[davidmr]

> It seemed like a foregone conclusion that the 10-inch tablet market was done for, with all interest and excitement shifting to smaller, but equally capable 7 or 8-inch tablets instead.

Did I miss something? I've been happy with my 10" ipad for years and, especially with the 2048x1536 display, have never felt the need to go smaller. I know most of the android tablets are smaller, but I've been completely satisfied. I suppose I've never used the ipad mini, so it might be all that and a bag of chips.

Is this really the trend? It wouldn't be the first to pass me by, but I'm still surprised.

[mcculley]

I completely agree. I love my current iPad and don't want a smaller form factor for what I use it for (e.g., reading and small amounts of typing, Duolingo every morning). I already have a smaller form factor device that is wearable but painful to read or type on for bigger jobs (my phone) and a larger device with a full size keyboard for doing lots of typing and serious work (laptop). I welcome the iPad Air because it is the device I enjoy the most but faster and lighter.

[jdietrich]

Going down to 7" has a drastic effect on portability. You can fit a Nexus 7 into a coat pocket and use it much more comfortably while standing, which is a really big deal for a large part of the market. A 7" tablet isn't much worse than a 10" when used on your sofa, but it is vastly better on a crowded train. I think that the 7" form factor is the sweet spot between a smartphone and a Macbook Air, and that 10" tablets are becoming a niche item.