Apple Pro Keyboard and Mouse?

[MacRumors]

In May 2003 (http://www.macrumors.com/pages/2003/05/20030506140448.shtml) Apple introduced a revised consumer Keyboard and Mouse alongside the eMac revisions -- confirming previous rumors (http://www.macrumors.com/pages/2003/04/20030427011347.shtml).

The new keyboard and mouse only offered minor revisions, and left only white Pro Keyboards and Mice remaining for the PowerMac line.

Pre-WWDC, reports indicated that Apple Pro Mouse stocks had diminished, with recent reports that both the Apple Pro Keyboard and Apple Pro Mouse are running low in stock with no way to reorder them.

Apple's specs (http://www.apple.com/powermac/specs.html) still list "Apple Pro Keyboard" and "Apple Pro Mouse" as included accesssories with the new PowerMac G5's. The dramatic case redesign of the PowerMac had left many speculating that new accessories were on the way.

[Foxer]

So are there new mice and/or keyboards with the G5's?

[KentuckyApple]

For $3000 bucks they better give me a keyboard that matches my new G5. I hope and think that they will. An aesthetics conscience company like Apple would not likely make a possible mistake in judgement like this.

[superscientific]

new Keyboard and mouse would be great for the G5 line....set it apart from the rest of the hardware...
I also agree for 3000 they should match the new hardware...we will see

danny

[scem0]

It seems wierd that they don't advertise a new mouse and keyboard coming with the G5...

Why hide something that will only increase sales?

scem0

[nighthawk]

The preview at WWDC had the new style keyboard/mouse that is shipping with the eMac. However, I heard that those G5's were hand assembled, and so they could have just used the keyboard/mouse that was available.

[Thundercorp]

You can't expect Apple to ship a metallic-gray G5 tower with a white keyboard and white optical mouse! That's so un-Apple! Something's brewing @ Apple I bet.

[Chaszmyr]

The introduction of the "Apple Keyboard" and "Apple Mouse" with the eMac would imply that new Pro Keyboards and Mice are on the way with new PowerMacs, especially since the ones released with the new eMacs were so very similar to the existing Pro models.... This is ofcourse far from certain though. Especially considering one vital fact: If they were to release a new keyboard/mouse with the G5s you would expect it to match the G5 tower, right? But in most peoples cases peoples tower goes on the floor, while their keyboard goes up near their Apple Display... And the current pro keyboard/mouse do match the current Apple displays.

[Ikash]

i hope there wierless thad be cool, hope they don't come out with new pill mouses i didn't like that one click thing, the design was cool but funtionality.

apple won't let us donw

[tny]

I have a Rev A white iBook. My power supply is the silver saucer style, not the square white icecube style. Sometimes it takes a while for the accessories to catch up with the main hardware (yeah, a mouse and a keyboard are more essential than "accessories," but you get my point).

[scem0]

Originally posted by Thundercorp
You can't expect Apple to ship a metallic-gray G5 tower with a white keyboard and white optical mouse! That's so un-Apple! Something's brewing @ Apple I bet.

Something better be brewing! I don't want that crappy ass keyboard, that looks bad with a G5 to boot.

Bah, apple BETTER do something, although it still seems illogical for them not to advertise the mouse & keyboard with the G5.

scem0

[Pete_Hoover]

I sure hope there are new mice and keyboards with the new Pro G5 machines. I think they need need a revision. Maybe some aluminum? I think that would look cool. Hopefully you wont have to pay extra for them. But you will probably have to.

[donshank]

right - and remember when the blue-and-white G3 and then even the G4 towers all shipped with iMac keyboards and it took sooooo long to get "pro" keyboards.
I think if new keyboards were ready then they would have shown them off.

[O.K.]

Originally posted by Pete_Hoover
I sure hope there are new mice and keyboards with the new Pro G5 machines. I think they need need a revision. Maybe some aluminum? I think that would look cool. Hopefully you wont have to pay extra for them. But you will probably have to.

Take a look at PowerBook keyboard. It is for power users and practical (17" I mean).

So why ignore designers? Aluminium? Maybe. Lighting + some addon features.. Yes.

Wireless is although for designer not so important maybe?

[zedwards]

Cool!!! Aluminum metal keyboards, double as a flailing weapon, optional electric shock included when you spill water on them!

Seriously though, I was doing a frame by frame on the video online and the keyboard/mouse DID look grey, and the mouse DID have a bit of a diffence to it. Still smooth, but not quite like the current "pro" mouse.

[Tue12]

Time for Apple to face the music. Give the PowerMacs a multi-button mouse with scroll wheel.

It's professional gear, it shouldn't have a beginner's mouse.

[joeyjojoe]

Originally posted by donshank
right - and remember when the blue-and-white G3 and then even the G4 towers all shipped with iMac keyboards and it took sooooo long to get "pro" keyboards.
I think if new keyboards were ready then they would have shown them off.

i'm not sure they have new keyboards/mice, but how hard can it be to redesign the casing for a keyboard/mouse? compare that to designing a g5 system with 9 fans and an open grill ... i would say if they had something planned, they would have showed it with the g5 to make it look more impressive.

[Ensoniq]

Originally posted by Chaszmyr
The introduction of the "Apple Keyboard" and "Apple Mouse" with the eMac would imply that new Pro Keyboards and Mice are on the way with new PowerMacs, especially since the ones released with the new eMacs were so very similar to the existing Pro models...Excellent deductive reasoning! The new eMac keyboard is essentially the white version of the current Pro product, but redesigned to be a little cheaper to manufacture. (No tension dial on the mouse, a little less adjustability of the keyboard.) I'd expect that product to be shipped with the next revision of the iMacs as well, to further reduce costs and pricing.

If they were to release a new keyboard/mouse with the G5s you would expect it to match the G5 tower, right? But in most peoples cases peoples tower goes on the floor, while their keyboard goes up near their Apple Display... And the current pro keyboard/mouse do match the current Apple displays. Again, good point. The Pro displays have had the clear plastic/lined look to match the PowerMacs and the iMacs when they all were introduced many years ago. And though they changed slightly, they have remained essentially the same ever since.

