PowerBook Updates Imminent?

[MacPassion]

My determining factor was this; Does the machine give me performance and function today at the price I am willing to pay? The answer was yes. I could have waited, but I may have been sorely disappointed at the wait. I can always sell on ebay and lose $100 or so, and that is not a bad price to pay for having it now.


I agree with you for the performance. But....my determining factor is: is the current powerbook screen worth the price of the pb now? My answer is no, especially here in Australia. If you convert the price in US dollars and compare to the price of the pb in Australia you would be surprised...and disappointed.....as I am...

[Fireburst]

I agree with you for the performance. But....my determining factor is: is the current powerbook screen worth the price of the pb now? My answer is no, especially here in Australia. If you convert the price in US dollars and compare to the price of the pb in Australia you would be surprised...and disappointed.....as I am...

I hear ya! In the UK the 12" combi Powerbook comes in at $1,847.80 if you convert the price into USD :eek:

[maddav]

Here's how it stands in the UK:

(These are all the standard models with no BTO options)

- 12" PB Combo: 24 hours
- 12" PB Super: 24 hours
- 15" PB Combo: 2 Days
- 15" PB Super: 2-3 weeks
- 17" PB Super: 5 days


Come on 12"! :p

[AnAn]

one more thing...

i'm pretty sure it'll be a new PowerBook G4 with built-in camera.

that's it!

[Temujin]

Here's how it stands in the UK:

(These are all the standard models with no BTO options)

- 12" PB Combo: 24 hours
- 12" PB Super: 24 hours
- 15" PB Combo: 2 Days
- 15" PB Super: 2-3 weeks
- 17" PB Super: 5 days


Come on 12"! :p


In Denmark

- 12" PB Combo: 24 hours
- 12" PB Super: 2 days
- 15" PB Combo: 5 Days
- 15" PB Super: 24 hours
- 17" PB Super: 24 hours

[BWalen]

So i finally said enough is enough, and bought my first apple ever: a 12 inch powerbook with the superdrive. It's a pretty cool machine, and at 1540 out the door I'm happy with the price. I've got a 2 week window in which to take it back and incur the 10% restocking fee...now i gotta pray the updates come in the next two weeks...I think it'd the restock fee would be worth it for the last powerpc powerbook ever! :)

[turbojugend]

one more thing...

i'm pretty sure it'll be a new PowerBook G4 with built-in camera.

that's it!

How can you be "pretty sure". You're almost certain, in other words. Do you have inside information? :confused:

[incubus2432]

BTW, i don't know if it's been mentioned before, but as far as i recall, the sku's of the PB 15" were M9676LL/A and M9677LL/A, but on this page (http://www.apple.com/macosx/uptodate/list.html) for Tiger, Apple has both the old ones and this other two: M9831LL/A and MA015LL/A, both with the same speed as the older sku's, could it mean upgrades without speed changes?


I have been kind of "confused" myself about these model #'s. I ordered my 15" PB on 9/20 and it's part # is M9831LL/A. I was only able to find that part number on the site where I bought it but it had the specs I wanted and the price was great so I went for it. 1.67ghz, 100gb, 128VRAM, 1gb ram. Price was $2299. I figured that Apple gave different part numbers to machines preconfigured with upgrades....I'm new to Apple products and am not familiar with how they do things.

I have no idea if this means anything or not but thought I'd post the info anyway.

BTW.....very happy with the purchase ;) .

[DesynR_Chk]

The shipping times for PBs haven't changed. I would rather see an Intel PB on January.

I know I'm going to come off sounding like a complete j-hole, but I'm going to ask anyways. Whats the big deal with Apple adding intel? What are the benefits? I really wanna get one of the new PowerBooks that are (suppose to be) coming out soon, but I keep hearing crap about intel... I can't wait until the end of 2006...

Please advise hahaa

[AnAn]

Friend of mine was working in Apple(Marketing) year ago. Her ex-colleague told her Apple had been tried really hard to integrate iSight technology to the new version of PowerBook and iBook(probably it's preparing for the forthcoming IntelBooks) and the design of the built-in camera will be similar to the Sony Vaio BX series. She also told me about the iPod nano a week ago before it actually launch! According from her rumor, I believe that the new PowerBook will be appeared on the "one more thing" speical event on 12/10/2005. Hopefully!

Don't blame me if I'm wrong. :)

How can you be "pretty sure". You're almost certain, in other words. Do you have inside information? :confused:

[KA2357]

Friend of mine was working in Apple(Marketing) year ago. Her ex-colleague told her Apple had been tried really hard to integrate iSight technology to the new version of PowerBook and iBook(probably it's preparing for the forthcoming IntelBooks) and the design of the built-in camera will be similar to the Sony Vaio BX series. She also told me about the iPod nano a week ago before it actually launch! According from her rumor, I believe that the new PowerBook will be appeared on the "one more thing" speical event on 12/10/2005. Hopefully!

The statement that Apple was working on integrating iSight into their laptops, a la Sony, isn't news to anyone here... especially given that a number of Sony people moved to Apple. When and whether that happens is a matter of time. However, as for your belief about the PowerBook being updated/unveiled next week, can you substantiate this claim?

[lalcan]

The statement that Apple was working on integrating iSight into their laptops, a la Sony, isn't news to anyone here... especially given that a number of Sony people moved to Apple. When and whether that happens is a matter of time. However, as for your belief about the PowerBook being updated/unveiled next week, can you substantiate this claim?
His/Her basis to make that claim are those explained in the post you replied to, i'd rather ask about any other info, like, do you AnAn know if the rumor your friend heard mentions anything else, like HD displays or speedbumps? TIA and hope you're right!

[Eastend]

His/Her basis to make that claim are those explained in the post you replied to, i'd rather ask about any other info, like, do you AnAn know if the rumor your friend heard mentions anything else, like HD displays or speedbumps? TIA and hope you're right!

Good reply, I wonder if she has anymore information at all, please call your friend lady, I need a PowerBook.

Brian

[middlegrey]

you crazy kids...

some info from http://www.thinksecret.com/

'October 12 Apple event to usher in new Power Macs, PowerBooks...'

'Updated PowerBooks expected next week will sport higher resolution displays, sources have said. Although specific resolutions are unknown, sources expect the number of pixels packed into the displays to increase by about 15 percent on the 15- and 17-inch models. Much how Apple abandoned monochrome screens in its iPods this year, as Think Secret foretold in February, documents reveal the company plans to have widescreen displays in all of its systems in 2006. While it's possible that the 12-inch display currently featured in the PowerBook may be replaced with a widescreen model now, it's more likely to arrive next year.

Both updated Power Mac and PowerBook systems are expected to use DDR2 memory, delivering performance improvements beyond the typical processor speed bumps. At least one Power Mac G5 configuration will feature IBM's PowerPC 970MP dual-core processor, while PowerBooks are expected to see their PowerPC 7447A processor replaced with a slightly faster 7448 model.'

[BWalen]

So a friend of mine works at an Apple store, and he told me the other week to go ahead and buy a powerbook after dismissing rumors of the 10/4 powerbook update day, so I did. I saw him today though, and he looked at me with a kind of grim look on his face when i told him how happy i was with my current powerbook and said "yea well i just hope you dont kill me in a week or so." Of course he is alluding to the san jose conference happening next week. He can't confirm, deny, or speculate on anything that will be released or updated, because i really don't think he knows and isn't told (he's an honest dude) but I think we'll get our update next tuesday...at least that's where i'll put my money.

He did make one good point though: he mentioned that even if we do happen to get the update next week, that doesn't mean the stores will carry right away...it could take them some time to get them in stock...up to a month or greater...so i dunno why we're all super antsy for an update when it wont technically be available even when we get one...just a thought i guess...

Anyway, my bet is on next week, and though i'm happy with my little powerbook, i'm willing to pay the restock fee for whatever update to the powerbook they might have.

[Eastend]

you crazy kids...

some info from http://www.thinksecret.com/

'October 12 Apple event to usher in new Power Macs, PowerBooks...'

'Updated PowerBooks expected next week will sport higher resolution displays, sources have said. Although specific resolutions are unknown, sources expect the number of pixels packed into the displays to increase by about 15 percent on the 15- and 17-inch models. Much how Apple abandoned monochrome screens in its iPods this year, as Think Secret foretold in February, documents reveal the company plans to have widescreen displays in all of its systems in 2006. While it's possible that the 12-inch display currently featured in the PowerBook may be replaced with a widescreen model now, it's more likely to arrive next year.

Both updated Power Mac and PowerBook systems are expected to use DDR2 memory, delivering performance improvements beyond the typical processor speed bumps. At least one Power Mac G5 configuration will feature IBM's PowerPC 970MP dual-core processor, while PowerBooks are expected to see their PowerPC 7447A processor replaced with a slightly faster 7448 model.'

I bet probably over half the people here have already read that I know I did, but thanks anyway.

Brian

[Shattering Fast]

how do you like them apples?

Would be the best tag-line for a new range of Macs, seriously, thats gold.

Well done.

[kodeman]

Ok so i'm not new to macs or this site but this is my first post. I ordered a 15" PB with 128 video and 512ram, 80gig. anyways It was supposed to ship on or before the 4th of October... Guess what! Now it says the ship date is on or before 27th of October. I think thats a good indication that they are upgrading the PB line, and I would guess that mine is in the new line of upgrades (I would imagine anyways) so I hope that helps some of you out. It also still says processsing...so I don't have any new info.

[deanwaterman]

So i finally said enough is enough, and bought my first apple ever: a 12 inch powerbook with the superdrive. It's a pretty cool machine, and at 1540 out the door I'm happy with the price. I've got a 2 week window in which to take it back and incur the 10% restocking fee...now i gotta pray the updates come in the next two weeks...I think it'd the restock fee would be worth it for the last powerpc powerbook ever! :)

No doubt about the value of a restock fee if the machine is significant... I just bought my 12" last week because I needed it NOW. I couldn't wait, I was without a computer. But, in asking the Apple employees about the potential of an upgrade, I got no response, just a "are you stupid" look. If they do updates next week, I am going back to this store and going to the manager and working with him... I suggest you do the same. If he won't budge, you call the home office in CA, and their customer service delivers! They will work with you, the store, and get it fixed so you are happy. When you only have 3% of the computer market, you do strive a little harder than MS.

