MacBook, were Apple to make one, could threaten the iPad Pro. If a Mac can offer what an iPad can and more, then once again, why carry two devices?”

The numbers don’t fit this argument.  Currently, given the numbers I posted above, Apple sells more than double (in some years triple) the number of iPads over Macs.  In other words, there are a lot of people buying the iPad to be able to have a similar experience to their iPhones on a much bigger screen and with more features.  It’s a familiar operating system to a lot more people than the Mac.  As iPad gets better and better at “Pro” level apps, there will be less and less reason to carry two devices…. but that other device people will stop carrying will be the Mac laptop.   As I have said before, the Mac is the niche’ device, not the iPad.  Also, as the Cult of Mac post I linked above noted, currently, the iPad is the right choice for most people.   That won't change with a Mac going to touch unless it's simply a rip off of the app design of the iPad with the ability to install pro level Mac apps.  I would argue that this would still be an iPad.  A Mac would be more like a Mac interface and it isn't built around touch. 

The better argument is that Apple figures out a way for the iPad to handle more pro level apps and it becomes the portable Apple device while they push you to the Mac desktops for more extreme level work.   Personally, I already prefer the convertible iPad for my on the go work.

The perfect on the go device for me would be the iPad that also runs MacOS in Parallels (or similar Apple software) or via dual boot.  This would hurt Mac numbers and improve iPad numbers.  This would be the easiest route for Apple to take, but Apple obviously wants us to buy two devices.  If they decide on one device for portable, they will continue developing iPad in that direction or simply add MacOS as an option to certain versions...and I suspect those versions won't be cheap.  Look at what you have to pay to get their matte iPad display!

And the final argument is almost laughable at this point, “Take the Apple Vision Pro, which more than a few early reviewers have described as “an iPad you wear on your face.” One of the device’s more applauded uses is as an immersive media player, something that has traditionally been one of the iPad’s strengths. Might a more affordable and more ergonomic Vision Pro successor steal some of the iPad’s thunder?”

We are a long, long way away from these heavy goggles replacing anything.  That’s the problem with the AVP, they replace nothing unless you are a loner.   If they make them cheaper, if they make them lighter, etc… they might occupy more of a niche in the market place, but as they are now, we are a long way from them replacing anything, much less a tablet where you are still in the room with your loved ones and not wearing uncomfortable, heavy gear on your face.   Also, as they shrink the goggles and make it more approachable, can they keep the price down?  

I have already seen people discuss the most spec’d out iPad with Apple Case and Apple Magic Keyboard, coming into the $3000 range.   However, that isn’t a very good comparison unless a majority of people are going with this setup.  I have to think that the number of people going with this specific setup is minuscule, and even then, it's around a $1000 less than the best Vision Pro.  The iPads range in price from $350-1299 in their base configurations..the base configuration of the AVP is closer to $3500.  This is ten times more than the base iPad.  No, it won't be replacing the iPad with anything called AVP.   Apple would need a new set of glasses that more likely than not will plug into an iPad rather than replacing it to get to the those prices.

He wraps up the article with this point “But it’s also hard to overcome the feeling that Apple’s slow development on the software side has hamstrung the iPad’s future with a steadfastness that borders on pathological.”

While I would love to see Apple make changes faster on the iPad, it has changed quite a bit over the years, much more than any other product they have updated.  They added Pencil input, Keyboard support, Stage Manager, External display support, Universal control, Screen Mirroring, using it as a monitor with a capture device, mobile Final Cut, Logic, thunderbolt, tandem OLED, etc.  It isn’t like they stopped developing for it.

Also, this article is being written now because Apple released these iPads with essentially last year's software.  The next iPadOS won’t be available until the fall (many features will be announced at WWDC in less than a month).  Let's wait and see what they changed.  I don't expect them to just say, "we are skipping updates this year because the iPad is perfect the way it is".  No, development of the OS will continue, apps like Logic, Final Cut, ProCreate, will get even better on the iPad (they already announced this much) and it will continue to fill the gaps for that one portable computer that fits most of the market.  I expect there will still be uses for Mac laptops (especially MBPs), but I can personally get by with a desktop Mac or PC now and use only the iPad for my portable needs.  I expect that with the next iPadOS update, even more people will fit this category.  

