New Apple 'Communicating Device'?

[MacRumors]

Details are sparse... but reliable sources have indicated that Apple is going to be unveiling a new "communicating device" in the next few weeks...

Reports indicate that the new device will not be a Phone or a PDA. The device will also be able to be connect to PowerBooks, Cinema Displays... though not exclusively -- indicating that it may be used standalone or in conjunction with other Macs.

Apologies for the cryptic information... no other details available.

[dstorey]

If this is true then hopefully it'll be compatible with an iMac as well as thats what I plan to buy, however I guess i have no idea what it could be....

p.s will the previous thereads board be reopened now its a news story?

[JtheLemur]

It's either:

1) Robot Monkey that can store photos and videos

2) Inflatormaus! =D

Yeeeeeha.

[zedwards]

They really needed to rack up on needless obscure rumors, so they thought they would regurgitate this tired rumor. Why even bother putting this on the first page?

[j33pd0g]

Maybe a video chat device? Maybe it will be an apple brand text and image pager? Hand-held hologram projector? I hope it is something I can use. When details are this sparse I could jot down a grocery list of guesses.

[arn]

Originally posted by zedwards
Why even bother putting this on the first page?

"reliable sources"

arn

[achmafooma]

Video conferencing, maybe?

Perhaps an external TV card of some kind (much less likely).

Perhaps both and more - a multifunction video device of some kind.

That's what popped into my head... it's sufficiently vague that I'm not going to rack my brain too badly over it, but Arn typically knows what he's talking about.

I guess we'll see!

[Moxiemike]

Originally posted by achmafooma
Video conferencing, maybe?

Perhaps an external TV card of some kind (much less likely).

Perhaps both and more - a multifunction video device of some kind.

That's what popped into my head... it's sufficiently vague that I'm not going to rack my brain too badly over it, but Arn typically knows what he's talking about.

I guess we'll see!

the whole "connects to powerbook and cinema display" kinda makes that pop into your head... did to me.

Maybe something that integrates into iChat??

Nothing I want more than to see eyelikeart's mug when i chat... ;) :rolleyes:

[richie]

Originally posted by JtheLemur

1) Robot Monkey that can store photos and videos


I would buy it in an instant! :D

I hope there is a mysterious device that we know nothing about.. adds a bit of surprise to the mix :)

[Chef Ramen]

i want it, whatever it is:)

[chewbaccapits]

Geez, all this talk about new iPods, rumored music service, laptop revisions and now a "new" device, I can't help but get RUMOR HORNY!...Is it just me or what?

[Awimoway]

Whatever it is, it sounds like it's meant for pro users only.

[MarksEvilTwin]

Removed

[Frobozz]

It sounds like the rumored dumb terminal. I have a dual 1 GHz desktop, and it would be nice to control it with a dumb terminal from my couch. I would pay a couple hundred for that.

[Fender2112]

During Operattion Iraqi Freedom, the embedded reporters transmitted their stories via a video phone. When I first saw this I was impressed with the quality of what I thought to be a video capable cell phone. After giving it some more thought, it occurred to me that this type of video would require something a little more powerful than a cell phone. I concluded that these reporters where using some sort fo "web" cam set up with a lap top and a cell/satellite connection. I have no idea what the reporters actually used. Is it possible that they were field testing some new type of video phone device for Apple?

Just a thought

[DrGruv1]

If I was sitting around the living room... what would I want..(rend. tech)

1) control itunes from a distance
2) and related stereo/tv/media equip.
3) be able to surf the internet
4) be able to open/edit and access files from my mac
5) be able to write on it! and/or attach keyboard

could this be the new 15" do all tablet?

hoping it is :)

-michael

[boskie]

Maybe it will be some sort of controlling device, linking your Mac/HDTV-TiVo reciever/ilife appz and the much awaited music download service wirelessly to allow seemless control and navigation using APE anywhere in the house to antwhere in the house.

We could be one step closer to HAL - walk in your door pick up your controlling device, d/l mail/playlists/screen-saver etc..

[MacVault]

What would work only on cinima displays and powerbooks??? That sounds strange. Some kind of video conference comera is what came to my mind right away, but don't know why that wouldn't work on any Apple computer. Well, glad I have a new 12" Powerbook anyway! ;-)

[Escher]

Originally posted by arn
"reliable sources"

arn

arn: What about a timeframe? Did your sources indicate that this device would be announced at the April 28 music service event? Or is this "communicating device" much further off?

Escher

[mangoman]

* sigh *

Here we go again... (dreaming of all-do PowerPod, neglecting design work in front of him...)

[matznentosh]

Originally posted by Macrumors
a new "communicating device" in the next few weeks... will not be a Phone or a PDA, but will be able to be connected to both a Cinema Display and a PowerBook.

Of course, it could just be a wireless mouse. With an Apple logo on it.

[jayscheuerle]

- but does it slice and dice?

[BigJayhawk]

Although all "Apple Folk" love to use the following analysis . . .

iMac --> PowerMac
iBook --> PowerBook
iPod --> PowerPod

It DOES NOT work as there is already a PowerPod in existence and the name is already registered. This, of course, does not hinder Apple from trying to BUY the name from the company but this does not happen as often as the second company wanting the name just going with a different name.

See www.PowerPod.com for more info.

[deepkid]

Ok, if this new device only connects to cinema displays and powerbooks, that's not a large segment of the mac populus.

Well, it would depend on which books, I suppose. But knowing Apple, the device would work best/only on the newest products so this doesn't really make any sense.

Why wouldn't it work on powermacs, imacs or ibooks?

With the information given, I hope that this new device doesn't die a more wretched death than the cube.

Unless we're thinking too big... perhaps its some sort of adapter. Blue tooth adapters for older books? Nah, doesn't make sense either because you'd want to offer those for ibooks too.

I'm stomped. :confused:

Later edit: Ok, original article now updated to say that the device isn't exclusive to the displays/books.

[matttichenor]

Powerpod is also the name of an older remote camera operating system for film and video production. Powerpod Digital and Powerpod 2000. British company I think.

m

[bokdol]

ok how funny would this be. a unversal remote to control are your devices that connect to your digitalhub. but it has to be prced in the 200 dollar range because it's more then a remote.:D

[boobers]

...i guess....since the display has USB ports..but there is a possibility that it connects to an ADC connector which, of course, the cinema display has coming out of it.
Based on those two possibilities i have no freakin idea. :D :rolleyes:

[pkradd]

This device has been talked about ad nauseum over the past year. Some sites claim the case is being made, that it has an 8 X 10 TFT screen, no keyboard and is for in-home use. Until Apple releases the device nobody knows exactly what it is. Don't lose sleep over it! :D

[Sonofhaig]

I agree with the others posting that it will be an apple video cam/thingie.
What ever it is, I love the speculation and suspence it creates. I just love reading everyones "two cents". I think that's what makes this site so awesome. :)

[jazzdog]

I don't know if this has been discussed before - but what if Apple is headed towards a new model of personal/home computing. One in which instead of one computer per user, there were one computer with multiple wireless client nodes. (one per family member) When they talk about 10.3 supporting multiple acounts/logins maybe they mean multiple SIMULTANEOUS users. This would definitely leapfrog them past the Windows world. Obviously this also would work extremely well in an education or small business (big business?) setting as well. Not only is it cost-effective, but it lowers administrative costs to a minimum. (you can't screw up the computer at your desk if you don't have one)

This is my guess (and hope) at where they are heading.

