Tablet computers take off

Apple did a good job with the iPad's launch, resurrecting consideration of tablet computers by more than a few in healthcare who had been burned by lesser tablets in the past. But as we recently saw with the unveiling of Cisco's enterprise-friendly Cius--and the runaway success of the Android operating system in general--competition among tablet makers is heating up fast.

Just yesterday, LG confirmed that it's long awaited tablet device will be ready in time for the holidays. As InformationWeek reported, "LG didn't say much about the tablet other than that it would run Google's Android operating system. It will be branded along with LG's Optimus Series of Android smartphones."

It's hard to say how much of a dent LG could potentially make in healthcare, but it's worth noting that the company's Android tablet will join the Apple iPad, HP webOS PalmPad, and BlackBerry BlackPad in the world of slate-style computers. According to InformationWeek, HP has confirmed a tablet is in the works, but won't share the details yet. RIM has remained silent regarding its tablet plans.

Meanwhile, Microsoft is gearing up to become what CEO Steve Ballmer describes as a major player in the tablet computer market, with plans to introduce a range of Windows 7-powered slates in the coming months. These slates will boast a wide variety of hardware, including Intel's forthcoming low voltage "Oak Trail" processor for portable devices.

Microsoft previously made known its plans to develop tablets with a broad range of OEMs. According to a separate InformationWeek report: "The company's partners in the market include Asus, Dell, Samsung, Toshiba, Sony, Lenovo, and Fujitsu. HP has scrapped plans for a Windows 7-based tablet for the consumer market, in light of its $1.2 billion buyout of WebOS developer Palm earlier this year.

"But an HP official confirmed this week that the company still plans to offer a Windows 7 tablet for the enterprise market."

So, once again, we see nothing ensures progress like fierce competition. With mobility initiatives gaining traction in healthcare settings, who do you peg for the industry's tablet market leader two years out