If you have not seen Apple's new iPad, it is like the old iPad, but has a thin, really thin, design, a better chip, and a better screen than the last iPads.

That is the question and a tough one.  For me, the biggest downside to my current iPad M1 12.9 is the weight.  I called it an "uncommonly heavy" iPad in my review.   The obvious resolution to this issue, without giving up screen space, is a lighter, thinner iPad.  The new 13 inch iPad is the thinnest device Apple has ever released.  This should be closer to the initial idea of the iPad.   Also, I can deal with size if I can get something that weighs less.  Currently, I use a Logitech Case that helps me balance the brick-like iPad with its kickstand, but this device combined with a kickstand would be ideal.   I have also thought about going down in size to the 11 inch, but I really like that big display for my photos.  

The next best option to getting a thinner iPad to deal with the weight is getting another iPad.  I like the iPad Air 5th Gen for its ability to also fill in as a music server and be able to use "extend my display" like my current M1 Pro 12.9.   However, this would mean juggling two iPads, which may not be as ideal as it sounds.  Yes, it would give me another iPad, so I could use one iPad while the other is playing music.  However, it could result in my iPad 12.9 being rendered to just being used as a music server and a photo editor.   I don't think that this would justify what I paid for it.  It's a bit of a give and take.  The current cost of a refurb model of Air is around $450, but could be higher or lower depending on timing of when I buy it. 

Well, there is the price of the device and then the additional cost of accessories.  Basically, for a 13 inch, the pricing is dependent on the hard drive space I will need.  I think I can get by with 256GB.  Yes, a 1TB would mean I could leave SSD drives at home and just back up photo cards onto the iPad directly.  However, the price for that gets pretty high!  For 1TB versus a 256GB, it is $700 more. I will just carry another SSD for that price.  I looked at my current iPad and it isn't even filling up 100GB thanks to iCloud backup.   

So, for my configuration, I expect the iPad 13 would be $1428 with the new Pencil and without the magic keyboard.  I would probably spend another $100 or so on a different case.  I would like a Logitech similar to what I have now, but I could get by with a folio of some sort that has a light cover and use a bluetooth keyboard when I want to type a lot.  I mainly use the iPad in tablet form, so I am going back and forth on my best option for the case.  When the iPad is at my desk, I use the same mouse and keyboard I use with the Mac.

Apple would also allow me to trade in my M1.  They will give me around $500 for it at the moment.  This would be $928 vs $ 450 using options above.   I am still in the middle of the road on this.  There are benefits going in either direction.  

1.  Costs less
2.  Smaller footprint when I want it
3.  Uses the same Pencil 2 of my M1
4.  Dock and use as a music server while still using the other iPad
5.  A cheaper iPad to carry on the road

1.  Juggling iPads (redundancy)
2.  Will not get many of the new features of the new iPad
3.  Will stop getting updates earlier than a new iPad.
4.  All of the new features missing - slower, worse screen, etc.

1.  M4 chip and what it could mean down the road.
2.  OLED displays
3.  One iPad to rule them all (no juggling around)
4.  Will get updates longer than either iPad.
5.  Thin and light with a big screen
6.  New Pencil features
7.  Many other new features, but these are the most meaningful to me.

1.  Lose benefits of a two iPad setup.
2.  Price (will cost double to have this one iPad compared to having 2)
3.  Accessories - the price of the device is already a lot, but it will require a new case and Pencil.
4.  It still has the iPadOS downsides (though it will also have the upsides)

Honestly, at this point, I am in a wait and see mode.  I really want to see if they have anything coming with the next iPadOS that makes the update worth it for me.  Right now, I have a 9.7 iPad as my secondary iPad, but the battery power is dying and the power of the device is weak.  However, using it for a few months and waiting for answers, makes the most sense.  If I don't see a reason to change for software, I am leaning toward the two iPad solution, if I do anything at all.  I am really impressed with that thin design, but right now, that isn't enough for me to make that leap.

Seeing so many videos pop up in my Youtube lists with the Magic Keyboard left me wondering if I could put together a decent laptop-like experience with the iPad Pro.