[Richmond]

The only connection on a powerbook & not on other machines is Firewire 800...hmmm....

[deepkid]

[eric_n_dfw]

Originally posted by bokdol
ok how funny would this be. a unversal remote to control are your devices that connect to your digitalhub. but it has to be prced in the 200 dollar range because it's more then a remote.:D $200 for a fancy remote is cheap compared to what's out there. Check out Phillip's Pronto line. The cheapest is $199 and they go up to $1699!!!

http://www.consumer.philips.com/global/b2c/ce/catalog/subcategory.jhtml;jsessionid=5CZOVQJ55YHL0CRQNAVRYVQKGBUTSHD0?groupId=CONVENIENCE_GR&divId=0&catId=REMOTE_CONTROLS_CA&subCatId=PRONTO_REMOTE_CONTROLS_SU
(if that link doesn't work, try http://www.consumer.philips.com/global/b2c/ce/catalog/category.jhtml?divId=0&groupId=CONVENIENCE_GR&catId=REMOTE_CONTROLS_CA and clip on "Promot Remotes")

[the future]

Originally posted by Chef Ramen
i want it, whatever it is:)

Now THAT'S dedication!

[beatle888]

so much time reading speculation. sigh. come on apple. if your not gonna give us the speed we want right now then how about something for us to chew on while we wait.

[Foxer]

Originally posted by Richmond
The only connection on a powerbook & not on other machines is Firewire 800...hmmm....

Not entirely true.... The 17-inch PB is the only PB with a Firewire 800 port. Also, all the new PowerMacs have a firewire 800 port.

That being said, I have no idea what it could be... Obviously aimed at the "pro" users. Given that I have a 12-inch powerbook and a 23-inch cinema display, I am doubly excited.:D

[beatle888]

if its only for the display or powerbook could that mean that it needs the Svideo connector for some reason. why else wouldnt the powermac be able to use it. that part just doesnt make sense.

[jethroted]

What I want to know is if it's a communicating device, and it's not a pda or cell phone, then what else could it be? (That is of any use) A communication device isn't very good if you can't talk to someone or email them.:confused:

[illumin8]

My guess is that this is an 802.11g Airport that you can simply plug into a Firewire port on your PowerMac or PowerBook that will transmit a Remote Desktop out to the future iTablet device. That would certainly make sense. Offer a low-cost adapter that enables your PowerMac or PowerBook to wirelessly publish it's desktop out to multiple wireless tablets with zero configuration. Just plug it in and you're ready to go.

Also, this makes it very easy to wirelessly enable your home without any networking skill or ability. Combine this with OS X 10.3 which is supposed to support multiple graphical logins, and you're set.

My thoughts are - Mac OS X Server will allow educational institutions to connect up to 50 tablets to an Xserve per server license. Regular Mac OS X will only allow 5 simultaneous remote desktops. This is to keep you from overloading your desktop system, as well as to keep businesses from buying a dual 1.42ghz. PowerMac and cheating Apple out of licensing fees for OS.

[eric_n_dfw]

Originally posted by beatle888
if its only for the display or powerbook could that mean that it needs the Svideo connector for some reason. why else wouldnt the powermac be able to use it. that part just doesnt make sense. Since when do Apple display's have SVideo connectors?

[illumin8]

Another possibility is that they are Bluetooth enabling the new iPods so that you can sync your iCal and contacts up automatically with your Bluetooth enabled PowerBook.

Bluetooth also has the capability to do some really cool things for MP3 players. Sony already has an MP3 player out that will automatically mute your music when your Sony-Ericsson T68i bluetooth phone rings, and will let you use the MP3 player as a bluetooth headset. Imagine offering a built-in bluetooth headset with the iPod, this would be an awesome feature.

[mhodgso2]

I think you are all reading way too far into this. The only thing a cinema display and a powerbook have in common is the fact that they both have displays. I think this could simply be a video confrencing camera that "connects" to the top of a cinema display or a powerbook screen. Perhaps when they say cinema display they are talking about the 3 models of apple displays. Just a thought.

-Matt

[knoxer]

It just has to have something to do with Framistan technology! I know it! It's finally time! I've been waiting for this day...

Framistan (As the Apple Turns) (http://www.appleturns.com/scene/?id=3517)

:D

[AppleMatt]

Could it just be an adapter to use the ADC Displays with the 12" Powerbook?

I know a lot of 12" users want that.

AppleMatt

(Soon to be a 12" user who wants that :rolleyes: )

[eric_n_dfw]

Originally posted by illumin8
My guess is that this is an 802.11g Airport that you can simply plug into a Firewire port on your PowerMac or PowerBook that will transmit a Remote Desktop out to the future iTablet device. That would certainly make sense. Offer a low-cost adapter that enables your PowerMac or PowerBook to wirelessly publish it's desktop out to multiple wireless tablets with zero configuration. Just plug it in and you're ready to go.

Also, this makes it very easy to wirelessly enable your home without any networking skill or ability. Combine this with OS X 10.3 which is supposed to support multiple graphical logins, and you're set.

My thoughts are - Mac OS X Server will allow educational institutions to connect up to 50 tablets to an Xserve per server license. Regular Mac OS X will only allow 5 simultaneous remote desktops. This is to keep you from overloading your desktop system, as well as to keep businesses from buying a dual 1.42ghz. PowerMac and cheating Apple out of licensing fees for OS. Why would you connect such a thing via firewire?

[illumin8]

Originally posted by eric_n_dfw
Why would you connect such a thing via firewire?

High bandwidth connection that is common to every current Mac model. Plus it leaves your Gigabit ethernet port free for Internet access on your main machine. 90% of the usefulness of the tablet will be browsing the web from your sofa. Here's a sample diagram:

Cable Modem -> PowerMac/PowerBook -> Wireless tablet adapter -> - - - - - <- Wireless tablet

[From Win to Mac]

But it wouldn't be FireWire 800 thank god. So i could use it with my 667Ti !

And if the adapter is connected via FireWire, you could put a 2nd port on the adaptor to connect all your other media like HDs or DV cams.

Marc

[Foxer]

perhaps it's not something to allow PB's and cinema dispalys to communicate with other things, but rather each other. Cinema displays don't plug into VGA, they use an ADC connection. Several hundered bucks for the PB ADC adapter, methinks. Maybe they're going to make life a little easier for us PB users who occasionally want to Big Picture. Of course, maybe I'm an idiot.