The PowerMac G5 and the iSight indicate that Apple is now in their Aluminum phase to match the PowerBooks. (Even the brushed metal exploding all over Panther indicates this...) So my guess is that the next revision of the display lineup will have aluminum/cheese grater styling as well. And the new Pro Keyboard/Mouse will probably have a silver/metal look also, to match the Pro displays they will be sitting next to.

[jamilecrire]

Originally posted by KentuckyApple
For $3000 bucks they better give me a keyboard that matches my new G5. I hope and think that they will. An aesthetics conscience company like Apple would not likely make a possible mistake in judgement like this.

Why? The cinema displays don't match either. The G5s look like crap in my opinion. Quite a let down from my QS 733. I'll have to hide the G5 Tower under the desk and leave the G4 out for the sex appeal (I think my wife quit noticing long ago however).

[Mudbug]

well, I snapped a pic during the introduction video of the G5, and this is what I saw. Sure looks silvery to me...

[mikeyredk]

Originally posted by Mudbug
well, I snapped a pic during the introduction video of the G5, and this is what I saw. Sure looks silvery to me...

ahh doesn't look like were going to see a multi botton mouse

[mrougeux]

I thought I had posted this here, but perhaps on another forum. I disagree with the statement "Apple's specs still list "Apple Pro Keyboard" and "Apple Pro Mouse" as included accesssories with the new PowerMac G5's."

While the link you posted shows Apple Pro keyboard as specced for a G5, my order sheet from Apple for my dual 2 G5 lists the keyboard as "Apple Keyboard and Mouse, part # 065-4161"

If you order a G4, you will see specced "Apple Pro Keyboard and Mouse, part # 065-4388". This looks to me like something different is coming. Yes?

If it's not wireless/optical, it won't make any difference, because I won't be using it!










Rating (10 Positives; 3 Negatives)

[jayscheuerle]

Originally posted by zedwards
Cool!!! Aluminum metal keyboards, double as a flailing weapon, optional electric shock included when you spill water on them!


They put the venting holes in the aluminum to let the water drain out...

;)

[cristiana]

According to the apple store, the G5 comes with the Apple Keyboard, and Apple Mouse. I certainly would be pissed if i bought a G5, and it came with the low end keyboard, whereas the G4s are still listed as having the Pro models.

[Abstract]

Pre-WWDC, reports indicated that Apple Pro Mouse stocks had diminished, with recent reports that both the Apple Pro Keyboard and Apple Pro Mouse are running low in stock with no way to reorder them.

Apple's specs still list "Apple Pro Keyboard" and "Apple Pro Mouse" as included accesssories with the new PowerMac G5's. The dramatic case redesign of the PowerMac had left many speculating that new accessories were on the way.

Okay, I don't see the rumour in this. It doesn't say anything about a rumour of new keyboards or mouse. It doesn't speculate on anything!! What am I supposed to get from this, that stock is running low? Is that an indication of a new keyboard?

I'd still prefer an MS keyboard and mouse, but I guess this is great news if you're picky and want everything to match. ;)

[illumin8]

Get a real keyboard and mouse, like this one: Logitech Cordless MX Duo (http://www.newegg.com/app/Showimage.asp?image=23-126-124-04.JPG/23-126-124-03.JPG/23-126-124-02.JPG/23-126-124-05.JPG)

Seriously, the silver/black finish of this keyboard will look really nice with the PowerMac G5, although it might not match the Cinema display as well, but who cares, the Cinema display doesn't even match the G5 that well. I still think Apple is going to be releasing new displays and keyboards/mice to match the G5 eventually.

[MetallicPenguin]

I suggested to Apple that they should make a new Pro keyboard with silver keys instead of white and the new mouse should have a silver inside instead of white. But chances are they already thought of this by the time that I wrote the feedback. I would certainly hope so at least, but either way I like the new Mouse/keyboard I guess.

[cristiana]

I do not understand why keyboard manufacturers still use proprietary cordless recievers. They should all switch to bluetooth, then all I need is one reciever for all devices. If i wanted a cordless keyboard and mouse, I still might use 2 usb ports, and have wires connecting the reciever to the computer. I do not see this as really being cordless. Bluetooth is definitely the way to go.

[sonofslim]

a brushed aluminum keyboard, a la the 12/17" PBs, would look nice next to a G5. especially if they trimmed the housing so that the keys were flush with the edges, similar to the 12" PB case.

[itcomesinwaves]

When I saw the keynote I knew that Apple would release a new mouse with the launch of Panther. What makes me so sure? Well... Why has Apple traditionally shied away from the 2-button mouse? Because most people don't use it and because they don't want things in the right-click menu that can't be accessed elsewhere with a left-click. Apple took a huge step towards bridging that gap with the action menu.

That funky little gear menu may seem insignificant to those of us who own a two-button mouse, but it means that people who never right click can use contextual menus. It also means that some left-clickers will warm up to the idea of context sensitive menus and start right clicking.

It may seem like an odd jump in logic, but I believe it means that two button mice (with scroll wheels I hope) are on the way.

[Veldek]

I'd really like an Apple Bluetooth keyboard and mouse. I bet they could come out with something really special (who else if not them).

o/t: scem0, will you change your nick after your G5 will have arrived?

[pretentious]

Originally posted by scem0
It seems wierd that they don't advertise a new mouse and keyboard coming with the G5...

Why hide something that will only increase sales?

scem0

So they can get some more press at a later date, perhaps?

I think we're grasping for straws here, but yeah I think everyone would like a 'pro' solution from Apple in their keyboards and mouse selections.

I am wondering what this past MacRumor story (http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=25337) would have on this.