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I already had the old "Origami"  Smart Keyboard which consisted of a nice light cover for the front and back, a keyboard, and a stand for the iPad, so I already had a decent option for couch use.  Personally, I would go with this type of keyboard again if they made it.  Their current version of this keyboard still folds back, but it will not work as a stand....bummer.

Since the Magic Keyboard essentially doubles the weight of the iPad, I assume many are just keeping it on a desk and just popping the iPad off when they want to use it in tablet mode.  Apple doesn't really give you much choice.  For me, this would end up with the Keyboard being in storage near the kitchen table and I could just get it out when I want to use it on the kitchen table.

I think there are better, much cheaper options than going this route.   However, the only way to get the same functionality as the trackpad on the Magic Keyboard would be with a new Magic Trackpad or Magic Mouse.  The Magic Mouse is $79, so you really have to decide how often you plan to use this setup to see if it is actually worth this money.    At one time, I thought my old first gen Magic Mouse would work with it.  Apple decided to cripple it by not even allowing scrolling!  I have that feature with my Logitech Mouse!   Personally, I went with the Logitech MX Ergo Pro, which works with a scroll ball rather than moving the mouse along the table, so it can be used in small spaces.  Also, I keep it near my spot on the couch to use with my Mac Mini and I can switch to the iPad with a touch of a mouse button.  It works fine, but it is clunkier than using it with a mini or a laptop.

Of course, I could use the iPad Keyboard stand, but I have a few options that can fold down for travel.  For me, the one I use depends on the stability that I think I will need.  At home, I just use a lightweight stand that works with this iPad, but isn't the most stable.  If I need something stable, I have something like this and this.

I have multiple options for this, as well.  I have small Bluetooth keyboards, the magic keyboard, and a mechanical keyboard.

I have been using the mechanical keyboard since it can be plugged in or run off of the battery.  Also, I just prefer typing on it.  Of course, I didn't get one with the number keys, since I wanted this to be somewhat small for travel.  I also like the fact that this one has back-lit keys.   The only downside is that the keys are a bit thicker (which I like for typing) which means it takes up more space in a bag.   I have to see how much room I have for it before deciding which keyboard to use. 

However, the keyboard itself is a pleasure to type on, so I am very happy with the experience.   The keyboard also has function buttons, so you can change the back-lighting of the iPad, control volume, etc. without needing to touch the iPad or go into settings (you can't do this with the Magic Keyboard).

As a side note, I have it pictured with the cable since I can slowly charge it with the iPad, but it can also go without the cable since it works with Bluetooth.  I would just have to watch running down the battery.

For me, it is important to be able to listen to music while I work.   When I need to save room in the bag or just want to work quickly, I use the Jabra Elites 75t Earbuds.  I haver reviewed them here.  When I am going to be working a while, I go with a more complicated setup that pairs the Shure SRH940 headphones with an older Dragonfly DAC.  They work great together and sound fantastic. Note that some of the Amazon reviews complain that they "broke their 4th pair", but I haven't had issues with mine since I reviewed them in 2012.  That being said, I'm not rough on headphones.  I keep these near my spot on the couch and don't wear them out in the rain or elements.  I have different earbuds I use for those purposes (Beatsx or the Jabras that I mentioned above). 

With my version of the iPad, I need power if I am going to plug anything into it.  I have the Lighting to USB adapter with the two ports.  It allows USB to plugged into one port and power into the other.  On the road, I like having an Anker power supply.   If I am just plugging in one thing, I can just use a Plugable device that fools the iPad into thinking it is getting enough power.  It is nice for this setup since I can go without power if I need to.  

As you can see, I have put together a setup for my current iPad that gives me ultra portability with the Smart Keyboard case, but also gives me a great desktop experience when I am going to be sitting at a table for a while.  

For me, this is better than having a heavy case that goes with it everywhere.   The only thing I might add down the road is a Magic Mouse, but we will see if it makes sense when I get a 12.9 inch iPad late this year or sometime next year.  For now, I am pretty happy with this setup.   Even when, or if, I get that 12.9, I plan to keep this setup around for more portability.   They great part is that I can just as easily use this "desktop" setup with the new iPad as the old, even though they are different sizes.  It also helps with longevity when Apple eventually moved the pins or changes the design so they can sell you a new "Magic Keyboard" with your next iPad.   

