Apple Keyboard and Mouse Prices Cut

[MacRumors]

ThinkSecret reports (http://www.thinksecret.com/news/keyboardmouse49.html) 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 (http://www.macrumors.com/pages/2003/07/20030702144624.shtml) 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.

[applemacdude]

Maybe apple will introduce wireless accesories later this month or maybe not. Wireless will need bluetooth won't it? And the only place you can get is at apple online right?:confused:

we will see...

[zer0army]

I just hope our G5's wont ship with the plastic keyboard and mouse, only to have new alu wireless ones announced a month later.

[blueBomber]

hopefully, Apple doesn't go with the metal look for their input devices also. MS does this with their Explorer mouse, and while it looks sharp for a little while, eventually the paint wears off and your left with a rather trashy looking piece of plastic

[Kid Red]

Why are there 2 negative ratings for this? Man, lol, I can't get over this ratings thing.

Anyways, hopefully by August/Sept, we'll get a matching keyboard and finally a 2 button mouse.

[Rx7 Fan]

But Unlike Microsoft, I think Apple has the ability to get things right the first time. With that said, I believe if apple should choose the the aluminum look for both mouse and keyboard, the paint wont be coming off any time soon:D

[Longey Nowze]

well... this is good news, but I really dont like wireless keyboards and mice, i hate the fact that you have to recharge them.
my sister has a logitech wireless mouse and keyboard, the black ones with some metallic looking parts, they're ok, but i the mouse is heavy cuz of the batteries, she noticed it when she got then i noticed it too, we both have RSI/RMI, a heavy mouse doesn't help.
one other thing i like about the wired keyboard is the USB ports, one if for the mouse, the other i use for the camera and other things, i like that.

Thank You
MaT

[GroundLoop]

I am very much looking forward to a wireless mouse and keyboard. It would make integration into my entertainment system that much easier. Maybe we will see something next week.

Hickman

[TylerL]

...weren't both the Mouse and Keyboard each $59 to begin with?

[ennerseed]

buttonS, buttonS, please buttonS

[cesar]

Users also report that Apple's keyboard and mouse are now designated with a "Wired" designation in the Apple Store. [/B]

what does "Wired" mean??? explain me....

[bitfactory]

Originally posted by cesar
what does "Wired" mean??? explain me....

uh - as in it has a wire attached to it.

[macnews]

Originally posted by zer0army
I just hope our G5's wont ship with the plastic keyboard and mouse, only to have new alu wireless ones announced a month later.

Naw, it will figure if you ordered your G5 right after the announcement you will get the old mouse and keyboard. Some lucky person might get the new mouse and keyboard but I wouldn't count on it.

I am waiting until after the expo formaly known as MWNY to order mine - holding out hopes maybe new powerbooks, mice, etc.

[cesar]

oohh, I was think like wired, strange or something like that

[Macmaniac]

There are two catogories: Wired it has a plastic cord on it that attaches to your computer.
Unwired has no cords on it but has a transmitter that is attatched to your computer.
Come on 2 button mice!

[artificiallife]

This article is wrong. The keyboard and mouse both cost $49 now.

[zoozx]

Originally posted by macnews
Naw, it will figure if you ordered your G5 right after the announcement you will get the old mouse and keyboard. Some lucky person might get the new mouse and keyboard but I wouldn't count on it.

I am waiting until after the expo formaly known as MWNY to order mine - holding out hopes maybe new powerbooks, mice, etc.

Dream on, Apple is not going to screw early purchasers of a G5. That is laughable. :rolleyes:

[soggywulf]

Originally posted by Macmaniac
Come on 2 button mice!

Absolutely.

[Anna]

I have used some wireless mice/keyboard and they can be very jerky and can drop out, especially if you are not directly in front of the receiver, gimme wired any day, especially for desktop publishing work.

[nickmcghie]

Originally posted by cesar
oohh, I was think like wired, strange or something like that

umm.. "wired" and "weird" are two different words

[DrGruv1]

I have always spent another $150 getting akeyboard i like and turbo mouse... maybe this time i won't have to.

I'd really like to see a fuller, larger keyboard and a multi-button mouse

[hayesk]

As long as it's not standard - I don't want wireless. I don't think they'll ship standard anyway. Schools would hate them - you can't really secure a wireless mouse in an unsupervised lab without a cable attached to it.

[ebow]

Originally posted by DrGruv1
I have always spent another $150 getting akeyboard i like and turbo mouse... maybe this time i won't have to.

I'd really like to see a fuller, larger keyboard and a multi-button mouse

How much fuller a keyboard do you want? Apple's has, what, 108 keys? Don't tell me you want one with an "Internet" key or a little picture of a rocket (think Compaq's launch keys).

[frozenstar]

There's no doubt that Apple's implementation of a bluetooth mouse would be the best in the industry, especially considering that they only have to compete with one other sorry excuse for a bluetooth mouse.

Perhaps they'll integrate a small lithium-ion battery into the mouse and provide a detachable cable (firewire or USB) to allow you to charge the battery while using the mouse at the same time. That seems like the most elegant solution. But, can they do it while keeping the costs down?

[frozenstar]

Originally posted by hayesk
As long as it's not standard - I don't want wireless. I don't think they'll ship standard anyway. Schools would hate them - you can't really secure a wireless mouse in an unsupervised lab without a cable attached to it.

We were forced to replace all of the ball mice with optical mice in the computer labs at my university because the students were actually stealing the balls. How pathetic can people be? I'm surprised they haven't been pulling the keys right off the damn keyboards!

[Chef Ramen]

where exactly does it say "wired"? i cant find it anywhere on the apple store

[Docrjm]

Phone the apple store and ask about new keyboards etc with the G5. The guy at the other end indiacted that there would be a new one, but couldn't comment further

[moss84]

Originally posted by artificiallife
This article is wrong. The keyboard and mouse both cost $49 now.