[zoozx]

So when will apple announce these new keyboards and mouse? Highly unlikely they will just ship them without showing them. Apple likes a really big show of it's products. Bluetooth would be nice but I doubt apple is going to give those away.
NO WAY they ship the current keyboard and mouse with the G5. They would be hung if they did that.

[Windowlicker]

you heard it. there's nothing better than the apple pro mouse. as i've said earlier, I like keeping the mouse in my hand how ever I like at that moment.

if they put there another button, i hope they'll do it in some revolutionary way :P

I'm not really that much against multibutton, I don't just see that much use for it except with gaming.

if you have only one hand the mbmouse comes handy though ;D

[nagromme]

When you BTO a G5, it clearly says "Apple Keyboard" and "Apple Mouse"--no "Pro."

And the photos of Steve at the keynote clearly show the new white non-pro keyboard.

Yet Apple surely knows people want more, and it can't be a huge design or manufacturing expense. Plus the removal of the word "Pro" suggests a second line of devices coming.

I expect that new keyboards and mice ARE coming, but will require software features of Panther (why? new special purpose keys?). Thus, they are not promising them yet--and sure enough, the first people who buy G5s will not get them. Apple will add them when Panther comes out. My guess.

[Windowlicker]

Originally posted by illumin8
Get a real keyboard and mouse, like this one: Logitech Cordless MX Duo (http://www.newegg.com/app/Showimage.asp?image=23-126-124-04.JPG/23-126-124-03.JPG/23-126-124-02.JPG/23-126-124-05.JPG)

Seriously, the silver/black finish of this keyboard will look really nice with the PowerMac G5, although it might not match the Cinema display as well, but who cares, the Cinema display doesn't even match the G5 that well. I still think Apple is going to be releasing new displays and keyboards/mice to match the G5 eventually.

I wouldn't really agree here.. I just bought a logitech internet navigator keyboard because I broke my apple pro keyboard (I got this for $50 less). it works ok, but: it's a PC keyboard (it has the stupid contextual menu -like button next to alt gr which cannot be assigned to do anything in OSX) and most important: you can't startup your computer from a cd or anything with this keyboard, because the point it starts working is in the login window!! :Q ..conclusion: I now have the original keyboard behind my display, working as a hub (this didn't have the usb ports so I ran out of them) and as my "startup keyboard".

if someone doesn't care about this, then go ahead and buy logitech keyboards, but I'm pretty sure I'll be ready to pay a bit extra the next time I have to get a new keyboard ;P

edit: also the logitech design is UGLY and the keyboards take a lot of room on your desk unlike the apple ones.

[cubist]

Originally posted by Ensoniq
... The Pro displays have had the clear plastic/lined look to match the PowerMacs and the iMacs when they all were introduced many years ago. ...

Actually, not the iMac, but the Cube. Clear plastic made its appearance on the G4 Tower and the Cube; the iMac was still frosted white at the time. Where the pinstripes come from I don't know. The pro keyboard and mouse were black until the advent of the LCD iMac, when they changed to white. (Or had they changed earlier?)

[zoozx]

Originally posted by nagromme

I expect that new keyboards and mice ARE coming, but will require software features of Panther (why? new special purpose keys?). Thus, they are not promising them yet--and sure enough, the first people who buy G5s will not get them. Apple will add them when Panther comes out. My guess.

That would be the kiss of death if apple did not have them for ALL G5 buyers and a major slap to the people that bought early. I will return mine if that is the case and tell them to go F themselves!

[NavyIntel007]

I saw pictures of the new keyboard that comes with the emac and honestly besides some plastic, I can't see any real difference. Both keyboards have the same number of keys, almost identical mice... what's the point?

To me a non-pro keyboard should only have the keys that are on the laptop keyboard.

I bet that apple is releasing new keyboards and mice for the pro machines. The mice might even be multifunction for once, which would make sense because most pro users end up buying multibutton mice anyway where as MOST (don't flame) consumers only left click 95% of the time (like my girlfriend, she didn't even know what the second button did).

It's also possible that Apple will release new Apple Pro Speakers for the G5 that will work with the new optical out addition. Apple surely would want their own speakers and not push the aftermarket more than they have to.

[Philippe Robin]

I saw a real G5 this week end at la Fnac in Paris (there is one prototype that goes from shop to shop in France).
It has a normal white keyboard.

P.

[network23]

It may be that, to prevent rumors, design on the keyboard and mouse didn't begin until after (or just before) the G5 was unveiled.

I can just see rumors trickling in about a newly designed keyboard using *gasp* aluminum! which would then start rumors about the G5 case.

[shakespeare]

I just assumed that a pro aluminum external keyboard with PowerBook-style backlighting was on the way. It makes sense, it wouldn't cost too much money, and everyone wants one.

Am I the only one who made this assumption?

[inkswamp]

Sometimes I don't know whether to laugh at the forums here or scream. Apple just unveiled what is arguably the fastest personal computer on the planet more than fulfilling even the wildest of the rumors and yet some of you are whining about the possibility that the old style keyboard and mouse might be included. Is there nothing Apple can do to satisfy some of you? If any of you order a G5 and are unhappy with it because of the keyboard/mouse situation, please feel free to send it to me in your frustration. I'm only here to help. :D

[cudaboy_71]

i for one pray they are not wireless. i dunno...maybe the keyboard would be ok...i've never used a wireless keyboard. but EVERY wireless mouse i've ever tried has gone right back to the store....and i've tried a few. for a professional user (who the professional line of macs are aimed at) the radio lag makes them simply unusable.

also...while i'm on a rant....what's with all this calling a membrane keyboard a 'pro keyboard' crap. i have a 'pro' keyboard with my cube just for the aesthetics of it. but i continue to use a 'real' BSK apple extended keyboard on my production mac. it doesnt match...and having to use an ADB adapter is kinda silly in this day and age. but my typos are fewer and farther between.

can i say it again please? i hate membrane keyboards. i'll gladly pay the $150 for a real keyboard again. just give us the option to have one that matches.
</rant>

[Awimoway]

Maybe this is off-topic, but what about displays? The current offerings are great, technically speaking (I love my crisp, bright 20" cinema display), but the bevel design is pukingly outdated and looks hideous next to the G5.

