Australian businesses will replace laptops with iPad-type devices within the next five years, according to telecommunications experts.
Rather than just an entertainment device, tablet computers like the iPad will eventually infiltrate the corporate world and become a vital business tool, according to telecommunication company Comscentre’s managing director Ben Shipley.
“From a business perspective, the iPad’s biggest limitations at the moment are its compatibility with the Microsoft Office suite and the lack of corporate grade security built in to the device,” Mr Shipley said.
“However, the iPad is very new and will only get better, particularly with competitor products, such as Cisco’s Cius business tablet due to be released.”
“Additionally, just like any other piece of technology, the suite of security products will eventually extend to the iPad which will give companies the confidence to incorporate them into their daily business,” Mr Shippley added.
The combination of entertainment and businesses is the tablet device’s biggest strength, affirmed Mr Shipley.
“Not everyone in the corporate world wants to work 24 hours a day – even executives want to watch a movie and listen to music without carrying a separate device,” Mr Shipley said.
“If you remember some years back no one was comfortable with notebooks or internet banking either. I think we’ll see the same sort of acceptance for the iPad over time.”
