So rumours of the Microsoft Courier Tablet are out and the iPad is coming in a month or two. Lot's of people saying the iPad is a luxury that no-one needs to have. A giant iPhone and nothing more. Well, Apple are still going to sell boat loads and these illustrations of the Microsoft Courier tablet and the Apple iPad show you why.

Courier leak: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UmIgNfp-MdI

iPad Padnotes http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6nDbE1CK3o

The Courier appeals more (if it indeed looks like this when launched) because it has two workable screens. I work on two screens at work and it increases my productivity. Likewise with the Courier you can do things on one screen whilst working on another. It also has stylus input which if you really want to write legibly you will need.

The iPad Padnotes app is equally as cool but I can't imagine trying to write accurately with my finger. If it allows a pen then I am sold. It is an early release which I am sure will be better on each release until it rivals the Courier software.

When seeing these two videos I suddenly realised why these two technologies could change my work and life habits. All of a sudden I really do have a digital notepad. No longer going into meetings with a pad and pen (which is still the best feeling because they never fail) but I can enter the room and write notes and doodle when bored like any other notebook.

Only trying these out in real life will tell and if Microsoft wants my money they better hurry up because the iPad cometh.