iPad, therefore iAm

So you have a Mac (or not). An iPhone (or not). Jury still out on whether you absolutely, positively need an iPad? I say go for it.

My current obsession is the magazine apps – while the Australian publishers aren’t yet on board, those overseas that leapt first are defining the possibilities of the medium. And they’re pretty extensive.

Above: The New Yorker Ipad App

Text and image suddenly become interactive, so now as I read the words or view the photos of an article I can go deeper into, say, a 360º rendering of a product, or a video showing me how it looks in motion, or a more extensive audio interview with the maker, or to hear testimonials from customers. I can link directly to a related website, I can shop at an online store, I can find the answer to my questions immediately. The image rendering is exquisite, the colours stunningly rich. I’m really excited about the possibilities.

Above: UK Vogue Ipad App

The marketing potential for advertisers in these publications is enormous, with the option to integrate multiple swipe screens of information into every ad, direct linking to websites and online stores - even integrating music & and film to tell a story.

Here’s a few of my current favourite reads:

The New Yorker

The Martha Stuart lifestyle magazine

UK Vogue

Marie Claire Fashion A to Z

Above: The Martha Stuart ipad lifestyle magazines