I think there will be updates to all three. And I think there will be a major announcement for them... remember that there is still MWNY (or whatever they call it now), and VP of Apple hardware Greg Joswiak will be speaking there.

Although it seems like it would be smarter to unveil everything at the outset, maybe they kept quiet on mouse, keyboards and displays because the developers who come to WWDC are mostly programmers who won't profit much from early knowledge of minor peripheral changes (and the people whose products directly relate to mice and keyboards--covers, overlays, etc--probably did get a private preview anyway).

By announcing updated keyboards, mice, and perhaps displays in July--a few weeks before the G5 ships, they can keep interest high in a product that was announced much earlier than conventional wisdom typically warrants.

[zoozx]

Originally posted by Awimoway
Maybe this is off-topic, but what about displays? The current offerings are great, technically speaking (I love my crisp, bright 20" cinema display), but the bevel design is pukingly outdated and looks hideous next to the G5.

I think there will be updates to all three. And I think there will be a major announcement for them... remember that there is still MWNY (or whatever they call it now), and VP of Apple hardware Greg Joswiak will be speaking there.

Although it seems like it would be smarter to unveil everything at the outset, maybe they kept quiet on mouse, keyboards and displays because the developers who come to WWDC are mostly programmers who won't profit much from early knowledge of minor peripheral changes (and the people whose products directly relate to mice and keyboards--covers, overlays, etc--probably did get a private preview anyway).

By announcing updated keyboards, mice, and perhaps displays in July--a few weeks before the G5 ships, they can keep interest high in a product that was announced much earlier than conventional wisdom typically warrants.

This makes the most sense of anything posted here. Apple realises that they couldn't justify selling G5's 3 months after they released with a new keyboard and mouse. Early buyers outrage would be enormous and justified.

[g3ski]

Originally posted by Foxer
So are there new mice and/or keyboards with the G5's?

I think they are round and silver....b/c Apple KNOWS what a consumer wants when it comes to mice ;0

Ok, so I am still not happy that they ever made the round mouse. I so very dissapointed that they did not fix it immediately (as if they had just shipped fresh monkey turd accidentally.)

please, please, please make a better mouse.....or just put the Apple logo on a logitech mouse. Maybe Ive can work with logitech to make an Apple mouse....hmmm.

[Sorry, just bitchin' no news or rumor info in this post]

[pinks]

I don't think that these are going to be coming in the first shipment of the G5. On the Apple Store order sheet, you get only one option, the standard Apple Keyboard and Mouse ala the eMac.

I hope this speculation turn out to be true though. Oh, yes... I'll take one of those new aluminium cased 30" displays as well, my good man!

- Al

BTW, my first post via Airport extreme. Nice!

[wogglesworth]

OK, this is just a thought:

This was sort of touched on by itcomesinwaves, but when Steve was demo-ing Panther he briefly talked about using 2-button mice. This struck me as weird as I cannot remember him ever mentioning 2-button mice in a Keynote. Even though 2-button has been supported for a long time, he seems to avoid the topic. Maybe someone can correct me on that one, but that suggested to me there might actually be the possibility. Anyway, when he mentioned the 2-button, I was expecting to see a new keyboard/mouse combo. Oh well.

I could also see that a new mouse/keyboard may not be fully complete yet, at least in time for WWDC. They could still have them in production for when the G5s actually ship.

[Alte22a]

not so fussed about a new mouse, but what I am fussed about is having newly desgin keyboard. something a bit short travel more "clickly" something more on the lines of the 17" powerbook. Too be honest we work mostly in dimly lit office just to minimise colour cast on the monitors so for me a glowing keyboard is ideal. Mouse dont really care so much. I like the Pro mouse, we use Wacom tablets so we are nots o fussed.. :D New keyboards please with new keys...

[soggywulf]

Originally posted by Tue12
Time for Apple to face the music. Give the PowerMacs a multi-button mouse with scroll wheel.

It's professional gear, it shouldn't have a beginner's mouse.

AMEN!! It's really pretty pathetic how they are sticking to one-button. Especially since "contextual menus" have been available for years on the Mac.

At least with the desktops you can get a 3rd party mouse. But the worst is for powerbooks...when I jump to the iBook, I feel totally crippled with that built-in 1-button trackpad. Like I've lost an arm. Well, almost.

[Alte22a]

not so fussed about a new mouse, but what I am fussed about is having newly desgin keyboard. something a bit short travel more "clickly" something more on the lines of the 17" powerbook. Too be honest we work mostly in dimly lit office just to minimise colour cast on the monitors so for me a glowing keyboard is ideal. Mouse dont really care so much. I like the Pro mouse, we use Wacom tablets so we are nots o fussed.. :D New keyboards please with new keys...

[soggywulf]

Originally posted by illumin8
Get a real keyboard and mouse, like this one: Logitech Cordless MX Duo (http://www.newegg.com/app/Showimage.asp?image=23-126-124-04.JPG/23-126-124-03.JPG/23-126-124-02.JPG/23-126-124-05.JPG)

Or these:

http://www.macally.com/spec/usb/input_device/ioptinet.html
and
http://www.macally.com/spec/usb/input_device/ikey.html

Remember the good old days when Apple made mice and keyboards that were worth a damn? I'm talking the older-style ADB keyboard, not the mushy crappy "Apple Design" stuff. And the last-generation ADB mouse. Both of those were miles ahead of anything else on the PC, past and present. Quite a letdown when they started shipping with the garbage we have now, which I would rate lower than a standard Dell keyboard and MS mouse. Yuck.

Fortunately we have MacAlly. Those products I list above replicate the pinnacle of Apple keyboard/mouse design. Except the mouse is a 2-button+scroll, and of course optical. Hallo-freaking-looyah.