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Microsoft has been working on an operating system that works across all of their platforms.  The Surface is similar to a tablet that runs the full Windows 8 and later operating systems.  I still think it is a bit awkward to use as a main laptop because the cover/keyboard is not up to the same quality as a typical keyboard.  Also, it is a bit more awkward to use in the lap.  I am also not a big fan of the way that it jumps from the newish tiled “metro” interface into the old-school desktop, either.  However, it is giving people an ultra portable laptop that doubles as a decent, if not perfect, tablet.  For many, this is all they need.

Let me say that I believe Apple should continue to sell a true iPad tablet.  First of all, a true tablet will be cheaper and be an option for people that have to use Windows for work (as one example) and just want a fantastic device for reading magazines, comics, surfing the web, videos, etc.  However, I think they need a new hybrid device that runs (at least) two separate operating systems.  While OS X and iOS share many features, the fact is that some things still can’t be done with just an iPad or they are harder to do with an iPad.  I remember my 3rd Generation iPad having an issue when installing iOS7.  No matter what I did, I could not get it to boot after the update.  As a result, I got on the web and read that I had to plug it into a computer and launch iTunes.  It definitely didn’t feel like a stand alone device.  While Apple has continued to open up iOS to apps like IFTT and Workflow that give it more automation, it still feels limited compared to OSX

First off, the hybrid device would need to have a 10-13 inch (my preference would be for a 12 inch display similar to the MacBook) touchscreen with similar capabilities to the iPad's screen.  Obviously, using it in tablet mode would require a touchscreen, but it might come in handy for drawing or taking notes right into OS X apps like Pages or Notes.  For some reason, Apple has resisted putting a touchscreen on OS X because it isn’t built around touch.  However, they could still make it available in OS X without changing much of the interface.  Just give it the same access that they give Wacom devices now when you use pen input.  They could have it off in OS X by default and when you open the system properties to turn it on, give you the same type of access as Wacom’s tablets*.

* For those unaware of Wacom, it is a device that typically hooks up to your computer via USB.  It is a flat tablet that enables pen input into programs like Photoshop and Illustrator.   

I don’t know if you have heard of BlueStacks, but it will enable you to run Android OS in OS X via and Android emulator.  If I can run Android on the Mac, then I should also be able to just toggle iOS and OS X modes through a “gesture”.  For example, a four finger swipe down on the screen could take you from iOS to OS X and back.  

I am not a fan of the keyboard that the Surface uses, but Apple could use a detachable keyboard similar to the MacBook’s keyboard.  It might be slightly heavier, but it would be much more usable, which to me is more important than a few ounces.

The Parrot Zik 2.0 bluetooth headphones are  beautifully designed by the well known French industrial designer Phillippe Starck .  They have a mix of metal and faux leather that I find appealing in basic black.  These headphones come in some unconventional colors, as well.    The orange pair reminds me of the earmuffs I used to wear when I worked at the Airport, but if you are looking to be noticed, I guess the orange or yellow are available for you.  They also come in beige, blue, and white for the less adventurous.

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Compared to my regular (non-Bluetooth) headphones, these headphones are fairly light at 9.52oz.  Although they aren’t the lightest pair of Bluetooth headphones you can find, personally, I wouldn’t have minded a little more weight if the earphones could have more room for extending the ear cups.  They have 4 settings and I have them fully extended.  I would prefer the pads to be just a bit wider, as well.  However, trade offs have to be made for weight, and I am tall and probably have a larger head and ears than an average sized person.   However, I would suggest trying them on before buying, if possible.  Also, while the headphones are comfortable and there is cushioning in the headband, I did feel some pressure on the top of my head after an hour or so of listening.  However, I was able to adjust it to a different spot to take pressure off.

Below is a comprehensive video about the app:

The magic of these headphones is how they work with the iOS (Android) app that you can download for free.  I have an iPhone 6 plus and an iPad Air 2.  There is not an iPad specific app, but you can download the iPhone app and enlarge it.  Pairing with either device is easy, but when you change devices, you need to make sure it is no longer paired to the prior device.  

