Apple iPad: A Threat To The Channel?

By Mike Monocello, Editor in Chief, Business Solutions magazine.

On a recent episode of ABC's sitcom Modern Family, the wife of a technogeek tries to reassure her husband that missing the iPad launch day is no big deal, as he can get the device the following week when inventories replenish. He responds with "Next week!? That's the worst thing you can say to an early adopter!"

You've got to give Apple credit. Between the company's PR efforts and help from Apple's fanbase, buzz surrounding the iPad reached annoying levels prelaunch. I was surprised to find the hype had even reached Business Solutions' LinkedIn group (BSMinfo.com/LinkedIn) via a discussion post where the question was posed, "I think the iPad is going to be massive for IT. What does this mean for the channel?"