It would be a little unnecessary to say that Apple hit it big with the iPad this year, selling 14 million in a new product category in just three quarters. What's just as remarkable, however, is how ordinary it's become to see references in the broader U.S. culture. This point is underscored today as the news, and headline in Reuters's case, that Representative Gabrielle Giffords is not only standing with assistance, but is trying to speak, and is using an iPad. Her doctors caution that she has a long road ahead, and we're sure that everyone wishes her the best in her continued recovery.
It is amazing, though, that doctors felt the need to mention her iPad use. Any variety of gadgets could have been inserted into this story, but it's an iPad that she's using and they singled out. It says a lot about Apple's brand that they would mention it, but it's also worth noting that an iPad is probably the best connected device for a patient in stable, but limited condition. It's hard to imagine a laptop inserted into this story. Contrary to Apple satire, the iPad may not be able to heal her, but we're sure she's glad something in in its place to keep her connected.