[eric_n_dfw]

Originally posted by illumin8
High bandwidth connection that is common to every current Mac model. Plus it leaves your Gigabit ethernet port free for Internet access on your main machine. 90% of the usefulness of the tablet will be browsing the web from your sofa. Here's a sample diagram:

Cable Modem -> PowerMac/PowerBook -> Wireless tablet adapter -> - - - - - <- Wireless tablet What about the Airport Extreme card in (or available to) most Mac's today? (And sure to be added to the iMac, iBook and 15" PowerBook soon)

[iSmell]

Originally posted by jazzdog
I don't know if this has been discussed before - but what if Apple is headed towards a new model of personal/home computing. One in which instead of one computer per user, there were one computer with multiple wireless client nodes. (one per family member) When they talk about 10.3 supporting multiple acounts/logins maybe they mean multiple SIMULTANEOUS users. This would definitely leapfrog them past the Windows world.

Yeah! Imagine if you had one "main computer" and then multiple users could log in to the main computer from "dumb terminals" and "share time" on the main computer. That would be revolutionary. If this were 1961. But it's not.

PCs (as in personal computers, as opposed to mainframes) are cheap. Everybody gets their own (or two, or three).





my 0.04¢ (canadian)

[xj9000]

if this thing has nothing to do with the announcement on the 28th it will be a good month before it is released (if that). Why would apple announce a radically new music service, to only a week later release a new device?

My guess is that IF this has nothing to do with the 28th announcement we won't see it until mid-may... and remember apple still has stuff in the bag for WWDC, and iBooks to release before august also.

[pyrotoaster]

Arn knows something we don't know... ;)

I'd put my money on something like Macwhisper's 8-inch mini-tablet. Very al la Newton.

[eric_n_dfw]

Originally posted by xj9000
if this thing has nothing to do with the announcement on the 28th it will be a good month before it is released (if that). Why would apple announce a radically new music service, to only a week later release a new device?

My guess is that IF this has nothing to do with the 28th announcement we won't see it until mid-may... and remember apple still has stuff in the bag for WWDC, and iBooks to release before august also. My guess:
A firewire camera/microphone and updated Cinema Displays with a Firewire 800 hub in them. This would include a new verstion of the ADC which pumps FireWire 800 down the same (albiet crowded) cable as the current DVI/Power/USB cable does. Fighting interference might be a problem, but I'm sure it could be done.
iChat get's updated with videoconferencing capabilities. (and maybe Yahoo! Messenger, please :D )

The new display would also have FireWire 800 & 400 ports (1 of each?) on the back or side so you could plug your video camera right into it.

Lastly, this will have no relation to the music rumors and may be release at a separate time.

[segastyle]

the ONLY inputs a cinema display and any other mac have in common are the usb ports.

cinema displays have an adc IN. powerbooks have a dvi OUT. perhaps the powerbooks dvi slot can take input as well?

well, a web cam sounds possible, but i hope that's not the case. what i've been hoping for by apple is a small video recorder/player similar to the one coming from rca in june. theirs runs on a version of windows. i'd rather have run that could easily interact with macs like the ipod so i can burn dvds or video cds...

[mgescuro]

From what I hear, it's an Apple Web Camera, but really very high quality. Nothing more than that. It is integrated into iChat. Unknown if it is USB or FireWire though.

[jettredmont]

Originally posted by jethroted
What I want to know is if it's a communicating device, and it's not a pda or cell phone, then what else could it be?

A walkie-talkie?


:)

[wrylachlan]

What about an iPod with the ability to connect to a monitor or projector and play back Keynote presentations? The device I'm seeing is a Firewire to ADC or DVI converter. The iPod itself won't be able to play video, it's screen is too small, but it can play it externally.

[network23]

Yeah! Imagine if you had one "main computer" and then multiple users could log in to the main computer from "dumb terminals" and "share time" on the main computer. That would be revolutionary. If this were 1961. But it's not.

PCs (as in personal computers, as opposed to mainframes) are cheap. Everybody gets their own (or two, or three).

Except, Macs are not cheap and this may be Apple's way of providing a cheap computer to the masses! I've got two "house" Macs and an Audrey (which I have to work real hard at to get it to play nice with the Macs) and would like to add another, but all I can afford right now is a used Mac of some capability in the $3-400 range. I'd much rather use that to buy an external thin client (sounds much better than dumb terminal) that works with OS X than a used Mac that may not.

[Scott.Melendez]

If the rumor is true, does this mean the new iPods will be available immedately or just announced? (Newbie here...)

[eric_n_dfw]

Originally posted by Scott.Melendez
If the rumor is true, does this mean the new iPods will be available immedately or just announced? (Newbie here...) yes
;)

[Scott.Melendez]

They will be available immediately? So on the 28th I can run down to CompUSA and get it?

Thanks.

[Scott.Melendez]

The iPods will be available immediately? So on the 28th I can run down to CompUSA and get it?

Thanks. :)

[eric_n_dfw]

Originally posted by Scott.Melendez
They will be available immediately? So on the 28th I can run down to CompUSA and get it?

Thanks. Sorry - I was beening a wise-cracker. Nobody knows - if they did, it would not be a rumor. (And the person who said it would probably had broken an NDA and would be in trouble with uncle Steve.)

[Scott.Melendez]

A little slow today...

Thanks for your quick response!

[eric_n_dfw]

Originally posted by Scott.Melendez
A little slow today...

Thanks for your quick response! 'salright.

Back to your question - Apple's record is all over the place on this. They rarely - if ever - anounce anything before you can order it, but once anounced, sometimes it's available right away, sometimes not. Often times, if multiple versions of the item are anounced, the top-o-the-line models have a wait time on them while the lesser models are available right away.

[Escher]

Originally posted by Scott.Melendez
They will be available immediately? So on the 28th I can run down to CompUSA and get it?


Scott: Well, Think Secret (http://www.thinksecret.com/) is reporting that there will be special event at Apple Stores (and possibly retailers) on Friday evening, May 2. I don't think you will be able to buy a new iPod at the announcement on April 28, but hopefully starting with the May 2 in-store events.

Escher

[mk_in_mke]

It's a portable camera:

Stay home: communicate using IChat

Go out: capture images

Come back home: download them using the USB ports...

Question is: Look, design and Capacity...

[noel4r]

i'm not expecting too much from this. probably, just a web cam. although, that would be nice.

[beatle888]

Originally posted by eric_n_dfw
Since when do Apple display's have SVideo connectors?

oh wait:D your right. hehe sorry.

[pyrotoaster]

You want a camera? It's been done (yes, by Apple).

I'm talking about the Quicktake digital cameras Apple made in the Newton era. They took poor Quicktime pics, although it was revolutionary for their time.

I doubt Apple will just release a camera, although it would be cool if they built one in as a feature, in a device like a mini-tablet.

[Wonder Boy]

Originally posted by wrylachlan
What about an iPod with the ability to connect to a monitor or projector and play back Keynote presentations? The device I'm seeing is a Firewire to ADC or DVI converter. The iPod itself won't be able to play video, it's screen is too small, but it can play it externally.

that would be hot

[eric_n_dfw]

Originally posted by wrylachlan
What about an iPod with the ability to connect to a monitor or projector and play back Keynote presentations? The device I'm seeing is a Firewire to ADC or DVI converter. The iPod itself won't be able to play video, it's screen is too small, but it can play it externally. How about an iMac/iBook style video out port?

