New iMac Keyboard Revealed?

[phalewhale]

They could use flat, rechargeable batteries (like in the Nano). So you would just plug your keyboard into the USB port every once in awhile to recharge it. Really, wireless keyboards seem kinda silly to me. How often does one move their keyboard while using it?

I'm really getting sick of the white keyboards. Anyone will tell you that the black keyboards look great with the G5 towers. We have black Macbooks, how hard it is to bring back black keyboards.

Personally, my only reason for using a wireless keyboard is so that I don't have any wires kicking around on my desk.

[&RU]

I'm with beannyc, there is just too much meddling with the keyboard layout, and there is little chance that apple is going to remove the logo form the "Apple" key. That "Apple Developer" sticker is pretty suspicious when you give it a closer look.

There used to be power buttons on the old ADB keyboards, I believe it was removed when they launched the original G3 series as a cost cutting measure. It may not be possible to implement with USB keyboards, but I certainly miss it. Although, when working on my old macs it is a pain - I often inadvertently start the shutdown sequence when attempting to open the CD tray.

[dalvin200]

GREAT keyboard! If that's the real thing, I'm picking one up on day one. I absolutely love the MacBook keys; easier on the fingers and easy to wipe clean....

i am totally with you on this Cloudsurfer!

I really hope this type of KB is available regardless of is a new designed iMac is revealed circa 7th August (which I hope is not, as I'm away for the whole week and will struggle to keep up to date with any news!! lol)

[phalewhale]

has any one else noticed that the rubber feet are too far in on the keyboard to actually serve any function? the way the board would sit on the desk, would mean the the rubber feet would be in the air.

plus with seeing mac design over the last few years there would be a white plastic that the aluminum would sit in that would pull the look together and make the keys less pronounced, can't say i would dislike the recessed USB ports as that would be nice for the mouse, but for anything else that a USB port on the keyboard would be useful for it would be more of a hassle than the back of a mac pro

and for the love of god if you have a handy dandy USB port on the keyboard make it USB2.0 this time... would be nice for the first shuffle

Yeah, I noticed that. That is possibly one of the main reasons why I think this is a FAKE! Whilst the pictures are good, the placement of the rubber feet is something I think the creator has overlooked.

Couldn't agree more about the USB 2.0 ports too!

[farmboy]

The keys are not functional, so to speak. Just a prototype here, proof of concept, move along now, nothing to see.

(But I do like cool engineering like this)

[Mac One]

I'm not to sure about it. Whats the point/advantage of having a super slim keyboard for a desktop computer. I would hope that this is fake and the new one focusses more on ergonomics than thinness.

[epicwelshman]

i am totally with you on this Cloudsurfer!

I really hope this type of KB is available regardless of is a new designed iMac is revealed circa 7th August (which I hope is not, as I'm away for the whole week and will struggle to keep up to date with any news!! lol)

Yeah, I'm away in rural New Hampshire that week... no web access, which will sure suck if anything new is released...

[vohdoun]

Hidden back quite a bit from the edge? When you take a look at the picture of the bottom of the keyboard, it's not actually that far in from the edge. So each time you connect a USB device you're going UNDER the keyboard? That means you'll most likely be picking the keyboard up each time you connect a device, unless you've got really skinny fingers! ;) Have you got real skinny fingers? ;)

My fingers are decent I'd say, not chubby anyway but where and how or if I needed to pick this keyboard up thats the least of my worries. You seem to be so obsessed in getting up or looking to see and make sure the right ends line up.


I'll tell you how you're going to know without having to pick the keyboard up or know if the connection is the right way up. The connector has the apple logo at the bottom. If you have it at the top you wont get the cable in, if the USB logo is at the top you'll get it in without having to look.


Still can't see how you surmise that the port is "too far away" from the edge based on this pic. An inch at most. Actually when you look real close, the "stand" where the USB port is, is not even in the middle. A minor point maybe.

I can't be bothered to explain, but if you can't work it out well... its irrelevant to me.

But, what do you think about the angle of the keyboard and the probability of all four rubber feet touching the desk at the same time? I don't see that happening from the pictures posted.

You aren't thinking logically.
Granted the front rubber feet MAY appear to not touch the desk but it doesn't mean its fake as the stand at the rear is too tall, but its not. You have been deceived by the illusion. Can't even believe I am doing this.

http://img402.imageshack.us/img402/4979/perspectiveit3.jpg

I can't believe you cannot work out the angles. :)

[tusker]

Are we talking about the same thing here? I'm talking about the USB hub/dock on the keyboard, not the USB keyboard cable itself. Remember, we're talking about a keyboard that isn't actually here yet. Whilst there may not be that many USB 2.0 keyboards around at the moment, the rumored apple keyboard may have a USB 2.0 hub/dock. A bit like this (http://matias.ca/usb2keyboard/) one.

Don't get me wrong...I'd love to see usb 2.0, it would definitly be more convenient, especially w/ flash drives etc. It's just that if the keyboard is real (which I believe it is), having recessed usb ports would imply that it isn't intended for much more than a mouse (eg. the wired mouse that comes with the wired keyboard.

[cleanup]

Click here (http://www.engadget.com/gallery/is-this-the-new-imac-keyboard/328235/). Take a good look at this picture.

Ok, if it's real then it's seriously flawed. Check out the rubber feet. Does anyone honestly think that this keyboard is gonna sit sturdy on your desk without the bottom part of the keyboard scraping the desk and/or moving about? The angle the keyboard would sit at simply doesn't permit all four feet to be touching the desk at once. FAKE!

Also, where's the usb port gone? Click here (http://www.engadget.com/gallery/is-this-the-new-imac-keyboard/328237/). You would expect to see just a little bit of it surely. If not, then the port actually sits UNDER then keyboard. Yeah right. FAKE!

And whilst on the subject of the USB port. Really, I would have expected to see the port at least slightly showing on this (http://www.engadget.com/gallery/is-this-the-new-imac-keyboard/328236/) picture too at least if the first picture in this post is anything to go by. But wait I forgot, the port is UNDER the keyboard... Nah, it's a FAKE!

I think I have proven CATEGORICALLY that this keyboard is a FAKE!!!

:rolleyes:

All these "fake" yellers are driving me insane. How can you be so daft? Please look more carefully at the photos. If you took more than 30 seconds to react you would realize that there is no way that this is a Photoshop/digital job.

Just a few points:

1. You can see grains/imperfections/dirt all along the keys and keyboard in the close-up.
2. You can see the rubber key-press mechanism thingies underneath the keys in the close-up.
3. You can see a faint shadow of a guy holding a digital camera on the photo of the underside.
4. In the angled close-up photo, the photo goes out of focus top-left.
5. Who the hell takes the time to make something this perfect? The keys are all perfectly shaped, formed, and use the same font as those found on the MacBooks.
6. At the very least it's physically real. And then there's about a 95% chance that it is in fact from Apple, considering #5.

Sheesh. :rolleyes:

[phalewhale]

OK, so I've been doing some very rudimentary calculations here... On the bottom of the keyboard (http://www.engadget.com/gallery/is-this-the-new-imac-keyboard/328237/) the large white sticker states:

Rubber Feet Moon Gray 0.5 (0.7mm)

Now, I'm English so I'm a metric person. What does the "0.5" mean? Is this referring to inches? Whatever it refers to, my understanding is that it equates to 0.7mm. Am I right in making this assumption?

If so, 0.7mm is mega mega small - I reckon this has to be a typo and proof that it's a fake. It probably should read 0.7cm which equates to 7mm as opposed to 0.7mm. Are you American's still with me?

Anyway, just for good measure (get it?) I decided to look at the measurements of the rest of the underside. I reckon that if the rubber feet are actually 7mm across, then by looking at the picture of the keyboard, I'd surmise that the gap at the end of the left underside is about 21mm (0.8 inches), and the gap on the right underside is about 18mm (0.7 inches).

Definitely a FAKE!

[urbanskywalker]

I think some people like to call fake because it makes them seem more knowledgeable.

:rolleyes:

All these "fake" yellers are driving me insane. How can you be so daft? Please look more carefully at the photos. If you took more than 30 seconds to react you would realize that there is no way that this is a Photoshop/digital job.

Just a few points:

1. You can see grains/imperfections/dirt all along the keys and keyboard in the close-up.
2. You can see the rubber key-press mechanism thingies underneath the keys in the close-up.
3. You can see a faint shadow of a guy holding a digital camera on the photo of the underside.
4. In the angled close-up photo, the photo goes out of focus top-left.
5. Who the hell takes the time to make something this perfect? The keys are all perfectly shaped, formed, and use the same font as those found on the MacBooks.
6. At the very least it's physically real. And then there's about a 95% chance that it is in fact from Apple, considering #5.

Sheesh. :rolleyes:

[cleanup]

OK, so I've been doing some very rudimentary calculations here... On the bottom of the keyboard (http://www.engadget.com/gallery/is-this-the-new-imac-keyboard/328237/) the large white sticker states:

Rubber Feet Moon Gray 0.5 (0.7mm)

Now, I'm English so I'm a metric person. What does the "0.5" mean? Is this referring to inches? Whatever it refers to, my understanding is that it equates to 0.7mm. Am I right in making this assumption?

If so, 0.7mm is mega mega small - I reckon this has to be a typo and proof that it's a fake. It probably should read 0.7cm which equates to 7mm as opposed to 0.7mm. Are you American's still with me?

Anyway, just for good measure (get it?) I decided to look at the measurements of the rest of the underside. I reckon that if the rubber feet are actually 7mm across, then by looking at the picture of the keyboard, I'd surmise that the gap at the end of the left underside is about 21mm (0.8 inches), and the gap on the right underside is about 18mm (0.7 inches).

Definitely a FAKE!