One other thing. I find people are more than willing to purchase a PB on ebay. I paid $1499 with my ed discount, have $100 in tax, and feel I could sell it on ebay for $1550 plus shipping. For those who cannot use the ed discount, they see a savings of $250 for a mostly new machine ($1699.00 + tax of about $100-$130) I lose $50 ( more or less) and have no hassle's with a store I do business with. There are thousands of people on ebay who want a Powerbook but will never pay attention, or care about, the upgrades.

Good luck!

[powerbook911]

He did make one good point though: he mentioned that even if we do happen to get the update next week, that doesn't mean the stores will carry right away...it could take them some time to get them in stock...up to a month or greater...so i dunno why we're all super antsy for an update when it wont technically be available even when we get one...just a thought i guess...

Anyway, my bet is on next week, and though i'm happy with my little powerbook, i'm willing to pay the restock fee for whatever update to the powerbook they might have.

These small updates to the lines are usually available, in the stores, very quickly.

[lalcan]

These small updates to the lines are usually available, in the stores, very quickly.
That's it, i'm done with this theme, i actually had a dream last night about it! I need to clean my mind for some days, see you next monday (i know i'll have to check the rumor avalanche by then) :-)

The lesson is clear, next time i have some growing need for a PB, i'll buy it within the month of the announcement, hopefully that way i'll avoid this many months searching the forums and ever-contradicting rumor sites like a soul in pain...

At least i've seen enough info to be 100% sure we'll get PB updates within the next few weeks, most probably this coming wednesday, and there'll be one of them under my christmas tree.

[davidgilmour]

According from her rumor, I believe that the new PowerBook will be appeared on the "one more thing" speical event on 12/10/2005.


An, I hope you are so right, I ordered an iBook 2 months ago and cancelled it immediately when I saw the PowerBook standing next to it in an Apple store!

In want a 12 inch PB very very very desperately !

[~Shard~]

its 140 am on the west coast and all is quiet...

If it's 1:40 AM I should hope it would be! Or were you expecting Jobs to wake everyone up in his jammies to announce something? :p :cool:

[Temujin]

Or were you expecting Jobs to wake everyone up in his jammies to announce something? :p :cool:

Funny ****, can't you just picture him. Would be a good tv ad. If he appeared on tv doing that I would buy everything he would ask me to. Just as sweet and creamy as the old coca cole ad's, just featuring Jobs and his new products :D

[anamenotused]

Well I did it!!! I called apple and asked them if I ordered now, and it gets updated tommorow, what would happen? He said i would end up getting the updated version anyway. So.. I ordered my first NEW Mac!!! I wish i would have gotten it during the student union deal.. but oh well.. maybe ill get an updated one. If it doesnt get updated Im not going to really care anyway. So yeah, so long to the old used macs ive been using *see sig*

[Toe]

PowerMac G4 400Mhz AGP, 80GB, 768mb ram, OSX 10.4.x

iBook G3 300Mhz (Tangerine Clamshell), 40GB, 288mb, OSX Panther + Mac OS 9.2.2 Dual Boot
No offense, but they could send you an old refurb iBook and you'd still be smear these two... :D

[anamenotused]

No offense, but they could send you an old refurb iBook and you'd still be smear these two... :D


i know.. haha

I will admit though, its cool to thnk that the old ibook and powermac here can run tiger deciently when doing basic stuff like papers, music, internet, ssh, and c++. i am looking forward to a more snappy osx though

[mikev]

I just bought a new PB on Oct. 1. I guess I made a mistake. Oh well, live and learn. I hope that maybe I can get the differents if the price gets dropped or maybe pay the restocking fee to get the updated one (if it really comes out) I have until Fri according to my receipt.

[Grell]

There are considerable delays on PowerBooks throughout most of the European Apple Stores; if they don't upgrade the whole line I'm gonna eat my shorts. :)

The PowerBooks in the stores at the moment are conciderably out-dated and over-priced (at least when it comes to the technical specs).

[davidgilmour]

I want that too. Unfortunately, I'm scared that when they do update the Powerbooks (maybe not until next week), the 12-inch won't get an update. :(

I *HOPE* that they update the PB with only 3 things.
1. widescreen
2. backlit keyboard
3. built in webcam

I played 2day with the ASUS laptop, white with rotatable (180 degrees) webcam, it was awesome, 1.3 MP.

Come on Apple !!!! Please please please !!!! :)

[~Shard~]

I *HOPE* that they update the PB with only 3 things.
1. widescreen
2. backlit keyboard
3. built in webcam

I played 2day with the ASUS laptop, white with rotatable (180 degrees) webcam, it was awesome, 1.3 MP.

Come on Apple !!!! Please please please !!!! :)

Only those 3 things? What happens if Apple includes a fourth update? Will you be mad at them? :p ;)

[lalcan]

"Ogrady's PowerPage claims that Apple is prepping an update for the PowerBook line that could arrive as soon as this week. "

I'm telling you all, Ogrady is no hero of mine... PB next tuesday anyone? :confused:

[mikev]

Saw this earlier, must be a hoax...
http://zwebendesign.com/apple.com/powerbook.html

[mddharma]

:mad: :mad: WTF!! :mad: :mad:

No Powerbook upgrades? I AM SOOOOOOO Mad! :mad: :mad:

[teddy07x]

Works for me!

AMD would then be = Alternative Mac Developer :)

[wahit]

Big disappointment!!! No new PowerBooks! Damn you Apple :( :(

[sphereboy]

Do you guys think there will be powerbook updates next week? Sort of an incognito type of upgrade? Any rumors out there on this?

[~Shard~]

:mad: :mad: WTF!! :mad: :mad:

No Powerbook upgrades? I AM SOOOOOOO Mad! :mad: :mad:

Life is full of disappointments. Build a bridge and get over it. :cool:

Big disappointment!!! No new PowerBooks! Damn you Apple

Yes, Apple is expected to cater to absolutely everyone's needs simultaneously. :rolleyes:

PowerBooks updates will be released when they are ready - hopefully this will be sooner rather than later, but until that happens, you just have to be patient - there's ntohing you can do about it!

But hey, with these impressive iMac updates, just imagine how good the PowerMac and PowerBook updates will be! ;) :cool:

[~Shard~]

Do you guys think there will be powerbook updates next week? Sort of an incognito type of upgrade? Any rumors out there on this?

Apple definitely has done this before, so I wouldn't put it out of the realm of possibility. And in he case of the PowerBooks, Apple definitely doesn't require a big event like today's to announce an update, since it would most likely just be a move to a 7448 or something like that. I'd say keep your eyes open and fingers crossed for an update in the next couple of weeks! :cool:

[rjc]

Do you guys think there will be powerbook updates next week? Sort of an incognito type of upgrade? Any rumors out there on this?

Well, the lack of any rumors about the iMac update should tell you the reliability of the rumors sites lately. Out of speculation I'd say that if the iMac has DDR2 RAM that the PowerMac will get it, maybe even next week (assuming updates are ready, but weren't included in the event because they don't have anything to do with the video theme). Maybe the Powerbooks will be updated then, too. But it's all just a guess.

How disappointing.

[tekmoe]

i was let down again today.

considering both the 15"s and 17" on the apple store are 6-8 days for BTO, this definitely points to an update for next week. let's hope so. i have sold my 15" and my gf won't let me use her 12" !!! i am macless!@#%

[JoeBeCrazy]

assuming updates are ready, but weren't included in the event because they don't have anything to do with the video theme). Maybe the Powerbooks will be updated then, too. But it's all just a guess..

Yea i think that's a good point. It wasn't with the theme. A faster Powerbook won't make it to a show anyways. Speed doesn't cut as a "wow" factor for Apple. An integrated iSight would be nice though. But you know... (i know this may sound stupid) but i just want a Black Powerbook... so it can match my future Black iPod.

But i'm glad Apple kept this show "low key"... Seems like they are just trying to get up-to-date with PCs. These Media Centers... Portable Video... already been done, but seems like now Mac fans can enjoy these privilages too. Downloadable TV Shows are really really cool though, i gotta admit! It won't been too far until we see a Video-enabled AirPort Express with Remote.

Interms of Widescreen 12"... that will definitely change the size of the computer. i think apple will keep the same size the same until the next release... it's too much trouble right now to change the Batteries, laptop bags, etc. the MacTel one will have a better chance. And the screen being different resolution? maybe... but i'm going to say no... not until the make the Cinema Displays a differnt Pixel Pitch (0.258 mm)... right now both the Apple Display and the Laptop have the exact same Pixel Pitch (about 100ppi) so they match up... changing the resolution in 12" will make the laptop not match the displays.

So final conclusion... i'm going to put my money on an integrated iSight... same resolution PowerBooks... and hopefully a Black one! :D

[Squonk]

..snip..

PowerBooks updates will be released when they are ready
..snip..

But hey, with these impressive iMac updates, just imagine how good the PowerMac and PowerBook updates will be! ;) :cool:

I couldn't agree more!

There is no way that the current PowerBook can stay in production until the PowerIntelBooks come out in 06 or 07. Could Apple keep them as is - of course they could, but from a technology standpoint, I don't think this is wise. The PowerBooks are no longer ahead of the pack.

I think Steve must get a kick out of each time he reads "PowerBooks next Tuesday..." :p

[~Shard~]

I couldn't agree more!

There is no way that the current PowerBook can stay in production until the PowerIntelBooks come out in 06 or 07. Could Apple keep them as is - of course they could, but from a technology standpoint, I don't think this is wise. The PowerBooks are no longer ahead of the pack.

Agreed. I see the PowerBooks seeing a nice upgrade to the 7448 to last for another year or so, until the Merom PowerBooks come out. :cool:

[al3000]

PB's with integrated iSight would be great, even better if they were out next tuesday!

[Squonk]

Agreed. I see the PowerBooks seeing a nice upgrade to the 7448 to last for another year or so, until the Merom PowerBooks come out. :cool:

I sure am hoping for a 7448 upgrade as well!

A bump to the 200MHz FSB would do wonders for the throughput. Honestly, how long have the FSB's been at 167MHz anway? Something like three years?