No. The article states that Apple cut prices from $59 to $49 for both. The MacRumors post is incorrect.

[Pappy Wappy]

the article says:that Apple has cut prices on the Apple Keyboard and Apple Mouse to $59 and $49 respectively.

this indicates that respectively the apple keyboard is cut to $59 and the apple mouse is cut to $49.

the use of the word respectively and saying the price was "cut to" indicates that the prices are now different at both $59 and $49.

c'mon kids, pay attention.

[jouster]

I still don't understand why people are so desperate for a two button mouse from Apple. There are plenty to choose from already. I just got a Kensington and it is excellent. Just buy a third party solution.......

[moss84]

Originally posted by Pappy Wappy
the article says:that Apple has cut prices on the Apple Keyboard and Apple Mouse to $59 and $49 respectively.

this indicates that respectively the apple keyboard is cut to $59 and the apple mouse is cut to $49.

the use of the word respectively and saying the price was "cut to" indicates that the prices are now different at both $59 and $49.

c'mon kids, pay attention.

Incorrect. The article says "Apple recently cut the prices of its Apple Keyboard and Apple Mouse input devices from $59 to $49 each." The word respectively is not in the article at ThinkSecret. Therefore, the price is $49 for both.

[illumin8]

Originally posted by ebow
How much fuller a keyboard do you want? Apple's has, what, 108 keys? Don't tell me you want one with an "Internet" key or a little picture of a rocket (think Compaq's launch keys).
No, but my Logitech Cordless Elite keyboard has a volume wheel on it and track skip buttons that I find damn convenient (works with iTunes or Windows Media Player (ugh!))

[clonenode]

Actually, the article reads:
Apple recently cut the prices of its Apple Keyboard and Apple Mouse input devices from $59 to $49 each. That's a direct copy/paste from ThinkSecret.

[soggywulf]

Originally posted by jouster
I still don't understand why people are so desperate for a two button mouse from Apple. There are plenty to choose from already. I just got a Kensington and it is excellent. Just buy a third party solution.......

That is what we do. But there is another advantage. If Apple ships a 2-button scroller with the Macs, the standard will be set in stone and all apps and all parts of the OS will pretty much be guaranteed to support it in a uniform way.

Fortunately, much of the OS already has such support, even without the better mouse. Still, such support could be improved.

[donigian]

Originally posted by frozenstar
We were forced to replace all of the ball mice with optical mice in the computer labs at my university because the students were actually stealing the balls. How pathetic can people be? I'm surprised they haven't been pulling the keys right off the damn keyboards!

That also happens a lot at my school.

Originally posted by doc_mac
Phone the apple store and ask about new keyboards etc with the G5. The guy at the other end indiacted that there would be a new one, but couldn't comment further

Wow, has anyone else heard the story of someone calling the Apple store and talking about a new product and the Apple rep says they can't comment. That's definately new to me.

But, back on topic, the "news" that the prices have been cut happened quite a while ago, I think right after the new PowerMacs were released. Also, Apple needs to reduce the price more; no one in their right mind will pay $100 for that keyboard/mouse set. Better to get the Logitech MX Duo set for less than $100 online.

[Doctor Q]

Originally posted by frozenstar
We were forced to replace all of the ball mice with optical mice in the computer labs at my university because the students were actually stealing the balls. How pathetic can people be? I'm surprised they haven't been pulling the keys right off the damn keyboards! I was so glad to switch to optical mice at the middle school where I volunteer because of the stolen mouse balls, especially during the last few weeks of the school year. I guess the same thing happens with the youngsters at your middle school. Wait a minute... did you say university??? I guess some kids never grow up.

[jlegun21]

I think that an all-aluminum keyboard and mouse with both wired/wireless capability would be an elegant addition to the powermac line. As far as i know, no one is using metal for these components.


and dare to dream of a 17"pb-like backlight on the new "pro" keyboard.

[noverflow]

Originally posted by donigian
Wow, has anyone else heard the story of someone calling the Apple store and talking about a new product and the Apple rep says they can't comment. That's definately new to me.


I called and asked about buying a new g5 when the specs where posted on accident. The lady just kept saying "we have no comment at this time, after everything i said"

[Nermal]

Originally posted by hayesk
As long as it's not standard - I don't want wireless. I don't think they'll ship standard anyway. Schools would hate them - you can't really secure a wireless mouse in an unsupervised lab without a cable attached to it.

So now you need to wait for the "education" wireless mouse, with a magnet in it that activates when the mouse moves too far away from the computer and pulls the mouse back - "please enter your admin password to steal this mouse" :D

Sorry... :rolleyes:

[kangaroo]

Originally posted by Anna
I have used some wireless mice/keyboard and they can be very jerky and can drop out, especially if you are not directly in front of the receiver, gimme wired any day, especially for desktop publishing work.

I use Logitech’s MX700 cordless optical mouse and it’s excellent. In my experience, it's as reliable/precise as any corded mouse I've ever used. Say bye, bye to cord management and after several days of steady use, or at the end of the day just pop it in the base cradle which acts as both recharger/receiver.

[Wonder Boy]

Originally posted by zoozx
Dream on, Apple is not going to screw early purchasers of a G5. That is laughable. :rolleyes:


HAHAHA. I bet they do. I would not be surprised one bit.

[Pappy Wappy]

Originally posted by clonenode
Actually, the article reads:
Apple recently cut the prices of its Apple Keyboard and Apple Mouse input devices from $59 to $49 each. That's a direct copy/paste from ThinkSecret.

right, thinksecret wasn't wrong, when macrumors reposted the info they stated it as written above and this is misleading. the thinksecret article isn't wrong, the macrumors translation is slightly misleading though, implying that the prices for each item are different when the two prices actually stated aren't both new prices, as indicated, but the old and the new price.

