Quote:
Originally Posted by mgmueller
BTW: I'm always sceptic about such figures. $ 215 may be the manufacturing costs. But do they include R&D?
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Of course not. The point is, if Apple sells an unsubsidized iPhone for $700 ($215 manufacturing cost) and an iPod touch $300 (~$200 manufacturing cost); then Android makers need to do the same to remain competitive.
Take the 16GB WiFi iPad, Apple's cost to make is $230. They sell it for $500. The 3G versions (with no mandated contracts) cost an additional $28 to make ($258) and sell for an additional $130 ($630).
This is what Android makers are up against. If they can't compete price wise in this arena, then they need to quit now. I guarantee I won't be buying Android if they can't get their act together. The only thing a tablet has going for it over a netbook is portability (lighter weight, smaller size). Otherwise, a netbook has better specs and will do more.
If my choice is a crippled iPad (no expansion ports, no expandable memory, sealed battery) or an overpriced Android; then I'll continue using a netbook. For $250, it's a no brainer.