What are the FSB speeds on the high end PC laptops these days? I pride myself in NOT knowing that kind of information... :o

[iQuit]

I am pissed because Apple only cares about the iPod and no new PowerBook was released...which is BS. I better be getting a black XGA 17" screen with an ipod dock built it with a freakin G5 for all this waiting.... looks like they didn't get 3 grand out of me and I guess I'll go buy a PC laptop....


I sure am hoping for a 7448 upgrade as well!

A bump to the 200MHz FSB would do wonders for the throughput. Honestly, how long have the FSB's been at 167MHz anway? Something like three years?

What are the FSB speeds on the high end PC laptops these days? I pride myself in NOT knowing that kind of information... :o

[iQuit]

I've seen FSB on a PC laptop of 1600 MHz...:'(



I sure am hoping for a 7448 upgrade as well!

A bump to the 200MHz FSB would do wonders for the throughput. Honestly, how long have the FSB's been at 167MHz anway? Something like three years?

What are the FSB speeds on the high end PC laptops these days? I pride myself in NOT knowing that kind of information... :o

[mddharma]

[QUOTE=~Shard~]Life is full of disappointments. Build a bridge and get over it. :cool:

Wow! What great advice for such a tired cliche
:rolleyes:

Yes, Apple is expected to cater to absolutely everyone's needs simultaneously. :rolleyes:

:rolleyes: More original and thoughtful comments...

PowerBooks updates will be released when they are ready - hopefully this will be sooner rather than later, but until that happens, you just have to be patient - there's ntohing you can do about it!

Have you been in or are you in recovery? This advice of yours sounds so much like - God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference.
Man, you are such a deep thinker. :rolleyes:

:mad: Now the facts are some of us are tired of waiting for a product that should have been updated A LONG TIME AGO. Gee, I'm sure we can just cliche ourselves to death, but sometimes, yes sometimes it is better to vent. As this forum is for discussion, and yes venting at times, it should be acceptable without having a junior philosopher quoting psychobabble.

:) Ahhhhhh, that feels so much better :cool:

[fklehman]

First thing: ARRRRGGGGGGHHHHHHH!!!! BASE BETRAYERS!!

Ok, now I can be rational. A couple things:

1) Does anyone else take solace in the fact that part of the iMac update was PCI express? The PowerMac update would HAVE to include it, and based on that the PowerBook update may very well include it as well. Bodes well for getting a GPU better than the now-pokey ATI Mobility 9800 to replace the current, even pokier 9700--perhaps an X700 (ok maybe that's too optimistic).

2) I'm also staying tuned for 10.4.3, which I still believe (have said this in forums for a few weeks now) will bring us the new PMs and PBs. I was googling it yesterday and the latest build seemed to be 8F36 or so, showing up only on foreign language sites though. Anyone found any different info as to the latest build number, or as to progress with the update?

3) Re: the hoax web page, the giveaway for me was the nVidia symbol next to the ATI symbol, even though the alleged graphics update was the ATI x800 across all three PBs. Note to hoaxers: cross your t's and dot your i's, people.

[generik]

1. 2Ghz
2. HD display
3. Optional iSight

[bryanc]

I've been using a 667 MHz TiBook for four years now, and it's been a great machine. But I've been ready for an upgrade since last year. When the PowerBooks were last upgraded (back in January), I didn't have the cash to buy one. By the time I did, they were starting to look kind of dated, and the rumour sites were all 'G5 powerbooks next Tuesday' so I decided to wait a little longer.

Various Apple events that were rumoured to herald new powerbooks came and went with no upgrades. Finally, when it became clear that there would never be a G5 powerbook, I decided to put some money into upgrades to make my aging TiBook more serviceable (a new battery and a bigger HD), to see if I could hold out until the Macintels debuted next spring.

But then, some cretin at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in San Francisco dropped my briefcase (with my powerbook in it) hard enough to break the titanium case and really fsck up all the fiddly bits inside. (The Hyatt, BTW, takes no responsibility for damaging your stuff if you leave it with them in their baggage-check room). I've managed to repair it so that it sort-of works (I get lots of crashes, the (new) battery won't charge, and my two 512 MB memory sticks read as a pair of 256s), so now I'm desperate for a new powerbook. I've been literally loosing sleep over the impending powerbook updates predicted for today, and I'm very disappointed that there is still no sign of an update.

I simply cannot believe that Apple is going to let the Powerbook stagnate until they can release an Intel-powered model next year. What about the 7448 and all the other components that could be upgraded without necessitating a re-design?!? There are so many people on these forums that have been howling for any powerbook update that Apple has to know that there's a ton of pent-up demand.

The only logic I can think of is that they're concerned that an updated G4 powerbook will be preferable to any Intel-based powerbook they can release, and they don't want the first Macintels to flop. Now that I think of it, that's actually a pretty compelling argument. However, if Apple doesn't release an updated powerbook this month, I'm going to buy a ThinkPad, and put Linux on it.

Cheers

[pigwin32]

I've been using a 667 MHz TiBook for four years now, and it's been a great machine. But I've been ready for an upgrade since last year. When the PowerBooks were last upgraded (back in January), I didn't have the cash to buy one. By the time I did, they were starting to look kind of dated, and the rumour sites were all 'G5 powerbooks next Tuesday' so I decided to wait a little longer.

Various Apple events that were rumoured to herald new powerbooks came and went with no upgrades. Finally, when it became clear that there would never be a G5 powerbook, I decided to put some money into upgrades to make my aging TiBook more serviceable (a new battery and a bigger HD), to see if I could hold out until the Macintels debuted next spring.

But then, some cretin at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in San Francisco dropped my briefcase (with my powerbook in it) hard enough to break the titanium case and really fsck up all the fiddly bits inside. (The Hyatt, BTW, takes no responsibility for damaging your stuff if you leave it with them in their baggage-check room). I've managed to repair it so that it sort-of works (I get lots of crashes, the (new) battery won't charge, and my two 512 MB memory sticks read as a pair of 256s), so now I'm desperate for a new powerbook. I've been literally loosing sleep over the impending powerbook updates predicted for today, and I'm very disappointed that there is still no sign of an update.

I simply cannot believe that Apple is going to let the Powerbook stagnate until they can release an Intel-powered model next year. What about the 7448 and all the other components that could be upgraded without necessitating a re-design?!? There are so many people on these forums that have been howling for any powerbook update that Apple has to know that there's a ton of pent-up demand.

The only logic I can think of is that they're concerned that an updated G4 powerbook will be preferable to any Intel-based powerbook they can release, and they don't want the first Macintels to flop. Now that I think of it, that's actually a pretty compelling argument. However, if Apple doesn't release an updated powerbook this month, I'm going to buy a ThinkPad, and put Linux on it.

Cheers
Wow, I know exactly where you're coming from, right up to the point where someone trashed your TiBook. My one is still chugging away thankfully and like you I've been delaying upgrading it until there's a compelling product to replace it with. I dropped in the Hitachi Travelstar 7k60 7200rpm drive which was brilliant, and there have been noticeable speed increases with each new release of OSX. But it is getting long in the tooth and I can't see myself shelling out for the first rev of the Intel PowerBooks. Guess that makes the rumoured 7448 look pretty interesting right now.

Maybe hold your breath for a little bit longer and make sure you've got a backup or your existing data.

[buddyspencer]

i hope the PBs will come fast as possible....!

maybe next week? if you're looking through the stores, you can see, that there are delivery times for most of the PB's. Especially in other Countries than the U.S. (Europe, etc.)

[mddharma]

I've been using a 667 MHz TiBook for four years now, and it's been a great machine. But I've been ready for an upgrade since last year. When the PowerBooks were last upgraded (back in January), I didn't have the cash to buy one. By the time I did, they were starting to look kind of dated, and the rumour sites were all 'G5 powerbooks next Tuesday' so I decided to wait a little longer.

Various Apple events that were rumoured to herald new powerbooks came and went with no upgrades. Finally, when it became clear that there would never be a G5 powerbook, I decided to put some money into upgrades to make my aging TiBook more serviceable (a new battery and a bigger HD), to see if I could hold out until the Macintels debuted next spring.

But then, some cretin at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in San Francisco dropped my briefcase (with my powerbook in it) hard enough to break the titanium case and really fsck up all the fiddly bits inside. (The Hyatt, BTW, takes no responsibility for damaging your stuff if you leave it with them in their baggage-check room). I've managed to repair it so that it sort-of works (I get lots of crashes, the (new) battery won't charge, and my two 512 MB memory sticks read as a pair of 256s), so now I'm desperate for a new powerbook. I've been literally loosing sleep over the impending powerbook updates predicted for today, and I'm very disappointed that there is still no sign of an update.

I simply cannot believe that Apple is going to let the Powerbook stagnate until they can release an Intel-powered model next year. What about the 7448 and all the other components that could be upgraded without necessitating a re-design?!? There are so many people on these forums that have been howling for any powerbook update that Apple has to know that there's a ton of pent-up demand.

The only logic I can think of is that they're concerned that an updated G4 powerbook will be preferable to any Intel-based powerbook they can release, and they don't want the first Macintels to flop. Now that I think of it, that's actually a pretty compelling argument. However, if Apple doesn't release an updated powerbook this month, I'm going to buy a ThinkPad, and put Linux on it.

Cheers

I agree 100%! I have a 500 MHz Ti powerbook, and the screen is just about shot. I have purchased and I am using a 19" Viewsonic, but I can not get the most out of it because of the graphics card in the Ti. In addition, I have been finding myself more and more bringing work home to use my 700 Mhz G4 imac. TIRED OF DOING THIS. :mad:

I have also been thinking of going with the thinkpad and running Linux on it. I have used Apple since 1984 (a mac plus) and have never been SO disappointed in them in regards to updating the Pro Line. I DO understand that IBM & Motorola have slowed things down, BUT DON'T MAKE EXCUSES for the upgrading that Apple could have done, and should have done, BEFORE NOW. I am talking graphic cards, faster hard drives, better screens, etc.

