The+Apple+Ecosystem

As with any great item there are some draw backs to entering the Apple universe. Apple keeps strict control over what can and cannot be published into their app store. This can create some major problems for schools as they want to expand on their horizons and find the most financially feasible ways of implementing mobile devices. It is important to note that when entering into the world of the iPad that your school will be locked in with only Apple approved apps.

Another aspect to watch out for involves the purchase of the apps, as you can only purchase them from the Apple App store. While they offer a volume purchasing program the discounts often do not kick in until you purchase twenty or more app licenses. Because each license covers ten different devices, the savings do not start kicking in until you have covered 200+ devices of the same app.

There are some ways around this dilemma but it comes with a consequence. In order to access different apps the owners of iPads do have the ability to "jail break" the device. Now this has a negative perception as "illegal," however, it is not. The consequence with "jail breaking" the device involves the warranty that Apple has placed on it. If the device has been altered to the "jail break" version Apple will not fix or replace the device.

When debating on your mobile device the drawbacks of Apple are also the same drawbacks that you would encounter on an Android tablet. While a variety of tablets are available on the Android operating system, their apps will not work across the barrier of another iOS. Technology is an ever changing market so the decision that you make in picking a mobile device should reflect the trends in the industry that have come before it. The Apple iPad has its drawbacks, but the overall benefits out weigh them in the end.

Please continue to our next section, Equity of Distribution of Devices