[soggywulf]

Originally posted by inkswamp
Sometimes I don't know whether to laugh at the forums here or scream. Apple just unveiled what is arguably the fastest personal computer on the planet more than fulfilling even the wildest of the rumors and yet some of you are whining about the possibility that the old style keyboard and mouse might be included. Is there nothing Apple can do to satisfy some of you?

Hey, we're the customers. It is our prerogative to gripe about any problems the product has. Especially for $3k! Expect better from Apple. Why let them off the hook? Are they not charging you enough?

[mnkeybsness]

Originally posted by soggywulf
Or these:

http://www.macally.com/spec/usb/input_device/ioptinet.html
and
http://www.macally.com/spec/usb/input_device/ikey.html

Fortunately we have MacAlly. Those products I list above replicate the pinnacle of Apple keyboard/mouse design. Except the mouse is a 2-button+scroll, and of course optical. Hallo-freaking-looyah.

YUCK i hate macally products. first off, they are more ugly than that stuff that comes outta my butt. and secondly, i had a couple macally mouses (mice?) and they were crap...wore out in a matter of a few months.

if i were ever to replace my black apple pro mouse and keyboard, i would get logitech's corless elite duo keyboard and mx700 mouse...logitech is simply the best there is.

[soggywulf]

Originally posted by mnkeybsness
YUCK i hate macally products. first off, they are more ugly than that stuff that comes outta my butt.

True, they aren't lookers. I for one don't care though...as long as it works well. The MacAlly stuff has a nearly perfect tactile feel IMO.

Originally posted by mnkeybsness
and secondly, i had a couple macally mouses (mice?) and they were crap...wore out in a matter of a few months.

I've had mine for maybe 2.5 years, I think? Ever since I got my QS867 (which I bought at release). No problems at all here, they work like new.

Originally posted by mnkeybsness
if i were ever to replace my black apple pro mouse and keyboard, i would get logitech's corless elite duo keyboard and mx700 mouse...logitech is simply the best there is.

Logitech...bleah. They have a "PC" (i.e. crappy) feel to them. The mouse fits awkwardly to the hand, and the tactile response of the keyboards sucks. IMO of course. I suppose this is all a matter of taste.

[Sol]

Two-button mice should be offered as standard in all Pro systems. The simplicity of the single-button mouse works great for any iMac or eMac but for serious applications like Final Cut Pro you need the scroll wheels and extra buttons.

Mac gamers are more likely to have a mouse allready before they buy any new computer.

[Badtz Maru]

Take a look at the top row of keys in the pic Mudbug took from the G5 demo video... the escape key is bigger than on the existing pro kb and there's an extra big key to the right of F12... unless this is a non-US kb or some other model I haven't seen, it sure looks different than my pro kb.

[jzieske]

Originally posted by Badtz Maru
Take a look at the top row of keys in the pic Mudbug took from the G5 demo video... the escape key is bigger than on the existing pro kb and there's an extra big key to the right of F12... unless this is a non-US kb or some other model I haven't seen, it sure looks different than my pro kb.

Also there is no gap after every fourth "F" key as on current keyboards. I got the feeling new keyboards/mice are coming ... But When?

[PyroTurtle]

maybe they'll offer them in fruity colors ;) i want two buttons on MY powerbook...

[Wardofsky]

I'm suprised this has not been addressed more quickly.
The eMacs had the keyboard around the time the picture of them was circulated.

There's one in the showroom, they look really ugmo with the USB ports near the back cord.

G5's will stay with the Pro keyboards because they're pro machines...

Yeah, my mistake, they are the new wedge keyboards

[nagromme]

Actually the G5s are always shown with the non-Pro keyboard, and are listed in the Apple Store with the non-Pro keyboard (and mouse). So people are being told quite honestly what they will be receiving. I'm surprised they aren't new, but... they're not. (Yet.)

But if by some chance Apple were to switch the specs on people JUST before shipping the G5--even if they legally had to send an email with an option to cancel--and provide a new kybd/mouse at the last minute... I really don't think any buyers would complain!

[kgforce]

I haven't used a mouse in probably 7 or 8 years. Currently I'm using a Microsoft Trackball Explorer (blasphemy!!). I'd readily dump it for a good trackball with scroll wheel from Apple.

[10 Goto 10]

My contacts within the peripheral outfits of Taipei indicate that new keyboards, mice, and displays are coming, but they were delayed by the outbreak of SARS and my inability to predict anything.

These nifty peripherals will take their design cues from the G5, which means they have been assembled and are being kept in boxes in the back of all major European Mac Resellers.

Users will skip with glee when they realize their displays are wrapped in a single piece of aluminum, protecting the otherwise lickable LCD of the highest quality underneath.

Programmers will no longer have to worry about getting goatee hair or Jolt on their keyboards because 9 fans will blow out all invading substances.

Two button mice will finally be available but a paper-clip will be required to reach the mouse which has been enveloped by a cheese-gratter grill work.

How do I know? Because I have the best friend of a friend of a friend of a made up guy contacts in the business.

Oh, and I'll be selling custom prongs for your mouse at the expected 2000 percent markup. See Me at MacWe'sGipYas.con

---The above was a work of parody and therefore is protected speech.

[u2mr2os2]

The cheaper white keyboard and mouse being featured with their metal G5 is obviously not what they are going to ship given the attention to design aesthetics they are famous for.

So why if a new keyboard and mouse shouldn't be as hard to create as a new tower case did they not have them already or even mention them as coming?

Because if they showed the keyboard, people would ask about the mouse, and they couldn't show the mouse. Why? It would have drawn all attention away from their new G5. How would a mouse do that? Because it is going to have two buttons.