So... once again.... MR. JOBS - RELEASE THOSE POWERBOOKS! :( :(

[teddy07x]

Well, the lack of any rumors about the iMac update should tell you the reliability of the rumors sites lately. Out of speculation I'd say that if the iMac has DDR2 RAM that the PowerMac will get it, maybe even next week (assuming updates are ready, but weren't included in the event because they don't have anything to do with the video theme). Maybe the Powerbooks will be updated then, too. But it's all just a guess.

How disappointing.

I always thought a new iPOD would come out after Nano, I think they used the same team to deal with both designs.
Jobs said that they started redesigning the iMAC when the first G5 iMAC went gold (shipped out).
Now, We all know PowerMac had their update with the 2.0/2.3/2.7 batch.
I think Apple's r&d team have a PM with DDR2 in hand, just waiting for a cpu to drop in. another 0.1 upgrade won't cut it and the profits numbers prolly made them scrap the hole thing and just stick to the 2.7 update instead. and no ddr2. Now that IBM has DC in hand, we might get to see a lineup with DDC 2.7 and DDR2. maybe even a 2.8.

As for powerbooks the cpu has been the biggest problem, and the person who can tell wether or not FreeScale has shipped out a 7448 to apple, and when, prolly also knows when the new PB will be out. IF it will be....

I smell a DDR2 with FrontRow upgrade. no MHZ bump tho.

The new iMAC if IBM had a dualcore cpu in hand, would've been a DualCore single 2.1. It didn't come... so why should they have a dualcore ready for the powermac lineup? makes no sense...
revamping the lineup just for DDR2 isn't gonna give you much of an increase anyway... and they just put in better DVD burners in them.
We might get an X600 further down the road... But as for DDR2? I think it's saved for Mactel...

Let's just hope they managed to use the 7448 in the current PB without doing to many mods to the mb.

[geoffism]

I'm suprised at myself. I too, just like the most of you, get all giddy when talk of a new PB surfaces again. I end up reading these post like the lucky lottery numbers are hidden in the text. The problem is, they were "rumouring" dual-core chips over a year ago, and all that has been happening is minor updates. I'm not a computer engineer, but that would tell me that they have reached the limitations (or very close to them) with the current specs. You can only upgrade the engine so much without changing the car.

I picked up my new (not so new now) PB back in Feb. Tired of waiting and my TiPB was on the slow decent to Davey Jone's locker.

In my unsolicited opinion, if you need the PB now, get it now. If you can wait, then wait. The dev time with the new chips will take a little while, and until they figure out how to hook a liquid-filled inter-cooler up to a PB, the G5's are not coming. Seriously, you need an industrial AC unit to work on the G5 towers.....

Faith in Steve.

peace.

[Jestered]

It really gets tiring reading all the posts from people complaining about the PowerBooks, or lack there of.

I understand the need for a new Powerbook. I bought the new 15" 1.67 Powerbook 12 days ago. I went ahead and did this because I truly felt that there would be updates yesterday as well. Now that the updates did not come out, I have pretty much ran out of my 14 days to return, or swap this for the new model, which is what I was planning on doing. So now I am pretty much stuck (if you can actually call this computer being stuck) with this one. So I do understand, but....

There has to be a reason that the new Powerbooks have not been released. One reason may be that they want to release these during a seperate time as to not take away from the excitement of the new iMac and video iPod. Another reason may be that they are just not ready for release. Everyone posts here as if Apple has been sitting on new PowerBooks in a wharehouse somewhere just to piss you off personaly, which is ridiculous.

I guess Apple could go the Microsoft route and release a product with problems that is really not ready for a final release. I have a feeling that the same people complaining here would then be saying, "I can't beleive Apple released something that has problems and is clearly not ready for a release, come on Apple!"

The PowerBooks will be released when they are ready for release. No one is out to get you and it is not a conspiracy. Get over it and wait for them.

Just my 2 cents.

[powerbook911]

Once again, I'm in total fear that the 12-inch will not be updated and/or phased out. 15 and 17-inchers are all several days shipping, when build to order. However, the 12 is still on only 1-3 days, build to order, which is standard for products, with normal availability.

[bryanc]

...I'm not a computer engineer, but that would tell me that they have reached the limitations (or very close to them) with the current specs. You can only upgrade the engine so much without changing the car.
....
The dev time with the new chips will take a little while, and until they figure out how to hook a liquid-filled inter-cooler up to a PB, the G5's are not coming. Seriously, you need an industrial AC unit to work on the G5 towers...

I completely understand that there isn't going to be a G5 PB, and that there likely isn't going to be a major redesign of the PB until the Macintels are released next year. I also have no doubt that Apple could almost effortlessly improve the PBs by swapping antiquated components (CPU, GPU, monitor, etc.) for better ones that have been available for months, if not years! The Freescale 7448 is a pin-for-pin compatible drop in replacement for the 7447/A that is in the current powerbooks, which is significantly faster, supports a 30% faster front side bus, and uses less power. The 7448 has been available since Febuary! This is a no-brainer. I could do that myself if the CPU weren't soldered onto the logic board. ATi and NVidia both make much better, GPUs than the 9700's shipping in the current PB's that are similarly drop-in replacements that would significantly boost performance. The 1280x854 displays in the current PBs are a joke! Those should've been upgraded last year. And, in an effort to compensate for a rather sluggish CPU (even the 7448 with the faster FSB is pretty lame compared to the state-of-the-art laptops on the PC side), they ought to go with 7200rpm drives in the PBs.

With these simple component swaps, they could bring the PB up to a standard that would be comparable to the machines available at a similar price-point on the PC side, and that's all I'm asking. Such upgraded powerbooks would still be a little slower than comparable PC laptops, but they'd have better battery-life, and all the advantages of OS X to make up for it, and they'd be fast enough. When Apple releases completely redesigned Memrom-based PBs next year, they'll be so much faster that it will still be worth upgrading for those people who need high-performance portables.

I don't think Apple is sitting on a warehouse full of upgraded 7448-based PBs just to frustrate me, I think they've been spending all their resources on iPods and the Macintel transition, because they don't think there's any profit to be made in upgraded powerbooks. If the people I've talked to, and the people on these forums are any indication, Apple is missing out on a significant market, and, perhaps more importantly, seriously frustrating some of their most vocal proponents. Just within my research group, there are no less than 5 of us ready to buy even the slightest update in the PB (and no, we can't just get iBooks because we need the dual-display feature of the PB for presentations), and there are literally dozens in that position on these fora. More to the point, I work in a field where I'm constantly using my computer to show other researcher data, and most of them still use PCs. I'm currently embarrassed at how poorly my PB performs next to their PC-laptops, but back when my PB was comparable (in terms of performance) to the PC-laptops, I convinced many people to buy Macs just by showing off OS X, Keynote, and some of the iApps. These days people just look at the spinning beach-ball and ask why I don't buy one of those nice new Viaos or ThinkPads like everyone else has. :(

Cheers

[strummert]

Today I went to fnac and surcouf to buy a new ibook. They told me that in the whole France they run out of ibooks. "IBOOKS OUT OF STOCK".
"Impossible to get one. Wait 2-3 months." !!???

[UMHurricanes34]

I completely understand that there isn't going to be a G5 PB, and that there likely isn't going to be a major redesign of the PB until the Macintels are released next year. I also have no doubt that Apple could almost effortlessly improve the PBs by swapping antiquated components (CPU, GPU, monitor, etc.) for better ones that have been available for months, if not years! The Freescale 7448 is a pin-for-pin compatible drop in replacement for the 7447/A that is in the current powerbooks, which is significantly faster, supports a 30% faster front side bus, and uses less power. The 7448 has been available since Febuary! This is a no-brainer. I could do that myself if the CPU weren't soldered onto the logic board. ATi and NVidia both make much better, GPUs than the 9700's shipping in the current PB's that are similarly drop-in replacements that would significantly boost performance. The 1280x854 displays in the current PBs are a joke! Those should've been upgraded last year. And, in an effort to compensate for a rather sluggish CPU (even the 7448 with the faster FSB is pretty lame compared to the state-of-the-art laptops on the PC side), they ought to go with 7200rpm drives in the PBs.

With these simple component swaps, they could bring the PB up to a standard that would be comparable to the machines available at a similar price-point on the PC side, and that's all I'm asking. Such upgraded powerbooks would still be a little slower than comparable PC laptops, but they'd have better battery-life, and all the advantages of OS X to make up for it, and they'd be fast enough. When Apple releases completely redesigned Memrom-based PBs next year, they'll be so much faster that it will still be worth upgrading for those people who need high-performance portables.

I don't think Apple is sitting on a warehouse full of upgraded 7448-based PBs just to frustrate me, I think they've been spending all their resources on iPods and the Macintel transition, because they don't think there's any profit to be made in upgraded powerbooks. If the people I've talked to, and the people on these forums are any indication, Apple is missing out on a significant market, and, perhaps more importantly, seriously frustrating some of their most vocal proponents. Just within my research group, there are no less than 5 of us ready to buy even the slightest update in the PB (and no, we can't just get iBooks because we need the dual-display feature of the PB for presentations), and there are literally dozens in that position on these fora. More to the point, I work in a field where I'm constantly using my computer to show other researcher data, and most of them still use PCs. I'm currently embarrassed at how poorly my PB performs next to their PC-laptops, but back when my PB was comparable (in terms of performance) to the PC-laptops, I convinced many people to buy Macs just by showing off OS X, Keynote, and some of the iApps. These days people just look at the spinning beach-ball and ask why I don't buy one of those nice new Viaos or ThinkPads like everyone else has. :(

Cheers

Good post, but Vaios are not the right choice. I am a former all Vaio user, and Sony puts cheap components in their computers and charges top dollar. Somewhat like Apple, except the parts Sony uses are unreliable. I have had 3 Vaios all with motherboard and HD failures, and everytime they got fixed, they'd break again. My laptop couldnt even handle fast typing without freezing up and crashing. Vaios are POS and they are way too expensive for the crap they're made of. At least PowerBooks are reliable, and thats one thing PC users will never beat us out in.

[Rowen]

Strummert, I am sorry that your iBooks in France have ceased to exist. One the bright side, maybe some updates will come out or a sale campaign will start so you can get them cheaper. Always seems to happen when they mysteriously go "out of stock".

