That man again, that company again. Apple CEO Steve Jobs today oversaw the eagerly anticipated launch of the iPod styled tablet PC, the iPad. The launch had been largely secretive until today’s unveiling in San Francisco, with little disclosed about the look and capabilities of the iPad.

Apple seem capable of bringing the future into mainstream before any other hardware manufacturer, especially in terms of usability and opening new market sectors before anyone dare to attempt. The product placement for the iPad, primarily an internet browsing device, is being described by Jobs as in a 3rd category, between todays smartphones and the common laptop.

Features of the iPad include internet browsing, music and video capabilities and storage of photo’s. The new laptop is aimed mainly at surfing the internet, and has a 9.7 inch multi-touch glass display. iTunes will aid the purchase of music online, and the company claims a best battery life of up to 10 hours.