[berlinm]

Maybe it's some kind of rendezvous remote control? One that could control your DVD playback and your iTunes library? This would be a great advancement to bringing the computer up to the main device in your living/tv room. Remember the Gateway 2000 computers that had the 36" tv/monitor? They had a remote that acted like a mouse. It was a little cumbersome but you didn't have to go up to the computer to work it and you could do whatever you wanted with the remote. I'm not saying make the new remote like a mouse, but think of the time saved and how many more people would put computers in their living room if they had a 23" widescreen LCD with a remote that could control the entertainment aspects of their computer? Just a thought... :confused:

[pyrotoaster]

Here's a piece of my speculation from MacUnderground (http://macunderground.blogspot.com/). You can read the whole thing there.

I'm guessing that we're looking at something al la Macwhispers 8-inch mini-tablet, with Bluetooth and AirPort Extreme connectivity. With any luck, it would utilize Rendezvous for fast syncing (not that I have anything against iSync).

Obviously, Inkwell would be the main source for input, although I wouldn't rule out a USB port, which would allow users to add a keyboard. I also wouldn't be surprised if Apple tossed in a Firewire port for super-fast wired transfers.

Think low-end iBook, minus the whole book part.

[bigduke6]

In the past two weeks I've read from "reliable sources" about new iBooks, new eMacs, new iPods, a new music service, Apple buying this and not buying that, and now this little story. Maybe Apple should sent a little more times bringing there current product line up to par before attempting to add a bunch of new stuff. And for the ones who believe the current line is the best out there pull your head out of the sand and stop listening to the Iraqi information minister.

iBooks (which I have and love) need to be brought up to take advantage of OS X. eMacs needs a good CRT screen, 12 AlBooks need to be shipped with open mittens and please don't even get me started on the PowerMacs. Apple is starting to go from a "excellent computer" that you MUST have to a "pretty computer" that I will check out in the store then go home and work on the old stuff.

My two cents and some change.

[-hh]

Originally posted by iSmell
Yeah! Imagine if you had one "main computer" and then multiple users could log in to the main computer from "dumb terminals" and "share time" on the main computer. That would be revolutionary. If this were 1961. But it's not.

PCs (as in personal computers, as opposed to mainframes) are cheap. Everybody gets their own (or two, or three).



What would be different/revoluationary is if any single user could suck up the performance power of all of the PC's in the house, in the form of distributed computing.

Just think of the distributed computing power potential already demonstrated by "Folding" and "SETI@home" when it comes to doing something like a Photoshop or iMovie filter/render.

You sit in your TV on a real lightweight system, and it just farms the work out to the local PC network for the heavy lifting.

The appearance for the User is that he has a Quad 3GHz workstation that weighs <5lbs and has 5 hours of battery life.


And as you add more users to the network, you add more Xserves to the closet rack.


The model will work - - the real question is, why should you want a super-fancy mini-tablet instead of at least the form factor of a 12" Powerbook?


-hh

[Freg3000]

I like it when we get these types of rumors. Arn doesn't have many details, but he trusts his sources enough to publish it. It reminds me of the 12 and 17 inch Powerbook rumors. :)

[eric_n_dfw]

Originally posted by -hh
What would be different/revoluationary is if any single user could suck up the performance power of all of the PC's in the house, in the form of distributed computing.Oh, like what NeXTSTEP was supposed to be able to do in the early 90's? :cool:

[GeeYouEye]

I'm inclined to believe that it's nothing more than the updated iBook, with the 14" model now sporting DVI out.

That said, my next guess would be a FireWire/USB hard-drive based digicam, either a re-branded Fugi (since the last QuickTake was actually a Fugi), or a homebuilt one.

[Awimoway]

I don't think this sounds like the tablet we've been hearing rumors about. This souns like something else, in addition to the tablet.

The web-cam sounds very likely. Perhaps you can even take it away from the computer and use it to film stuff. But I have a harder time believing this second idea because I don't see why Apple would want to challenge the video camera industry in any way. A webcam would not challenge them, but if you can detach it from your Studio Display and use while you're out and about, then it would be a challenge to them.

[maxterpiece]

Maybe Apple will cooperate with powerpod.com and make a solar powered iPod. That would be cooler than.... me?

Originally posted by BigJayhawk
Although all "Apple Folk" love to use the following analysis . . .

iMac --> PowerMac
iBook --> PowerBook
iPod --> PowerPod

It DOES NOT work as there is already a PowerPod in existence and the name is already registered. This, of course, does not hinder Apple from trying to BUY the name from the company but this does not happen as often as the second company wanting the name just going with a different name.

See www.PowerPod.com for more info.

[krusty]

If they put DVI - out on the 14" ibook, that would be a shame. The one's that really need it are the 12" ibooks and powerbooks.

Except for a hard-core, dual-monitor-using graphics crowd is the SMALLER machines that need to be able to connect to apple monitors. Having a 12" book that I docked up and used with 20" Cinema display would make much more sense than having an already-large laptop monitor hooked to a slightly-larger destop monitor.

Since the specific mention was of powerbooks and the Cinema display (not the Cinema HD), I'm guessing apple has trojan -horsed bluetooth or airport extreme into the latest 20" display and this device will interface that way. Who knows what it will do, though ... maybe its the "rendezvous enabled" iTunes server that has been spoken about. The new iPod will simultaneously drive the the audio though the powerbook and the visuals thru the Cinema display ... so you can browse thru iTunes (app located on the powerbook) via the scroll wheel on the new iPod and see it all happening on your cinema display.


Edit: and maybe one more outlandish idea. Hughes electronics already has ip over satellite ("Direcway" service) and has announced its "Spaceway" service to be commercially available early next year. Maybe the new iPod device will actually include a receiver that lets you browse and download (read purchase) songs FROM ANYWHERE .. w/o having to be connected to a standard internet device. Hmm ... if they were smart they could incorporate an XM radio into the device and/or a DirectTV reciever and let you instantly watch telivision programs on the Cinema display with the device acting as the tuner AND feeding the TV signal directly to the Cinema display

[Flowbee]

Hmmm... I like the idea of an XM radio iPod. Even if you had to wear a matching hat with an antenna on top. :p

[shadowfax]

Originally posted by krusty
Edit: and maybe one more outlandish idea. Hughes electronics already has ip over satellite ("Direcway" service) and has announced its "Spaceway" service to be commercially available early next year. Maybe the new iPod device will actually include a receiver that lets you browse and download (read purchase) songs FROM ANYWHERE .. w/o having to be connected to a standard internet device. Hmm ... if they were smart they could incorporate an XM radio into the device and/or a DirectTV reciever and let you instantly watch telivision programs on the Cinema display with the device acting as the tuner AND feeding the TV signal directly to the Cinema display "and all that from just an 18 inch satellite dish!"

[Escher]

Originally posted by Freg3000
I like it when we get these types of rumors. Arn doesn't have many details, but he trusts his sources enough to publish it. It reminds me of the 12 and 17 inch Powerbook rumors. :)

Definitely agree. Trusted sources, which are trustworthy even when their info is outlandish or vague, are what makes MacRumors a great rumor site. I appreciate Arn going out on a limb that is actually a solid brach like this. The other element that makes MacRumors great is the fact that Arn re-posts (some would call it rip off or regurgitate, I think it's helpful) rumors from every other Mac rumor site there is.

