Good iPad Alternatives On the Way

The big consumer electronics companies that already compete with Apple in the smartphone market are gearing up to provide some good iPad alternatives as well. A few of the best options appear to be the new Samsung Galaxy Tab, the HP Slate, and the BlackBerry Blackpad according to industry experts. Other new tablet computers expected to be released soon include the Toshiba Folio, the Dell Streak, and the "WePad".

One thing's for sure: Apple started a real revolution by offering a truly useful and portable touchscreen gadget that's smaller than a laptop computer but bigger (and therefore much easier to use) than a normal "smart" cell phone. They have already sold more than 3 million iPads, much more than many experts thought they would.

But competition is always good, especially in terms of being able to get more for less money. Many of the new iPad alternatives are expected to be cheaper and possibly even more powerful. Because of Google Android operating system, emerging tablet PCs will be able to use their own "apps" just like the Apple products.

It should be exciting to see what happens in the "iPad alternative" space over the next few months!

Learn some mo': iPad competitors are lining up

Gorilla Glass to Make Touch-Screen Computers & TVs Better, Cheaper

A super-strong, ultra-thin, and highly flexible glass called "Gorilla glass" is set to make big improvements to modern touch-screen computers, tablet PCs, and high-end televisions. Corning Inc. invented the glass in 1962 but could not find a good commercial use for it at the time. Now the famous company is set to create a new multi-billion-dollar product niche with the tough, scratch-resistant glass.

Because Gorilla is so thin and light, it's cheaper to transport, which should lower shipping costs. Eventually that should lead to cheaper electronics products.

Gorilla glass is already being used to create a protective layer over the small screens of cell phones and other mobile communication devices. But the latest trends in TV and computer technologies could launch it to an exponentially bigger business. Things like "frameless" flat-screen TVs and ultra-tough, ultralight touchscreen laptops, and amazing high-definition wall art displays are now possible with the glass.

Learn some mo': 'Gorilla' glass may be new face of touch-screen tablets, high-end TVs

WePad Tablet PC = Apple iPad Rival

A new touch screen tablet computer called the "WePad" is set to be released soon and many experts believe it will pose a serious challenge to Apple's iPad product. The German-made machine boasts a bigger screen, USB ports, and a webcam.

The basic version of the WePad -- with 16 gigabytes of storage and built-in Wi-Fi connectivity -- will cost about $600. A larger 32 gig version will also be available. It's German makers hope that it will be looked at as a better bargain than the iPad, mainly due to its higher level of "openness" and higher-level technology.

The new product will be released in July and will feature a Linux operating system, compatibility with Google's Android OS, and a full open source office suite software package.

Learn some mo': 'WePad' Tablet PC to rival iPad