[MhzDoesMatter]

Originally posted by frozenstar
Perhaps they'll integrate a small lithium-ion battery into the mouse and provide a detachable cable (firewire or USB) to allow you to charge the battery while using the mouse at the same time. That seems like the most elegant solution. But, can they do it while keeping the costs down?

Man I was reading through the thread hoping no one posted this before I did. The firewire cable would provide faster charging and less frequently if they use but a smidgeon of the battery stylings of the iPod. But after trying to differentiate firewire as the standard for high level peripherals, I'm not absolutely sure they'd go that route. Unless they really do something to differentiate this keyboard and mouse as high-level peripherals themselves.

Now, a "mostly" wireless keyboard would basically eliminate the hub inside of the keyboard, which has been one of the most unsung selling points of a Mac. Or, in keeping with the convertible nature of this rather "idealistic" keyboard, would Apple have an integrated hub that is powered and activated by the plugging in of its power/(USB/FW) cord. If so, wouldn't the type of cord determine the type of hub (as I'm not aware of USB/FW bridges)? If that is indeed the case, the keyboard would most likely be USB 2.0 (backwards compatible and hopefully capable of charging it) enabled, not Firewire, as the usefulness of a Firewire hub on the desktop is still less than stellar for average computer users.

Then if both the Mouse and the keyboard have detachable USB cords for charging, would that mean the each would have to have their own connections to the main comp or the mouse be able to charge from connecting to a connected keyboard?.....just random thoughts.


Also, it does kinda seem a little tale-tell for there to finally be ports on the front of the mac as the prospect of a hub-less keyboard becomes more and more plausible.



-Hertz

[Flowbee]

Originally posted by jouster
I still don't understand why people are so desperate for a two button mouse from Apple. There are plenty to choose from already. I just got a Kensington and it is excellent. Just buy a third party solution.......

After paying $3000 for a "pro" computer, some people don't like the idea of shelling out an additional $75 or so to replace their brand new "pro" mouse.

[MOM]

Still to expensive. Just last week I went to replace our optical Apple mouse and when they tried to charge me $59, I said no thank you and bought the Logitech 2-button/scroll wheel mouse for $29. I actually just wanted a single button, but $59 vs $29 was a big difference, not even counting the extra functionality of the Logitech mouse. Additionally, this was our 2nd of three Apple mice that has died on us. Very anoying since we kept trying to fix software issues, thinking it was software-not hardware, that was making the computer freeze intermitantly. Has anyone else had their Apple optical mouse fail on them? Ours started as random freezes that progressed slowly to just plain dead, light-out, useless peice of plastic and metal.

[SiliconAddict]

Originally posted by Nermal
So now you need to wait for the "education" wireless mouse, with a magnet in it that activates when the mouse moves too far away from the computer and pulls the mouse back - "please enter your admin password to steal this mouse" :D

Sorry... :rolleyes:

This isn't to bad of an idea. Well the leash idea at any rate. :P The mouse is talking to the computer once every few milliseconds right? Just have the Mac sound an alarm if it loses connection to the Mac for more then 2 seconds. *runs down to the patent office*


Guys what is the likely hood of apple ever shipping a 2 button mouse? Seriously. Ya you can buy 3rd party but its the principle of the thing. OSX supports 2 button mice. If nothing offer it as an option when you shell out that 3 grand on a new system.

[foniks2020]

All I know is that the Kensington PocketMouse Pro Wireless is the best optical wirelss mouse ever made.

It is small, light even with 2 AAA batteries and it's USB reveiver fits inside the mouse while not in use, not to mention that when you put the receiver inside it breaks the power circuit thereby turning the mouse off completely, saving your batteries. It also auto powers down when not in use for a minute or two. Best optical resolution too... batteries last a month or more depending on use. Only minus is that it doesn't have a recharge cradle.

Plus it's a 3 button scrollwheel with Kensington's amazing preference pane config tool with best device configuration options of any mouse.

I went through 5 other wireless opticals while waiting for this one to make to the shelves. Nothing was better, they were clunky or heavy or inaccurate or had very bad wireless connectivity.

This one just worked. AND it is in silver and black just like my TiG4 PB.

SO if apple makes a mouse or keyboard wireless, it's gotta be better than the one i've already got.

[york2600]

Originally posted by blueBomber
hopefully, Apple doesn't go with the metal look for their input devices also. MS does this with their Explorer mouse, and while it looks sharp for a little while, eventually the paint wears off and your left with a rather trashy looking piece of plastic

That's the best part. The Microsoft text rubs off first. I don't feel as bad now that I've used this thing for 6 months and had the text rub right off. I think the bigger question is how do they plan to deal with the power issue. I volunteer at a computer recycling place and I see plenty of wireless mice and keyboards mixed in with the AT keyboards. People don't like the idea of having to have stock in Duracel to use their computer.

[pianojoe]

Originally posted by cesar
what does "Wired" mean??? explain me....

It's misspelled for "weird".

No, seriously. Wireless input devices must have an easy option to be charged, like USB ports. This way, when the battery's empty, you can still connect the keyboard and mouse to the computer, and use it, and charge it at the same time.

Is a wireless keyboard and mouse such a great thing, BTW? I mean, so great Apple will make it standard? What do you think?

