Will the iPad own a market monopoly?

I am always amused at how so many IT people do not want to give Apple credit for their innovative design engineering. I just read an article at Datamation that recognizes Apple's design superiority but in a back handed way. The author is more concerned that Apple may develop a virtual monopoly on the tablet computer market than in recognizing the design brilliance of the iPad. The iPad is giving Apple a huge market headstart by being the first in class. Once the iPad builds a critical mass of users, it will be very difficult for a competitor to enter the market. Consider the advantage the the iPhone has in the marketplace because of their early entry into the smart phone market niche.