iPad ergonomics

So, I have put away the iPad for a while. I noticed my right eye has been 'hurting', if such a thing is possible.  I also realized that I was not able to focus up close as well.  At first, I thought it was other issues, but then realized that regardless of text size, I was unable to comfortably hold the iPad far enough away.

I then noticed on the television commercials for iPad that you never see someone holding it in any reasonable manner and to type it is always on a desk.  I am not sure there is any ergonomic way to use an iPad without a dock, in which case I may as well just use a laptop.

There are two main problems, but both related to the weight of the device.  It is too heavy to hold for any length of time without straining your neck.  With most mobile devices it is possible to type while holding the device with two hands.  Not possible with iPad.  Additionally, in order to exit apps or ( starting with 4.2 ) to lock rotation or such, you have to take a hand off to push the home button.  Also related is that when reclined, a laptop keyboard puts the screen up higher from your lap.  With the iPad, you have to hold it up, or if you slide it down to read or type, you will likely find your neck bent close to 90 degrees.

I really liked the iPad as a information consumption device, RSS feeds, Kindle app, and general web surfing.  I like to do that when I am reclined or even in an airplane seat.  Last time my eyes were tested a few years ago, my vision was still 20/15.  Also, now that I have put the iPad away for a few days, my near focus has returned.  I think the issue ( for me ) is that I am unable to comfortable hold the iPad at a distance where my eyes are able to relax and focus.

So I decided to put it away.  I am back to reading my LED 1440x900 thinkpad screen which is up higher and also dims more at night ( another issues with iPad ) and reading Kindle books on my iPhone 3GS which is light enough to hold a comfortable distance.

Perhaps a 7" Samsung Galaxy Tab or smaller iPad may help.  After the experience in general and long term keyboard ( big enough for adults ) issues with iPhones on the 3.5" screens, I am curious about emerging devices with 4.2-4.5" screens.  Bigger keyboards for typing but still can fit in your pocket.  Apple insists 10" is smallest a tablet can be.  I find myself agreeing more with Facebook, that the iPad is not a mobile device.  I hoped it would be a laptop replacement, but even with the keyboard dock it is not.

Probably the most intriguing thing was that my children and their friends will pick a laptop, iPod Touch, or iPhone to use over the iPad if I leave them out in attract mode. They would pick it up, use it for a little bit, then abandon it for another device. When I finally thought to ask them why, they all replied it was too heavy.

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