It may not replace a laptop but it can do the things the majority of people need it for email, internet etc and it's 'always on' unlike a laptop.
So it is sort of like an iPhone that you cannot fit in your pocket?
I have just realised that I am a grumpy grumpy old man !!! lol
I dont mean to be all down on the iPad, I just think its too big to be a phone and too small to be a laptop, cant see where it fits.
It's the sort of device you leave lying about the house and can pick up and use at any time.
laptop = slow to start up, awkward to sit with on your lap, doesn't transfer well to the toilet
ipod/iphone - screen can be too small for many websites, not good when you want to do a lot of reading on t'internet
ipad = comfortable to use while sitting in any position - settee, toilet, in bed
So yes, it's a big ipod/iphone