Once I had it paired to my iPhone, I launched the Parrot Zik 2.0 app.  You have to sign in to use it, which I don’t like, but I wanted to use it, so I signed in with one of my accounts.   Once you are into the app, you have three main controls:  “Noise Control”, “Equalizer”, and “Concert Hall”.   Also, the battery percentage you have left is displayed.  

The “Noise control” feature is amazing.  You can set just how much of the outside world you want in or even turn it off.   They have a big circle on the screen and when you tap and drag it in (making the circle smaller), you get less outside noise and as you expand it you let more outside noise in.  The choices range from “noise cancelling (max)” to “street mode (max)”.  

The “Equalizer” has some presets that contain a range of settings in a circle.  You move a curser that looks like a round ball in the center of the circle toward your choices  (Pop, Vocal, Cristal, Club, Punchy and Deep) and it changes the sound accordingly.   You can also choose “Producer Mode” by clicking on an icon that resembles an analog soundboard in the bottom left corner of the screen.  It will allow you to tweak individual audio bands using the “5 bands full parametric equalizer”.

The “Concert Hall” setting allows you to direct the “speaker placement” and expand the sound stage.  Personally, I think the “Silent Room” and “Living Room” settings are the only settings I would use with music (although I usually keep this feature off).  However, the “Jazz Club” and “Concert Hall” settings may be useful for audio from movies or games. 

The app allows you to save any of your presets and you can also sample presets from other users.  They have a search function that makes it easy to type in an artist and see if anyone has put together a preset for them.  If not, you can also search by genre, popularity, etc.  There are “Premium” and “Connoisseur” sections that divide the artist suggestions from user suggestions.   I would actually prefer one section for all presets, but I guess they have to give the artists some exposure.  

There is also a  “flight mode” section that helps you save battery power.   Speaking of battery power, it has a pretty wide range depending on the settings you are using.  I have been listening for about an hour and a half this morning with the noise cancelling, EQ, and Concert Hall settings on and it still has 76 percent power.  I think their 6 hours in normal mode with noise control, Bluetooth, and Concert Hall enabled is accurate.   Of course, you can save battery power by turning off features.  They say that their Airplay mode with noise control on and listening to music from the jack will give you 18 hours.   Parrot also sells their proprietary battery for $29.99 if you need it.  Unfortunately, these headphones use Bluetooth 3 technology rather than the newer Bluetooth 4, which would have made them more energy efficient. 

While these are Bluetooth headphones, they do come with a cable to connect directly to your device if you want to save battery power.   The cable is around 4 feet long, but since they used standard 3.5mm plugs, it is easy to find longer or shorter cables for very little money.   There is a sound quality trade off by running directly from the jack with the headphone’s features off, but I still found the sound to be acceptable in this mode for non-audiophile needs.   

The package comes with the headphones, a charging cable, the audio cable, a transport bag, a battery, and instructions.  The charging cable uses micro USB, but there is not a power plug included.  I hate to go on a rant about this issue, but I still can’t understand why a wall charger isn’t included with devices that need to be charged.   That being said, it is the current trend in Bluetooth devices.   I also would have preferred a carrying case rather than a pouch.  These headphones don’t fold up like most portable headphones and just using a pouch doesn’t seem like enough protection.  Parrot sells a $39.99 case, but for the price of the headphones, I wish they had included it in the box.

The controls on the headphones are unique and intuitive.   The only minor gripe in this area is the placement of the on/off switch.  It is placed in the spot that I would typically grab them for adjustment or to remove them to talk to someone for a second.  I have turned them off by accident a few times, but I have gotten used to the placement and have changed my normal habits.  The rest of the features are great.  You simply use the right earpiece to control everything from pausing audio (tap), volume adjustment (sliding finger up and down) and back tracking (slide back once to start song over and slide back twice to start prior song), and forwarding to the next track by sliding your finger forward.  By pushing down in the center of the headphone for a couple seconds, you can launch Siri and give her commands.  If you ask for a definition, Siri will ask if it can read it to you and  then it will actually read the page.  Pretty cool!

