With it becoming possible for computer users to download large files at greater and greater speeds, it could be argued that the launch of the Mac App Store was inevitable. The big question, however, is whether that inevitability also means the beginning of the end for the sale of software through Apple's brick and mortar retail locations. Could it be that one day in the not so distant future, Mac users will no longer have the option of choosing whether their software comes from the cloud or out of a box?

Working and playing with an iPad is an immersive, singular experience. Designed to be held in two hands, cradled in a lap or propped up against a knee, the tablet is perfect for a bit of alone time: just you, your digital media and a few well-chosen apps.

But once you put your tablet down, it’s fair game for anyone else that you live with to it pick up and use. To keep what you do with your iPad private, you could password protect it, but that sort of thing just breeds mistrust and tablet envy. You might consider giving all comers free reign to tap and swipe to their heart’s content, but will they laugh or blush at your email or browser history as a result?

No one needs that kind of stress in their life. Let Mac|Life show you how to make sharing an iPad a little easier and more pleasurable for everyone with these six multi-user wonder apps.