I imagine 0.7 mm may be the thickness.

Typos don't mean a fake?

As for your underside "measurements," do you know how difficult it is to take a photo from above at a perfectly perpindicular angle? You can see the guy's shadow, holding his camera. He was probably off-angle a bit, revealing the so-called fake-revealing measurements.

Also, if this was a Photoshop job, don't you think the measurements would be absolutely perfect? :rolleyes:

[vohdoun]

Definitely a FAKE!

Heh.

I'm not going to bother anymore. :)

[TheAnswer]

Is this referring to inches?

Not likely, if it was in English units (inches) it would say 0.5" not just 0.5. Maybe 0.5 is the height of the bump or some other characteristic? Hard to say. I seriously doubt the design team is using both English and metric measurements on the same piece.

Whatever it refers to, my understanding is that it equates to 0.7mm. Am I right in making this assumption?

If it were inches, 0.5 inches is around 12.7mm.

[4God]

Wow, a lot of fuss over a keyboard.

[vohdoun]

Wow, a lot of fuss over a keyboard.

Heh. Though imagine how great you'll be able to type with this thing on rubber feet! It's a new revolution!1 :rolleyes:

[verniesgarden]

Wow, a lot of fuss over a keyboard.

really shows how little we've had good rumors around here that don't revolve around the damn iphone

[phalewhale]

I imagine 0.7 mm may be the thickness.

Typos don't mean a fake?

As for your underside "measurements," do you know how difficult it is to take a photo from above at a perfectly perpindicular angle? You can see the guy's shadow, holding his camera. He was probably off-angle a bit, revealing the so-called fake-revealing measurements.

Also, if this was a Photoshop job, don't you think the measurements would be absolutely perfect? :rolleyes:

Well if it does refer to the thickness of the feet, I think that wonderfully colourful picture by vohdoun could be a bit off scale. The feet wouldn't be anywhere near as prominent, thus reducing the angle to work with. The ones on the MacBook's are nowhere near as prominent as they were on the iBook

As for the camera being off angle, I don't think that could account for a discrepancy of a few mm either side of the keyboard - unless of course, it's meant to be that way. The rubber feet though are definately not in line. Not really what you'd expect from Apple. On a prototype though? Maybe.

I suppose we shall see soon enough. My eyes are done in now with scrutinizing these photos!

[mongoos150]

Also goes to show just how gaga us Macheads are over... everything Apple. What other company has fans who go this crazy over a keyboard mockup, making diagrams of the scale of the keyboard, trying to figure out if the rubber feet on a "potentially fake" future keyboard would properly sit on a flat surface (to determine whether a product image was fake or real)?! I love that we love Apple. :rolleyes::cool::)

[cleanup]

I suppose we shall see soon enough. My eyes are done in now with scrutinizing these photos!

Thank heavens.

[phil83]

I really think this keyboard is ugly. And come on guys how many times have we actually seen :apple: product before it has came out. Thus I really doubt that this is for real. At lest I hope not.

[gonnabuyamac]

really shows how little we've had good rumors around here that don't revolve around the damn iphone

i totally agree!!! it's about time there was a rumor that is interesting - even if it's just a keyboard.

i would buy this keyboard if they made it - it would match my mbp better than the current BT keyboard (especially if it came in all silver). but, then i'd have a barely used keyboard and my wife would be ticked that i keep spending all our money on apple products. :rolleyes:

[mongoos150]

I really think this keyboard is ugly. And come on guys how many times have we actually seen :apple: product before it has came out. Thus I really doubt that this is for real. At lest I hope not.Completely disagree. I think it's beautiful - silver on white, sleek and uncluttered. Very Ive-esque. Very Apple.

[puckhead193]

with a new keyboard comes a new mouse..... i can dream right...

[Claytoniss]

:apple:Ahem...it's nothing new.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/114/286723702_22ae635e49.jpg?v=0
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/122/262541222_3caac6fe8e.jpg?v=0
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/96/259967236_479bc9ed14.jpg?v=0

yea thanks for the reminder about brushed metal on white in :apple: products. I forgot...:rolleyes: I still stand by my point saying that it is god awful and ugly. All the other :apple: products a good balance between these to elements in design, and it is all about balance. Apple can make something way better than this poop! Oh yeah it's ugly still.

[Digital Skunk]

You did not get it. A power button to turn ON the Mac. Not to turn it off.

Oh... now that makes sense... Gotcha and I think that would be a nice and needed addition.

[rtdunham]

AKA The Best Laptop Keyboard Evar?

i had the keyboard on my MB repaired once, then replaced, because keys--especially those on the bottom row--weren't recognizing strokes. They agreed it wasn't working right on those occasions (and seemed to recognize the problem quickly, suggesting to me that it was one they'd seen a number of times before) but repair/replacement didn't solve my problem, merely improved it. I still drop many more strokes on my MB than on PB or desktop keyboards i use. It IS the keyboard, and apple hasn't been able to get it to par with the others (the third time i took it in they basically said it was within specs). So maybe many people are having great results with it. I'm not impressed by mine. It bugs me to see the MB keyboard praised so highly without noting there are dissenting viewpoints.

and for that matter, what's the merit in having the "default" desktop keyboard having numeric keys and etc so that it occupies what, 40% more space than it would with the keys that seems to suffice on the MB or MBP? Other than accountants, what % of users rely on the numeric keypad? I understand some users would want/need the extended key set, but is that the majority? Do those monster keyboards really create the aesthetic apple supposedly values?

[oxygen8]

Fake!

[tristan]

Hang on a sec... what about the iMac and Mac mini???

iMac - the stand
Mac mini - erm I think you can work this one out for yourself.

You didn't really think that one through now did you? ;)

OK, I guess you're right. And I guess this is why I have a MBP. :D

Well, we'll see if its iUgly and/or iFake. I vote both.

[Chopper9]

I've been using macs since 1986 and have never complained once about my keyboard!

The only thing they should focus on (if they are indeed trying to revolutionize the keyboard) is to make it more comfortable and add more functionality.

FLAT KEYBOARDS LIKE THE ONES ON LAPTOPS SUCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[zebs1972]

:apple:

yea thanks for the reminder about brushed metal on white in :apple: products. I forgot...:rolleyes: I still stand by my point saying that it is god awful and ugly. All the other :apple: products a good balance between these to elements in design, and it is all about balance. Apple can make something way better than this poop! Oh yeah it's ugly still.

I am glad someone else agrees with me, that keyboard is so 2003 and looks well ugly. White on metal? The only reason they did it on the iPod was to match the white ear buds. I have neverd understood why they never produced a matching keyboard for the Mac Pro, after all Apple is supposed to be all about style (but they do supply white accessoires with black iPods)

I was hoping Apple would move to black. Look how gorgeous the iPhone looks and it has a nice black home button too with a nice nice metal surround. Surely the new Apple keyboard and screen should look like that?

I think that would put Apple ahead again, there has been big fan fair how the new iMac will put the computer ahead of everyone else, if that is the new keyboard thaqt we have seen an image of, then I don't think so. The Mac Book Pro doesn't have white keys, so why this? I really hope this is a fake, if not then Apple are becoming very lazy. But their was a million examples of what the iPhone would look like and when it finally came out it looked much better then anyone ever dreamed. Maybe this is another build up to a forth coming great product so we are wow'd when the product is finally revealed and its not that ugly keyboard with see in this thread.

[winmacguy]

Very nice but I am am still envisaging something a bit different. You don't get world class design recognition for producing stuff like that. Will just have to wait and see I guess.

[slughead]

I've been using macs since 1986 and have never complained once about my keyboard!

The only thing they should focus on (if they are indeed trying to revolutionize the keyboard) is to make it more comfortable and add more functionality.

FLAT KEYBOARDS LIKE THE ONES ON LAPTOPS SUCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

nah I think the original imac keybord sucked more.. and that mouse... jesus.

This keyboard looks interesting. I'll be curious as to its durability and usability though.

[RoDe]

I like it. It'll go nicely with the pro stuff too. The current keyboard isn't bad I just don't like the feel of it. Can't wait to see what they did with the iMac it self.

SJ must be going mad by now if these pics are real. And if they are real some one is gonna get fired big time.

[.Andy]

I think it looks fantastic. My favorite apple keyboard is the one on my current powerbook. I find my desktop keyboards (apple wireless and an apple pro-keyboard) much harder to type with in comparison - the bigger travel distance feels somewhat clumsy. Can't wait to see what the iMac looks like - I really want to talk my folks into one...

[BKKbill]

I was hoping Apple would move to black. Look how gorgeous the iPhone looks and it has a nice black home button too with a nice nice metal surround. Surely the new Apple keyboard and screen should look like that?

I think that would put Apple ahead again, there has been big fan fair how the new iMac will put the computer ahead of everyone else, if that is the new keyboard thaqt we have seen an image of, then I don't think so. The Mac Book Pro doesn't have white keys, so why this? I really hope this is a fake, if not then Apple are becoming very lazy. But their was a million examples of what the iPhone would look like and when it finally came out it looked much better then anyone ever dreamed. Maybe this is another build up to a forth coming great product so we are wow'd when the product is finally revealed and its not that ugly keyboard with see in this thread.

I sure hope your right about this. I have been waiting far too long for this iMac to come out to be disappointed, but as you say look at all the illustrations of the iPhone we had to look at before a victor came out.

[mathwhiz90601]

I wonder how "flexy" it would be. Low profile/laptop keyboards always have too much bend when they arent supported in a laptop.

In a metal enclosure? Not bendy. Very durable.

[mathwhiz90601]

I had a Franklin clone of the Apple ][ back in the 80s, and have been an Apple fanatic ever since. You're the first person I've ever encountered to call it "flower." Normal people call it either "Apple" or "Command."

