History

History of Tablet Computing

Tablet computing has become a growing industry over the past decade. The first computing products that could be considered a "tablet" began appearing in the late 1980s.  

Linus Write-Top 1987.

These early portable computers had many or the tools that we recognize as being essential to table such as as touch screens and battery power. However, both were not very reliable and without the use of wireless internet the software was very limited. 

PalmPilot 1997

A familiar ancestor of the tablet computer is the PalmPilot. In 1997 the PalmPilot was first sold and became relatively popular. People loved the device because it allowed easy, mobile organization and simple secretarial tools.

Windows XP

In 2002 Microsoft released the Windows XP. This device was one of the first devices that really began to resemble modern tablets. With its large, flat, colored screen it gave a clearer picture than its predecessors. It ran a windows operating system which made it operate more like a desktop than a completely new device.

Apple released the iPad in 2010, beginning the era of tablet computing. Their device became an instant success and stills sells quickly today. Along with with their wireless capabilities the iPad increased the use of Apps or online applications. 

Since the iPad, several companies have developed and release their own versions. This market environment has led to many improvements and innovations. The video below describes some of the differences between the available models.