Apple has touched a new market with its iPad device, which is mid-sized tablet PC integrating features of smartphone, eBook reader and PC. Up till now, tablet sector has been under-performing due to high prices as well as limited functionality; they are outshined by normal laptops. Therefore, iPad may not face much competition from other PC vendors.

Google's Initiative

In January, the search giant had released its own branded 'superphone', called Nexus One. After that, Google has also showcased its tablet based on the Chrome operating system. Now, it might worry Apple from the Google's new initiative. It is predicted that the Chrome-based tablets will offer attractive features and various web based apps that may affect Apple iPad sales.

Earlier this month, a Chrome-based tablet has detailed that boasts a virtual keyboard, contextual control and multiple tabs for multitasking, or please users that requires simple functionality, like surfing the Web, checking e-mails or editing Office docs. The Chrome based tablets will be available later this year, which will use web-based operating system to produce more revolutionary product than Apple's tablet.

Here, the feature discusses few advances in the Chrome-based tablet, which may pose a threat to Apple's iPad.

1. Google's tablet is for multitasking

Apple has legacy to design products that are complete and the devices for the future. But, Google also knows how to remain on the top. Google will offer multi-tasking in its tablet, which is lacking in iPad. It is reported that you cannot switch over to Safari to read the news, if you are visiting pages.

2. Web-based apps

Apple introduced its iPhone operating system in the iPad, but a Web-based operating system could deliver several features, which may include off-site storage of data that can be access wherever net connection is available. Further, users can also avail features of cloud computing on the Google devices.

3. The Web Is the App Store

Apple's App Store will offer over 140,000 applications available for download to its iPad. But, Chrome operating system will also have competitive advantage over others as the software does not require so many apps, because the Web is its app store.

4. Ubiquity is the key

Apple's operating system is only available to iPad, while Chrome can run on various devices, which means users will have wide variety of PC vendors to choose from. Further, this means that there will be lot of competition between different Chrome based tablets, which give benefits to consumers with low prices. $499 for an iPad is a great price, but lack of 3G and small hard drive will transfer buyers to Chrome tablets.

5. Chrome OS for light weight systems

Chrome operating systems could not compete with Windows 7 or Mac OS X. But, it is suitable for netbooks and tablets, which comes with basic functionality like Web surfing and basic document editing. Just like Android platform, Chrome based devices can also offer multitouch options, which can match the outstanding multitouch experience of Apple's iPhone.

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