My sister calls it flower too. Plus on [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/command_key it says that users sometimes call it by a nickname such as "flower". Lastly, I don't pretend to be "normal". How boring.

[mathwhiz90601]

As to the iMac mini, it was a joke to start off with, like the cube. If you look at the prices of the full iMac the Mini (at today’s prices) will cost you about $1200 for the basic model with a KB&Mouse and Apple’s 20 inch screen. Or you can get the 20inch iMac for $1500 and get a iSight, speakers, and microphone with it, along with twice the benchmarks for roughly a 10% price difference. If the Mini was sold as is for $250 than it would of sold like hot cakes and be worth the trouble. This will also result in Apple gaining a significant market share. Most Mac power users I know chuckled at the Mini when it first came out due to its price. In the end it was the most expensive Mac made, compared to the abilities of a full iMac. ((Computer Price) Divided by (Bench Mark)) than factor in other specs like Drive size, Ect

The point of the mini is that the user already owned a monitor, mouse, and KB, and therefore didn't have to pay a premium for them.

[mathwhiz90601]

Anyone notice the "Clear" button instead of Number Lock too.

Doesn't make it more likely to be fake, actually LESS likely b/c Apple cut the useless Num Lock from their KB!

[mathwhiz90601]

Pushing ANY button on a Mac (keyboard or mouse) will turn it on. Because sleep is the normal daily procedure now, not a full shutdown.

What, people don't shut their computers down anymore?!? My family and I always shut the computer down after use.

[mathwhiz90601]

I'm guessing that these pictures were made by a person(s) with way too much time to kill.

FAKE! (for good measure) ;)

Dude, chill man. Stop ranting.

Erm... Because it's a hell of a lot easier than plugging it into the back of your iMac. How did you come up with this then? USB 1.1 ;)

Agreed about putting flash drive into the back of a computer. I have to with my Windoze computer and it's irritating. Anyway, a new keyboard will probably have 2.0 USB, they've had time to implement it.

PS. Why would you want to use a wired mouse?

B/c you don't have bluetooth or OS to let you use one.

[mathwhiz90601]

I don't like the overall look because it makes the build quality look cheap or the illusion of it. Its somewhat kid like.

Like a prototype, perhaps?

[janitorC7]

I dont know about this, its a nice keyboard to type on, but the look is not all that great

[mathwhiz90601]

They could use flat, rechargeable batteries (like in the Nano). So you would just plug your keyboard into the USB port every once in awhile to recharge it. Really, wireless keyboards seem kinda silly to me. How often does one move their keyboard while using it?

What if you want to use your keyboard away from your computer? Say if you're on your bed and the computer is on your desk. You could still use it to type.

[Shotgun OS]

What, people don't shut their computers down anymore?!? My family and I always shut the computer down after use.

I haven't shut down my iMac in 3 months. I did do a restart yesterday after the power zapped it off, though.

Now that I look at this keyboard again....it doesn't look as bad as it did to me before. I hope the final product has the Apple on the Command key, and that it doesn't look like that fugly tan-bronze metal.:p I hope it doesn't dent/bend when I drop it, though.

[aafuss1]

Will there be a Wireless version?

[imbriumink]

I'm starting to think that this might just be part of the keyboard. They might still do the bottom clear casing like on the current keyboards judging by the look of it. It looks sort of incomplete with the USB ports like that.


edit: actually nevermind.

[mathwhiz90601]

You aren't thinking logically.
Granted the front rubber feet MAY appear to not touch the desk but it doesn't mean its fake as the stand at the rear is too tall, but its not. You have been deceived by the illusion. Can't even believe I am doing this.

<that really nice image>

I can't believe you cannot work out the angles. :)

That's a wonderful picture you made. Thank you for it! :)

[mathwhiz90601]

and for that matter, what's the merit in having the "default" desktop keyboard having numeric keys and etc so that it occupies what, 40% more space than it would with the keys that seems to suffice on the MB or MBP? Other than accountants, what % of users rely on the numeric keypad? I understand some users would want/need the extended key set, but is that the majority? Do those monster keyboards really create the aesthetic apple supposedly values?

I LOVE the keypad! I can type numbers much faster with it than the numbers above the letters.

[DrGruv1]

i like my matias keyboard at tactilepro.com - you know real moving keys :)

link for those that need it: http://matias.ca/tactilepro/

you jam your fingers on the others as they don't have any 'give' or resistance - hate em

ymmv

[verniesgarden]

people are complaining about how the keys are called "command" while the shortcut symbol is a clover, but has anyone really looked at the symbol for "option"? what the hell would you call that shape?

also i do not believe apple would get rid of their logo on the command keys, as for the simple reason, product recognition. and putting your logo in as many places as possible without being over bearing is a very good thing

[blipoids]

No! Putting your logo on as many places as possible is just BAD taste... hopefully apple realised that by now and -again- hopefully the new iMac will sport a smaller apple logo on that chin of his because the current one is so freaking distracting! ...

[Father Jack]

Even if it is a "joke" I do think it's time that Apple did produce a "low profile" key board.

I prefer short travel "soft" feel keys, this is why I use a Macally ICEKEY keyboard ...... :)
It feels much nicer than either of the Apple offerings.

[blipoids]

So if you already use a 3rd party keyboard than why would you bother commenting?

[verniesgarden]

No! Putting your logo on as many places as possible is just BAD taste... hopefully apple realised that by now and -again- hopefully the new iMac will sport a smaller apple logo on that chin of his because the current one is so freaking distracting! ...

you don't know marketing... you put your apple logo on your machine, it's in a movie or a tv show, people see it and it sticks in their mind. It's why GMC paid big money to have all the Autobots in the Transformers movie be some sort of GMC vehicle, associating the good/badass guy with a GMC car or truck.

the logo has the most important function of any product... people noticing it.

[blipoids]

Yes, I know & you are right!
But still... That is BAD taste!!!

[ozontheroad]

So if you already use a 3rd party keyboard than why would you bother commenting?

his post is relevant to this thread... on the other hand yours isn't. so maybe it's you who should think twice before posting :rolleyes:

I'll have to see one in person before I make up my mind about this one.

[Father Jack]

So if you already use a 3rd party keyboard than why would you bother commenting?
Because I really hope that this is not a joke and Apple are really going to release a decent slim keyboard. If (when) they do, I will first in line to get one .. :)

[blipoids]

his post is relevant to this thread... on the other hand yours isn't. so maybe it's you who should think twice before posting :rolleyes:

I'll have to see one in person before I make up my mind about this one.

Actually it is relevant because it relates to the complaints regarding the elimination of the apple logo from the command key. So who should think twice?
What would make a decent slim keyboard Father Jack?

[samh004]

Photos are still on engadget, no take down notices, unless Apple threw this out there to stop talk of an iPod, I'd say this isn't the real deal.

Time will tell though, just over a week.

And look at how many comments this thread has.

[verniesgarden]

Yes, I know & you are right!
But still... That is BAD taste!!!

now bad taste would be rearranging all the keys to make a big apple logo... or maybe i'm onto something.. hmmmm....

[Father Jack]

Actually it is relevant because it relates to the complaints regarding the elimination of the apple logo from the command key. So who should think twice?
What would make a decent slim keyboard Father Jack?
My ideal keyboard would have (as I have already stated) :
A low profile, with short travel, soft feel keys and preferably be made by Apple. Something similar to a MacBook.
I do a large amount of typing and found the Apple keyboard quite sore to use for long periods.

[ozontheroad]

Actually it is relevant because it relates to the complaints regarding the elimination of the apple logo from the command key. So who should think twice?
What would make a decent slim keyboard Father Jack?

the comment was about "low profile" key boards, read before you post buddy :rolleyes:

[Father Jack]

the comment was about "low profile" key boards, read before you post buddy :rolleyes:
Yes I did realise that, thanks.

ps the name isn't buddy .. :cool:

[ozontheroad]

Yes I did realise that, thanks.

ps the name isn't buddy .. :cool:

the comment wasn't for you :cool: (i was actually agreeing with your post :cool: )

[Photo Monkey]

I have to agree with a few of you, it just smells of fake for the above mentioned reasons. The buttons are all in the wrong place, the Apple logo is missing. On a personal level, I don't think it's attractive.

[Father Jack]

the comment wasn't for you :cool: (i was actually agreeing with your post :cool: )

Sorry ...... :o Please accept my apology.

I saw that you had agreed with me earlier .. :) Thanks.

FJ

[Steve Jobs=God]

Sorry but i find that absolutly revolting, and the fact the new iMac is gonna have to go along the same design style makes me wanna avoid it totally :(

[tfredvik]

and for that matter, what's the merit in having the "default" desktop keyboard having numeric keys and etc so that it occupies what, 40% more space than it would with the keys that seems to suffice on the MB or MBP? Other than accountants, what % of users rely on the numeric keypad? I understand some users would want/need the extended key set, but is that the majority? Do those monster keyboards really create the aesthetic apple supposedly values?

Amen, brother! I very rarely use the numeric keys; I would rather have my mouse there! Wouldn't it be possible to make the num key part detachable from the main keyboard, with a USB cable connecting the two parts? The accountants could simply click the two parts together (thereby hiding the USB cable) while the rest of the 99% of users could either put the num key board in a dark cellar, or leave it on the desk, detatched, but within reach and ready for the rare numerical input spree?

[MatthewCobb]

[QUOTE=TheAnswer;3971634]I seriously doubt the design team is using both English and metric measurements on the same piece.


Why not - NASA did and sent one of their Mars probes plunging into the surface of our nearest neighbour...

But this does seem an awful lot of excitement about a keyboard! FWIW, I think it looks great, fake or not.

