Bigger iPads,
Bigger Opportunity
To Transform Enterprise

As the world counts down to September 9 and the anticipated launch of two supersized iPhones, Bloomberg is reporting that Apple plans to roll out another game-changing device early next year — a jumbo-sized iPad with the potential to accelerate adoption of tablets in the enterprise.

Inside companies, larger screens would make iPads more suitable as laptop replacements, as text input and data manipulation become significantly easier on an oversized display. Apple is rumored to be working on a multitasking feature in iOS 8 that would enable users to display multiple apps simultaneously and drag content from one window to another. Similarly, companies could create and enhance their own applications that boost productivity by empowering employees to do more things at once.

The larger screen would also offer new opportunities for companies to engage consumers, particularly in retail environments where tablets could be deployed as interactive signage. A 12.9-inch iPad seems unwieldy to carry and unforgiving on batteries, arguing for fixed displays on walls and countertops that enhance the shopping experience by providing ways for customers to find products, access information, share content and conduct transactions using intuitive touchscreens.

Apple has made significant moves this summer to fortify its enterprise credentials, dedicating a segment of its WWDC keynote to the subject and announcing a partnership with IBM. And companies are already achieving tangible results by infusing their business processes with tablet apps that leverage interactive content and utility. A larger canvas would make iPads even more transformative, with the potential to radically alter the way we work, shop and learn. Let’s hope the reports are accurate.