Amid much fanfare, Apple released their long awaited tablet computer today – the iPad. Initial reactions on this product are mixed; some people see it as a game changer while others think the device is severely limited. I’m particularly interested in how (or if) this device can change business-as-usual in the beer industry.

The most obvious application for the iPad would be in beer distribution. It could be used as the all in one tool allowing delivery employees to track inventory, customer files, invoices, and order records. For companies that run on Apple software already, its tight integration with iWork is certainly a bonus. I could also see this being a potentially valuable tool to brewery sales representatives. They could now carry around a lightweight display to new bars and restaurants with graphs, figures, pictures, presentations, etc. With its wireless and 3g capabilities, they would also be able to pull up websites for a quick and easy reference.

However, beyond these two uses, I don’t see much application for this product in the beer industry. To be honest, beyond a few experimental breweries and distribution firms, I don’t even believe this product will see widespread use by the two groups I mentioned. Time will tell how the public and the beer industry utilize this new technology. While I certainly think this it’s exciting, I don’t believe it will be a game changer in the beer industry.

Do you think the iPad can (or will) be used in the beer industry?