Android is Google’s open source operating system that was originally made for mobile phones but eventually will be on netbooks and other devices like tablet computers. There are quite a few that will be for sale this year ranging from small 5″ screens up to 11″ tablets. There are some advantages of these to consider.

First is that you have control over your software. Third party vendors can make software for the device without having to get permission from Apple like in the Apps Store. This means that developers are going to feel better about making applications they know they can sale versus trying to stay within Apple’s limitations. This means you can get high quality applications from Android. For example, someone can design a browser that works with Flash on the device which the iPad does not have.

Secondly, is the actual hardware. Android devices can have things like USB ports which work with your external devices allowing you to use some of your external hardware with the tablet. With the iPad this is not an option at all.

Another big reason to consider the Android tablet is that within a few years it will overtake the iPhone in actual users. While it may seem advantageous right now to use the iPad since it has a large application base, this will switch very shortly as Android phones become more popular.

While the iPad is a good device, you may want to consider using an Android based tablet. With a wide variety of these coming out in the next year, consider the advantages they offer. The cost shouldn’t be as great because one company will not be controlling what applications go into the product. That should help greatly in keeping the cost down. Also with the different applications available for the product there should be more features.

So when you go looking for your new tablet just consider the options you will have and don’t limit yourself.

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The iPad is the latest technology to get worldwide attention. One of the biggest draws of the iPad is the number of apps that it can run. What you may not think about right off is the number of helpful accessories you can find. Having the right iPad tools can enhance an already-great experience. If you like the feeling of typing on keys, you may want to buy a Bluetooth keyboard. Of course the major benefit of Bluetooth is that it connects to your iPad or other devices wirelessly. The Freedom Pro Bluetooth keyboard is just one example. It has a scissor-action design that allows you to fold the keyboard in half. If you have little storage space or want to move around with your keyboard, this is a useful feature. This model is also equipped with a slide-out stand. With this keyboard you can connect to all your Bluetooth devices. There is a big number of iPad stands on the market. Bean bags or similar materials are often used for simple lap pads. Another iPad stand design is the kickstand model. This three-leg stand adjusts to many different positions and can be used with other laptops. These two options are pretty cheap. For unique designs, consider the Macally Viewstand or Joule iPad stand. These two options cost more, however, because of the quality materials and inventive design. For a portable but sturdy work surface, consider a small desk. You get the support of a desk without being forced to sit at one. The Quirky Cradle lap desk is an option if you want a small desktop. With the Quirky Cradle desk, you can also use the rotating center tray to look at your iPad from multiple viewpoints. The number of iPad cases alone is tremendous, but there are so many more accessories. iPad stands and Bluetooth keyboards are just a couple more helpful options. Keep an eye out for iPad accessories because the market is always developing and changing.