[blipoids]

I feel so glad that less & less fashion scoundrels that "dig" big logos will be buying iMacs in the future... ;)

[mikefd369]

Haven't read all 500+ replies, but you can see the keyboard is attached to a macbook in some of the photos, so i'm guessing these must be faked.

[vandlism]

Haven't read all 500+ replies, but you can see the keyboard is attached to a macbook in some of the photos

You can see the USB plug in most of the photos, but I'm definitely not seeing the MacBook.

[phalewhale]

B/c you don't have bluetooth or OS to let you use one.

MY response was sarcasm. Maybe I should have made that clearer.

You see, Tusker stated something like: "why would you want to plug a usb drive into the keyboard (probably usb 1.1)? Its made to plug a mouse into and thats about it."

My response of asking why he'd want to use a wired mouse was simply sarcasm.

[Schtumple]

It's probably been put already, but anyone who says "OMFG THE WHITE AND METAL LOOK IS C**P"

Should really take a look at this other product apple has made for a few years with the same colour scheme...



http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y64/votd5000/gallery1img20060228.jpg

Not so ugly anymore now is it...

[verniesgarden]

I feel so glad that less & less fashion scoundrels that "dig" big logos will be buying iMacs in the future... ;)

its not about digging big logos or not its about business, and i always thought apple placed their logo well, a small logo on your imac will actually be more of an eye sore than a bigger one, as it will look like your have something you need to clean off but can't. I'm not sure how this happens but the longer you are a fan of mac the less you remember apple is there to make money, more on to that you forget how good they are at marketing.

and before i get told "well if apple was so good at marketing then why only 10% percent of market share?"

2 reasons, first its a completely different operating system, if you grow up buying chevys, you are more likely to buy chevys the rest of your life. second is because of current mac users, mac users have a way of alienating PC users, and trying to make them feel dumb, not all are that way, but alot. One of the big reasons i hate the mac store is the "geniuses" yea i love mac and know it's a great computer, but i do accept their flaws as well. don't be pompous when giving me customer service. (example: I went in about a bluetooth module for my mac pro, and the told me that you had to completely dismantle the system to install it... well no you don't last i checked taking the side panel off doesn't void your warranty.)

[blipoids]

I would rather tell you that apple marketing is poor... They have no clue about consumer needs and generally apple customers don't either. I would never have bought an iMac if it wasn't possible to install windows on it. And before you say anything you should check out boards here in my country... Every potential apple customer needs to ask a billion questions before they can make up their mind. And no, they don't have 10% market share because of the operating system, they have 10% market share because of their price tag! And everybody can guess that. We're not living in a movie, there's no sniper there to peek in our bedrooms only to glance at the apple logo. Apple should know a little more class rather than stamping that logo everywhere...

[mrdj2u]

IMHO...if this is NOT real, it is easily the best mock-up/fake I've ever seen. The depth and detail are very good. If not it goes into the "Best Apple Rumor Hall of Fame".

Additionally, he/she will be getting a call this week from someone wanting to hire them for R & D.:p

[vohdoun]

Who started mentioning brushed metal? or rather why is it even called brushed?

I'm not even picky about it but there is a distinctive difference between the two. The keyboard has the identical grain of the Mac towers as is the laptop enclosure as well as the same stand and enclosure as the Apple Cinema Displays.

Which is the anodized aluminium look. It's like little pits, not brushed streaks. :)

Brushed metal streaks:
http://www.dansdata.com/images/pc70/carbon320.jpg

Pitted anodized aluminium:
http://ant.sillydog.org/blog/pic/scheweppe_mpb01.jpg

[mathwhiz90601]

people are complaining about how the keys are called "command" while the shortcut symbol is a clover, but has anyone really looked at the symbol for "option"? what the hell would you call that shape?

also i do not believe apple would get rid of their logo on the command keys, as for the simple reason, product recognition. and putting your logo in as many places as possible without being over bearing is a very good thing

No! Putting your logo on as many places as possible is just BAD taste... hopefully apple realised that by now and -again- hopefully the new iMac will sport a smaller apple logo on that chin of his because the current one is so freaking distracting! ...

I agree with blipoids; so does Apple and SJ, who decided to use the Saint John's Arms on commands so they don't have all these apples filling the menus.

[mathwhiz90601]

It's probably been put already, but anyone who says "OMFG THE WHITE AND METAL LOOK IS C**P"

Should really take a look at this other product apple has made for a few years with the same colour scheme...



http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y64/votd5000/gallery1img20060228.jpg

Not so ugly anymore now is it...

The Mac mini uses a more silver metal. This keyboard uses a more tan metal. The tan metal is unpopular. Additionally, as a prototype, they were probably experimenting with colors (CRF colors listed on the manufacturing label.)

[eenu]

well if this keyboard is real then the white keys on the aluminium base probably symbolise a white mac with aluminum trim a bit like the mini.

The white keys means there will defo be white plastic on the new imacs

[The Macster]

well if this keyboard is real then the white keys on the aluminium base probably symbolise a white mac with aluminum trim a bit like the mini.

The white keys means there will defo be white plastic on the new imacs

Possibly yeah... Oh C'mon!! I WANT TO SEE THE NEW IMAC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:D:p

[Dany M]

Doesn anyone thing the keys look to flat, and so does the stand.....?

[starscream45]

The metal is tan, but not because it literally is, it's because of the way the lighting was, only problem is, the cord is also a neutral gray and it's more blueish. This is because they didn't photograph the cord with the keyboard they made.

If you know anything about Photoshop like me (graphic designer for BG Products, Inc.) you'd notice when things were Photoshopped. Kind of like how the USB cord looks really jagged in the birds eye view of the keyboard. Look how the edge of the cord isn't smooth, it's jagged from them cutting it out in photoshop. I've seen that before, like when I first started using Photoshop.

AND if you notice the MacBook keyboard, they use an Apple on the Command key. If you look at the MacBook keyboard again you'll notice a different layout than this one. Why would they go towards the Macbook look and then change the layout of the words on the keys. Look at how they put the words flush left on the left side of the keyboard and flush right on the right side, except the command key on the right side it's identical to the left side, but in this fake keyboard they mirrored the command key. This is an inconsistency to the MacBook keyboard layout. You'll also notice that the only letters on the keys that the MacBook centers are the letters. The fake centers several other keys like the page up and page down keys. Apple only uses the flush left in those keys. Plus it looks bad to have the "Up" centered under "Page." The layout of a keyboard needs rules of when to center things and left or right flush things and this one has way too many directions its going as far as what is centered and what is flush left or right. Apple is embraced by the design community so they wouldn't have any of these inconsistencies.

Plus the centered letters on the keyboard are not new. I have a iBook with the letters centered on the keyboard. Apple only centers the alphabet on laptops not desktop keyboards. It's fake but it's a good fake, I'd give them an A for effort. next time include the usb wire and show it actually coming out of the keyboard because it looks fake being Photoshopped in there.

[starscream45]

.

[The Macster]

You can see the USB plug in most of the photos, but I'm definitely not seeing the MacBook.

I think he's seen the Appleinsider Gallery (http://www.appleinsider.com/articles/07/07/27/purported_photos_of_new_imac_keyboard_stir_debate.html). Next to the Keyboard photos there are some Macbook keyboard pics for comparison;)

[mtwiz]

Metal surfaces usually contain scratches from manufacturing. Processes like brushing, bead blasting, or polishing are used to cover up those scratches from manufacturing and handling and to give the surface a uniform/decorative finish. The metal is then plated/coated with something to protect that finish.

Most of the Apple products that I’m aware of have been bead blasted (like sand blasting but with finer/smaller glass media) and then anodized giving the surface a satin look.

[bchreng]

I'm not about to read through every single reply to this thread so I'm just going to come out and say that that's one fugly keyboard (imo of course). I can't stand the white-key-on-metal-body look. I really hope that either those images are fakes or just early prototypes of the final product. White-keys-on-white (or clear) body or metallic-keys-on-metallic body would look much much better.

As for that pic of the Mac mini, I'm going to admit that I never really liked the color scheme for that thing. Now here's an image of pure beauty.

http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/5590/pmg4cubebz5.jpg

If Apple can achieve a similar look with their new keyboard (clear keys on a white body or clear keys on a clear body with a white covering around the internal circuitry) it'd be heavenly.

[SilentCrs]

I'm not about to read through every single reply to this thread so I'm just going to come out and say that that's one fugly keyboard (imo of course). I can't stand the white-key-on-metal-body look. I really hope that either those images are fakes or just early prototypes of the final product. White-keys-on-white (or clear) body or metallic-keys-on-metallic body would look much much better.

As for that pic of the Mac mini, I'm going to admit that I never really liked the color scheme for that thing. Now here's an image of pure beauty.

http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/5590/pmg4cubebz5.jpg

If Apple can achieve a similar look with their new keyboard (clear keys on a white body or clear keys on a clear body with a white covering around the internal circuitry) it'd be heavenly.

A thing of beauty and wholly nonfunctional. Difficult to upgrade, cracks in the plastic, etc.

As far as I'm concerned, a keyboard needs to be only one thing: comfortable. I don't care if they make the metal silver colored, tan or even black. That thing doesn't look comfortable.

[DaftUnion]

If this really turns out to be the new keyboard, I might just replace my two year old keyboard that came with my iMac. That thing looks great!

[Macky-Mac]

the lack of an apple logo on the command key puts me in the doubting camp

[blipoids]

If this really turns out to be the new keyboard, I might just replace my two year old keyboard that came with my iMac. That thing looks great!

Woohoo! :thumbsup:

[vohdoun]

If you know anything about Photoshop like me (graphic designer for BG Products, Inc.) you'd notice when things were Photoshopped. Kind of like how the USB cord looks really jagged in the birds eye view of the keyboard. Look how the edge of the cord isn't smooth, it's jagged from them cutting it out in photoshop. I've seen that before, like when I first started using Photoshop.