Another cool feature is the way the headphones will pause what you are playing when you remove them from your head.  When you are ready to listen again, you simply put them back on your head and the app will start playing automatically.  I also did a quick test of the mic. I made a phone call and the person on the other end said that I sounded fine.  I did have a bit of an issue hearing myself talking, but I didn’t find that it was a major issue.  

Note:  I get paid commissions for purchases made through any links to Amazon products in this post.

Finally, I agree with Parrot.  These are the most advanced headphones in the world (insert your favorite Dos Equis quote here).  Combined with their app, they are simply in a league of their own.  No, they aren’t perfect because they could sound better via the headphone jack when the headphones are turned off and they could update to the newest Bluetooth technology to extend battery life.  However, what is here is pretty darn cool and amazing.


Pros:
Customizable to the extreme
Noise Canceling
Works with standard 3.5mm audio cable when off
Battery can be changed out easily
Multiple Equalizer settings (with the ability to save presets)
Easy to find new presets for artists with search function
Good looking industrial design (in the basic black)
Easy setup
Headphone pauses music when removed
Intuitive Controls
Decent sounding microphone 
Access to Siri from headphones 

Negatives:
Price is around $400 (as of today)
Bluetooth 3 (newer Bluetooth would have given longer battery power)
Difficult to hear yourself on phone calls
Package did not contain hard carrying case or power plug
Big heads or ears might not work with design

As I have mentioned elsewhere, I have an Original iPad and the third generation iPad ("iPad 3").   Believe it or not, we still use the Original iPad in the kitchen.   Even though it hasn't received updates in a long time, it still runs apps like Plex, Next Issue, Rdio, and many more apps that I still use today.    The 3rd Generation iPad came out with a retina display and I updated on the day it launched.  It has been my favorite device since I bought it.

My main issue with the iPad 3rd Generation is that I own the 32GB model and it is constantly out of memory.  Just to install iOS 8, I had to delete a bunch of apps and magazines.  This wasn't a new experience since I am constantly monitoring the amount of space I have left and periodically deleting apps like Zinio (magazine app) to get more space.

When the Original iPad Air was released last year, I was disappointed with it for one main reason....the lack of Touch ID.  I keep my devices locked with a passcode and the idea of just using a fingerprint to open it, is very enticing.  The 5S had Touch ID, but the iPad Air lacked it.   I refused to update when I knew that feature was coming and I could just get by with my iPad 3 for a while.

This year, I updated my iPhone 4S to an iPhone 6 Plus.  I LOVE the Touch ID.  It just makes the experience so much better and the way they have integrated it into Password apps, purchases from the app store, and ApplePay have been awesome.   The iPad Air 2 has Touch ID (although you can't use it for in store purchases) and it is a major reason I updated this year.  If it was missing Touch ID again this year, chances are, I would have kept the iPad 3 for another year.

When I bought the iPad Air 2, I decided to get the 64GB model.  I am guessing that doubling the memory from my last iPad will be enough?  The fact that the new iPad has Touch ID and more memory was enough to make me want to update, but the features don't stop there.

The Air 2 has a much faster processor than the iPad 3.  Unfortunately, the iPad 3's processor was always a bit underpowered.   When Apple releases the 4th gen iPad a few months after I purchased the iPad 3, and it had twice the performance capability, I can't say I was too happy.

Within seconds of using the iPad Air 2, the speed difference is obvious.   When I hear bloggers say that there is little reason to upgrade from an iPad 3, I wonder if they have ever used the two devices side by side?  Yeah, if you could care less about having  a better experience in every single way, then by all means, hold onto that iPad 3.  If you enjoy reloading tabs in Safari, don't mind waiting for articles to come into focus in magazine apps, don't mind seeing the equivalent of a bouncing ball when trying to use Lightroom's mobile app, etc.. then by all means don't update.  For me, these differences were substantial and dramatically increase my pleasure when using the new iPad (which is often).

The new iPad is also lighter and smaller than the iPad 3.   I have never had a problem handling the weight of the iPad 3, but I do find the new iPad easier to handle.  Many complain about "Apple's fetish for thinness", however, I can understand why they want thinner and lighter devices, especially with phones and tablets.   These are usually handheld devices, so any difference in weight probably means you will use it for longer periods.    

