iPhone 5 and iPad 3

A standard barrel connector can be plugged in any orientation, not just forwards or backwards, and it will also last for many more insertion cycles than USB, too. Right angle barrel plugs (won't accidently unplug as easily) are far more common too.

However, I do agree that there are far too many different barrel connector sizes. There is not much reason for more than four or five, at most, and instead there are many times more than that.

Using any version of USB primarily for power is more about reducing the port count for the manufacturer, but at least the number of variants (typically, three) is fewer than with barrel connectors.

I like the way Toshiba did it with the Thrive: standard ports (including the same 4mm barrel connector as used on several different netbooks) and also a single docking connector for use with Toshiba's inexpensive docks that also hold the tablet upright.

Simple in some way but more confusing in others.

I had no idea how to search for occurrence of a string or text on a web page. Safari has no extra "Find" button. No idea the (Google) search button is also used to search for a text on that page as well as the internet.

Apple's $30 Lightning adapter won't work with most existing speakers

http://money.cnn.com/2012/09/13/technology/apple-lightning-a...

Yep, that's a side effect when something is oversimplified (or compound-functioned) to the point that a baby can use it.

Finding the tool you need becomes a bizarro easter egg hunt for some a swiss-army-knife version of a tool, instead of withdrawing the right tool from its designated spot in the tool drawer.

Note: for those on here who tend to take things too literally (including the hype about how beneficial iPhone/iPad really are, the above sentence is a metaphor.

More like sending the Volt back to the motor pool because it is obvious that you can't use it to haul the payload that fit easily into the F150.

But of course, those who fit everything they need into their backpack and ride a bike most everywhere they need to go might have trouble relating to that.

Looks Like iPhone 5 frenzy has caused Apple to stop taking orders for the iPhone 5.

http://tinyurl.com/8wedw5h

Why not download the iPad manual.

http://manuals.info.apple.com/en/ipad_user_guide.pdf

Thanks Last Mrk. Manuals are boring. I rarely read them. If I have questions, I search for an answer on the web. I can pretty much handle the rest.

I agree but I thought I'd share. I downloaded that manual and I think I referred to it maybe once.

I prefer to go to websites like this than read most manuals. Gary Heymans articles on this site give far more features than in a GPS manual. 

Oh, I forgot to mention that I don't have an iPad. I have an iPod Touch.

Anyway, how do people react to the new iPhone 5? Take a look: http://youtu.be/zzDCDruWZ38

Android phone. Asus TF700 tablet.

Nope, nope, nope. Not going to "i". For those of you who do "i", enjoy your devices. I'm sure you'll be quite happy with them. I never liked Mac computers but Apple has done a good job with their phones and tablets.

and an even better job with marketing, product hype and perceived customer satisfaction leading to strong customer loyalty and repeat purchases. That is not a criticism. It has worked and made them successful.

It's just perceived customer satisfaction? I wondered why I liked Apple products so much.;}

You have got to be kidding. The smillie face is an indicator.