I see what you mean. Though if it was a good modeler, you'd think he/she could render a decent cable...

If this is fake which it could be starting to appear to be, why go all the trouble with the keyboard work to throw in a sucky cut/pasted cable thats all covered in badly artifacts.

[MIDI_EVIL]

If you know anything about Photoshop like me (graphic designer for BG Products, Inc.) you'd notice when things were Photoshopped. Kind of like how the USB cord looks really jagged in the birds eye view of the keyboard. Look how the edge of the cord isn't smooth, it's jagged from them cutting it out in photoshop. I've seen that before, like when I first started using Photoshop.



The fact that all the curves are jagged, makes you sound silly.

Silly silly silly silly.

They are all jagged, it's called image compression.

Rich.

[vohdoun]

The fact that all the curves are jagged, They are all jagged, it's called image compression.

Rich.

It's more of a stretched distorted jaggedness though. That is the cable.

[CBAviator]

The metal is tan, but not because it literally is, it's because of the way the lighting was, only problem is, the cord is also a neutral gray and it's more blueish. This is because they didn't photograph the cord with the keyboard they made.

I'll agree with you on this one in terms of the colors. I, however, believe this to be legit.

If you know anything about Photoshop like me (graphic designer for BG Products, Inc.) you'd notice when things were Photoshopped. Kind of like how the USB cord looks really jagged in the birds eye view of the keyboard. Look how the edge of the cord isn't smooth, it's jagged from them cutting it out in photoshop. I've seen that before, like when I first started using Photoshop.

I do know something about photoshop being as I am an avid photographer. However, I also know that jagged edges do appear with curved objects when Photoshop is zoomed in/out at certain ratios. Whether it's a limit of the graphics card or what I am unsure. If this happens and the photo is saved at that exact dimension and posted on the web, it's very possible for it to appear jagged. Compression can also cause this. The same type effect can happen when taking photos of people wearing fine stripped shirts...they tend to make a curvy motion at certain zoom ratios.

AND if you notice the MacBook keyboard, they use an Apple on the Command key. If you look at the MacBook keyboard again you'll notice a different layout than this one. Why would they go towards the Macbook look and then change the layout of the words on the keys. Look at how they put the words flush left on the left side of the keyboard and flush right on the right side, except the command key on the right side it's identical to the left side, but in this fake keyboard they mirrored the command key. This is an inconsistency to the MacBook keyboard layout. You'll also notice that the only letters on the keys that the MacBook centers are the letters. The fake centers several other keys like the page up and page down keys. Apple only uses the flush left in those keys. Plus it looks bad to have the "Up" centered under "Page." The layout of a keyboard needs rules of when to center things and left or right flush things and this one has way too many directions its going as far as what is centered and what is flush left or right. Apple is embraced by the design community so they wouldn't have any of these inconsistencies.

The reports about a newly designed keyboard usually mention that the keyboard will be LIKE the MacBook...not IDENTICAL. Too many times I hear people saying "oh, this has to be false because the MacBook isn't like that." Well, things do change over time. What may not be appealing to your eyes may be appealing to an Apple Developer's eyes. Just because you don't like the way something is centered (or not) certainly doesn't mean that's how a majority felt if Apple, say, took surveys or received comments.

Plus the centered letters on the keyboard are not new. I have a iBook with the letters centered on the keyboard. Apple only centers the alphabet on laptops not desktop keyboards.

...maybe until now. Maybe Apple decided to do something a little different. After all, that appears to be the direction they are heading. An old dog may not change and learn new tricks, but Apple certainly isn't an old dog and Apple certainly has the right to change things if they want. There is no manual saying they have to do things as they have always done them (or else they'd be like many of the other computer companies).

It's certainly not my intent to be rude or anything...just pointing out a few things.

[CBAviator]

Oh come on... I found the photos on flickr way before engadget posted them. They even deleted my comment on their story with the link, then used the photos in their gallery.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/10511663@N02/

I just clicked this link again and it appears the photos have been removed. Can anyone confirm?

[cleanup]

the lack of an apple logo on the command key puts me in the doubting camp

I am so tired of hearing this.

As for the "tan" look that everyone's complaining about, I'm pretty sure it's just lighting. Sometimes my iMac's stand looks tan-ish, not silver. I honestly never noticed this look in the photos because it seemed normal to me. Looks exactly like the adonized aluminum Apple uses everywhere else.

The whole "tan" argument is just an illusion exaggerated by the would-be haters.

[mathwhiz90601]

I am so tired of hearing this.

As for the "tan" look that everyone's complaining about, I'm pretty sure it's just lighting. Sometimes my iMac's stand looks tan-ish, not silver. I honestly never noticed this look in the photos because it seemed normal to me. Looks exactly like the adonized aluminum Apple uses everywhere else.

The whole "tan" argument is just an illusion exaggerated by the would-be haters.

I think it's tan because they were experimenting with colors in a prototype.

[4God]

I just clicked this link again and it appears the photos have been removed. Can anyone confirm?

Yep, they're gone.

[mongoos150]

The reports about a newly designed keyboard usually mention that the keyboard will be LIKE the MacBook...not IDENTICAL. Too many times I hear people saying "oh, this has to be false because the MacBook isn't like that." Well, things do change over time. What may not be appealing to your eyes may be appealing to an Apple Developer's eyes. Just because you don't like the way something is centered (or not) certainly doesn't mean that's how a majority felt if Apple, say, took surveys or received comments.Right - and people get ridiculously hung up on the minute details of these news bits (possible sneak peaks, etc...). This is most likely a NEAR PRODUCTION PROTOTYPE. There's no telling whether this is the final cosmetic unit (again, a reference to what is labeled on the underside of the keyboard). People need to calm down. It likely is a near-production prototype. I really like it, typing on the Macbook-style keyboard is a really pleasant experience, much nicer than traditional keyboards IMO (less mechanical key travel between "pushes" allows me to type faster, and the keyboards are generally quieter). Ergonomically they feel fine to me.

[mathwhiz90601]

I agree. This is probably a prototype.

[Plymouthbreezer]

About time. I'm looking forward to this. =]

[mtwiz]

I am so tired of hearing this.

As for the "tan" look that everyone's complaining about, I'm pretty sure it's just lighting. Sometimes my iMac's stand looks tan-ish, not silver. I honestly never noticed this look in the photos because it seemed normal to me. Looks exactly like the adonized aluminum Apple uses everywhere else.

The whole "tan" argument is just an illusion exaggerated by the would-be haters.

It is just lighting. The back of the iPhone looked tan in certain pictures too, but now we all know that it's anodized aluminum like everything else.

[starscream45]

I'll agree with you on this one in terms of the colors. I, however, believe this to be legit.



I do know something about photoshop being as I am an avid photographer. However, I also know that jagged edges do appear with curved objects when Photoshop is zoomed in/out at certain ratios. Whether it's a limit of the graphics card or what I am unsure. If this happens and the photo is saved at that exact dimension and posted on the web, it's very possible for it to appear jagged. Compression can also cause this. The same type effect can happen when taking photos of people wearing fine stripped shirts...they tend to make a curvy motion at certain zoom ratios.



The reports about a newly designed keyboard usually mention that the keyboard will be LIKE the MacBook...not IDENTICAL. Too many times I hear people saying "oh, this has to be false because the MacBook isn't like that." Well, things do change over time. What may not be appealing to your eyes may be appealing to an Apple Developer's eyes. Just because you don't like the way something is centered (or not) certainly doesn't mean that's how a majority felt if Apple, say, took surveys or received comments.



...maybe until now. Maybe Apple decided to do something a little different. After all, that appears to be the direction they are heading. An old dog may not change and learn new tricks, but Apple certainly isn't an old dog and Apple certainly has the right to change things if they want. There is no manual saying they have to do things as they have always done them (or else they'd be like many of the other computer companies).

It's certainly not my intent to be rude or anything...just pointing out a few things.

I am glad we agree on the tan-ish metal being lighting, but you didn't mention your thoughts about the cable being bluish. And regardless of your thoughts I still think it's fake.

As far as the jagged cutout of the usb cable, it is not gonna have anything to do with your processor or whether the view was zoomed in or out (maybe if it was a screenshot of the picture at a view other than 100% but thats silly), the fact is, the jagged-ness does not appear anywhere else. parts of the cable were cutout better than other parts. That is inconsistent regardless of what you think the cause is. It's also not a aliasing issue if that is what you were trying to say because that's more of a vector rendering type thing, plus there's no pixelation, just a pattern that shows up when someone uses the erase tool or the quick mask tool.

And as far as the other inconsistencies regarding where things are placed on the keyboard. It's not a matter of what I think is aesthetically pleasing. It's bad design, and Apple doesn't have inconsistencies like this hardly ever, none I can think of off the top of my head.

I just don't understand why so many people find this thing so legit, Apple isn't gonna get rid of the apple on the command button just like windows never will. And IF they did, then why? That's not the reason I think it's fake though. Look at the bottom of the keyboard, .7mm? that is small! and there's nothing 0.5 that would equal the same as .7mm. None that I can think of.

Whoever took the photos is kinda ghetto with the cheap dirty ruler and the Nikon lens cap or whatever that is with the Nikon logo.

I'm not saying apple wouldn't change because who here thought a Intel change would've been in Apple computers 4 years ago? But seriously this just doesn't look real when you analyze it closely. Call me wrong but that's my opinion and everyone else has theirs too.

[Digital Skunk]

Poor image quality sometimes appears when careless designers mix images of different resolutions, and especially when dropping an image with a low DPI into an image with a higher one.