One of the possible trade offs for this lighter, thinner iPad is that it has a smaller battery that last year's iPad.  It is still over the 10 hours of normal use that Apple has advertised, so I don't see it as a real issue.  Engadget's battery tests have it worse than last year's iPad, but  better than the iPad 3 (2012).  Also, Engadget tested with a wifi+cellular iPad, which would probably provide worse results than the wifi version I purchased.

For me, I rarely need to charge my iPad 3 more than just plugging it in when I go to bed.   In fact, unless they can increase the battery to 24 hours or more, I am going to continue plugging it in at night.  While, I am sure there is a user somewhere that is pushing video for 10.5 hours without being anywhere near a charger, I just don't think many people will notice the difference between ~11.5 and ~14 hours of battery life.   When Mossberg did his tests, they were dramatically different from Engadget (he shows a 90 minute difference between the Air and Air2).   

I should also mention the resonance that you feel when using the speakers on the iPad.  Personally, my hands can handle slight vibrations.  I have lived with a powerful subwoofer for several years, so my entire house shakes when we watch certain movies.  Also, I played PS3 games using a DualShock controller and lived to tell about it.   For me, the resonance isn't an issue at all.  I mainly listen to music using Airplay (I have several blog articles about it), so I don't use the speakers in the iPad very often.  

To me, the decision to make the iPad lighter and thinner makes a lot of sense.  A lighter iPad will be felt by everyone that uses it every time they use it and there is nothing you can add on later that will make it lighter.  For iPad users that are camping or doing something that keeps them away from electricity all day, you can buy a $40 portable charger that you can plug it into, if necessary.   It really makes much more sense to prioritize features by which features are noticed by the most people.   Also, if you are really put off by resonance from the speakers, you can add Airplay, Bluetooth, or just wear headphones.  Once again, nothing I can buy will make a heavy iPad feel lighter...well I could hire someone to hold it for me, but I doubt I could do that for $40 or less.

One other thing that is better this time around is the screen.  As I mentioned, I updated my Original iPad to the iPad 3 when the screen was improved.  Personally, I think the screen is one of the most important features on a tablet.  The current "retina" resolution is great.  However, according to Apple, they improved the screen without changing resolution:

"The displays on previous generations of iPad used three separate components. iPad Air 2 changes all that, combining those three layers into just one. This eliminates gaps between layers, along with the internal reflectance caused by those gaps. The result? Colors are richer, contrast is greater, and images are sharper and more vivid."

Also, Apple put an antireflective coating on the new iPad Air 2.  I have a floor lamp behind my usual position on the couch (best seat in the house) and it reflects off the screen.  However, when I compare the 3 with the Air 2, the difference is easy to see.  The iPad 3 has blown out areas caused by the brightness.  The Air 2 softens the light.  If you use Lightoom, it is like pulling back the highlights to get rid of the "blinkies".

For me, the upgrade from the 32GB iPad 3 to the 64GB iPad Air 2 was worth it.   To put it in computer terms, the difference is more noticeable that going from a spinning hard drive to SSD.   For me, the iPad Air 2 is nearly perfect.  The one thing I would add would be split screen multitasking, but I believe that is more of a firmware issue than an iPad Air 2 limitation.  

I have had a Lifeproof case for my iPhone 4S for over a year and I was happy with it, with just a couple exceptions.  The main issue is that it added bulk and makes the iPhone impossible to  use with a dock without an adapter.  However, for the beach and around the pool, it is my favorite option.

