Apple unveiled its latest creation today, called the iPad. While many thought it would be called the iSlate to differentiate it from the iPod, Apple decided to keep the names quite similar, and to the point. The device may be seen as just a larger iPhone, but what lies underneath is a powerful processor for a mobile device and plenty of features, ideal for professionals, consumers, and the media industry as a whole. We have a complete roundup of what the device offers, as well as more of the specs as they are released (and likely placed on Apple’s website).

The device will fall between the smartphone and the laptop, and it is designed for browsing, email, photos, e-books, and videos, as netbooks are heavy, have low-quality displays, and of course, run Windows and its associated software. Apple saw this space and will likely be expanding in this space over time.

Overview of Specs

Here is an overview of all the specs.

• Pricing starts at $499.00, with the most expensive 64GB/3G model at $829.00
• 16-64GB of Flash storage.
• Bluetooth 2.1..
• 802.11n wireless.
• 10 hours of battery.
• Speaker, microphone and 30-pin connector.
• Fully multi-touch.
• 9.7 inch IPS LCD.
• Half an inch thick.
• Accelerometer and compass.

With these features, the Kindle will have a hard time competing. Kindle is 6″ and only reads books and some websites. For just $240 more, you can watch movies, get access to the App Store, as well as carry around your entire music library.

Pricing

Pricing came in at $499, making it one of the most affordable portable computers created in the past number of years. 16GB will run for $499, with 32Gb for $599, and 64GB for $699. 3G with 64GB will be priced at $729. Availability in 60 days, worldwide availability. 3G models will be available in 90 days, 30 days after the first models will be shipped.

iBook Store

Through iTunes, an available iBook store will become available, which will add hundreds of thousands of books and magazines in the future. This will likely become available when the device is released.

Case and Keyboard

A keyboard extension, dock, and case have been made available, exclusively through Apple. I can see the accessory makers not liking this, as this is typically their market.

3G and Wireless Plans

All 3G models are unlocked and use the new GSM wireless technology. Two plans are available through AT&T in the United States, with new plans for international users in June. For 250MB plans, the price will be about $14.99 per month, while unlimited will be $29.99 per month. Free use of AT&T WiFi hotspots will be included. No contract – cancel any time.

iWork

As many expected, a new iWork has been released specifically for the device. Apple’s elegant productivity/office suite now has a specific version for the iPad, making it extremely easy to create professional presentations, spreadsheets, and word documents within the device. It’ll be great for displaying them, too with the high resolution screen. Tabs display at the top, ideal for displaying multiple tables and charts.

Movies, Music, and More

Like the iPod touch and iPhone, the iPad focuses on delivering content very well, and it contains a large number of features that makes this experience well. Photo slideshows have also been integrated into the device.

Gaming

Every iPad comes with all the games that are available for the iPhone. All the apps have been re-written for the display. The iPhone SDK supports development for the new resolution/upscaling.

More Photos

We have showcased some of the best photos from the presentation, which showcases the great presentation that Steve Jobs and Co. put together. The device will truly change the industry – ranging from the Kindles to the netbook.