[rog]

First thing I did with my DP 867 was sell the loser mouse on eBay and unplug the useless, impossible to press Shift key, horribly inaccurate in typing keyboard. Maybe Apple will finally ship something usable with their Macs that cost 3-4 times as much as comparable speed PCs. Actually, I don't much care. Years ago keyboards and mice were extra with Towers. Maybe they should be so again. Pro Users and ProSumers don't want stock mice or keyboards unless they are gluttons for punishment. Save me $50 off the price of the tower since I'll buy my own anyway or already have them. I've been using my MacAlly keyboard and M$ Intellimouse Explorer since my PM7500 days and they still work great with my DP!

[steve-dave]

As long as Apple doesn't use the same paint they used for the TiBooks that is... I have one and although I love the computer, those chips and scratches and bubbles irritate the hell out of me.

Originally posted by Rx7 Fan
But Unlike Microsoft, I think Apple has the ability to get things right the first time. With that said, I believe if apple should choose the the aluminum look for both mouse and keyboard, the paint wont be coming off any time soon:D

[Nermal]

Originally posted by SiliconAddict
This isn't to bad of an idea. Well the leash idea at any rate. :P The mouse is talking to the computer once every few milliseconds right? Just have the Mac sound an alarm if it loses connection to the Mac for more then 2 seconds. *runs down to the patent office*

And I never thought my stupidity would be useful :p

[billyboy]

Originally posted by foniks2020
All I know is that the Kensington PocketMouse Pro Wireless is the best optical wirelss mouse ever made.



Id love to see how accurate it is compared to my Gyration cordless optical mouse when doing classroom presentations or watching DVDs from your armchair. This ergonomic beauty works in the air every bit as accurately as on the desktop and I take it off the charger in the morning and use it all day before dumping it back on the cradle at night. If Apple or Kensington or god can produce something better than that then fair play to them.

[oops!]

Originally posted by Chef Ramen
where exactly does it say "wired"? i cant find it anywhere on the apple store

It's not on the Apple Store pages, and my G5 order confirmation also simply mentions Apple mouse and keyboard, but when I check my order status on the (European) Apple Store website there is a line with:
'Keybd Wired+Wired MS 065-4161'

[trebblekicked]

i personally don't see the big deal about wireless keyboards and mice. I've got one of each and never use them for anything. There is so much dust between the keys i can scoop it out with a straw.

I would LOVE to see a backlit keyboard though. That i would buy in a second. The mouse is just not a big deal for me.

[tazo]

replacing my pc keyboard with the apple keyboard may be a plausible option now. lol.

also, can u get the educational discount in an apple retail store?

[soggywulf]

Originally posted by Nermal
Wish for Windows Media 9 support. Or even better, wish that Windows Media dies a painful death

This will probably do it:

http://mplayerosx.sourceforge.net/

[yzedf]

Originally posted by jlegun21
I think that an all-aluminum keyboard and mouse with both wired/wireless capability would be an elegant addition to the powermac line. As far as i know, no one is using metal for these components.


and dare to dream of a 17"pb-like backlight on the new "pro" keyboard.
Logitech Mouseman Traveller

http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm?page=products/details&CRID=3&CONTENTID=4986&countryid=19&languageid=1

(my mom got one before Christmas 2002...)

[gotohamish]

Originally posted by nickmcghie
umm.. "wired" and "weird" are two different words

Introducing the Apple Weird Mouse, ergonomically shaped like an Apple core. Bluetooth emitting leaves on the tip, and powered by fuel pips.

$59.99. Available soon.

:D :D :D

[Dunepilot]

obviously this would remove the option of using your USB ports on the keyboard, but would it at all be possible to power the keyboard/mouse kinetically, like those Seiko watches?

This would seem to be a viable option for the keyboard, but not the optical sensor in a modern mouse, as far as I can imagine.....

[rjstanford]

Originally posted by jouster
I still don't understand why people are so desperate for a two button mouse from Apple. There are plenty to choose from already. I just got a Kensington and it is excellent. Just buy a third party solution....... Because if Apple moved to a two button "pro" mouse (leave the one button on the iMac, etc), there'd be a good chance that they'd also move to two buttons on the Powerbook (leaving one on the iBook). I refuse to carry a mouse (or, indeed, any space-consuming accessories) with my laptop, which means that the one button powerbooks are quite irritating at times.

-Richard

[kangaroo]

It's my impression that Apple isn't going to waste time/$ on niche markets unless they can bring something new to the table.

The current generation of high-end mice/keyboards are mature products with little room left for innovation. I have no doubt that Apple could produce or license a variant of what's already out there but its only advantage would be cosmetic.

The reality is, Apple has alot on its plate and it's unrealistic to expect them to whizbang every product with an Apple logo on it.

[backspinner]

I would like to have a wireless desktop setup for my PowerBook. With the titanium models it's quite difficult to insert the usb wires in the back each day when I get at work. And using a wired mouse on the lame chair is also not slick or easy.

[cubist]

I don't like the trackpad on the powerbook either. And if they split the button in two, with a nearly-impossible-to-find boundary between the two sides, it will be nearly unusable. That's the crap design we see on PCs. Next they'll put a scroll wheel between the two buttons. (BARF)

You guys ever try any of Logitech's optical trackballs? They are excellent - easy to rotate with one finger, and no backlash. Far more accurate than a mouse, and no hand movement. What Powerbook users need is a smaller, bluetooth version of that.

As a lefty, I can't use any asymmetrical mice or trackballs. That eliminates a surprising number of new designs.

[DominicusG]

I don't think this is really a price cut. The $49 keyboard and mouse are the new, cheaper versions that come with the eMac -- not the $59 Pro versions.

[-hh]

Originally posted by Kid Red
Why are there 2 negative ratings for this? Man, lol, I can't get over this ratings thing.


Well, I normally don't click the (+/-) ratings buttons on a thread, but now that I've read this thread, I'm going to go give this one a Negative.