Think about it. If Apple (THE one button mouse company) had unveiled a two button mouse alongside a new 64-bit ultra-fast personal computer, which do you think would be all the topic in the computer press? Right - the TWO button mouse from Apple - not the G5! It's too big a story for the one-button mouse company to start shipping a two-button mouse. Apple didn't want that stealing the spotlight away from the G5. When the 2 button mouse makes it debut, it will then be next to the G5 drawing attention back to it a bit.

So, since they are obviously going to have a matching mouse and keyboard, and they didn't reveal it at the G5 launch, it will have two buttons. I just hope it has a scroll wheel.

[SiliconAddict]

General summary of some people's comments "They would not buy or return their G5 if it doesn't come with a better keyboard\ mouse then what's currently available"

:rolleyes: Scary....just plain scary.

[MhzDoesMatter]

Originally posted by u2mr2os2

If they showed the keyboard, people would ask about the mouse, and they couldn't show the mouse. Why? It would have drawn all attention away from their new G5. How would a mouse do that? Because it is going to have two buttons.

Think about it. If Apple (THE one button mouse company) had unveiled a two button mouse alongside a new 64-bit ultra-fast personal computer, which do you think would be all the topic in the computer press? Right - the TWO button mouse from Apple - not the G5! It's too big a story for the one-button mouse company to start shipping a two-button mouse. Apple didn't want that stealing the spotlight away from the G5. When the 2 button mouse makes it debut, it will then be next to the G5 drawing attention back to it a bit.

Thank you. Not that I buy this, just that it's a perfectly logical and sensible assumption. Not the "Dingo ate my keyboard" crap thats paraded around here as plausible theories.

-Hertz

Mac users' general aversion to logic and reasoning still proves astounding each time.

[segastyle]

i doubt they'll release a wireless mouse/keyboard with this round of g5s. for starters, bluetooth doesn't even come standard - it's a bto option. so that is nixed.

i do hope htey release a 2-button mouse with a scroll wheel. i like my kensington optical elite mouse. fits nicely in my hand, and most importantly, is HAS NOT been built for right-handers only. if logitech made a left handed version of their mx700, i'd probably get. but they don't, so i won't.

[Patrick Thistle]

My first post here so be gentle... only a designer with basic technical knowledge, IMHO Apple are splitting their lines into "Consumer (eMac, iMac, iBook etc.)" & "Pro (X Serve, g5, Powerbooks)" versions... the consumer/home/lifestyle ones will feature the white/bubble look, the Pro ones a more technical brushed ali look... already the G5 is looking like a good fit with the X-serve.. I think the 12" PB keyboard with the flush keys looks great & we'll be seeing something like that (hopefully!) not sure how they'll make the mouse work (although a scroll wheel would be nice). Cordless for both would be the icing on the cake. The odd one out then would be the displays... I'd expect a redesigned brushed aluminum case for them soon...

versionsOriginally posted by sonofslim
a brushed aluminum keyboard, a la the 12/17" PBs, would look nice next to a G5. especially if they trimmed the housing so that the keys were flush with the edges, similar to the 12" PB case.

[scem0]

Originally posted by MhzDoesMatter
Thank you. Not that I buy this, just that it's a perfectly logical and sensible assumption. Not the "Dingo ate my keyboard" crap thats paraded around here as plausible theories.

-Hertz

Mac users' general aversion to logic and reasoning still proves astounding each time.

I don't think it would take away the buzz around the G5 - I think it would add to it...

scem0

oh and whoever asked - no I'm not changing my name after I get the G5.

[panphage]

Originally posted by Badtz Maru
Take a look at the top row of keys in the pic Mudbug took from the G5 demo video... the escape key is bigger than on the existing pro kb and there's an extra big key to the right of F12... unless this is a non-US kb or some other model I haven't seen, it sure looks different than my pro kb.
Originally posted by jzieske
Also there is no gap after every fourth "F" key as on current keyboards. I got the feeling new keyboards/mice are coming ... But When?

Take a look at the photo of the "Apple Keyboard" shipping with the emac. You'll note that it has a larger esc key and no gaps between the function keys.

[MhzDoesMatter]

Originally posted by scem0
I don't think it would take away the buzz around the G5 - I think it would add to it...

scem0


Nah, I'm siding with him. The one button mouse is more the "Essence of Apple" than the hallmark lack of speed. So Apple finally trading in one of their spiritual beliefs/design principles for actual functionality would definitely overshadow the arrival of actual computing power (relatively speaking) to the platform.

It's only been a week or so and Byte of the Apple has moved onto how iPods will be the savior of Apple and Mac's should be the accompanying free gift.

Eh, I think the world has moved on.

-Hertz

Now that the parades over, who's gonna clean all the rainbows outta the street?

[inkswamp]

Originally posted by soggywulf
Hey, we're the customers. It is our prerogative to gripe about any problems the product has. Especially for $3k! Expect better from Apple. Why let them off the hook? Are they not charging you enough?

The point of my original post was not to say that customers should not expect better of a company, but that I see so many Mac users here who apparently cannot be happy about anything. There will always be one thing or something wrong with whatever Apple does, I guess. If Apple does in fact release a new, improved mouse and keyboard, what esoteric issue will become the bitch-n-gripe focal point then? Focusing on the mouse and keyboard when the machine itself is a thing of beauty seems really strange to me, like saying, "Yeah this house is the most beautiful house I've ever seen, but look at the crappy little welcome mat!" The point wasn't that we shouldn't expect good stuff for the money, but that some people apparently live to carp about anything, any little nitpicky thing, no matter how good the rest of the machine is. I think the current pro mouse and keyboard and winners all-around, and I genuinely believe that the single-button mouse is a better design decision, so it seems irrelevant to me.

[cvoelker]

Hello,

I was at a presentation of the new G5 here at Hamburg. They brought the only demo unit around in Europe to showcase a huge customer and then came to a very wellregarded german shop for one hour public presentation.

The keyboard attached was the kind like the new eMacs with white plastics on top and a acryl clear case. There is no height adjustment any more, it is fixed in the high position which is seen as the most ergonomic by apple (and i agree to this). The keyboard layout was the usual extended/Pro Layout US version, no german Layout.

