The iPad has been available for nearly 3 months. Developers have had a little bit of time developing for the device and so far, the potential seems tremendous. Initially, many content creators wanted to use the device to produce high-quality content. However, that has been limited. While there are certain content creation apps, such as QuickOffice and WordPress, they’re mostly temporary solutions. As the device progresses and developers innovate, content creation will be a reality. Today, it’s all about consumption.
For those who have adapted the iTunes media ecosystem — iTunes Store, iPod, iPhone, Apple TV — the iPad fits in perfectly. The same content works across multiple devices without any additional costs.
However, there are certain apps that improve the media consumption possibilities of the device:
Reeder
The application has been available for iPhone/iPod touch users. However, it recently made its debut on the iPad. Reeder allows users to sync and read their Google Reader content on an iPad. At $4.99, it’s pricey for a feed reader, but it’s the most elegant solution thus far.
Air Video
When it comes to supporting media files, the iPad will only accept a limited range of content. Furthermore, video files are large in size and sometimes you just don’t want to carry around all your videos. Air Video solves that problem. In simple terms, it’s an app that allows users to stream a wide variety of media files to your iPad. For $2.99, it’s highly recommended.
Air Display
Air Display is an innovative solution that makes your iPad a second monitor (or third) monitor. It’s a convenient solution that currently works just on the Mac, but a PC version is underway. For $9.99, it’s certainly cheaper than buying a separate monitor.
Netflix and ABC
Both these apps were available on day 1 and continue to deliver a wide variety of content for low (Netflix) or no cost (ABC). However, these apps only work in the United States.
Hulu Plus
Hulu’s recently announced premium subscription, Hulu Plus allows subscribers to view content on mobile devices, including the iPad. While it’s still being rolled out slowly, it’ll be a must have for cable cutters.
Have more media apps that you recommend? Let me know!