Why? Because of what's not said.


Yes, I know that some people love wireless, but I consider them to be a net liability, because the batteries become one more hassle that I *must* manage.

As such, if my only option for a Pro Keyboard/Mouse is wireless *only*, then I consider that to be a "negative".


But I would find it acceptable if the Pro keyboard/mouse can be used either wired or wireless, depending on the User's preferences.

And that's what's unknown here.

So for me, for now, this is a "negative", with the obliquatory wait-and-see to see what Apple actually ends up delivering. The last thing I want is to be stuck, unable to boot up a G5 for want of a couple of friggen stupid AAA's.


-hh

[Blackcat]

Originally posted by soggywulf
That is what we do. But there is another advantage. If Apple ships a 2-button scroller with the Macs, the standard will be set in stone and all apps and all parts of the OS will pretty much be guaranteed to support it in a uniform way.


That's a very bad thing as it then locks out people who can't use 2 button mice.

Don't be fooled into thinking developers will still code to support just 1 as well, they won't.

People are very selfish and short-sighted on this issue. Apple making the lowest common denominator 1 means everybody can use a Mac easily.

I've no problem with a BTO 2 button Apple Mouse, but I'm strongly against bundling it.

[zoozx]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Blackcat
[B]That's a very bad thing as it then locks out people who can't use 2 button mice.

WAKE UP !!!!!

We are talking about a mouse and keyboard that comes with the G5!!!
A PROFESSIONAL Working Machine.
Granny and other people that don't know how to use a 2 button mouse or want a 1 button have NO NEED FOR A G5!!!!!
Buy an imac.

[Potus]

My keyboard and mouse perfectly match the form factor of my iMac. I also have a herd of mice from other sources including a wireless Kensington mounse. My quibble is this: the new mice and keyboard will be PLASTIC right? So the mettalic "look" will be just that: a look.
Not metal. (probably because of weight, cost, etc.). That said, I prefer plastic that says plastic; not plastic that says "I'm pretending to be metal."

[soggywulf]

Originally posted by rjstanford
Because if Apple moved to a two button "pro" mouse (leave the one button on the iMac, etc), there'd be a good chance that they'd also move to two buttons on the Powerbook (leaving one on the iBook). I refuse to carry a mouse (or, indeed, any space-consuming accessories) with my laptop, which means that the one button powerbooks are quite irritating at times.

Extremely good point. I would say go to 2 buttons on the iBook and iMac as well. This isn't 1984, most people are quite comfortable with 2-button mice at this point. And really, it was never much of a learning curve to begin with--certainly compared to using a mouse in the first place. We're not talking Mensa here.

[soggywulf]

Originally posted by cubist
And if they split the button in two, with a nearly-impossible-to-find boundary between the two sides, it will be nearly unusable.

I find it quite easy to use. The boundary is very distinct between the two buttons, and it is detectable with only a touch.

What I find to be nearly unusable is trying to use the iBook I bought my folks. Every time I want to pull up a contextual menu, I have to hunt around for the control key. Lame. To make it worse, the control key is not at the edge of the keyboard, it is inset by "fn". Barf indeed. Unfortunately, I won't consider an Apple laptop for myself, just for this reason.

Originally posted by cubist
You guys ever try any of Logitech's optical trackballs? They are excellent - easy to rotate with one finger, and no backlash. Far more accurate than a mouse, and no hand movement.

Personally I hate trackballs; I find them to be exactly opposite to the way you describe. No matter, to each their own. But on this issue (as opposed to 2-button mice) I see no advantage to Apple releasing their own. 3rd parties will suffice here.

[Blackcat]

Originally posted by zoozx
[QUOTE]Originally posted by Blackcat
[B]That's a very bad thing as it then locks out people who can't use 2 button mice.

WAKE UP !!!!!

We are talking about a mouse and keyboard that comes with the G5!!!
A PROFESSIONAL Working Machine.
Granny and other people that don't know how to use a 2 button mouse or want a 1 button have NO NEED FOR A G5!!!!!
Buy an imac.

Thank you, Mr Knowall.

I'm a pro user, I'm also severely disabled and can't use a 2 button mouse (or ANY mouse).

As I do a lot of DV work a G5 appeals but I'll lose the benefit of speed if I'm struggling to use the system.

You wakeup. The world is a varied place with lots of people in it with needs different from yours.

[soggywulf]

Originally posted by Blackcat
That's a very bad thing as it then locks out people who can't use 2 button mice.

Not true. The 1-button users can use control click, as they have for years. There's no need to change that.

Originally posted by Blackcat
People are very selfish and short-sighted on this issue. Apple making the lowest common denominator 1 means everybody can use a Mac easily.

Do you really believe that using a 2-button mouse is physically or intellectually difficult? If you are handicapped, then perhaps...but in that case, again you can get a 1-button mouse and control-clicks, like we have now.

Remember that most *beginner* computer users are buying PC's these days. PC's with 2 buttons. They manage just fine. If they can, beginners on the Mac side can too; and they will enjoy the benefits it provides.

Edit: I saw in your last post that you are indeed handicapped. Even so, I believe my arguments above are still valid.

[MUrhino]

Originally posted by cesar
oohh, I was think like wired, strange or something like that
No, that would be WEIRD. Learn how to spell.

[Dunepilot]

Originally posted by Blackcat
Thank you, Mr Knowall.

I'm a pro user, I'm also severely disabled and can't use a 2 button mouse (or ANY mouse).

As I do a lot of DV work a G5 appeals but I'll lose the benefit of speed if I'm struggling to use the system.

You wakeup. The world is a varied place with lots of people in it with needs different from yours.

Do you mind me asking what your input device of choice is, Blackcat?

