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Why Apple does NOT design MBA with build in 3G?
- Thread starter lxylxy748
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Apple would have to start marking Macs for which wireless networks they have the radio for and complicate inventory.
For the iPhone and iPad this makes sense to do with the higher volumes, but you notice they still sell a fair number of the WiFi only iPads?
For the iPhone and iPad this makes sense to do with the higher volumes, but you notice they still sell a fair number of the WiFi only iPads?
Yes, and the MBA has a Keyboard and other things the iPad doesn't.
they can always sell the MBA with 3G which is only option. The 3G model does not cost a lot, the normal USB 3G mobile broadband only takes about 30bucks.
I've posted my thoughts on this before - that at some point in the near future, there will be a convergence of data and voice communication where all devices will have the ability to access both voice and data wirelessly through cell service. It's not that the mba or pro macbook will start to look and act like the iPad or iPhone, but that you'll be able to do use any and all devices to either talk or type on for communication.
We're already there with services like Skype, but someone, and I'm guessing it will be Apple, needs to create a way that a mobile (cellular) number can be used on any of the devices you're currently working on and to be able to transfer a call from one device to another without hanging up. Perhaps I'm thinking too far into the future, but I agree that it should not be too difficult to add voice calling to the mba, or pro, or mac pro or mini or iPad.
We're already there with services like Skype, but someone, and I'm guessing it will be Apple, needs to create a way that a mobile (cellular) number can be used on any of the devices you're currently working on and to be able to transfer a call from one device to another without hanging up. Perhaps I'm thinking too far into the future, but I agree that it should not be too difficult to add voice calling to the mba, or pro, or mac pro or mini or iPad.
And would they sell enough of the 3G models for it to be cost effective? It would have to be a factory installed option and that would mean either stocking the stores with it or making it CTO only.
As an additional thought, for an internal 3G module, you need an antenna and it's a metal case. Oh and you do know once you stick 3G technology in it, the device needs approvals from the telecommunications agencies in every country you want to sell it in?
Ya, all you said are truth. I throught this is too simple but it is really not that kind of simple.
Good to know you and thanks for all your information.
Good day
It's definitely been considered by Apple. A couple of months ago there was a story about a guy that bought a Macbook prototype with 3G off eBay and Apple requested it back. The thing dated to about 2006 or 2007, if I recall correctly. It was quite ugly because they had to put the antenna outside.
It wouldn't be efficient just because of the way the MacBooks are made and the way people use them. Hence why they tried putting it on the side of the display and not on the bottom like most 3G/4G laptops have.
Ditto. As much as I would like to have an 11" MBA that has an aircard, it's probably more functional in the long run just to continue to use my iPhone for tethering. I bought the original iPad 1 w/ 3G and my wife and I have used it a grand total of twice. Then she got her Galaxy S and I got my iPhone 4 and haven't looked back.
I might also get a Verizon card not under contract. The few times a year I'm out of town on trips I can turn it on for that month. One place I go has very spotty service by all companies.
For road warriors, I can see this being a BIG hit. Wi-fi is spotty and a lot of hotels charge and/or have crumby networks. I'd pay more for it...
Use bluetooth to tether it to your iPhone. Or use your iPhone as a wifi hotspot. No additional hardware required.
3G uses a lot of battery, average 2 watts per hr on my Lenovo ThinkPad with 80 watts per hr batteries. On WIFI the laptop last 6 hrs, on 3G just below 5 hrs, so prepare to lose at lest 1 hr usage time on the Air if Apple inc 3G.
Also 3G card is not as small as many people thinks, it uses mSATA connection and is about half the size of a credit card. So unless Apple can design it as part of the motherboard, it is difficulty to see where there is space in the Air to fit it.
Plus macs have all metal case, so it needs a redesign for the aerial (think black strip on ipad 3G), otherwise the case will interfere with signal.
Like OP said, you can get a 3G USB drive very cheap, and knowing Apple, it will cost $$ as an option. so I don't see what the big deal is with Apple not inc 3G in their Air lineups.
Also 3G card is not as small as many people thinks, it uses mSATA connection and is about half the size of a credit card. So unless Apple can design it as part of the motherboard, it is difficulty to see where there is space in the Air to fit it.
Plus macs have all metal case, so it needs a redesign for the aerial (think black strip on ipad 3G), otherwise the case will interfere with signal.
Like OP said, you can get a 3G USB drive very cheap, and knowing Apple, it will cost $$ as an option. so I don't see what the big deal is with Apple not inc 3G in their Air lineups.
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I'll add a +1 for bluetooth tethering. I used wifi for a while for better speed, but I found being able to activate the bluetooth from the air and not having to touch the phone outweighs any speed advantage. Battery seems to be better also.
Apple did have a prototype of the original MacBook Pro with 3G: http://news.cnet.com/8301-27076_3-20099494-248/apple-wants-its-3g-macbook-prototype-back.
Yeah, I thought about that as soon as I posted it, but was running to a meeting. I suppose it would be a wash on cost for the plan - tethering fees or pay a wifi plan on the laptop. So many phones support it nowadays that I guess it makes the most sense...
Apple can be very stubborn, they're years behind the rest.
I've had ThinkPad after ThinkPad year after year with a 3G radio & SIM card slot built in. The current models will work on either AT&T or Verizon. With a very large effective antenna built into the lid, I get terrific connectivity when no WiFi is available. It's nice not to have to use an external device.
I don't believe Apple will ever catch up with their laptops & 3G.
3g is so last year
answer: you upgrade phone (that you already own, with working 3g) more often than laptop, most likely. just use wifi hotspot (or plug in and charge at the same time).
I, for one, DON'T want 3g in the box. its a waste of time and will be obsolete before the machine is end of life anyway.
answer: you upgrade phone (that you already own, with working 3g) more often than laptop, most likely. just use wifi hotspot (or plug in and charge at the same time).
I, for one, DON'T want 3g in the box. its a waste of time and will be obsolete before the machine is end of life anyway.