[Peace]

Strummert, I am sorry that your iBooks in France have ceased to exist. One the bright side, maybe some updates will come out or a sale campaign will start so you can get them cheaper. Always seems to happen when they mysteriously go "out of stock".

The French store online show 2 days shipping..

[UMHurricanes34]

I always thought a new iPOD would come out after Nano, I think they used the same team to deal with both designs.
Jobs said that they started redesigning the iMAC when the first G5 iMAC went gold (shipped out).
Now, We all know PowerMac had their update with the 2.0/2.3/2.7 batch.
I think Apple's r&d team have a PM with DDR2 in hand, just waiting for a cpu to drop in. another 0.1 upgrade won't cut it and the profits numbers prolly made them scrap the hole thing and just stick to the 2.7 update instead. and no ddr2. Now that IBM has DC in hand, we might get to see a lineup with DDC 2.7 and DDR2. maybe even a 2.8.

As for powerbooks the cpu has been the biggest problem, and the person who can tell wether or not FreeScale has shipped out a 7448 to apple, and when, prolly also knows when the new PB will be out. IF it will be....

I smell a DDR2 with FrontRow upgrade. no MHZ bump tho.

The new iMAC if IBM had a dualcore cpu in hand, would've been a DualCore single 2.1. It didn't come... so why should they have a dualcore ready for the powermac lineup? makes no sense...
revamping the lineup just for DDR2 isn't gonna give you much of an increase anyway... and they just put in better DVD burners in them.
We might get an X600 further down the road... But as for DDR2? I think it's saved for Mactel...

Let's just hope they managed to use the 7448 in the current PB without doing to many mods to the mb.
It makes perfect sense, they want to differentiate the men from the boys. Thats one of the main issues with the iBook and PB's. There is no reason for people to go with a PB at this stage when iBooks are so comparable to the current lineup. If the PM's went DC while the iMacs stayed where they are, the lines would be differentiated to an extreme degree, thus making the price tag of the Pro line less troublesome. There will be differences that people will notice at the first instant they compare specs of each machine. The PM will finally scream PRO and the iMac will scream CONSUMER. Differentiation is what Apple needs right now in their lineup, and it isnt happening fast enough

[fklehman]

You can add me to the list of people whoare waiting to buy even the slightest PB update. Apple is absolutely at fault for the PB situation--as other posters have already pointed out, the PBs could have been upgraded weeks ago with components that have been available in quantity for months--the 7448 processor, the ATI Mobility 9800 (which is not only available but outdated), 7200rpm/higher capacity hard drives--and are 100% compatible with the existing architecture (pin-compatible, still AGP 8x, etc.). No significant R&D necessary for any of those, and yet we're not getting them.

Apple has obsessed over the iPod, and obsessed over the iBook, and obsessed over the iMac even though it just got updated in May, to the point where the price premium for the PowerBooks is a joke. And Apple totally allowed it to happen, it's not like they were lacking components or waiting for new tech to arrive. The tech has been there, and Apple's dragging its feet. Sure, I COULD go out tomorrow and buy a new PB, and I would probably like it ok--but on principle, I REFUSE to fork over my $$$ to Apple for utterly obsolete tech that should have been updated weeks ago. And, as has been made clear, there are many like me who will not buy the current PB no matter how long it takes, because the more dust that model collects the more pissed off I get. NO WAY is Apple getting my money for a computer that hasn't been updated since January 31.

2c

[mikev]

I'm really upset that no update came yesterday.I bought my PB Oct. 1. That means I have until tomorrow to return it for a new one (plus restocking fee) or maybe get some kind of refund. I really wished I had waited now. I just hope when they do update them they don't change the metal case. I least when people see me they won't know I have a outdated machine...

I'm almost sure the update will come next Tues. why? Because that way I will be just four days out from being able to benefit from it.

[UMHurricanes34]

I'm really upset that no update came yesterday.I bought my PB Oct. 1. That means I have until tomorrow to return it for a new one (plus restocking fee) or maybe get some kind of refund. I really wished I had waited now. I just hope when they do update them they don't change the metal case. I least when people see me they won't know I have a outdated machine...

I'm almost sure the update will come next Tues. why? Because that way I will be just four days out from being able to benefit from it.
No one is stopping you from returning it today and waiting until tuesday to buy a new one.

[mikev]

No one is stopping you from returning it today and waiting until tuesday to buy a new one.

I guess I really never thought of that. However, I really could not go long without it. Like what if they don't come out on Tues. with a update. Then I may have paid a restocking fee for nothing... Darn..I hate this.

[UMHurricanes34]

I guess I really never thought of that. However, I really could not go long without it. Like what if they don't come out on Tues. with a update. Then I may have paid a restocking fee for nothing... Darn..I hate this.
Apple loves playing with our minds like this...and it just pisses us all off. Unless you find your current PB to be struggling with things you need it to do, I dont really see a need for you to grab a newer one. People want updated machines just to be up to date. But I see it that as long as the current machine does what you need it to do, nothing more is needed. I'm not planning to update to a new PB until the 2nd Gen intel, unless something amazing happens with the 1st G PB intel. I have the 2004 model, which was top of the line then. 1.5GHz 1GB Ram 15" and I have nothing that needs to be done on the go that cant be done with my PB. For anything extremely demanding, I would perfer to use a desktop anyway. I find the desktop experience to be more convenient than the Laptop experience, because you can sit down and do what you need to do on a large screen. Laptops are good for on the site work, but arent a neccessity for me. IDK, its all about the persons need at the end of the day. My PB will suffice until intel. Might need to add another gig of ram though :p

[incubus2432]

I bought mine in September because I couldn't wait any longer. I wanted/needed a laptop and just couldn't bring myself to buy a PC. I was way too frustrated with dealing with Windows so I went with a 15" PB. I love it. It may be outdated but it does everything I need it to wonderfully. I was/am sick of seeing the constant pending updates to PB's posts.....they caused me to wait for months before buying mine and I'd still be waiting if I finally didn't say "F it". If new ones ever come out and the updates are worth it I'll sell mine on Ebay and order a new one.....it also helps that I got a great deal on mine so I shouldn't lose much anyway. It's not worth worrying about. In the meantime I'll enjoy the best PB I could get.

[mddharma]

It really gets tiring reading all the posts from people complaining about the PowerBooks, or lack there of.

I understand the need for a new Powerbook. I bought the new 15" 1.67 Powerbook 12 days ago. I went ahead and did this because I truly felt that there would be updates yesterday as well. Now that the updates did not come out, I have pretty much ran out of my 14 days to return, or swap this for the new model, which is what I was planning on doing. So now I am pretty much stuck (if you can actually call this computer being stuck) with this one. So I do understand, but....

There has to be a reason that the new Powerbooks have not been released. One reason may be that they want to release these during a seperate time as to not take away from the excitement of the new iMac and video iPod. Another reason may be that they are just not ready for release. Everyone posts here as if Apple has been sitting on new PowerBooks in a wharehouse somewhere just to piss you off personaly, which is ridiculous.

I guess Apple could go the Microsoft route and release a product with problems that is really not ready for a final release. I have a feeling that the same people complaining here would then be saying, "I can't beleive Apple released something that has problems and is clearly not ready for a release, come on Apple!"

The PowerBooks will be released when they are ready for release. No one is out to get you and it is not a conspiracy. Get over it and wait for them.

Just my 2 cents.

Well we all know what 2 cents will get you today... :rolleyes:

As pointed out on these forums the technology to make an update HAS BEEN HERE for quite some time. What is the problem then we ask. It seems as though the focus has been off the powerbook line for close to a year now while ipods, ibooks, imacs and others have received their focus. The power users do not think anything so silly as a conspiracy is behind the delay. Rather someone has dropped the ball. If Apple would release the numbers of their portable sales between powerbooks and ibooks, I think the numbers would show, the powerbook sales have fallen dramatically. WE ARE NOT willing to blindly purchase a powerbook that so desperately needs an update. At this point ANYONE purchasing a powerbook is certainly making a foolish purchasing decision. It would be like purchasing a 2005 automobile at full price at the end of the season. Desperate and foolish.

So, as many blind supporters are so aptly willing to do, let me throw out a cliche as well. Get over it. :cool:

[mddharma]

I completely understand that there isn't going to be a G5 PB, and that there likely isn't going to be a major redesign of the PB until the Macintels are released next year. I also have no doubt that Apple could almost effortlessly improve the PBs by swapping antiquated components (CPU, GPU, monitor, etc.) for better ones that have been available for months, if not years! The Freescale 7448 is a pin-for-pin compatible drop in replacement for the 7447/A that is in the current powerbooks, which is significantly faster, supports a 30% faster front side bus, and uses less power. The 7448 has been available since Febuary! This is a no-brainer. I could do that myself if the CPU weren't soldered onto the logic board. ATi and NVidia both make much better, GPUs than the 9700's shipping in the current PB's that are similarly drop-in replacements that would significantly boost performance. The 1280x854 displays in the current PBs are a joke! Those should've been upgraded last year. And, in an effort to compensate for a rather sluggish CPU (even the 7448 with the faster FSB is pretty lame compared to the state-of-the-art laptops on the PC side), they ought to go with 7200rpm drives in the PBs.

With these simple component swaps, they could bring the PB up to a standard that would be comparable to the machines available at a similar price-point on the PC side, and that's all I'm asking. Such upgraded powerbooks would still be a little slower than comparable PC laptops, but they'd have better battery-life, and all the advantages of OS X to make up for it, and they'd be fast enough. When Apple releases completely redesigned Memrom-based PBs next year, they'll be so much faster that it will still be worth upgrading for those people who need high-performance portables.