Are there any notable elements of OS X that could be improved to make the lives of handicapped people easier?

Dunepilot

[MacKid]

Originally posted by blueBomber
hopefully, Apple doesn't go with the metal look for their input devices also. MS does this with their Explorer mouse, and while it looks sharp for a little while, eventually the paint wears off and your left with a rather trashy looking piece of plastic

When Apple makes something with a "Metal Look", it's ACTUAL metal, not some cheap MS piece of shizznit.

[MUrhino]

Originally posted by MacKid
When Apple makes something with a "Metal Look", it's ACTUAL metal, not some cheap MS piece of shizznit. Yeah, but look at all the problems with the Titanium PB. Lets just hope they don't paint the damn thing :rolleyes:

[steve-dave]

I agree, just to clarify things a bit though. My TiBook has a few scratches on the metal parts (which is to be expected), however, the only real damage is on the white plastic bezel that surrounds the keyboard. Everything else looks great.

Originally posted by MUrhino
Yeah, but look at all the problems with the Titanium PB. Lets just hope they don't paint the damn thing :rolleyes:

[plinkoman]

Originally posted by MUrhino
Yeah, but look at all the problems with the Titanium PB. Lets just hope they don't paint the damn thing :rolleyes:

why the hell would they do that? the tibook is old, the new pbooks are actuall aluminum and don't have that problem

[SiliconAddict]

Originally posted by kangaroo
It's my impression that Apple isn't going to waste time/$ on niche markets unless they can bring something new to the table. The current generation of high-end mice/keyboards are mature products with little room left for innovation.

I thought the same until the scroll wheel showed up in a mouse. Then optical mice showed up.
There is always room for a better interface until you get iNeural 2 Apple’s revolutionary mouse/keyboard brain interface now with iSync X support to upload your calendar into your long term memory. (iNeural 1 only used your short term memory but everyone keep forgetting their todo list.)

[MhzDoesMatter]

Originally posted by -hh
Well, I normally don't click the (+/-) ratings buttons on a thread, but now that I've read this thread, I'm going to go give this one a Negative.
<snip>
As such, if my only option for a Pro Keyboard/Mouse is wireless *only*, then I consider that to be a "negative".
<snip>
But I would find it acceptable if the Pro keyboard/mouse can be used either wired or wireless, depending on the User's preferences.
<snip>
So for me, for now, this is a "negative", with the obliquatory wait-and-see to see what Apple actually ends up delivering. The last thing I want is to be stuck, unable to boot up a G5 for want of a couple of friggen stupid AAA's.


-hh

I have a passionate dislike for the ratings that appear under these stories. I really don't understand how people rate rumors? I could see if it was on the plausibility of the rumor, or the credibility of the source. That way Arn could come up with a MacRumors Readership consensus. (Which would make an interesting quote in rumor round-ups about how many of us actually thought it would happen. Cause who actually takes those polls anyway?)

But for people to give a story a negative rating that's seen by the whole site simply because they don't like the information it details is useless? Who cares how many people don't like Piles, thinks wireless is useless, or thinks the new displays are fine. That's the kind of pointless trivia that should be relegated to a poll somewhere on Page 2.

-Hertz

[crenz]

Blackcat said:
That's a very bad thing as it then locks out people who can't use 2 button mice.

Don't be fooled into thinking developers will still code to support just 1 as well, they won't.

The Windows platform has had two mouse buttons for years. Still, my guess is that 95% of the applications use the right mouse buttons only for contextual menus. Ie. they are providing shortcuts for commands that can be done another way also (e.g. through the application's main menu). It is only a couple of special applications (e.g. audio software) that use the right mouse button for special functions. If you can't use a two-button mouse, you could just as well use a one-button mouse for windows no problem.


People are very selfish and short-sighted on this issue. Apple making the lowest common denominator 1 means everybody can use a Mac easily.

Yes, people are rather short-sighted on this issue. I wish Apple would make the lowest common denominator the keyboard. Mac OS X basically is unusable without a mouse. If I recall correctly, even Windows 2.03 had keyboard support all over the place already. That was 1987.

[bcsimac]

Actually that doesn't surprise me. I have seen it for years. I have seen kids steal keys from a keyboard especially off of laptops!

Originally posted by frozenstar
We were forced to replace all of the ball mice with optical mice in the computer labs at my university because the students were actually stealing the balls. How pathetic can people be? I'm surprised they haven't been pulling the keys right off the damn keyboards!

[bcsimac]

Finally, Apple dropped the prices on the keyboards and mice. They have always been way overpriced. I remember when an Apple mouse and keyboard cost $89.95 each. At that time, I always went to a kensington mouse in a box which was like $30 or $40 bucks. The keyboard I bought was different brands but I remember getting them for $30 or $40 bucks too. The Apple Pro keyboard used to sell for $69.00 and the mouse was $69 too. I am glad to see that they are now $49 bucks each.

By the way, I rarely have use for two button mice. I have many friends who are mac beginners who think two button mice are too complicated. I think Apple should stick to one button mice and let the 3rd party developers produce the 2+ button mice.....Apple needs to stop squeezing out 3rd party developers anyway.

[SiliconAddict]

Originally posted by Blackcat
People are very selfish and short-sighted on this issue. Apple making the lowest common denominator 1 means everybody can use a Mac easily.

I've no problem with a BTO 2 button Apple Mouse, but I'm strongly against bundling it.

I don't believe this reason for a nanosecond. Maybe I have more faith in the intelligence of the average human but I figure if a person can figure out how to breath on their own they can figure out what a right mouse click does. It’s a right mouse click for god sake. We aren't talking about hitting ctrl-space-backspace-backspace-mouse click-mouse click. I still think its simply because Jobs doesn’t want to look like he’s copying the PC platform in any way. *shrugs* or that’s how my conspiracy theory goes. :p

Also as its been stated here several times its all well and good of possibly providing a option at the time of purchase for a desktop but what of an iBook or Powerbook? I don’t fancy dragging a mouse around with me everywhere I go just to get a second mouse button.