Escher

[GeneR]

Originally posted by JtheLemur
It's either:

1) Robot Monkey that can store photos and videos

Yeeeeeha.

Of COURSE it's going to be a robot monkey! Gosh ! How obvious! It just goes to show that the best answers are usually the most simple ones -- the ones that escape most people's awareness because it's just so intuitive!

YES! That's it! (thatsitthatsitthatsit!)

Of course, Monkeys, even Robot Monkeys are also infamous for $#!++ing all over the place... the walls, the ceilings; the floors, so, we're really not too far off the mark here given the other rumors dealing with communication devices! :D

[Wry Cooter]

Meeting the criteria of the opening message, more or less, said object could be:

iTablet (if you consider thin client tablet does NOT equal PDA somehow, due to size) Well we can only hope...

or

TV Tuner, i/o ala Eye TV (but why would Apple do this?...)

or

WebCam

What could apple do with a web cam, that you couldn't do with the other webcams on the market, at least, not too easily? (I have a firewire cam that works with OS X, but almost anyone that has dealt with webcams and apple for since OS 9 knows it can be a bumpy ride)

Well, they could make certain it is well integrated, that is, it just works. With iChat, as well as iMovie etc... and sound of course for teleconferencing.

Is the mention of a powerbook or cinema display a form factor thing (clipping to something less than an inch thick), or a matter of connections to the monitor (USB or firewire)? Do the cinema displays have firewire ports? Would such a cam be wireless in anyway? Or chargeable as a portable cam about the house? How about built in Airport?

[DeadlyBreakfast]

Well whatever it is one thing is for sure.....











Im buying it!!!



(Sorry , but after my iBook I cant help but love Apple)


** Hugs and kisses iBook **

--> Crack! <--

Whoops.....

[bdkennedy1]

Since Apr. 28 is going to be music oriented, I have a feeling it's probably some sort of wireless transmitter that will allow you to to connect your iPod or iMac to your home stereo.

[bigjohn]

Seriously, the stranglehold that Apple keeps on information not leaking out sorta makes some of these products announcements anticlimactic with regards to their rumors. Instead, I propose that Apple just take a flat $50 out of my bank account every month and let me use their new killer devices on sort of a lease situation. This way, they get paid and I get to pay for something before I even know what it is. At first, I thought this new rumor might be like an iVid or some sort of VIDiCHAT/pseudo-TiVo handheld, but now it's probably something less than great and weak because the product never lives up to hype. Apple sure doesn't know how to market their products when the rumorsites promote devices that everyone wants and the company delivers an aluminum rehash. Damn them.

[illumin8]

Originally posted by eric_n_dfw
What about the Airport Extreme card in (or available to) most Mac's today? (And sure to be added to the iMac, iBook and 15" PowerBook soon)
But the Airport Extreme card doesn't have base station or access point functionality. It would need a larger antenna and a more powerful transmitter, methinks.

Also, it could use an entirely different protocol than 802.11a, b, or g. It could just use the 2.4ghz band for data communication, but use a proprietary protocol.

This is all pure pie in the sky speculation... To be honest with you, I have no idea what it is, those were just a couple of guesses I had.

[nickgold]

Originally posted by illumin8
But the Airport Extreme card doesn't have base station or access point functionality. It would need a larger antenna and a more powerful transmitter, methinks.

Survey says ---- BZZZZZT!

System Prefs -> Sharing -> Internet tab

Sharing your internet connection using your airport card is essentially the same thing as using your card as a base station. This was re-introduced in 10.2 (used to be called software base station in OS 9).

[beatle888]

Originally posted by nickgold
Survey says ---- BZZZZZT!


:eek: i just read that as family fued came on.....freaky. why cant those kinds of odds happen when i play the lottery:confused:

[shakespeare]

Originally posted by bryank1
Since Apr. 28 is going to be music oriented, I have a feeling it's probably some sort of wireless transmitter that will allow you to to connect your iPod or iMac to your home stereo.

Dude, we can hope, can't we? If Apple made that, it would be killer.

Maybe it would be a receiver to attach to your stereo that would communicate with your computer via AirPort. That would make me happy.

[G4scott]

The reason that I believe it has to deal with PowerBook's and cinema displays (and hopefully iBook displays too), is because it is some type of device that clips onto your monitor. It may be made to hook onto a PowerBook monitor with no special attachment, and the cinema display may have a special thing that hooks up to the powerbook attachment on the device, and then hooks onto the cinema display...

The only problem, is that something like this would make things more complicated, and less simple. Why have a little thing that clips onto your screen when your computer could do it on screen, without the extra hardware?

Obviously, this device will work mainly away from the computer.

I'm thinking Bluetooth connectivity, for whatever it is.


I hope that it's not too expensive, and that it's something I can use, because I'd buy one in no time...

Come on Apple, don't let us down...

[G4scott]

Originally posted by Awimoway
I don't think this sounds like the tablet we've been hearing rumors about. This souns like something else, in addition to the tablet.

The web-cam sounds very likely. Perhaps you can even take it away from the computer and use it to film stuff. But I have a harder time believing this second idea because I don't see why Apple would want to challenge the video camera industry in any way. A webcam would not challenge them, but if you can detach it from your Studio Display and use while you're out and about, then it would be a challenge to them.

You know, I just thought of this, and it may seem stupid, but what if it's a webcam/microphone, that you can hook up to your Mac and use it with that, and then plug it into your iPod and use it on the go, having the iPod store the data? I think I would actually pay for that. I could record/film lectures on the go... It seems a bit out-landish, and not like something Apple would do, but you never know...

[nickgold]

Originally posted by beatle888
:eek: i just read that as family fued came on.....freaky. why cant those kinds of odds happen when i play the lottery:confused:

OK, here's a deal -- How about you buy a lotto ticket right after I email you a string of lotto numbers -- if you get lucky, I'll take a 50 percent cut.

;)

[Class]

BigJohn:
"Apple sure doesn't know how to market their products when the rumorsites promote devices that everyone wants and the company delivers an aluminum rehash. Damn them."

The audience that rumor sites attract has to be pretty small compared to the overall userbase of Apple, so I wouldn't go so far out as to damn them for their marketing decisions. I am sure they have highly educated marketers that fuss over these types of issues for their job, lets leave it up to them to come up with a sound decision on whether or not a secretive product launch would would be profitable/effective.

::Class::

[Flowbee]

Originally posted by bigjohn
Apple sure doesn't know how to market their products when the rumorsites promote devices that everyone wants and the company delivers an aluminum rehash. Damn them.

It's one thing to post on a rumor site that some new gadget will have feature x, y, and z that everyone is dying to have. It's quite another thing to actually design, build and market this new product at a price that's both affordable (for us) and profitable (for Apple).