I don't think Apple is sitting on a warehouse full of upgraded 7448-based PBs just to frustrate me, I think they've been spending all their resources on iPods and the Macintel transition, because they don't think there's any profit to be made in upgraded powerbooks. If the people I've talked to, and the people on these forums are any indication, Apple is missing out on a significant market, and, perhaps more importantly, seriously frustrating some of their most vocal proponents. Just within my research group, there are no less than 5 of us ready to buy even the slightest update in the PB (and no, we can't just get iBooks because we need the dual-display feature of the PB for presentations), and there are literally dozens in that position on these fora. More to the point, I work in a field where I'm constantly using my computer to show other researcher data, and most of them still use PCs. I'm currently embarrassed at how poorly my PB performs next to their PC-laptops, but back when my PB was comparable (in terms of performance) to the PC-laptops, I convinced many people to buy Macs just by showing off OS X, Keynote, and some of the iApps. These days people just look at the spinning beach-ball and ask why I don't buy one of those nice new Viaos or ThinkPads like everyone else has. :(

Cheers

A well thought out statement to the state of the powerbook and the frustration of the powerbook customer.. I sure wish all of the cliche people would read this.
:D

[bryanc]

People want updated machines just to be up to date.

Not exactly. If I was spending $1500, I'd be willing to accept that I can't have current state-of-the-art tech in a laptop. But the PowerBooks are three grand! For that kind of money, I expect at least a current, if not bleeding-edge, machine.

Furthermore, and more to the point for this thread, the time I and so many others have spent waiting for an updated powerbook (which could've been released 6 months ago if Apple had any interest in doing so) is like an added cost.

So now it's like a dollar auction (http://www.heretical.com/pound/dollar.html); we've all invested so much in waiting for new powerbooks that we can't quit. :( Fortunately, unlike the dollar auction, there can be more than one winner. If Apple gets off it's duff and releases anything even remotely reasonable, we'll all buy them, and fell like our wait was worth it, and Apple will rake in more profits. I just hope they can spare a few engineers to upgrade the powerbooks with the parts that have been lying around in the shop for the past half a year, but I understand that everyone is working overtime cranking out nanos, which is Apple's licence to print money.

Cheers

[bigrustyjc]

You can add me to the list of people whoare waiting to buy even the slightest PB update. Apple is absolutely at fault for the PB situation--as other posters have already pointed out, the PBs could have been upgraded weeks ago with components that have been available in quantity for months--the 7448 processor, the ATI Mobility 9800 (which is not only available but outdated), 7200rpm/higher capacity hard drives--and are 100% compatible with the existing architecture (pin-compatible, still AGP 8x, etc.). No significant R&D necessary for any of those, and yet we're not getting them.

Apple has obsessed over the iPod, and obsessed over the iBook, and obsessed over the iMac even though it just got updated in May, to the point where the price premium for the PowerBooks is a joke. And Apple totally allowed it to happen, it's not like they were lacking components or waiting for new tech to arrive. The tech has been there, and Apple's dragging its feet. Sure, I COULD go out tomorrow and buy a new PB, and I would probably like it ok--but on principle, I REFUSE to fork over my $$$ to Apple for utterly obsolete tech that should have been updated weeks ago. And, as has been made clear, there are many like me who will not buy the current PB no matter how long it takes, because the more dust that model collects the more pissed off I get. NO WAY is Apple getting my money for a computer that hasn't been updated since January 31.

2c

Great Post.

I agree completely. Apple is all but forgetting about their pro line. I'm still waiting for a powerbook because I don't think the ibook will do what i want to do with it. I hope the trend of apple ignoring their pro line will end soon because I won't wait forever for a new powerbook.

From reading these posts and observing, people are getting more and more upset with every week that goes by. And more people are saying they're going to forget about apple and buy a thinkpad or a vaio. If apple waits too much longer, they're going to lose a ton of sales. I hope Apple wakes up soon.

ps. is a thinkpad or vaio the best pc laptops out there right now?

[Jestered]

Well we all know what 2 cents will get you today... :rolleyes:

As pointed out on these forums the technology to make an update HAS BEEN HERE for quite some time. What is the problem then we ask. It seems as though the focus has been off the powerbook line for close to a year now while ipods, ibooks, imacs and others have received their focus. The power users do not think anything so silly as a conspiracy is behind the delay. Rather someone has dropped the ball. If Apple would release the numbers of their portable sales between powerbooks and ibooks, I think the numbers would show, the powerbook sales have fallen dramatically. WE ARE NOT willing to blindly purchase a powerbook that so desperately needs an update. At this point ANYONE purchasing a powerbook is certainly making a foolish purchasing decision. It would be like purchasing a 2005 automobile at full price at the end of the season. Desperate and foolish.

So, as many blind supporters are so aptly willing to do, let me throw out a cliche as well. Get over it. :cool:


You are talking about technology that could be put in today... you know that Apple does not (most the time) do that. Everyone keeps talking about what Apple could do with the Powerbooks, but what happens if next week Apple announces a new Powerbook that blows that away? What happens if it is a redesign and blows everyone out of the water? What happens if that is the case and that is why it is taking longer? I don't know and I don't think anyone on this board does, but I would rather wait a little longer and get something new and exciting than for Apple to roll out a slightly updated box because there are a few people considering going to Sony (ughhh, go ahead). If all that would make you happy is the upgrades you said, then fine, that is great for you, I would rather wait for something new. And yes, that is assuming that something new is coming, but aren't you assuming that all it is is these simple updates? No one knows what is coming and why exactly it is taking so long. If Apple were to announce updates that you described, which would make you happy, and then a month later come out with something new and different, then you would be calling Apple pissed because they just sold you a computer that is now outdated and does not have all the cool stuff.

I don't think they are not releasing these easy updates because they are busy with iPods and iMacs. I think something bigger is coming and they are having problems with it up to this point (for whatever reason). But then again, who knows.

As far as people being dumb or whatever for buying a new powerbook now or last week or whenever... Is it dumb because you think so? I just bought the top of the line 15 inch and am loving it (while you are complaining about having your same old PB). It does everything I want it to and more. If it was not enough for what I need, then yes it would be dumb to have made the purchase, but just because you would not buy one now does not mean than anyone who does is dumb or buying blindly.

Believe me, I am on your side. I want new PBs. I want to sell mine when they come out and get one. I can't wait and it has been long enough, but I also don't know exactly what they are planning and why it is taking so long. I can tell you that Apple did not get where they are today by practicing bad business. Apple did not get where they are today by disregarding a product line as big as the PB line. Something big is probably coming and they are having some issues for whatever reason. When it is announced, I am sure that everyone will be all over Apple and stop all the bashing. I am sure it will all make sense once it happens.

I guess we will see. Hopefully next week.

[bryanc]

You are talking about technology that could be put in today... you know that Apple does not (most the time) do that. Everyone keeps talking about what Apple could do with the Powerbooks, but what happens if next week Apple announces a new Powerbook that blows that away?

... if that is the case and that is why it is taking longer

If Apple announces a G5 powerbook or even some more reasonable, but significant upgrade to the powerbook (like a dual core G4, or even a mother board re-design that supports PCIe) then yes, the delays will be explained and all will be forgiven.

However, I'll bet dollars-to-donuts that the next PB will be a modest speed bump (30 MHz to 1.7 GHz most likely) resulting from the drop-in of, now 6-month-old Freescale CPUs, possibly with GPU and monitor upgrades. These updates will likely be made without fanfare - just a press-release and an updated page on the Apple store.

The sad thing is, after waiting so long, I'll take such a modest crumb-of-an-update, and smile. Like the bad-old-days of Motorola, Apple customers have to be happy with the most meagre improvements in CPUs, while the PC folks have GHz to burn.

I really hope that, with the switch to Intel, we'll finally have hardware parity with the PCs.

Cheers

[Nereus]

I truly hope that we'll see PowerBook updates next week. Like everybody else I'm getting tired about the "waiting game", but it's a balance between how much you need it and how much you want it and currently my old PC will suffice for my needs. You have probably already read this but I quote it anyway. From ThinkSecret:

With the iMac G5 now sporting DDR2 memory and PCI Express functionality, rumored updates to the PowerBook and Power Mac lines will likely roll out in the very near future, probably within a week. Stay tuned...

And from MacOSXRumors:

One of the sources gave us good reason to believe this information is true by pointing out that on Saturday 9 (yes, Saturday), Apple had a meeting related to the October 12th announcements, with staff involved in Apple’s retail division. Attendees have also been informed that there is another meeting planed for Saturday the 15th.

Hopefully a meeting about the introduction of a new PB! Hope is the left that will leave me ;)

[vidbuff]

I also have no doubt that Apple could almost effortlessly improve the PBs by swapping antiquated components (CPU, GPU, monitor, etc.) for better ones that have been available for months, if not years! The Freescale 7448 is a pin-for-pin compatible drop in replacement for the 7447/A that is in the current powerbooks, which is significantly faster, supports a 30% faster front side bus, and uses less power. The 7448 has been available since Febuary!
Cheers

That's not really true. Only limited quantity SAMPLES of the 7448 have been available since February. Actual PRODUCTION volumes were scheduled for October. Both of these dates were listed in a Freescale PDF linked earlier in this thread.

I also just Googled for "7448 availability" and found this brand new 7448 Errata sheet. Note that it's the initial version of the doc and it was created on 9/26/2005. So Freescale seems to be just on the verge of making the 7448 available.
http://www.freescale.com/files/32bit/doc/errata/MPC7448CE.pdf

So don't beat up Apple for not using a chip that isn't available yet.

I'm hoping the October will be our lucky month for new PowerBooks. :cool:

[slick316]

I think its reasonable to say that there probably won't be a significant upgrade to the Powerbook line soon (or the Powermac's).
I mean, they hold a big, invite only event this week to introduce a new iPod, an upgraded iMac, iTunes 6 and new media remote and media app, but make no mention of a PB/PM update. Why on earth would they do something as big as introduce a PB/PM with significant upgrades next week (Intel/G5/PCIe). I for one think, if there even is an update, that the PB's will probably get small cpu bumps, maybe DL burners, and possibly price drops (same goes for the PM).
I think that the Pro line products just need a small price drop ($200 across the line?) to stay competitive. It should tide them over to when they switch over to Intel.

[Nereus]

I mean, they hold a big, invite only event this week to introduce a new iPod, an upgraded iMac, iTunes 6 and new media remote and media app, but make no mention of a PB/PM update. Why on earth would they do something as big as introduce a PB/PM with significant upgrades next week (Intel/G5/PCIe).

I don't think Apple will mix the consumer and pro lines together in an event. The event yesterday was clearly a consumer event, not a pro one. Therefore no mention of a PB/PM update.