[Doctor Q]

My TV remote control has 20-something buttons, so I'm sure Mac users, even beginners, can learn to use 2 buttons.

On the subject of complexity, here's something odd/funny. I got a compact flash card for my new digital camera. The CF card has no settings, no buttons, no moving parts. You just push it into the slot on the camera, right? Despite that simplicity, it came with a 13-page instruction booklet!

[soggywulf]

Originally posted by crenz
Ie. they are providing shortcuts for commands that can be done another way also (e.g. through the application's main menu).

I disagree. Example: "Copy link to clipboard". Can't be done any other way.

[soggywulf]

Originally posted by bcsimac
Apple needs to stop squeezing out 3rd party developers anyway.

That is definitely a valid concern.

[dongmin]

Apple HAS to move to a multi-button mouse, especially now that Expose has support for it. I'm really starting to see possibilities for the solid-state touch wheel that has been rumored for the new mouse. Can you imagine how quick and easy it'd be to navigate in Expose with a touch wheel?

gotta do it, Apple

[Dahl]

Originally posted by Doctor Q
My TV remote control has 20-something buttons, so I'm sure Mac users, even beginners, can learn to use 2 buttons.

Then again, I think product design in the TV world could be better. Why don't they have a "locate" button on TV's, so you can find your remote after your kid hides it ? You know like on phones

[Doctor Q]

That might be a good feature when the kids are little, but when they get bigger the parents may be the ones hiding the remote so that junior will do his homework, and then they'll be glad there is no such feature!

Are we going to need our Macs to have a "locate" feature to find Apple's wireless mouse?

[Dahl]

Couldn't Apple just include a password to it, so kids couldn't find the remote, or just a password to disable the mouse.

[QCassidy352]

Originally posted by MOM
Has anyone else had their Apple optical mouse fail on them? Ours started as random freezes that progressed slowly to just plain dead, light-out, useless peice of plastic and metal.

My brother's apple mouse that came with his FP imac G4 died the same way. Now he and I both use the same $30 logitech mice that you do, and they're great!

[favpseudonym]

arent i an idiot, sorry people:D

[favpseudonym]

arent i an idiot:D sorry people

[Spock]

I would love to have a wireless Mouse and Key but that would make me mad if t h e ba t y s ar d t0 di

[sparkleytone]

Originally posted by favpseudonym
i was in the apple store yesterday and saw it!! the new keyboard. Im going right now to snap a pic
-be back in about 2 hours
(its on a pic on the wall)
plastic-looks cool

In fact, I dont have to go to the apple store-its right on apples website
you can see the difference between the new keyboard and old
on the old powermac page, there is a link to one picture
on the new powermac page, there is a link to a different pictureold=
http://store.apple.com/1-800-MY-APPLE/WebObjects/AppleStore.woa/72401/wo/qc7lb5XzlVtL2OpO4Ji1Pp8vQEe/8.0.7.1.0.5.1.21.12.7.3.3.0

new=
http://store.apple.com/1-800-MY-APPLE/WebObjects/AppleStore.woa/72401/wo/qc7lb5XzlVtL2OpO4Ji1Pp8vQEe/11.0.7.1.0.5.1.21.10.7.3.3.0

sorry to burst your bubble, but that keyboard is no different than the keyboard that ships with the eMacs. its the latest revision of the keyboard. i'm not saying the G5 isnt going to ship with it, as it very well may. its just that that keyboard is not new.

[favpseudonym]

thanks sparkleytone
im an ass!

[MacKid]

Originally posted by -hh
Well, I normally don't click the (+/-) ratings buttons on a thread, but now that I've read this thread, I'm going to go give this one a Negative.


Why? Because of what's not said.


Yes, I know that some people love wireless, but I consider them to be a net liability, because the batteries become one more hassle that I *must* manage.

As such, if my only option for a Pro Keyboard/Mouse is wireless *only*, then I consider that to be a "negative".


But I would find it acceptable if the Pro keyboard/mouse can be used either wired or wireless, depending on the User's preferences.

And that's what's unknown here.

So for me, for now, this is a "negative", with the obliquatory wait-and-see to see what Apple actually ends up delivering. The last thing I want is to be stuck, unable to boot up a G5 for want of a couple of friggen stupid AAA's.


-hh

Rechargable, dude.

Rechargable.

iPod is not 4 AA's, it's Lithium-Ion.

iBook/PowerBooks aren't 6 D's, they're Lithium-Ion.

Rechargable, dude.

Rechargable.

[MacKid]

Originally posted by Spock
I would love to have a wireless Mouse and Key but that would make me mad if t h e ba t y s ar d t0 di

What was that?

At first I thought you were saying if the batteries are to die.

Then I thought you said if the ba57ard somethingsomethingsomething. . .

Then I thought you said if the (buttons??) are hard to type?????

Just curious. . .:confused:

[MacKid]

Originally posted by MOM
Still to expensive. Just last week I went to replace our optical Apple mouse and when they tried to charge me $59, I said no thank you and bought the Logitech 2-button/scroll wheel mouse for $29. I actually just wanted a single button, but $59 vs $29 was a big difference, not even counting the extra functionality of the Logitech mouse. Additionally, this was our 2nd of three Apple mice that has died on us. Very anoying since we kept trying to fix software issues, thinking it was software-not hardware, that was making the computer freeze intermitantly. Has anyone else had their Apple optical mouse fail on them? Ours started as random freezes that progressed slowly to just plain dead, light-out, useless peice of plastic and metal.
That happened at a PM G4 at my school, and once on our iMac G4. But in both cases, when shutting down the computer, then restarting with the mouse attached (after it had gone dead, no light, etc. . .) it worked.:cool:

[hexor]

It will probably be a wired and wireless rechargeable keyboard and mouse that is recharged via the USB cable whenever it is connected to the cable. So you can have it either way..