For example, I want a combination iPod/TiVo/XM radio/cell phone/4.0mp camera. That would totally rock!! (Don't anyone be disappointed when it doesn't come out next week.) :p

[chewbaccapits]

Hey arn...With all the speculations thrown around, can you at least say if we're hot or cold?

[shadowfax]

Originally posted by chewbaccapits
Hey arn...With all the speculations thrown around, can you at least say if we're hot or cold? i'd be surprised if he knew much more than he was telling us...

[bigzippy]

FYI:

Seems reasonably official at this point...

Click here for the full story. (http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&ncid=581&e=4&cid=581&u=/nm/20030421/tc_nm/media_apple_music_dc)

Link is here:
http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&ncid=581&e=4&cid=581&u=/nm/20030421/tc_nm/media_apple_music_dc

[nickgold]

Wow... that's a pretty specific story. I doubt that this was an "accidental" leak, but rather, a bit of creative marketing. I could totally be wrong, though. Who knows, maybe the 28th's announcement will be an Apple-made banjo. 802.11g and Bluetooth-equipped, of course.

[Nepenthe]

Oh that poor, suffering Music Industry.

[cplee]

Post deleted. Sorry. --cp

[drfright2]

Why did the iPod succeed? Its function was clear: it plays MP3s. Can it do more? Sure. But evoking desire requires a simple, compelling need that the item promises to fulfill.

This is why tablets are a big yawn. What can you do with them that you can't do with a laptop? Draw on the screen? Oh boy! Even I don't care about that, and I do computer illustration.

So...

What could you possibly do with a tablet that's interesting?
What activity can occupy hours but requires little typing?
Why does Safari try to sync with iSync?
Why make yet another browser in the first place?
Why does it look like an iApp?
How do you give folks the opportunity to download music no matter where they are?
How do you "limit" said music service to Macs (as implied by many articles) if it's just a web portal?

Introducing SafariMate:
The Web. Anywhere.

2 models:
One, with Bluetooth & 802.11g, use at wireless hotspots or interface with your own Bluetooth cellphone as modem. The other, Bluetooth, 802.11g, & built in cellular capability. Both have an internal HD, FireWire, & USB. Webcam as an option. Units come with a year of Apple's WebAnywhere service; after that it's an additional $199/year (includes .Mac). Hooray, subscription revenue!

We all want to web surf in the coffeehouse, but who's gonna sign up for every different hotpsot service? Apple takes our money, distributes it to providers the same way they'll be doing with music. Not at a hotspot? SafariMate hits the cellular. Cell charges are extra, or hit your existing cell provider. Proprietary compression technology delivers large images progressively.

iChat rounds out the experience, with the optional webcam for those who wish to make virtual booty calls.

You heard it here first.

DrF

[bobme]

Just my guess. Make a phone call from anywhere, as long as there is a Mac with Airport nearby. I can finally get rid of Qwest at my home! And make cheap phone calls from Starbucks!

[Winston Smith]

Its a home pod, pad, thingy.
I won't bore you with the detail of what it can do its been mentioned already on this thread and others.
The point is this can do anything a laptop can but not everyone living in every house can fully use a laptop, desktop, palm,etc
Also laptops are intended to leave the house!
This is an uber remote which manages the content on your desktop hard drive for use on the TV, HiFi, etc.

I want it bad (can you tell!)

[noel4r]

Amen to that....

[noel4r]

Originally posted by bigduke6
In the past two weeks I've read from "reliable sources" about new iBooks, new eMacs, new iPods, a new music service, Apple buying this and not buying that, and now this little story. Maybe Apple should sent a little more times bringing there current product line up to par before attempting to add a bunch of new stuff. And for the ones who believe the current line is the best out there pull your head out of the sand and stop listening to the Iraqi information minister.

iBooks (which I have and love) need to be brought up to take advantage of OS X. eMacs needs a good CRT screen, 12 AlBooks need to be shipped with open mittens and please don't even get me started on the PowerMacs. Apple is starting to go from a "excellent computer" that you MUST have to a "pretty computer" that I will check out in the store then go home and work on the old stuff.

My two cents and some change.


I agree with you..............

[DavPeanut]

Originally posted by Fender2112
During Operattion Iraqi Freedom, the embedded reporters transmitted their stories via a video phone. When I first saw this I was impressed with the quality of what I thought to be a video capable cell phone. After giving it some more thought, it occurred to me that this type of video would require something a little more powerful than a cell phone. I concluded that these reporters where using some sort fo "web" cam set up with a lap top and a cell/satellite connection. I have no idea what the reporters actually used. Is it possible that they were field testing some new type of video phone device for Apple?

Just a thought
They don't usually actually do field testing on the battle field. Its usually distributing them to people who will keep it quiet.

[joemama]

Well I have read these forums for several months now and this upcoming announcement has prompted me to register so I could post and join in!

I agree with what people are saying as far as a tablet goes. 7-10 inch LCD screen that runs OSX seems reasonable.

In conjunction, remember the rumor months ago about video-conferncing coming to iChat?

..and the patent on voice recognition coding? a microphone on top of a monitor that follows your voice..

Combine those, add Airport Extreme and you have a portable videophone that uses Voice over IP!

It's here!!!! Imagine - you are sitting on the couch when your mini OSX tablet rings, you see who it is, answer and start talking and see the person...then they send you a website link to browse...and you do all of this while being a couch potato!

My guess is $999....

[lmalave]

Originally posted by joemama
Well I have read these forums for several months now and this upcoming announcement has prompted me to register so I could post and join in!

I agree with what people are saying as far as a tablet goes. 7-10 inch LCD screen that runs OSX seems reasonable.

In conjunction, remember the rumor months ago about video-conferncing coming to iChat?

..and the patent on voice recognition coding? a microphone on top of a monitor that follows your voice..

Combine those, add Airport Extreme and you have a portable videophone that uses Voice over IP!

It's here!!!! Imagine - you are sitting on the couch when your mini OSX tablet rings, you see who it is, answer and start talking and see the person...then they send you a website link to browse...and you do all of this while being a couch potato!

My guess is $999....

I would also add the capability to act as a remote display for another Mac. Having used Remote Desktop for Windows, I know it is possible to have a very responsive remote interface, even over cable modem speeds. So certainly over Airport Extreme speeds the interface should be seamless, with the only trick being making video work...

[Wonder Boy]

what are the odd this will be released/introduced the 28th? I want an NEW ibook, but if this "thing" can do about the same and cost less, then i can wait. Any advice? Thanks


:Edit: could this "minitab" have a burner or dvd player? that would make a difference in my purchase

[pyrotoaster]

Think about today's iBook release. It was incredibly minor. Something else is on the horizon.

I'd speculate that Apple is going to kill the $999 iBook at the next major revision. "Replacing" it (and I use that term lightly) would be a line of wireless mini-tablets, with the top model nearing $999.

[iBear]

The new audio logo gave it away. An extreme iPod that has a digital camera on the side of the iPod so it is easy to take video images. An embedded mic will record audio for either or dictation using iNotes.

The back of the iPod has a 265K color screen, with Inkwell input technology. You will be able to purchase and download music, in addition to new apple works X applications. As you wander through a city, your eXtreme iPod will pick up wireless resturaunt menus, daily specials, sales, movie showtimes, etc from businesses within the area over their 802.11 access points.

