Tablets burst onto the scene earlier this year and already have become an essential device for many professionals to demo materials to clients, keep in contact with co-workers and consume content.

As part of our RedBoard series about how tablets are changing the way we live, work and play, we asked journalist and consultant Marc Saltzman five questions about how he uses tablets as well as what his predictions are for this technology.  He sees tablets becoming one of the most-exciting device categories 2011 as many more players enter the mix.

1. How do you use your tablet?

I use my Apple iPad on a daily basis. I use it for consuming media (watching video, reading e-books and playing games), as well as looking up information on the web and reading email. I also listen to music and audiobooks. To a lesser extent, I write articles on the tablet via the built-in soft keyboard or on one of the keyboard docks I have.

2. What has surprised you most about the device?

Frankly, I’m surprised at how much I rely on the device. I wasn’t sure if I really “needed” another device like this – one that’s somewhere in between a cellphone and computer in size, functionality and price – but find it very lightweight and easy to carry, it boots up immediately and lasts many hours between charges. I’m also surprised how much I use the 3G connectivity opposed to Wi-Fi (especially when on the road).

3. What are your predictions for tablets in 2011?

I predict this will be one of the most exciting categories, with many players jumping into the mix, including Android, BlackBerry, Microsoft and other players. While it doesn’t quite replace the PC, there are so many inherent benefits to tablets. And when you fold in the apps, it completely changes the game; in fact I don’t think tablets would be as successful without accompanying app stores

4. If you were sent to a desert island and could take one device, would it be a tablet or another device? Which one and why?

Ha, good question. Assuming there’s electricity, yes? Well, since I’m a journalist and author, I’d probably keep my sanity by writing (maybe a book or 10), so maybe a PC with a physical keyboard would be more ideal for someone like me, but maybe a tablet with external keyboard?! I hope I’d have access to the App Store to see what new apps debuted every day!

5. What’s your one must-have app?

TuneIn Radio ($1.99). It’s an app that lets you listen to more than 40,000 radio stations from around the world (fully searchable and browse-able); you can record songs or broadcasts to listen to later on; pause, rewind or fast-forward like a PVR; program a timer to record something in advance; and much, much more.

Saltzman will be the MC at Rogers TabLife TO on December 3rd.

You can learn more about the event at tablife.ca. We’ll have full coverage of Rogers TabLife TO here on RedBoard on December 3^rd and shortly after the event.

Richard Bloom is a regular contributor to RedBoard.