Multiple metrics and anecdotes provide evidence that the Apple iPad is a commercial success.
1. Sales
We can consider the 600,000 to 700,000 units sold on the first available day.
Jaffray analyst Gene Munster, who had predicted that as many as 300,000 iPads would be sold this weekend, revised his numbers upward Saturday to between 600,000 and 700,000 units purchased on the first day. That contrasts with 270,000 iPhones sold during that product’s initial launch.
According to Loop Insight, “Munster said his team counted 730 people at Apple’s 5th Ave. store this morning. To compare to previous launches at the same location, there were 350 people in line for the iPhone 3GS and 540 for the iPhone 3G launch.”
2. Reviews and Writeups
We can measure the simple amount of time bloggers and journalists rave about the product in reviews. For example, 12 of the 19 top stories on TechMeme are devoted to the Apple iPad.
For Parth Dhebar, a budding entrepreneur at age 15, the decision to show up so early was a business one. His Web site, www.simple-reviews.com, provides reviews of iPhone apps. With the arrival of the iPad, he has to expand his offerings.
We can also consider the sheer number of websites devoted to the Apple iPad, right?
3. Application Availability
I’ve been considering this one for some time. Developers are the backbone to the success of a product launch and Apple did it right. The compelling reason to own and use an Apple iPad is found in the App Store as well as the iBookstore.
4. The Torture Test
The torture test is always evidence of acceptance of a mass product appeal.
Note to parents. Put these kids to work so they don’t keep wasting your money.
What other evidence have you found to support the conclusion that the Apple iPad is a successful commercial product?