Based on the image quality, lighting, keyboard layout, and flawed design this thing is obviously a fake and it is starting to loose its "Cool a MacBook keyboard in a desktop form!" feel. Now it is just tacky and I know it will be a pain in the arse to use. The MacBook keyboard may be comfortable and what not... but it can't replace a desktop keyboard with big keys. Leave the slim line keyboard to the laptop lovers and give those the use big desktop our big keyboards.

Those that say the image is fake have given a lot of prove as to the fact. Those that say it is real... we know... we like to dream to.

[starscream45]

http://www.engadget.com/2007/07/27/is-this-the-new-imac-keyboard/

Did everyone miss the fact that they said the photos had Photoshop exif data so in fact they were photoshopped.

And you can buy one from some forum jockey from Hong Kong will sell you one for $153.

Very interesting, would Apple honestly allow this? NOOOO

It really is a nice fake, but if you really want one then pay the $153 and get one from Hong Kong.

[gamerz]

China makes everything cheap. It's a wonder why their economy hasn't fallen.

Anyways, even if it wasn't a fake, it would have only been a prototype. There is absolutely no way that apple would allow a product to be seen before release.

[mathwhiz90601]

China makes everything cheap. It's a wonder why their economy hasn't fallen..

That's because of the currency valuation.... but that's another thread.

I'm going to post a poll about people's opinions as to the status of this keyboard.

[mathwhiz90601]

There we go!

http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=335074

Vote on what you think of the KB pics.

[vanzskater272]

I predicted it last year. http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?p=3217569#post3217569

[stuff99]

it cant be just me but the keyboard looks REALLY UGLY and the fact that it doesnt look comfortable to type on doesnt seem to help

and hasn't apple learned anything about wrist rests on a keyboard yet??

[S_S]

Speaking as a professional product designer, I say it's real.

I haven't had time to go through all 600 posts so I apologize if I repeat something already mentioned.

First, "not cosmetic" mean it really works. A "cosmetic" unit would look just like a working unit but would be an apperance model. This one is functional and may or may not have the final colors and material finishes. But this one looks like it does have the correct finishes.

Second, the movment of the function key shortcuts has Apple written all over it. Why would a knock off want to piss people off by moving hot keys? That would take re-writing Mac OS software. I beleive someone could physically create a knock off Apple keyboard without cooperation from Apple, but re-map keyboard shortcuts? I think not.

In fact Apple loves to mess with something like the keyboard layout for the sake of consistency. Now they can have the same keyboard layout for both laptops and desktops. The eject key on my MacBook Pro is F13. Now the new iMac will be the same. It's actually brilliant. I love that Apple isn't afraid to offend a few people in order improve ease of use.

As for the removal of the :apple: from the cmd key. Now they can sell this thing to windows or linux users. Again, briliant. Plus the :apple: is just confusing. It's refered to as the command key and its symbol is a cloverleaf. The :apple: part never enters the equation. I too pine for the days when I'd close this window with an "Open Apple - W". But we've all grown up and now it's "cmd-W"

As far as the appearence is concerned, everyone is entitled to thier opinion. I think it's hot. It made me look down at my current wireless keyboard and think "wow, that looks old". Whether it's "stylish" or not (a word I detest) it looks modern, thin, and light. To paint the keys silver would incure extra cost. I'm sure the MacBook Pro keyboard is expensive with its backlit painted and etched keys. The new iMac is gonna have some white plastic on it, so it's gotta match. Plus there is an authenticity to the use of real metal. Having painted keys would ruin that.

All in all, this thing has got me very excited about the new iMac! I am inclinde to believe Apple is allowing these pictures to stick around just to build hype. I mean, who here was worried about the keyboard of the new iMac? It would be like showing the new earbuds for the 6G iPod. A "Cease and Desist" isn't needed but someone is going to get in big trouble.

[macintel4me]

I predicted it last year. http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?p=3217569#post3217569

:eek::eek:

[The Macster]

I said it was fake, but now I have a closer look at it and thinking on what S_S said, I think this could well and truely be the new iMac Keyboard.















WOOOOOHOOOOO!!!!

[eenu]

Very interesting, would Apple honestly allow this? NOOOO


You an get anything in China..... Diesel Jeans at the factory door etc

I don't believe it would be hard for someone at the plant to get their hands on some of these.

That doesnt mean i think its legit though, i am just saying.

[aswitcher]

Speaking as a professional product designer, I say it's real.

I haven't had time to go through all 600 posts so I apologize if I repeat something already mentioned.

First, "not cosmetic" mean it really works. A "cosmetic" unit would look just like a working unit but would be an apperance model. This one is functional and may or may not have the final colors and material finishes. But this one looks like it does have the correct finishes.

Second, the movment of the function key shortcuts has Apple written all over it. Why would a knock off want to piss people off by moving hot keys? That would take re-writing Mac OS software. I beleive someone could physically create a knock off Apple keyboard without cooperation from Apple, but re-map keyboard shortcuts? I think not.

In fact Apple loves to mess with something like the keyboard layout for the sake of consistency. Now they can have the same keyboard layout for both laptops and desktops. The eject key on my MacBook Pro is F13. Now the new iMac will be the same. It's actually brilliant. I love that Apple isn't afraid to offend a few people in order improve ease of use.

As for the removal of the :apple: from the cmd key. Now they can sell this thing to windows or linux users. Again, briliant. Plus the :apple: is just confusing. It's refered to as the command key and its symbol is a cloverleaf. The :apple: part never enters the equation. I too pine for the days when I'd close this window with an "Open Apple - W". But we've all grown up and now it's "cmd-W"

As far as the appearence is concerned, everyone is entitled to thier opinion. I think it's hot. It made me look down at my current wireless keyboard and think "wow, that looks old". Whether it's "stylish" or not (a word I detest) it looks modern, thin, and light. To paint the keys silver would incure extra cost. I'm sure the MacBook Pro keyboard is expensive with its backlit painted and etched keys. The new iMac is gonna have some white plastic on it, so it's gotta match. Plus there is an authenticity to the use of real metal. Having painted keys would ruin that.

All in all, this thing has got me very excited about the new iMac! I am inclinde to believe Apple is allowing these pictures to stick around just to build hype. I mean, who here was worried about the keyboard of the new iMac? It would be like showing the new earbuds for the 6G iPod. A "Cease and Desist" isn't needed but someone is going to get in big trouble.

I like your rationalising. I couldnt figure out why Apple drop the Apple and relayout everything but this makes sense now. (Although why did they not map the audio controls to F3-F5 rather than F9-F11. I want expose access and yet this convenience is a bit lost as I need to function key it...)

My only real concern now is the BT version. I would be pretty annoyed if they release a new shiney iMac design but for wireless I am stuck with the existing keyboard (which I am typing on now). Obviously I would get the wired BUT it would annoy me because wireless is so convienent.

[SheriffParker]

I predicted it last year. http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?p=3217569#post3217569

All Hail Macstrodamus!!

[MacinDoc]

My only real concern now is the BT version. I would be pretty annoyed if they release a new shiney iMac design but for wireless I am stuck with the existing keyboard (which I am typing on now). Obviously I would get the wired BUT it would annoy me because wireless is so convienent.
Why would Apple not release a BT version?

[macintel4me]

Why would Apple not release a BT version?

Good point! The BT version could also be a great keyboard too for my iPhone. :D

[DHagan4755]

It doesn't seem Apple-consistent to move some of those hot keys around, since they won't fit with some of Apple's other products. For example, if that's the new layout in that prototype, where will Apple put the hotkeys for the keyboard backlight on the MacBook Pro? Why only one key for Expos&#233;? There are three Expos&#233; hotkeys. And what about Spaces? Why no hotkey for that? Since it is a prototype, I bet the moving around of some of those hotkeys will not be present in the final shipping version.

[Manic Mouse]

It doesn't seem Apple-consistent to move some of those hot keys around, since they won't fit with some of Apple's other products. For example, if that's the new layout in that prototype, where will Apple put the hotkeys for the keyboard backlight on the MacBook Pro? Why only one key for Exposé? There are three Exposé hotkeys. And what about Spaces? Why no hotkey for that? Since it is a prototype, I bet the moving around of some of those hotkeys will not be present in the final shipping version.

Yeah, it should be...

F1: dim display
F2: brighten display
F3: mute
F4: sound down
F5: sound up
F6: rewind
F7: pause/play
F8: forward
F9: desktop
F10: Expose
F11: Spaces
F12: Dashboard
F13: Eject

I think this is more logical and would maintain compatibility with current models.

[jpirizarry]

I don't buy it. I think the photo is a fake.

I think what we're gonna get is a minor update to the iMac with the Leopard release.

[Digital Skunk]

Speaking as a professional product designer, I say it's real.

Yeah... and I am a professional product designer too and I have been working longer than you have and I have a friend that works for Apple and we both say it's fake SO THERE!
:D

I think this is more logical and would maintain compatibility with current models.

It's not consistent with the desktop keyboards. They may be consistent with the shorter laptop keyboards, but even when you look at the layout of the laptops it still isn't consistent.... the eject button is on the upper right hand side of the keyboard, while on the fake mockup it is in the center.

[Peace]

Yeah... and I am a professional product designer too and I have been working longer than you have and I have a friend that works for Apple and we both say it's fake SO THERE!
:D



It's not consistent with the desktop keyboards. They may be consistent with the shorter laptop keyboards, but even when you look at the layout of the laptops it still isn't consistent.... the eject button is on the upper right hand side of the keyboard, while on the fake mockup it is in the center.

I'm not saying if it's real or not but since the mock-up has a different placement for the eject key that would match the fact of the new delayed eject function.
You wouldn't be able to "accidentally" tap the eject key.You would have to hold it down for a sec.