I have been considering a Lifeproof case for my iPad 3 for a while now, but the $129.99 price tag was a bit much to swallow.   Since the iPad Air came out, I have been thinking that it is time to get the case before they stop making it.  (I should mention that I am not sure they are discontinuing it, but it is always a possibility when Apple changes a design and case makers move on)  

To my surprise, Amazon had the black version of this case for 74.99.  While still expensive, I couldn't pass it up.   I really wanted a "water proof" case that I could use with the  iPad 3 while lounging in the hot tub.  I have never use the iPad 3 near the water because I never wanted to risk getting it wet.   As a result,  instead of reading magazines and books on my iPad, I would buy a paper copy of them and they would end up getting wet.   Also, with Zinio, Flipboard, Kindle, and the Next Issue apps on my iPad, I would rather not spend extra money on paper versions of magazines I am already paying for.  The other benefit is that I have an Airport Express in my sunroom (where we have the hot tub) and I can use airplay on the iPad to send audio to it.  It makes it easy to pull up my iTunes library or MOG and listen to music with volume control right on the iPad.

I tested the case in the sink by submerging it for 30 minutes and there were no leaks, so I was ready to insert the iPad into the case.  The main difference between the 4S case and the iPad 2/3/4 case is that the iPad has a "nuud" (nude) screen.  The 4s case has clear plastic over the screen that adds more protection.  However, the downside is that the screen is less responsive, loses some of its feel, and affects the clarity of the retina screen.  The Liferproof for the iPad doesn't have anything protecting the screen.  As a result, I would not recommend using it on a beach, around sand, unless you get a Zagg invisibleShield or something similar.  I will never use it on a beach, so I won't be putting on an invisibleShield.

I submerged my iPad 3 in the water and took it out fairly quickly and it was no worse for wear.  I also noticed that despite steam coming from the hot tub, the screen did not fog up. As I mentioned, I never used my iPad around water, so that was a bit of a surprise.

While I really like this case, there are still some downsides.  The main issue is that it adds more bulk than most cases and the cover (that protects the screen when you aren't using it) needs to be detached when you want to use the iPad.  They do make a better cover for it, but that will add another $39.  The other issue is that the speaker gets output to the back of the case.  Therefore, if you are watching a video on the front of the screen, it will blow the volume out the back instead of the bottom.  I have a few bluetooth speakers and Airplay devices, so it won't be a big deal for me, but it is something to consider if you watch a lot of video and use the iPad's speaker.  Also, the charger port is set deep into the case and it makes it difficult to unplug it.  I actually broke a cable trying to remove the plug the first time I plugged it in. You also have to use a supplied adapter if you want to connect headphones.  Finally, the see through back seems to scuff easily.

I plan to keep the case on the iPad until at least the end of winter.   It may permanently stay on the iPad since I plan to buy a new iPad when they add the fingerprint scanner to it.  At that point, the iPad 3 will only be used in the kitchen, hot tub, and by the pool.  That will probably be late 2014, but with Apple, you never know. 

There were rumors this week that Apple was testing a ...wait for it... 6 INCH IPHONE!  Yep, here is the story from MacRumors.

While there is no guarantee that Apple will actually make a phone this large, it is encouraging to know that they are at least looking at a design that is bigger than the current iPhone 5.  

Personally, I have a tiny iPhone 4S and my contract is up in October.  Actually, I had offers to trade it in earlier, but decided against it.  In the new age of LTE and having a fast connection all the time, my desire for a larger iPhone has only increased.

As I have explained on my Mac Attack page, I switched to using Mac computers after I bought my first iPad (the Original).  My enthusiasm for Apple was at an all time high and my love for their ecosystem only solidified that opinion.  I still love their ecosystem, but their choice of going with a thin "bookmark" (per David Pogue) design for the iPhone 5 was a disappointment.

While I wish that a bigger size was coming out this year, it isn't supposed to happen.  As a result, I have decided to wait until 2014 to see if they increase the size (width).  With Siri, is it really all that important to be "one hand" friendly?  I personally don't think so.   Personally, I use my iPad more than my iPhone and I can' t remember every wishing I could stretch my thumb all the way across the screen.  Unfortunately, if they stick with the "bookmark"  design next year, I am going to switch to one of the new phones from another company.  Apple knows that many of their clients want larger phones, so I expect them to make one.  

By the way, I don't know if a 6 inch phone is too big to fit in a pocket, but I suspect that Apple knows that it will need to fit in a pocket if it is going to be popular.   Also, some people will say that they followed other companies that make larger phones, but I really don't care.  They just need to make a better large phone...  The last time I checked, they didn't invent the smartphone, either.  They just made it better.