To answer the question on the article “Applications for Magazines on Tablet PCs”, about whether tablet PCs are suitable for online games like poker.  I don’t see why any of the proposed tablet PCs couldn’t be used to play online games.  In fact the mobility could really enhance your gaming experience, as you can move to the couch and be more comfortable.  The nice big screen should be able to display all the game’s functions.

The graphics display on tablet PCs is going to be more enhanced and way better than an iPhone application.  The iPad will have its own operating system, which will be similar to the iPhone’s operating system.  So it should support online gaming. We all know the graphics capability of Apple and the Mac PCs, so the iPad should be in the same league.  The HP Slate will have a Microsoft based operating system, which will also work for online games.

If you are buying a tablet PC for online poker, then I would recommend checking whether the iPad, HP Slate or whatever make of tablet PC that you are buying, allows online poker – especially given all the legal issues with online gambling etc.

Obviously it will be a bit different how you operate the tablet PC, using a pen and the touch screen functions instead of a keyboard and mouse.  But those that have played iPhone apps would be used to this by now.  In fact some may even prefer the touch screen functionality.  Multi-tabling is going to be a bit more difficult, as maybe changing between the tables would be a bit slower, than clicking away with your mouse.

From a technical perspective there is no reason why online games cannot be played on tablet PCs.  Bandwidth should be fine, WiFi should be the latest technology available, so there should be no connection issues.  Processing power should more than sufficient, as the latest chip technology will be used. One might need to go for a bit more RAM. Finally, if you are away from a power source for a while, then battery power is going to up to 10 hours, depending on the make.

I would recommend going for a well known manufacturer that can compete technologically and will give you guarantees, plus support.  You get what you pay for!

Personally I can’t wait, this gadget freak will be first in the queue.  Being able to sit anywhere in comfort whether its on my couch, an airport lounge, hotel lobby… I will be able to sit back, log on and do what I want online.