I dont know whether the eMac has standard or extended Layout ( 4 cursor keys and the six key like page up/down, home, help and so on in a separate space between main area and numbers block). In case the eMac sports a standard layout with cursor keys at the bottom right of the main area, this differences would be a clear indicator of the keyboard shown at the prsentation being the final version for the G5.

I asked the presenter directly what kind of keyboard will be delivered with the G5 and he confirmed that this is the new keyboard and that Apple found most users preferring the higher position of the keyboard and thus they removed the ability to change it.

Although I am not sure whether I like it, it makes sense to me. In some way this matches the duality of brushed metal and aqua style on the desktop. Brushed metal is used for apps the mimic a unit like audio Equipment, e.g. iTunes and Aqua is the surface for document centric apps like Word. This is what the Human Interface Guidelines says. It makes pretty much sense to have servers and machines and laptops look like brushed metal an user interaction devices such as display, keyboard and mouse look like Aqua.

Christian

[soggywulf]

Originally posted by inkswamp
The point of my original post was not to say that customers should not expect better of a company, but that I see so many Mac users here who apparently cannot be happy about anything. There will always be one thing or something wrong with whatever Apple does, I guess. If Apple does in fact release a new, improved mouse and keyboard, what esoteric issue will become the bitch-n-gripe focal point then? Focusing on the mouse and keyboard when the machine itself is a thing of beauty seems really strange to me, like saying, "Yeah this house is the most beautiful house I've ever seen, but look at the crappy little welcome mat!" The point wasn't that we shouldn't expect good stuff for the money, but that some people apparently live to carp about anything, any little nitpicky thing, no matter how good the rest of the machine is.

No we don't just live to complain. The machine is great. This thread, however, is about keyboards and mice, so that is what we focus on.

Originally posted by inkswamp
I think the current pro mouse and keyboard and winners all-around, and I genuinely believe that the single-button mouse is a better design decision, so it seems irrelevant to me.

Interesting. How do you feel about contextual menus? Would you say that control-clicking or "long-clicking" is better than clicking the right mouse button?

Or perhaps you do not use contextual menus? Here's an example. Say you want to open a web link in a new window. How do you do it without contextual menus?

[widesky]

What Stevie said about the keyboard is that it will have 2 usb ports on it - doesn't this quash any rumors of it being wireless as you can't have both (or can you?)

[Sweetfeld28]

I think that the PRO Keyboard should be wired. Therefore, we could have: the 2 USB ports, back lit keys like on the 17 PB, the keys being silver with the clear case design. We then should have a silver, two button, scroll whell mouse, with the clear case. Much like the current PRO mouse. But Most importantly the mouse should be WIRELESS. :D :)

[Sweetfeld28]

oh, i forgot something. The backlit keys should have that bright blue light that is on most protable hard drives. At least mine anyway. That look Sweet.:cool:

[PyroTurtle]

i know, multiple colored lights, so you can chose your favorite falvor ;)

[soggywulf]

Yes. Also, the keyboard should have a neon red "Type R" painted on it, to boost the speed to 4 GHz. Maybe they can also ship a neon blue model, only 3.5 GHz.

[Chef Ramen]

i was just wondering if anybody has actually used the "Apple Keyboard" and "Apple Mouse." i used them when i went to watch the stevenote at the apple store....and i hated them. the mouse felt extremely awkward to click, and is unadjustable. the keyboard seemed HELLA cheap. im not quite sure how to describe it, but use one and you may understand what i mean. i really hope apple releases a better mouse and keyboard for 'pro' users, since their consumer mouse/keyboards blow.

[j33pd0g]

What about new monitors to match the new G5?

[XnavxeMiyyep]

Originally posted by soggywulf
Or perhaps you do not use contextual menus? Here's an example. Say you want to open a web link in a new window. How do you do it without contextual menus?
Command-click. It's faster than using contextual menus, and works in both Safari and Camino.

[soggywulf]

Originally posted by XnavxeMiyyep
Command-click. It's faster than using contextual menus, and works in both Safari and Camino.

Middle-click. Faster and easier than command-click, and works in Safari and all the Mozilla derivatives I've tried. But close, pretty close.

So then. How about downloading a link to disk, or opening in a tab (instead of window) or copying a link to clipboard, etc etc etc? And this is only one app.

The fact of the matter is that contextual menus are useful, intuitive, and often quite necessary in a rich and functional GUI. That's why Apple saw fit to include them way back in OS9 (or 8 or 8.5 or some such ancient OS).

Their mistake was in not standardizing on 2-button mice at the same time. I think this was due to pride and ego issues, not wanting to admit that Windows had something right all along. The one-button mouse is such a visible manifestation of Apple Thinking Differently--but "different" is not always "better". You will notice that universal support for 2-button scrollers was quietly rolled into the OS when X came out--but even then they wouldn't ship the computers with them.

[SwitchMonkey]

The new wired Apple keyboards will be sliver, and the keys will be lit up from beneath (like the cool 17" AlBook) This will surprise everyone and delight us all. Joy to us all, a freaking cool glowing keyboard that NO ONE ELSE ON THE PLANET HAS. Everyone's mice already glows, why not the keyboard? Apple has also asked this question and has an answer... Get ready...


The *optional* board will be the wireless bluetooth keyboard and Apple will charge you a pretty penny for it.

The wireles mouse and wireless keyboard will most likely NEVER come BUNDLED with a power mac.

Personally, I want the back lit pro keyboard...

Rage on...

[demagalhaes]

Originally posted by Mudbug
well, I snapped a pic during the introduction video of the G5, and this is what I saw. Sure looks silvery to me...
yeah the monitor looks metallic to me too!

[mrougeux]

Originally posted by pinks:
"I don't think that these are going to be coming in the first shipment of the G5. On the Apple Store order sheet, you get only one option, the standard Apple Keyboard and Mouse ala the eMac."