When you place the eXtreme iPod in the charger unit it recharges the unit, synchs your new music, videos, address book, icalendar, apple works X files and iNotes which will be translated into dictation.

While the eXtreme iPod is in the charging unit you will be able to use the camera for video conferencing which will be broadcast to your power book or other Mac using the eXtreme Cinema Displays. These will have Air Port eXtreme cards in them. Same price as now but with the wireless card included.

The video and audio codecs in Soundtrack will allow for crisp video conferencing and streaming of short clips while away from your desktop through public access points (encrypted of course).

30 GB - Price $599

Think different!

[Wonder Boy]

Originally posted by iBear
The new audio logo gave it away. An extreme iPod that has a digital camera on the side of the iPod so it is easy to take video images. An embedded mic will record audio for either or dictation using iNotes.

The back of the iPod has a 265K color screen, with Inkwell input technology. You will be able to purchase and download music, in addition to new apple works X applications. As you wander through a city, your eXtreme iPod will pick up wireless resturaunt menus, daily specials, sales, movie showtimes, etc from businesses within the area over their 802.11 access points.

When you place the eXtreme iPod in the charger unit it recharges the unit, synchs your new music, videos, address book, icalendar, apple works X files and iNotes which will be translated into dictation.

While the eXtreme iPod is in the charging unit you will be able to use the camera for video conferencing which will be broadcast to your power book or other Mac using the eXtreme Cinema Displays. These will have Air Port eXtreme cards in them. Same price as now but with the wireless card included.

The video and audio codecs in Soundtrack will allow for crisp video conferencing and streaming of short clips while away from your desktop through public access points (encrypted of course).

30 GB - Price $599

Think different!

I know you mean well, and far from for me to be disrespectful,but, be reasonable! That is probably the most rediculous device ive ever read in this forum. and lets be honest, there have been some crazy ideas.

[neier]

I seem to recall a rumor (MacWhispers?) a month or two ago about a plastic enclosure with an iPod-sized hole in one face. We also have read about the rumored docking station for the iPods. Then, there is everyone's favorite rumor that the iPods will have video capabilities. We also know that TIVO has some Rendezvous capabilities....

So, keeping all of the above in mind, here's what I'd like to see come out on 4/28.

The iPod by itself, recording music, playing back music. The iPod plugged into the optional video pack (the mysterious communications device) recording video and playing back video through S-Video or standard video plugs. Airport Extreme, to beam the videos (or, even just the music) to your computer...

How much would you pay for that??

[mangoman]

I'd... I'd... pay... BILLIONS!

(waking up)

:D

[pwfletcher]

Attached is a picture of iCom, the new apple communication device.

[Greencardman]

Ok, after seeing what some people think/hope/dream this new thing might do, I've decided to post my own, more toned down take on what it is. Being a firm believer that anything new to come out should probably work with existing technology and things around it, I've come up with what it'll be.

It'll be a tablet looking device, kinda shaped like a wacom tablet, with a screen on the front. It will be able to surf the web wirelessly, and also be able to be used as a universal remote, but graphicly. ie. you'll be able to set it up like any other universal remote, and control your tv channels, stereo volume, vcr controls etc. It wil probably have bluetooth to enable to work with other devices, ie maybe you can use your phone as a modem, or view info from your palm. Later, or probably even now for some people, it'll be able to control your ipod and your stereo and you'll be able to play songs from your ipod on your stereo and sit back and control everything from this device. (I say later because, like a lot of people out there I suspect, my stero right now sucks too much to do this)

That being said (you guys have me starting to use that phrase) I'm not sure if it'll have its own OS, or work off another computer. Also, that opening that someone was talking about in some enclosure (I forget which) might be the opening for a trackpad, or it might be controlled using a stylus, like a wacom tablet. But I guess what it all comes down to is this: it'll do a lot of things wirelessly from your couch, cause lets face it, while Apple talks about "the digital hub" most people would rather sit on their couch instead of doing something on a computer monitor in another room without one. ( a couch that is) And a device that lets you control everything around you AND surf the web/do some minor work would be great for a lot of people.

[chazmox]

Originally posted by iBear
The new audio logo gave it away. An extreme iPod that has a digital camera on the side of the iPod so it is easy to take video images. An embedded mic will record audio for either or dictation using iNotes.

The back of the iPod has a 265K color screen, with Inkwell input technology. You will be able to purchase and download music, in addition to new apple works X applications. As you wander through a city, your eXtreme iPod will pick up wireless resturaunt menus, daily specials, sales, movie showtimes, etc from businesses within the area over their 802.11 access points.

When you place the eXtreme iPod in the charger unit it recharges the unit, synchs your new music, videos, address book, icalendar, apple works X files and iNotes which will be translated into dictation.

While the eXtreme iPod is in the charging unit you will be able to use the camera for video conferencing which will be broadcast to your power book or other Mac using the eXtreme Cinema Displays. These will have Air Port eXtreme cards in them. Same price as now but with the wireless card included.

The video and audio codecs in Soundtrack will allow for crisp video conferencing and streaming of short clips while away from your desktop through public access points (encrypted of course).

30 GB - Price $599

Think different!

You got all that from that little logo??? That IS some incredible compression technology that Apple has!!!

:rolleyes:

[Websnapx2]

Originally posted by Greencardman
Ok, after seeing what some people think/hope/dream this new thing might do, I've decided to post my own, more toned down take on what it is. Being a firm believer that anything new to come out should probably work with existing technology and things around it, I've come up with what it'll be.

It'll be a tablet looking device, kinda shaped like a wacom tablet, with a screen on the front. It will be able to surf the web wirelessly, and also be able to be used as a universal remote, but graphicly. ie. you'll be able to set it up like any other universal remote, and control your tv channels, stereo volume, vcr controls etc. It wil probably have bluetooth to enable to work with other devices, ie maybe you can use your phone as a modem, or view info from your palm. Later, or probably even now for some people, it'll be able to control your ipod and your stereo and you'll be able to play songs from your ipod on your stereo and sit back and control everything from this device. (I say later because, like a lot of people out there I suspect, my stero right now sucks too much to do this)

That being said (you guys have me starting to use that phrase) I'm not sure if it'll have its own OS, or work off another computer. Also, that opening that someone was talking about in some enclosure (I forget which) might be the opening for a trackpad, or it might be controlled using a stylus, like a wacom tablet. But I guess what it all comes down to is this: it'll do a lot of things wirelessly from your couch, cause lets face it, while Apple talks about "the digital hub" most people would rather sit on their couch instead of doing something on a computer monitor in another room without one. ( a couch that is) And a device that lets you control everything around you AND surf the web/do some minor work would be great for a lot of people.


I am already waiting in line. This is exactly what i have been waiting for. I am a heavy duty power user, so I need my Powermac. But sometimes you want to get away from the desk, and yes, you need a desk for comfortable laptop use. What if I just want to surf? do I need to sit @ a desk for that. Not anymore I hope. I hope it isn't compleatly dependant on a larger system, it would be great on roadtrips. Oooooo!! I 'm exited!!!!!


