Strategies and design options, Apple iReader/ iTablet

The Apple Tablet/ iReader has been subject to speculation for the past 2 years, following MacAir, the iPhone and the success of the eBooks… The question is really if Apple will take the leap this February and bring to market this new model, or will it wait for a few more technological advances (better/ less energy consumption or screen quality). In any case, here’s a little speculation (my take) on some strategic choices Apple faces, and possible scenarios. I'll post more scenarios, once a week so please come back and let me know your thoughts by voting using the comment option below.

Scenario 1/ Dec 21, 2009

The ‘newspaper/ media reader’. Contains: color touch screen, smart power management, wifi, 3G. Partnership with New York Times & Murdoch via iTunes.

The best/ most simplest intuitive reader out there. Applications would be secondary, but may be included. The innovation would be the ‘what/how you read it’ and ‘how you get it’. Using the successful model of iTunes, you can buy and download entire books via the iTunes instantly. What iTunes did for music, now iTunes does for books. And not only for books – but more importantly for newspapers! How about getting those beloved newspaper downloaded on your reader every morning before you wake up, and before you take your coffee? For a nominal $$  fee, you get the daily package of newspapers of your selection (say, up to 5, 10, 15) – all automatically scheduled for download before you wake up. Can't wait for that coffee.

From a business POV: this new model is dearly needed by all cash craving newspapers out there (hello NYTimes). If Apple is not planning this, they should. Like any business problem, this one is grounded in the human need to read not only one newspaper/ magazine, but many. Thus for one newspaper or media company to design, develop and operate an electronic reader would turn a negative ROI. However, for a third/ equidistant party with a succesful Library system which allows all media companies equal rights to offer free or paid online subscriptions (Hello Mr Murdock) would be ideal for all parties/ decision makers.

From a user POV: The need for the news to be portable is here. Read and have your news (and books) downloaded at any time. Write your twitter, facebook, newspage, email, articles wherever you are. There have been many speculations, wrap-up transparent screens that fold in your pocket, blah.... No need to go that far and crazy. All needed is a beautiful screen, great colors (to beat the competition), gestural (page flip-like motion), and volume control (perhaps having the iPod dial integrated virtually, draw a circle to control volume), and a featured headset (for YouTube, multimedia and sound).

Concept sketches coming next week, and don't forget to vote below using comments.