For the past year I have been waiting and watching Realtors integrate tablets into their daily tools. I prefer to use an ultra portable laptop because of the physical keyboard and access to programs and intensive software if neccessary.
I finally decided to go with a tablet this year and I chose the most popular product the Apple iPad 2.
I like Android and the open platform and flexibility of apps. I gave up my iPhone 2 years ago for an Android and never looked back. Many people are surprised I decided on the Apple tablet. Here are my reasons.
Apps Typically Release First for Apple
There are 2 different operating systems Apple vs Android. Apple has one device programmers only have to design for. Android is an open system to every manufacturer with different hardware, different screen sizes, different specifications, different everything. Eventually app developers will have to think like Microsoft where Windows can run on any system. For now developers create mainstream apps for Apple before they create them for Android and this is noticible in real estate apps.
Accessories
Next time you are at a Target or Walmart look at the Apple accessory and product aisles. Rows and rows of products for Apple's devices. Over 10 years ago I purchased Apple stocks because I saw all the accessory displays created for the very first iPod. Best stock investment I ever made. Everything and anything you can imagine is available to personalize an Apple device. Android's open system and multiple devices are going to be harder to find manufacturers producing alot of accessories for because those products will refresh and change every year as well.
Resale
Do you know there are still daily lines each morning in front of some Apple stores for the Ipad 2? Most retailers in Houston are still sold out. I ordered the iPad 2 last month and after 3 weeks, it should be here Monday finally. I believe the iPad 2 is the most genius product launch in the history of the world. People camped out the first day, and still line up to this day to get one. When it comes time to switch to a new tablet, I'm sure someone will want my Ipad 2.
Eventually apps will roll out for both platforms at the same time and be universal to any tablet hardware of choice. I will probably retire my iPad 2 for an Android tablet after 2 years of service. The speed of technology is inevitable. Quad core tablets are scheduled to come out later this year replacing current duo core models. In an internal memo a chip manufacturer outline their products for the next 5 years. 2012 tablets will be 2x as fast as 2011 tablets. 2015 tablets will be 100x faster than 2011 tablets.
Application to My Real Estate Business
I'm still trying to determine if this can really be a laptop replacement. I will use it for PowerPoint listing presentations, email, and internet access. I'm concerned about the screen size for presentations. If I can draft, modify, and electronically sign contracts on the iPad like I envision this will be all I need to carry and more innocent trees will be spared.
I'm interested in hearing how other real estate professionals are integrating tablets into their business. I'll share how this works out in mine as I begin integrating it.
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