I would be happy with a minor update even if it only means slightly better processor, better GPU and better screens, that would suffice for me, I just want an update.

[al3000]

I truly hope that we'll see PowerBook updates next week. Like everybody else I'm getting tired about the "waiting game", but it's a balance between how much you need it and how much you want it and currently my old PC will suffice for my needs. You have probably already read this but I quote it anyway. From ThinkSecret:



And from MacOSXRumors:



Hopefully a meeting about the introduction of a new PB! Hope is the left that will leave me ;)

Please let this be it! This saga of will they wont they has been going on for so long...in a way I will be sad when they release the powerbooks..no more scouting around for clues and making predictions.......although that will be forgotten by the joy of the new PB's! BRING THEM ON APPLE! :D

[jgrackmalloy]

Is this what being a Mac-user is all about? Thrice since I've started to think of replacing my 3ish-year-old Dell laptop with a PB I've been told outright by current Macists that a) a G5 PB is coming out at WWDC'05, b) a 7448 is PB is coming out at MacWorld Paris, c) a 7448 PB is coming out Oct. 12. At this point, even if Apple releases a dual-core PB in the next month, my new skepticism will likely have me wait until the summer of '06 to make my upgrade. By then, I imagine we will see what Apple really can do for the professional market - if they even care about that market anymore (?).

In the meantime, I've upgraded my Ubuntu Linux with 3 quick commands to version 5.10 ('breezy badger'). I dare say Ubuntu is quite slick. Everything worked right off the bat except I had to fiddle with some code I'm writing to get rid of some warnings resulting from the gcc3->gcc4 transition.

Although OpenDarwin and Fink seem very commendable, right now I feel sort of relieved by Ubuntu's established release cycle - and the fact that I know exactly what's in each release, who's working on them, and how I can request and make changes.

Am I ranting? Maybe slightly, but right now I feel that Apple cares more about this guy (http://images.apple.com/ca/imac/images/indexphotobooth20051011.gif) than this guy (http://www.wbglinks.net/pages/watchmen/picswbglinks/pics3/cox5.jpg), with all due respect to the clickie-i-take-picture guy.

[pjmurphy77]

Please let this be it! This saga of will they wont they has been going on for so long...in a way I will be sad when they release the powerbooks..no more scouting around for clues and making predictions.......although that will be forgotten by the joy of the new PB's! BRING THEM ON APPLE! :DI worked briefly at an Apple Store (last holiday season) and when we had these meetings, it was always AFTER the fact. I really do not think store management knows about updates til publicly announced...

[fklehman]

You are talking about technology that could be put in today... you know that Apple does not (most the time) do that. Everyone keeps talking about what Apple could do with the Powerbooks, but what happens if next week Apple announces a new Powerbook that blows that away? What happens if it is a redesign and blows everyone out of the water? What happens if that is the case and that is why it is taking longer? I don't know and I don't think anyone on this board does, but I would rather wait a little longer and get something new and exciting than for Apple to roll out a slightly updated box because there are a few people considering going to Sony (ughhh, go ahead). If all that would make you happy is the upgrades you said, then fine, that is great for you, I would rather wait for something new. And yes, that is assuming that something new is coming, but aren't you assuming that all it is is these simple updates? No one knows what is coming and why exactly it is taking so long. If Apple were to announce updates that you described, which would make you happy, and then a month later come out with something new and different, then you would be calling Apple pissed because they just sold you a computer that is now outdated and does not have all the cool stuff.

I don't think they are not releasing these easy updates because they are busy with iPods and iMacs. I think something bigger is coming and they are having problems with it up to this point (for whatever reason). But then again, who knows.

As far as people being dumb or whatever for buying a new powerbook now or last week or whenever... Is it dumb because you think so? I just bought the top of the line 15 inch and am loving it (while you are complaining about having your same old PB). It does everything I want it to and more. If it was not enough for what I need, then yes it would be dumb to have made the purchase, but just because you would not buy one now does not mean than anyone who does is dumb or buying blindly.

Believe me, I am on your side. I want new PBs. I want to sell mine when they come out and get one. I can't wait and it has been long enough, but I also don't know exactly what they are planning and why it is taking so long. I can tell you that Apple did not get where they are today by practicing bad business. Apple did not get where they are today by disregarding a product line as big as the PB line. Something big is probably coming and they are having some issues for whatever reason. When it is announced, I am sure that everyone will be all over Apple and stop all the bashing. I am sure it will all make sense once it happens.

I guess we will see. Hopefully next week.

At this point, the only justification Apple can possibly offer for the ridiculous delay in PB updates WOULD be if the PBs saw a significant internal redesign: PCI-express, DDR2 ram, etc. The fact that the iMac got PCI-express actually does bode well for the pro line getting the same thing. But, as others have posted, the PBs haven't been cutting edge for a long time, even AFTER they've just been updated. I may just be cynical, but I expect Apple to drop in the easiest, pin-compatible parts to hold the line over until June--ATI Mobility 9800 saves them from having to do PCI-express R&D, 7448 saves them from having to do G5 or even dual 7448 R&D, they'll keep the same kind of ram, etc. It's what I would do in the current situation if I were Steve, although I'd like to think I wouldn't have let my pro laptop line become this miserable in the first place. Apple could have been putting in better HDDs and GPUs months ago to compensate for the CPU wall they were running into, and they didn't bother. Now we're in this crappy situation, and after all this waiting we will STILL end up with a crappy, lackluster "Sucker Bump"--my term for the typical PB update. We'll get the 9800 GPU, the 7448 with a .3 mHz bump, maybe a 7200rpm HDD, maybe a ram bump, and that will be it, even after all the waiting.

One other poster mentioned that the 7448 is only slated for consumer availability in October, which may be correct or incorrect, I don't know. If it's true, it won't matter. When we get it, along with the ATI 9800 and the other sucker bumps, it will only prove that Apple was waiting for October all along for the 7448 but didn't even bother trying to do anything more during the wait--they didn't bother trying to do PCI-express, they didn't bother trying to do DDR2, they didn't bother with HD displays, etc. etc. etc. Apple wasted its time and wasted our time, and instead obsessed over its consumer line. iMacs and iBooks have each been updated TWICE this year, with really good updates each time. The PB update on January 31 was a joke, and the October update, if it comes, will be little better. Apple has made it abundantly clear through its actions (or lack thereof) that it intends to coast its way to Merom 'books and will exert as little effort as possible on the PPC 'books in the meantime.

Sorry for the 'tude, I am out of kool-aid and feeling cranky...

2c

[maddav]

Oh no, they're going to kill the 12" Powerbook :mad:

edit: well it's either that or a slight upgrade for the 12" PB. Either way, I'm still getting one, I need the uber-portability.

[MacSA]

If the 12" Powerbook is dropped.......the 12" iBook could take its place in specs. :eek:

[mddharma]

If the 12" Powerbook is dropped.......the 12" iBook could take its place in specs. :eek:

The 12" ibook is heavier and larger - certainly not as 'classy' as the powerbook. Now don't take this the wrong way, it is a great laptop - but it is not a powerbook.

I do hope they make a substantial revision to the 12".
:confused: :confused:

[mongoos150]

Well we all know what 2 cents will get you today... :rolleyes:

As pointed out on these forums the technology to make an update HAS BEEN HERE for quite some time. What is the problem then we ask. It seems as though the focus has been off the powerbook line for close to a year now while ipods, ibooks, imacs and others have received their focus. The power users do not think anything so silly as a conspiracy is behind the delay. Rather someone has dropped the ball. If Apple would release the numbers of their portable sales between powerbooks and ibooks, I think the numbers would show, the powerbook sales have fallen dramatically. WE ARE NOT willing to blindly purchase a powerbook that so desperately needs an update. At this point ANYONE purchasing a powerbook is certainly making a foolish purchasing decision. It would be like purchasing a 2005 automobile at full price at the end of the season. Desperate and foolish.

So, as many blind supporters are so aptly willing to do, let me throw out a cliche as well. Get over it. :cool:


I have been waiting months for an update - but am tired of waiting. Finally, tomorow afternoon after my bio lecture I'm buying a PB 15" 1.67GHz and a 300GB external drive. I'm sick of waiting, I know that for their age and price they should be MUCH more powerful but I've been waiting for a PB too long to continue waiting. If a new PB comes out I will sell my PB (probably getting what I paid for it) and buy the new one. The waiting game is bad news people, and I'm not going to be it's b!tch.

[powerbook911]

I have been waiting months for an update - but am tired of waiting. Finally, tomorow afternoon after my bio lecture I'm buying a PB 15" 1.67GHz and a 300GB external drive. I'm sick of waiting, I know that for their age and price they should be MUCH more powerful but I've been waiting for a PB too long to continue waiting. If a new PB comes out I will sell my PB (probably getting what I paid for it) and buy the new one. The waiting game is bad news people, and I'm not going to be it's b!tch.

They really should be out early next week, according to all the information we have.

[mikev]

Well, this should stir up some flaming ha ha... Tomorrow is the last day I can return my new PB. (After restocking fee). What would most of you do based on the thought that the update will come next week or soon after? Not knowing what the price for the updated PB's is what is holding me up.
To me the possible update, if the thinksecret stuff is right, may not be worth the restocking fee alone.

[bousozoku]

If you feel the need to post profanity, go ahead and let the filter do its job. Circumventing the filter is not allowed. If you cannot post in a reasonable, civil manner, please don't post until such time as you are able to post reasonably.

[~Shard~]

If you feel the need to post profanity, go ahead and let the filter do its job. Circumventing the filter is not allowed. If you cannot post in a reasonable, civil manner, please don't post until such time as you are able to post reasonably.

Thanks for the cleanup work bousozoku, this thread was starting to get a little hard to read thanks to certain individuals getting carried away. Your work is appreciated. :cool:

[powerbook911]

Well, this should stir up some flaming ha ha... Tomorrow is the last day I can return my new PB. (After restocking fee). What would most of you do based on the thought that the update will come next week or soon after? Not knowing what the price for the updated PB's is what is holding me up.
To me the possible update, if the thinksecret stuff is right, may not be worth the restocking fee alone.