[DOUGHNUT]

for those doubting that it's real because keys were moved around....how do we know its not a prototype unit that Apple was experimenting with? Also, why would anybody waste so much time just to make a mockup of the keyboard and then change stuff around? Also, the closeup pictures tells me that it's not a photoshop job...so did someone actually create the keyboard from scratch? doubt it.

[zac4mac]

<Opinion>These photos show a final candidate prototype, not necessarily in shipping form, but very close. Don't know how Apple does this, but I will build lots of different protos that are "Cosmetic", but by the time I'm making a working proto, it's either close to shipping form or really early in the process and called "proof of concept". These shots don't show a rough model, so expect something very close to this design, soon. <Opinion>

I build medical device protos and do design debug and product F.A.s in R&D at Valleylab in Boulder.

Z

[ju5tin81]

AAAAAH! Please please please, just release the bloody thing!:eek:

Been waiting too long Apple! Boss is losing patience with me.... I keep saying "there's no point in purchasing a new iMac (and old: 'look at the crumbs, yuck!' keyboard) that's 1 year old on day 1" blah blah blah. Have purchase order form on standby Apple, just release it PLEASE!

Mr Jobs, if your reading this, apologies for the caps. (But you must surely be bored reading these posts too.) :D

[kuebby]

Prototype maybe, otherwise fake. I don't mind my macbook keyboard but desktop keyboards with more pitch (right word?) are simply a standard that makes sense to stay with.

[mallocip]

Obviously a lawsuit is going to come about if this is the new keyboard. It is obviously a knock off of the Mattel Aquarius Home Computer from the early 80's.

[blipoids]

Is that irony?

[hohohong]

Fake or not, I would buy the wireless version if it comes out!

[zac4mac]

irony? no.
facetious? yes
sarcastic? probably

[cccjr]

If anyone tries to the F13 on the current Apple keyboards for mainframe use in application like Citrix it is a nightmare! My wish has come true! They put F13 where it's suppose to be! Maybe the keyboard reorganization was do to Parallels & Boot Camp users.

[Digital Skunk]

I'm not saying if it's real or not but since the mock-up has a different placement for the eject key that would match the fact of the new delayed eject function.
You wouldn't be able to "accidentally" tap the eject key.You would have to hold it down for a sec.

That is correct... it's a fact, you have to press the eject key down for a second to eject the tray or disk, so why put it in the center and go against current, proven, and stable design/layout. And (not that you ever mention it) there is still the problem with the 8 "F" keys that have no function whatsoever since the mockup artist bunched all the keys onto one side of the keyboard. Apple just wouldn't do that EVER so it is obviously a fake based on that. As it stands every "F" key has a function related to the system or to the active application. With this keyboard, the "F" keys would be performing triple duty. The F5 key already has two functions in FCP and would now carry three or four with this new layout. It's just flawed. I would have believed it more if the layout wasn't just terrible. And if Apple does come out with this keyboard with this layout then it will go down in the history of major mistakes Apple has made, along with the puck mouse, clamshell iBook, G4 Cube, 20th Anniversary Mac, and Cingular for the iPhone. ( I know... it's a cheap shot)

for those doubting that it's real because keys were moved around....how do we know its not a prototype unit that Apple was experimenting with? Also, why would anybody waste so much time just to make a mockup of the keyboard and then change stuff around? Also, the closeup pictures tells me that it's not a photoshop job...so did someone actually create the keyboard from scratch? doubt it.

How do we even know this has anything to do with Apple? It's all about speculation, the problem that every mockup artist has is that they fail to realize that there are some engineering/ergonomic/company standards that Apple won't/can't break. They photoshop and illustrate a great product and fail to understand that certain angles, forms, shapes, etc just won't work. The drawing looks cool and we want it so bad but it just won't work technologically/socially/physically. The best mockup I have ever seen of a 30" iMac with a transparent and really thin display wouldn't work at all for obvious reasons. And the guy spent more time on his mockup than the guy who made this awful keyboard. He didn't just take a picture of a MacBook keyboard and photoshop shapes and textures around it, and paste in a low res image of a USB cord.

80809

[Tsurisuto]

I really like this keyboard design, but I don't think it's real as Apple hasn't asked any of the sites to take down the images...

[AlexisV]

Did everyone miss the fact that they said the photos had Photoshop exif data so in fact they were photoshopped.


Every photographer will adjust the levels and curves, amongst other things to enhance the image in PS.

And how exactly do you think the photographer gets the high res, large image in the camera into a smaller web friendly file and image size?

[TyWahn]

It has to be a fake.. Apple has ALWAYS had an "open apple" key (even the Apple IIs had them) . ALWAYS. It has never had one that said COMMAND... at least I can't think of one.
There has also ALWAYS been an Apple logo somewhere on it as well. We all know how apple is about branding.
FAKE. (but nice looking)

[Genghis Khan]

Despite the inherent awesomeness of the aluminium keyboard...it doesn't curve towards the top...the current ones do that for ergonomic reasons....i don't think the new one will abandon that

[Phormic]

A lovely looking thing. Clean, stark, minimalist and functional.

One small annoyance though. Has anybody noticed that the "M" is simply an upside down "W"? Type geeks will hate that.

[Peace]

It has to be a fake.. Apple has ALWAYS had an "open apple" key (even the Apple IIs had them) . ALWAYS. It has never had one that said COMMAND... at least I can't think of one.
There has also ALWAYS been an Apple logo somewhere on it as well. We all know how apple is about branding.
FAKE. (but nice looking)

What if Apple is expecting a lot of Windows users to boot into Windows? ;)

[CBAviator]

It has to be a fake.. Apple has ALWAYS had an "open apple" key (even the Apple IIs had them) . ALWAYS. It has never had one that said COMMAND... at least I can't think of one.
There has also ALWAYS been an Apple logo somewhere on it as well. We all know how apple is about branding.
FAKE. (but nice looking)

Whether its real or fake...why does everything always have to be "like it's always been?" Just because Apple has always done it that way doesn't mean they will continue doing it that way. There is no rule book that says they are not allowed to change.

[krisis1]

Has anybody noticed that the "M" is simply an upside down "W"?
You tell me, have you noticed that the "M" is simply an upside down "W" on the current keyboards too? ( http://www.macworld.com/2006/05/images/content/macbook-keys.jpg )

[Digital Skunk]

You tell me, have you noticed that the "M" is simply an upside down "W" on the current keyboards too? ( http://www.macworld.com/2006/05/images/content/macbook-keys.jpg )

FAKIE! :p

That's even more proof! Where's the "It's the real deal" sayers now!

[mathwhiz90601]

FAKIE! :p

That's even more proof! Where's the "It's the real deal" sayers now!

I don't understand how that betters the case of it being fake. The M on the MB KB and on this keyboard are both upside-down W's. How does that make it more fake?

Also, this means the person couldn't have built it himself out of MB keys because there is no number in the corner of the M and nearby keys for the keypad.

[stephenli]

What if Apple is expecting a lot of Windows users to boot into Windows? ;)

well. i miss the apple logo, too. :apple:
I like the design, but just thinking that where should I place the old apple keyboardssssss....

[starscream45]

You tell me, have you noticed that the "M" is simply an upside down "W" on the current keyboards too? ( http://www.macworld.com/2006/05/images/content/macbook-keys.jpg )

too many signs pointing to fake, that truly is an upside down W.

That and look at the size on the back, .5 (0.7mm). Anyone have any idea how small .7mm is? and what is the relationship to .5 because nothing .7mm equals .5.

Apple hasn't asked any sites to remove the keyboard images. That doesn't seem very Apple-like. They like to keep everything secret. So if it was real they'd have asked macrumors and engadget to remove the photos.

The keys are mixed up AND the apple on the command key is gone.

The command key says command and has the symbol. Doesn't this seem redundant for Apple as they have never used a symbol on a key and also wrote it out. That's just repetitive, AND inconsistent with anything they've done before.

The keyboard has no curve to it. That thing is NOT gonna be very functional and Apple is known for being very functional and good looking. That keyboard is gonna give you carpal tunnel. Apple is not gonna do that to us. The curve to the keyboard is there for a reason.

That and apple is not gonna put the usb port on the sides, the mouse cord is gonna get in the way of itself. They put the usb port on the top for a reason.

The jagged edges on the usb cord in the birds eye view of the keyboard tell me that it has been cut around in photoshop and added. It's sloppy photoshopping, it's not pixelation OR aliasing. Zoom in on it in photoshop you can tell. And it only shows in some areas and not others, further proving it's NOT pixelation or aliasing.

The keyboard is tan-ish because of the lighting, and the USB cord is bluish because of different lighting. Further proving the cord was added in photoshop and therefore wouldn't be a working model.

Plus it's ugly. If by a strange chance this was real, i'll stick with my current keyboard or buy a 3rd party keyboard.

[Tom B.]

I 99% believe that this is something that Apple have made.

The way the function keys have been moved around indicates that it is not fake. If it was fake, why would the faker do this?
The way the command key does not have an Apple on indicates that it is not fake. If it was fake, why would the faker do this?
Pretty much everything about it indicates that it is not fake.

How can people still say it's fake?

[c.joe.go]

why would apple have sites remove the pictures? wouldn't that raise more speculation and interest on something they are already certain to know has been spawning so much conversation on forums.

let the pictures stay online, let people claim it is fake or "un-apple", and laugh when you pull the curtain on a very similar or inspired piece.

[starscream45]

why would apple have sites remove the pictures? wouldn't that raise more speculation and interest on something they are already certain to know has been spawning so much conversation on forums.

let the pictures stay online, let people claim it is fake or "un-apple", and laugh when you pull the curtain on a very similar or inspired piece.