:D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D

[arn]

hmmm....

just had a thought... (may have been mentioned)

maybe it's just a bluetooth keyboard?

I guess connecting to the cinema display would be odd.... as it doesn't have bluetooht.

arn

[shadowfax]

Originally posted by arn
hmmm....

just had a thought... (may have been mentioned)

maybe it's just a bluetooth keyboard?

I guess connecting to the cinema display would be odd.... as it doesn't have bluetooht.

arn maybe it will come with a BT module that you plug into the USB port on the cinema display.

[mangoman]

Geesh, Arn... after all this hype/speculation/foaming at the mouth, a keyboard seems like kind of a Downer, eh?

No offense, amigo, but i hope you're wrong...

;)

[Awimoway]

hmmm....

just had a thought... (may have been obvious)

maybe it's a hint?

I guess if the man who knows a little more than he can say is throwing some water on the speculation... as it doesn't seem grounded in the realm of reasonability anymore

awim

[williwilli]

http://www.sejus.com/earth2willi/forums/viewtopic.php?t=252

Makes sense to provide a way to sell your subscription service without requiring a $2000 computer.. built in modem, ethernet, optional airport card. Streams internet radio in standalone mode. Various audio I/O and connection to iPod for about $100-$200, bundled with or subsidized by the subscription service (buy 3 years of deluxe membership prepaid, get the iStation free).....

[Websnapx2]

Kind of cool, but it's not a comunication device. You would need a means to communicate out as well as in. I still think it will be a tablet idea utillising inkwell ( I have been practicing with my wacom tablet), but I don't think what ever it is is coming out on monday, unless it has a direct tie in with the iPod.

[bobme]

Whatever it is, it will use an Intel processor.

-Bob

[Websnapx2]

Originally posted by bobme
Whatever it is, it will use an Intel processor.

-Bob

No! no, no, no, no, NO! Haven't you been paying attention? Intel = bad! 970 = PPC = Good!

[bobme]

Originally posted by Websnapx2
No! no, no, no, no, NO! Haven't you been paying attention? Intel = bad! 970 = PPC = Good!


I've heard the hype :) Is this not however a perfect device on which to deploy OSX on Intel? It's bound to be their least expensive computer (if it is a computer). Cheap power - that's Intel.

- Bob

[Websnapx2]

If you think about who would benifit in an item like this, current mac users (since it seems like what ever it is, it needs to interact with other macs) they would be hesitant about supporting a intel-based mac product. In fact, i know that as much as I would love a iTablet, or what ever it is, I would not buy it if it had an Intel chip, and i am sure i am not alone.

[macmax]

What if they make something that would stick the family together , remember tv and before that , radio?

What if it becomes the center of our lives??

What could this be??

[macmax]

Originally posted by bobme
I've heard the hype :) Is this not however a perfect device on which to deploy OSX on Intel? It's bound to be their least expensive computer (if it is a computer). Cheap power - that's Intel.

- Bob

cheap yes. power???

come on dude, if you use a Mac for more than 3 days you will understand why we love our Macs while the pc world can only barely stand their machines,
"i use a pc because i need to , not because i want to"

That is what they tell me

[Websnapx2]

too true. And as soon as u modify OSX to any pc hardware, what is to stop someone from buying a beige x86 ***** box and using that as there mac. There goes Mac sales. Apple is not prepared to shot themselves in the foot over a device with as yet undetemined following.

[bobme]

Originally posted by macmax
cheap yes. power???

come on dude, if you use a Mac for more than 3 days you will understand why we love our Macs while the pc world can only barely stand their machines,
"i use a pc because i need to , not because i want to"

That is what they tell me

I am a Mac user since 1984. I love it but not because it has an AIM chip.

- Bob

[Gerg]

Originally posted by macmax
What if they make something that would stick the family together , remember tv and before that , radio?

What if it becomes the center of our lives??

What could this be??

This reminds mean of all the buzz about the Segway before it was finally unveiled, and that was pretty much a let-down, as far as I'm concerned.

[cubist]

Originally posted by bobme
... Cheap power - that's Intel. ...

Not cheap enough, and generates far too much heat. Even the Centrino would require a fan. No, if you want cheap, low power, cool running, you want an IBM G3.

[Flowbee]

Originally posted by williwilli

Makes sense to provide a way to sell your subscription service without requiring a $2000 computer..

Don't forget, at it's core (no pun intended) Apple is still a computer hardware company. All of their services, software, and gadgets are designed to entice people to buy *more* $2000 (and up) computers. That's where Apple's highest profit margins are.

[Bengt77]

I wholeheartedly agree with the one person before me who suggested it will finally be Framistan that's to be announced! Framistan rules! (Or better: it will rule once it's released... :-)

Bring it on, Apple! We've waited far too long; we (well, at least I do) want Framistan NOW!

:D

[MasterX (OSiX)]

Originally posted by bobme
I've heard the hype :) Is this not however a perfect device on which to deploy OSX on Intel? It's bound to be their least expensive computer (if it is a computer). Cheap power - that's Intel.

- Bob

You mean cheap and uses lots of power?

Couldn't resist.

I actually sat down with a group of my friends (well via iChat) and we discussed without any specific rumor what the next big thing from apple was. What device is there that no one has, but everyone wants. And months before any of the rumors were out we decided on a device, one with a small 6" diagonal 16:9 LCD screen. Technically more PDA than anything, but with the CPU power of a small laptop. Note i said CPU power, we're not talking full I/O. Probably headphone jack, 802.11g, ideally BT (seems to be the rave with rumors now), FireWire400, and that's it. Emphasis on low cost (above PDA, below PC laptop cost) and amazing battery life. No cell phone, no satellite radio/interenet.

SO why? Well simple, it's large enough to view a web page in real HTML, which current PDAs/Cell phone lack. It's small enough to fit in your pocket (keep in mind a 6" widescreen gives you a device the size of a checkbook but taller). Take it on the couch, browse the web, it connects right into your LAN. With rendezvous it's easy to network into your home machine. With Panther rumors abound I'm sure you can all imagine fun things to do, like iTunes4 streaming onto this device, a home folder that follows you between computers, etc.

I'd price it right around $599. Kill the $499 iPod, move to a $199, $349, $599 "mobile" lineup. iPod 10gb, iPod 15gb, mobile device 30gb. Sounds good to me. It should, since it plays MP3s ;-)

[jgp]

Perhaps it is an MPEG-4 camcorder similar to Pretec's, but better. With iPod storage of 20 or 30 Gb, such a camcorder could hold a great deal of video, take good stills (4 megapixels?), and record excellent audio. It would make a good addition to the apple line up. As everyone should know, MPEG-4 is based on Quicktime. I'll buy one!

[gnsr]

It could also be any kind of media reader (like a portable DVD player) which was designed to read and output video. Studio displays would be some of its possible output devices (it could well come with built in display and speakers) and it could be "syncable" with apple computers. I think that anyone saying a particular device works with a particular computer doesn't realy mean that the device won't work with other computers as well...

Have Fun

gnsr