Did you get a 15 or 17 inch Powerbook? If so, you may want to consider returning yours. The 12-inch probably won't be updated.

The 15 and 17 inch Powerbooks will sport higher resolution displays allowing you to fit more data on the screen, which makes you more productive. I say that is a good update.

Next, they will have DDR 2 memory, so there may be some performance gains there. A dual layer superdrive is surely going to be put on the machines as well. There is a good bit of extra stuff, so you'll have to make a decision on these things we think will be included.

[mikev]

Did you get a 15 or 17 inch Powerbook? If so, you may want to consider returning yours. The 12-inch probably won't be updated.

The 15 and 17 inch Powerbooks will sport higher resolution displays allowing you to fit more data on the screen, which makes you more productive. I say that is a good update.

Next, they will have DDR 2 memory, so there may be some performance gains there. A dual layer superdrive is surely going to be put on the machines as well. There is a good bit of extra stuff, so you'll have to make a decision on these things we think will be included.

Yea, I got the 15" PB. I have less then 24hrs. to decide. Thanks for the input.

[rjc]

Yea, I got the 15" PB. I have less then 24hrs. to decide. Thanks for the input.
Mike, the 15" and 17" just moved to 3-5 days shipping on stock models. This makes an update next Tuesday very, very likely. Is whatever update they give worth the $200 restocking fee? Generally the answer is yes, but these updates look to be particularly anemic (I hope the rumor sites are wrong, as they have been lately). If I were you I'd take back my Powerbook. But I'm greedy for even the possibility of a 7448 and longer battery life.

[igetbanned]

Dells are rockin' 1920x1200 256MB nvidia go 6800, and 1GB DDR2 standard.

Let's go Apple!

This should be the standard for the 17", and the specs for the rest of the line should filter down from here.

[FilmSnob]

Well after being rather upset for quite a long time waiting for PowerBooks to be updated, I got to the point where after I saw nothing from the "One More Thing..." Event the other day that I decided to order a 15" PowerBook. Of course, only two days later I see the AI and ThinkSecret rumors about changes coming really soon. So I decided to wait it out just a bit longer if possible and since my estimated ship date for the machine was on or before 10/24/05 I was able to cancel the order. When I talked to the Apple rep he tried to convince me not to cancel it and even offered me $100 off of the price if I didn't cancel. Any ideas?

[powerbook911]

Well after being rather upset for quite a long time waiting for PowerBooks to be updated, I got to the point where after I saw nothing from the "One More Thing..." Event the other day that I decided to order a 15" PowerBook. Of course, only two days later I see the AI and ThinkSecret rumors about changes coming really soon. So I decided to wait it out just a bit longer if possible and since my estimated ship date for the machine was on or before 10/24/05 I was able to cancel the order. When I talked to the Apple rep he tried to convince me not to cancel it and even offered me $100 off of the price if I didn't cancel. Any ideas?

I've been offered free shipping not to cancel orders. I just think they try, sometimes, a last attempt to keep you from canceling.

[lalcan]

"Apple Computer is once again gathering the press together as it rolls out new innovations. The latest invitation-only event will be held in New York City on October 19, 2005 on the eve of PhotoPlus Expo. Apple doesn't say exactly what the press conference will be about, but the invitation sent to MacCentral asks to join them as "we unveil Apple's latest pro innovations."

That's it! New Powerbooks next wednesday !!! :D

[~Shard~]

"Apple Computer is once again gathering the press together as it rolls out new innovations. The latest invitation-only event will be held in New York City on October 19, 2005 on the eve of PhotoPlus Expo. Apple doesn't say exactly what the press conference will be about, but the invitation sent to MacCentral asks to join them as "we unveil Apple's latest pro innovations."

That's it! New Powerbooks next wednesday !!! :D

Yep - it's now on the main page of MacRumors, so direct your comments there... :cool:

[slick316]

Nice, I am glad to see an event for the pro stuff, I am sure this is going to be "big". If it weren't for this event, I would have believed that Apple had no real reason to update their pro line anytime soon.

[~Shard~]

If it weren't for this event, I would have believed that Apple had no real reason to update their pro line anytime soon.

Trust me, there are many reasons... :p :cool:

But yes, good to see - I'm looking forward to yet another Apple event!

[cocozz]

And what about the PB12 " ????


:confused: :confused: :confused: :( :( :( :( :( :( :(

[bosrs1]

Frankly Think Secret hasn't been right in months. It was very apparent after the Video iPod announcment that Apple is playing with Think Secret. They changed their story 4 or 5 times leading up to the Video iPod announcment... and then claimed they'd been "right". BS. They said so many things that one was bound to be right. They know NOTHING anymore. Apple has probably figured out who the leak to TS is and is using them to make fools of TS.

[YoYoMac]

Can't we see a better video card in the higher end PB line? I mean, if the new iMac can have a x600, why can't the PB have at least a x700. x800 with 256 mb would be nice.

[amin]

Frankly Think Secret hasn't been right in months. It was very apparent after the Video iPod announcment that Apple is playing with Think Secret. They changed their story 4 or 5 times leading up to the Video iPod announcment... and then claimed they'd been "right". BS. They said so many things that one was bound to be right. They know NOTHING anymore. Apple has probably figured out who the leak to TS is and is using them to make fools of TS.
Think Secret has been better than everyone else until one month ago. I don't know why you say "months." No rumor site can always be right. TS has the best track record.

[Greenone]

So am I understanding you guys right? Do the majority of you really believe we'll see a new/updated PB this Wednesday?!

F-F-F-Phew!

[powerbook911]

So am I understanding you guys right? Do the majority of you really believe we'll see a new/updated PB this Wednesday?!

F-F-F-Phew!

Yes, except the 12-inch. I expect it to go unchanged.

[japasneezemonk]

i'm crossing my fingers for the 12" PB, one just never knows, i do wish it gets some upgrades that will put pride back in it's name.

[~Shard~]

So am I understanding you guys right? Do the majority of you really believe we'll see a new/updated PB this Wednesday?!

F-F-F-Phew!

Absolutely - this is the appropriate venue for the announcement, and the appropriate time is definitely overdue. The only question will be, what will we see? No 12"s? 7448s? 970GXs? :eek:

[fklehman]

i'm crossing my fingers for the 12" PB, one just never knows, i do wish it gets some upgrades that will put pride back in it's name.

It's not looking good for the 12" right now...stock ship times are still 24 hours while the 15" and 17" are up to 1-3 days. The two possibilities seem to be continued benign neglect or EOL. Common wisdom on the various forums suggests that it will be replaced by a 13.3" come Intel, or less likely, in the near future. My own guess is that Steve is currently asking the 12" if it would like a blindfold and/or cigarette because it is getting poopcanned.

[powerbook911]

It's not looking good for the 12" right now...stock ship times are still 24 hours while the 15" and 17" are up to 1-3 days. The two possibilities seem to be continued benign neglect or EOL. Common wisdom on the various forums suggests that it will be replaced by a 13.3" come Intel, or less likely, in the near future. My own guess is that Steve is currently asking the 12" if it would like a blindfold and/or cigarette because it is getting poopcanned.

I have to think they'll keep it available, in its current configuration, until intel Macs. However, you'd think they could have at least done something with it:example, made the 512MB solid like the iBook 12-inch, put the 100 gig hard drive standard, and done something with the video card. Oh, and a very easy thing: just stick a dual layer superdrive in there.

[fklehman]

According to this thread, PowerBook updates have been "imminent" since September 19. It'll be sad to see the thread go if Wednesday actually pans out. I guess we'll replace it with the "PB Updates Sucked!" thread. I will probably post to it... :D

[powerbook911]

According to this thread, PowerBook updates have been "imminent" since September 19. It'll be sad to see the thread go if Wednesday actually pans out. I guess we'll replace it with the "PB Updates Sucked!" thread. I will probably post to it... :D

I'll post, "no updates to my favorite? The 12-inch. This sucks."

[mongoos150]

I just want a PB with decent battery life...

[generik]

Strangely the new one doesn't have fantastic battery life, it does have a brilliant display with lines :p

[teddy07x]

If they offer a Freescale Moto 7448 at 2 GHz G4, then that is fantastic. Seriously.

If they offer anything less, or nothing at all, I expect Pentium PBs at MWSF. That's probably when they're released anyway.



The 15" Ti PB wasn't updated for over a year, and only became "aluminium" around the time when the 2nd revision 12" and 15" was introduced.

it's a fact that the 7448 CAN'T be run at 2ghz as a production model.
I know this very well, there have been power related problems with the 7448. However the new powerbooks are designed for 7448 and NOT 7447A. It's a drop in cpu replacement. The main difference is that at stock speeds the 48 till run 25% faster than the 47A. 1.67 vs. 1.67.

However a 1.92ghz speedbump is unlikely, 'cus a production model wouldn't be able to reach such speeds. 1.8ghz is more likely. Also, the 47A runs stable at 1.92ghz. But the design of the new powerbook shows that it'll be a 7448. Don't expect much of a bump though. Keep in mind that the 7448 runign 2ghz will be faster than a G5 1.9ghz (single-single).

[generik]

it's a fact that the 7448 CAN'T be run at 2ghz as a production model.
I know this very well, there have been power related problems with the 7448. However the new powerbooks are designed for 7448 and NOT 7447A. It's a drop in cpu replacement. The main difference is that at stock speeds the 48 till run 25% faster than the 47A. 1.67 vs. 1.67.

However a 1.92ghz speedbump is unlikely, 'cus a production model wouldn't be able to reach such speeds. 1.8ghz is more likely. Also, the 47A runs stable at 1.92ghz. But the design of the new powerbook shows that it'll be a 7448. Don't expect much of a bump though. Keep in mind that the 7448 runign 2ghz will be faster than a G5 1.9ghz (single-single).


I will be happy with a 25% boast :thumbsup:

The funny thing is why is the 47A able to run at a higher clock than the 48?

[teddy07x]

I will be happy with a 25% boast :thumbsup:

The funny thing is why is the 47A able to run at a higher clock than the 48?

it's a simpler core... hence the higher clock speeds. and the power issue is easier due to the core... yeah.. well... they'll get the 7448 at 2ghz eventually as new models of it evolve.