The iPad could prove to be a smart way for Apple to grab part of the publishing market as a content aggregator. But it won’t save print media by providing a new audience as Apple fanatics are predicting. In fact it could hasten its decline.

At best it’s another chapter in the unfolding story of the fragmentation of media. Publishers must make their content available on yet another platform and be prepared for Apple to act as gatekeeper.

If the iPad is successful the only winner will be Apple. Remember iTunes?

Alan Patrick blogged about this yesterday in the iPad will save print media and other modern myths.  If you’re interested in the future of media businesses his slideshare and commentary on Where is the Money in Media is required reading.

Snap by Sharynmorrow on Flickr with thanks.