[Safeguy]

Ok, just a thought. Aren't the G5s going to be Bluetooth ready, but not actually active? Seems like apple is pushing bluetooth as its wireless direction of choice. Well, presuming that at some point these new keyboards and mice will ship with the G5, wouldn't Apple be including the bluetooth antenna with the machine if it were required for their mouse?

I vote that they'll be wired with simply a new design (perhaps with some extra functionality).

[visor]

that one could order a new G5 with Logitech Periperals instead of these pathetic Apple mouse and keyboards.
It's a complete waste of money since I 'll buy a Logi anyway. the second button really makes sense almost anywhere in the system, a scrollwheel is the most magnificant improvements on the mouse since the invention of the mouse itself.
I'm not at all going for that ' i don't need no buttons on a mouse' myth.

[noverflow]

I sold the apple keyboard and mouse back when they came out... sold them on ebay for $100. Then if i ever need to sell the computer, i include the ones from the the computer.


Originally posted by visor
that one could order a new G5 with Logitech Periperals instead of these pathetic Apple mouse and keyboards.
It's a complete waste of money since I 'll buy a Logi anyway. the second button really makes sense almost anywhere in the system, a scrollwheel is the most magnificant improvements on the mouse since the invention of the mouse itself.
I'm not at all going for that ' i don't need no buttons on a mouse' myth.

[MacKid]

Originally posted by Safeguy
Ok, just a thought. Aren't the G5s going to be Bluetooth ready, but not actually active? Seems like apple is pushing bluetooth as its wireless direction of choice. Well, presuming that at some point these new keyboards and mice will ship with the G5, wouldn't Apple be including the bluetooth antenna with the machine if it were required for their mouse?

I vote that they'll be wired with simply a new design (perhaps with some extra functionality).

Or, Apple includes it!

A very possible possiblility. . .:eek: :D

[MacKid]

Originally posted by visor
that one could order a new G5 with Logitech Periperals instead of these pathetic Apple mouse and keyboards.
It's a complete waste of money since I 'll buy a Logi anyway. the second button really makes sense almost anywhere in the system, a scrollwheel is the most magnificant improvements on the mouse since the invention of the mouse itself.
I'm not at all going for that ' i don't need no buttons on a mouse' myth.

Remember Apple application for a patented mouse that had just ONE button, BUT a SCROLL-WHEEL that had CLICKING FUNCTIONALITY??????

Remember now, do YA?

I hoped the CAPS would HELP in getting my MESSAGE across!!!;)

[soggywulf]

Originally posted by MacKid
BUT a SCROLL-WHEEL that had CLICKING FUNCTIONALITY??????

Just about all scroll wheels are clickable.

In fact, as an aside, the tension-balance between turning and clicking on the scroller needs to be exactly right to be useable. If the turning action is too weak, you will scroll and click when you meant to click only. If clicking is too weak, you will accidentally click while scrolling through something.

[bcsimac]

Yes it is......Look at Adobe dropping Mac support with Premier and not supporting the Mac with a lot of new products. 3rd Party developers are getting real tired of Apple trying to eliminate competition and so forth with their own products. As I said, Apple should stick with one button mice and leave the 2+ button mice to 3rd party developers.

Originally posted by soggywulf
That is definitely a valid concern.

[soggywulf]

Originally posted by bcsimac
Yes it is......Look at Adobe dropping Mac support with Premier and not supporting the Mac with a lot of new products. 3rd Party developers are getting real tired of Apple trying to eliminate competition and so forth with their own products. As I said, Apple should stick with one button mice and leave the 2+ button mice to 3rd party developers.

A good point. I would hate to see Apple make an inferior 2-button scroller, and drive the rest out of the market. Based on Apple's keyboard/mouse offerings for the past 4-5 years, I have little faith in their ability to design good input devices.

And besides that, it is nice to have choice. Those who prefer Logitech can get them, those who prefer MacAlly get get those, etc.

On the issue of FCP though, I understand it was more a case of FCP being better than Premiere, than pushing Adobe out of the market in an underhanded way. FCP is bought separately after all, at a pretty steep price. Apple couldn't have pushed Adobe out with an inferior product. The mouse situation is different, since they ship with the system; here an inferior product *can* push out the good stuff.

[crenz]

Sorry for the late reply. Was away for a few days, but couldn't resist answering this one:

soggywulf commented on my statement that Windows basically can be used with a one-button mouse or even just with the keyboard for 95% of all "normal" tasks:
I disagree. Example: "Copy link to clipboard". Can't be done any other way.

Your objection actually proves my point. In fact, it can't be done any other way using Mac OS X (well, at least in Safari). On Windows, I just press TAB until the link I want is highlighted, then I press the menu key (on the keyboard). The same contextual menu opens as if I had pressed the right mouse button.

Mac OS X keyboard support has
lots of room for improvement...

[soggywulf]

Originally posted by crenz
Your objection actually proves my point. In fact, it can't be done any other way using Mac OS X (well, at least in Safari). On Windows, I just press TAB until the link I want is highlighted, then I press the menu key (on the keyboard). The same contextual menu

I wasn't disagreeing with this. I was disagreeing with the statement that "contextual menus are almost always used as alternatives to main menu commands", which I don't agree with. That is why I gave the example of "copy link to clipboard".