Not necessarily true. You can't compare the verbal descriptions. Look at the part numbers. The part number for the keyboard and mouse for an (my) G5 is NOT the same as the part number for a keyboard and mouse for either a G4, an Emac or an iMac.

BTW, I liked the comment on the (in)significance of the the keyboard/mouse relative to the awesome G5. Let's keep things in perspective! [Although I am still using my old ADB keyboard from my Quadra 660. Everything else from Apple since then has been terrible, including their mice. I use a Logitech Scroll wheel 2 button mouse.]

[SwitchMonkey]

Gotta love those ADB keyboards!

Originally posted by mrougeux
Although I am still using my old ADB keyboard from my Quadra 660.

[mrougeux]

See this post from the home page of Macrumors.com

ThinkSecret reports that Apple has cut prices on the Apple Keyboard and Apple Mouse to $59 and $49 respectively.

They also suggest that wireless accessories are in the works, but are unable to provide much confirmation.

Recent reports have indicated that the current Pro models have been End of Life'd. Users also report that Apple's keyboard and mouse are now designated with a "Wired" designation in the Apple Store.

[Aditya]

Originally posted by Tue12
Time for Apple to face the music. Give the PowerMacs a multi-button mouse with scroll wheel.

It's professional gear, it shouldn't have a beginner's mouse.

Since OS-X is essentially a UNIX and Macs are designed for digital media aplications I would expect (and request) Apple to finally come up with 3-button mouse 'cause all PRO applications require 3-buttons to operate. There is a limit where simplicity overwrites practicality...

PS: I hate scroll-wheel... Plain 3-button like the Logitech's MouseMan Plus will do just fine...

As for the keyboard - I agree that it should match the Display, not the tower and the current Pro Keybord does that just fine...

Cheers

Aditya

[themadchemist]

Originally posted by Aditya
Since OS-X is essentially a UNIX and Macs are designed for digital media aplications I would expect (and request) Apple to finally come up with 3-button mouse 'cause all PRO applications require 3-buttons to operate. There is a limit where simplicity overwrites practicality...

PS: I hate scroll-wheel... Plain 3-button like the Logitech's MouseMan Plus will do just fine...

As for the keyboard - I agree that it should match the Display, not the tower and the current Pro Keybord does that just fine...

Cheers

Aditya

I don't think that software REQUIRES a 3-button mouse. It probably couldn't hurt, though. As for me, I have personally been a fan of the one-button mouse for quite a while. Now I see why two buttons would be useful (I got tired of control-clicking). Three seems excessive, but a scroll wheel seems just right. :D

I think the real danger is the mouse looking ugly. But I'll leave it to Apple to find a way to make the two-button mouse look sexy. After all, the optical mouse is still the coolest looking mouse ever.

[etoiles]

Originally posted by themadchemist
I don't think that software REQUIRES a 3-button mouse. It probably couldn't hurt, though.

navigating and manipulating objects in any 3D app becomes VERY tedious if you only have one button...

[Aditya]

Originally posted by themadchemist
I don't think that software REQUIRES a 3-button mouse. It probably couldn't hurt, though. As for me, I have personally been a fan of the one-button mouse for quite a while. Now I see why two buttons would be useful (I got tired of control-clicking). Three seems excessive, but a scroll wheel seems just right. :D


To operate any 3D software (such as Maya or Softimage) You need 3-button mouse, mostly because it is assigned to each of the 3 dimensions - X,Y,Z. Also software like Shake is a must with 3-buttons. Basically any PRO A/V or CGI software requires 3-buttons...

Cheers

Aditya

[themadchemist]

Originally posted by Aditya
To operate any 3D software (such as Maya or Softimage) You need 3-button mouse, mostly because it is assigned to each of the 3 dimensions - X,Y,Z. Also software like Shake is a must with 3-buttons. Basically any PRO A/V or CGI software requires 3-buttons...

Cheers

Aditya

That makes sense. Hey, you learn something new everyday.

I think, though, that three buttons and a scroll wheel would be too crowded. And if Apple wants to target the mode of its users mousey-desires, then it would probably be better off going with TWO buttons and a scroll wheel rather than 3 buttons and no scroll wheel.

That way, less people would chuck their mice for a replacement. People who need 3 buttons would have to replace mice, but the people who want a scroll wheel and only two buttons (a larger percentage, I imagine) would not.

[beg_ne]

Originally posted by themadchemist
I think, though, that three buttons and a scroll wheel would be too crowded. And if Apple wants to target the mode of its users mousey-desires, then it would probably be better off going with TWO buttons and a scroll wheel rather than 3 buttons and no scroll wheel.

That way, less people would chuck their mice for a replacement. People who need 3 buttons would have to replace mice, but the people who want a scroll wheel and only two buttons (a larger percentage, I imagine) would not.

Shouldn't be an issue as the scrollwheel on all mice acts as a 3rd mouse button when depressed. I couldn't see apple coming out with a scrollwheel mouse and not having the wheel act as the 3rd button when pressed.

[Aditya]

Originally posted by beg_ne
Shouldn't be an issue as the scrollwheel on all mice acts as a 3rd mouse button when depressed. I couldn't see apple coming out with a scrollwheel mouse and not having the wheel act as the 3rd button when pressed.

Have You guys seen the "4D mouse" from WACOM - It basicaly has 5 buttons (3 main and two separate) as well as scroll wheel possitioned where Your thumb goes. This wheel can be programmed that if You scroll it in either direction it gives new functionality to the 5 buttons giving You essentially 15-button mouse. I know that this is overkill (mind You - I do use it a lot, it takes time to get used to it, but once You do You won't come back...) but a 3-button mouse with a thumb scroll wheel will not be clutterred and still provide for all demands. It should of course be supplied with fully programmable interface.

While we are at it - APPLE should buy WACOM :rolleyes: and then we have no problem at all... :D

Cheers

Aditya