“iTablet” to feature iPhone OS or full blown OS X? Portability and apps or power and expandability?

I stumbled on a thought provoking article on MacDailyNews that really got my mental juices flowing…

iPhone OS

Looking at the title above and taking into account the various bits of information surrounding a so called Apple tablet that has been beaten and flogged across the digital waves the last year would lead most to believe that any actual device would feature an iPhone-esque OS. I mean, why not? If you want to keep things simple and battery friendly while also tapping into the app store, staying inside of the iPhone ecosystem is a must.

OS X

On the flip side, I couldn’t find myself paying $600+ for a glorified (and bigger screened) iPhone/iPod Touch. Many others have this same feeling. With that said, would Apple see this problem and instead push OS X onto the “higher end” 10″ tablet that is also reported to be in development? You see, it’s a tricky thing to speculate on. Ease and apps or power and expandability?

Both?

Those hoping for both don’t have much to look forward to I’m afraid. Apple isn’t one to stratify their own products or cause undue confusion. A smaller 7″ iPhone-like device and a bigger 10″ OS X device would erect a large immovable barrier between the two sister devices, effectively killing any cross device support.

What about iTunes and App Stores?

One other thing that I’ve thought about would be a revamped App Store, including not only iPhone/Touch apps but also these new OS X/Tablet inspired apps. Of course if the tablet runs OS X in full garb, would Apple move the entire library of OS X software into the App Store/iTunes?

It’s bittersweet. Having all Apple software for iPhone and desktop under one roof is highly beneficial. At the same time, iTunes needed a drastic weight loss multiple versions ago. Asking it to take on more makes me want to puke. Still, if executed correctly, the nausea can at least be dampened.

Personally, I’m on the fence. I would really like full blown OS X on a tablet device. Though the iPhone OS is a looker (if a bit dated) and is far more finger friendly. Guess I’ll just have to be surprised.

Which One?

So which way is it going to go and how will Apple market/position the device(s)?

MacDailyNews

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