Please Fix The iPad First!

The iPad is now less than a month away from hitting store shelves, but there are still significant issues with it that Apple hasn't addressed. Here are some of the issues Apple needs to think about before the iPad hits store shelves in April.
Now that Apple has finally set a release date for the iPad, it's time to prepare for its launch on April 3. Undoubtedly, some folks will be happy with what they find in the iPad.

1. Where's the 3G iPad?

Apple announced that the WiFi-only iPad model will be available on April 3. We still have no idea when the 3G-capable iPad will be launched. Apple has only said that it will be made available in "late April." Numerous reports released prior to the announcement suggested that the 3G version will be delayed, so a later release date seems to make sense. But Apple should still provide an exact date to allay the fears of those who wonder if the 3G version will be ready for widespread use at the end of April. After all, Apple's track record with first-generation products isn't stellar.

2. The 3G pricing conundrum

Whether or not customers really want to pay $30 for unlimited 3G data or $14.99 for 250MB of monthly data is up for debate. Even AT&T CEO Randall Stephenson said earlier this week that he believes the WiFi-only model will sell better, since folks don't want to pay for another subscription. I understand why Apple is offering a 3G model, but 3G pricing is an issue.

3. We need Flash

What good is a tablet that can be used to surf the Web if Flash isn't supported? Yes, Apple wants to protect us from all those Flash security issues, but in the process, it's also limiting access to many major sites across the Web. Apple should offer Flash support before the iPad hits store shelves.

4. Displaying iPhone apps

Some customers might be disappointed when they start adding their favorite iPhone applications to the iPad, since many apps won't fit the iPad's screen. Apps need to be full-screen on the iPad. If they're not, the experience of using the device will be diminished. That's a result that Apple simply doesn't need as it attempts to make its iPad a viable alternative to so many other tablets on the market.

5. Accessory pricing

Since the iPad lacks a USB port, users will be forced to buy accessories that can only connect through its dock. Unfortunately, Apple has been mum on accessory pricing. How much will that physical keyboard cost? What’s the prospective cost of other useful accessories? The company should let consumers know before the iPad is released

6. No camera? Really?

Apple's decision to not include a camera in the iPad is a major omission. Part of the value of the iPhone is its ability to capture stills at moments when users don't have a camera readily available. Considering Apple is marketing the iPad as a mobile product, a camera would seem like an obvious inclusion in the device. And yet, it's not available in the iPad. Apple needs to find a way, likely through peripherals, to bring camera functionality to the iPad. It's a must-have that consumers will be missing.