Why is a good question? But Apple never lets this stuff be seen before it's released. They were so secretive about the iPhone that the testers went out in public with the iPhone disguised as a different phone, read about it on digg.com. I just read that. This is just the way apple is, and I doubt they'd change with the keyboard.

[Digital Skunk]

I don't understand how that betters the case of it being fake. The M on the MB KB and on this keyboard are both upside-down W's. How does that make it more fake?

Also, this means the person couldn't have built it himself out of MB keys because there is no number in the corner of the M and nearby keys for the keypad.

It means they took the photo and photoshopped it together, Apple can't be that lazy to just use the same keyboard from a laptop and turn it into a desktop keyboard with an awful key layout. If Apple did then we have seen the end of greatness and Steve Jobs will fade away into the pages of history. Apple will then revert back to 1990's Apple with the hockey puck mouse, G4 Cube, clamshell iBook, and AT&T phone service. :D

I 99&#37; believe that this is something that Apple have made.

The way the function keys have been moved around indicates that it is not fake. If it was fake, why would the faker do this?

Because he/she is an idiot and knows nothing of electronics design or consistency in Apple products.

The way the command key does not have an Apple on indicates that it is not fake. If it was fake, why would the faker do this?

Because he/she is a moron, and knows nothing of what was previously said above.

Pretty much everything about it indicates that it is not fake.

How can people still say it's fake?

Are you serious? Please tell me you're not serious. Let me edit your post for you:

I 99% believe that this is something that Apple have made.

The way the function keys have been moved around indicates that it is not fake. If it was fake, why would the faker do this?
The way the command key does not have an Apple on indicates that it is not fake. If it was fake, why would the faker do this?
Pretty much everything about it indicates that it is not fake.

How can people still say it's fake? :p

Naw just kidding... I know it's a fake because of the hundreds of posts where people gave solid evidence that it isn't real, and from the inconsistencies in Apple design and keyboard design. Besides, this thing is FUGLY! :p

[Phormic]

Just one thing. Why would you fake a new keyboard? Wouldn't the fraudsters gain far more "prestige" by faking the new iMac or faking the iPhone Nano? Why fake a keyboard? It's only one step above faking a new power transformer. Actually, it would probably be much EASIER to fake a new iMac than fiddle about with keys.

Reason. Logic. Think about it people.

[starscream45]

Just one thing. Why would you fake a new keyboard? Wouldn't the fraudsters gain far more "prestige" by faking the new iMac or faking the iPhone Nano? Why fake a keyboard? It's only one step above faking a new power transformer. Actually, it would probably be much EASIER to fake a new iMac than fiddle about with keys.

Reason. Logic. Think about it people.

You're right, think about it. wouldn't it be easier to make a keyboard and base it off of an existing keyboard (macbook) and then scramble some keys around and add some silly icons and call it good? It'd be a lot easier. Plus it'd look real silly to copy the macbook screen into a new imac.

[mathwhiz90601]

Apple hasn't asked any sites to remove the keyboard images. That doesn't seem very Apple-like. They like to keep everything secret. So if it was real they'd have asked macrumors and engadget to remove the photos.

Ah, but doing so would indicate it was real, and people would go ballistic. By neither confirming nor denying they can build up the suspense and say: "Yep, it was real! Ha ha!"

That and apple is not gonna put the usb port on the sides, the mouse cord is gonna get in the way of itself. They put the usb port on the top for a reason.

What? Apple puts USB ports on the top? My keyboard has it on the sides...:confused:

You're right, think about it. wouldn't it be easier to make a keyboard and base it off of an existing keyboard (macbook) and then scramble some keys around and add some silly icons and call it good? It'd be a lot easier. Plus it'd look real silly to copy the macbook screen into a new imac.

Why would the guy go and make a new keyboard out of macbook parts? Plus, how'd he get the numbers off the keypad keys?

[arn]

why would apple have sites remove the pictures?

For what it's worth, here's my take on it:

http://normalkid.com/2007/07/28/final-verdict-keyboard-fake-ipod-ui-real/

with a history of Apple's legal involvement in leaks.

arn

[Will_reed]

i like the keys (always loved the macbook keyboard), but i'm not sure i'm a fan of the white on metal look. i'm always wondering about a wireless version. where could the batteries go? :confused:

They could always use a slim line battery back, I would actually prefer it this way. That way you could plug it into the USB every so often when the battery goes flat instead of buying more AAs.

[The Macster]

What? Apple puts USB ports on the top? My keyboard has it on the sides...:confused:
I think he means at the back of the keyboard (where the cord comes out).
Apple has made various keyboards changing the USB ports layout.

[mathwhiz90601]

I think he means at the back of the keyboard (where the cord comes out).
Apple has made various keyboards changing the USB ports layout.

Man, I AM out of it! I'm still using the KB that shipped with my iMac 7 years ago. Too bad its mostly broken. This is an example of how it types:

hellomynameisbobsmith.mykeyboardisbrokenbecausemycatspilledwateronit.darnthatcat1healwaysmessesevery thingup.it'salwayshisfault.bytheway,heisofficiallyevil.hegotontowww.catsthatlooklikehitler.com

And so forth.

[unimac]

The apple store website is ... Well, done.
*Gets the nervous jitters

[ju5tin81]

UK 1 still up though...

It's a Monday... and it's unusual for updates on this day.... Might be more boring maintenance like last time.... :(

Still hoping though! :D

[koobcamuk]

UK 1 still up though...

It's a Monday... and it's unusual for updates on this day.... Might be more boring maintenance like last time.... :(

Still hoping though! :D

I can access the UK store. Here's hoping for an update!

[thejadedmonkey]

I don't know if anyone's mentioned this, but there was a lot of talk of the Apple sticker on the back of the keyboard not looking like Apple's..

Well, if you go to Apple's website, on the navigation menu the Apple that Apple inc uses is the same one that's in the photo... I just realized that.

[blipoids]

Just one thing. Why would you fake a new keyboard? Wouldn't the fraudsters gain far more "prestige" by faking the new iMac or faking the iPhone Nano? Why fake a keyboard? It's only one step above faking a new power transformer. Actually, it would probably be much EASIER to fake a new iMac than fiddle about with keys.

Reason. Logic. Think about it people.

You made my day! :)

[happylittlemac]

I feel it's just a fake, it looks nice, but I think it will be a photoshop job.

[Digital Skunk]

Just one thing. Why would you fake a new keyboard? Wouldn't the fraudsters gain far more "prestige" by faking the new iMac or faking the iPhone Nano? Why fake a keyboard? It's only one step above faking a new power transformer. Actually, it would probably be much EASIER to fake a new iMac than fiddle about with keys.

Reason. Logic. Think about it people.

Where have you been since Apple's inception....? Or since Steve came back...? People make mockups of all apple products and have been for years and every one will continue to suck sans a few done by actual product designers. Every iMac mockup on the web sucks except for the one with the clear screen. That is the only one that carries Apple's design and innovation style, although some elements won't be available for many years to come. The keyboard was just easier to do for them I guess, or maybe they got tired of seeing iMac and iPhone mockups.

Geeks that just get their grubby hands on Photoshop think they are digital wizards by plastering a black box over top of the side of G5 or use Blender to make the iPhone into some God awful touchscreen iMac... it's horrible. I am glad that they don't work with JI or any part of Apple. They are young and influenced by the hype of new technology and Star Trek and don't take much practicality into consideration. Here is some of what I am talking about.

80873

FUGLY... beyond FUGLY.... no imagination what so ever and this thing is just terrible... let me not waste my typing.

80874

Even Fuglier. Can't believe they spent the time.

80875

This is exactly what I am talking about. This thing took no effort but all the MacRumors newbies were "Gee Goshing" it like it could have actually happened... :confused: Not trying to be too harsh but where have you ever seen Apple design like this? They blew us away with the iPhone design and then some guy thinks... "Hey the next iMac could look like this..." If it did then the machine better read my mind or do something amazing because it's bad.

80876

Now we all know what the iPhone looks like for real... so it really makes the mockups look terrible... but this was a nicer try then the ones that looked like iPods with numeric buttons on it. Let's take this for example. This is the mockup by a guy that had some imagination... Apple introed the iPhone and the design simply destroyed our wildest imaginations. So why would Apple toss us scraps from the MacBook table to feed our desktop keyboard needs? Why would they ever design something that was awful to use or too ugly to put on your desk next to you beautiful Apple product?

80877

This design has plenty of flaws I am sure but at least the designer thought of new and innovative ways to compute. That's what Apple does... that follows Apple's company profile that's Apple's essence... combine that with consistency and you have a company that can double their market share with paltry updates to their computers and one very cool phone.

Now, out of all of those designs which one would you pay $2000 for? None right? I wouldn't pay $29 for a laptop keyboard that was frankensteined into an uncomfortable aluminum inclosure either. And as stated before.... the layout makes no sense whatsoever... and Apple doesn't make products that make no sense. They may be expensive, they may be niche, and they may be for conformists with no real character or minds of their own (iPhone :D) but they all make sense and this keyboard is not one of them.

Reason. Logic. Think about it people.

[koobcamuk]

good post... and Apple doesn't make products that make no sense...

What about the cube? Not just expensive, but underpowered = no sense.

Saying that, I did own one. If someone gave me a good offer - I would still buy one. Much better than the mini (to look at).

[Jarcrew]

Doesn't it stand to reason that if the iMac was going to be all metal, the keyboard would be too? It'd look like a Powerbook keyboard. The keyboard, to me, suggests it will look like a slimmed-down version of the current iMac with a metal edge, if you get me - so the edge of the screen will be white plastic and the sides will be aluminium.

Plus, if that picture set is real, there'll almost certainly be a black iMac.

[AlexisV]

too many signs pointing to fake, that truly is an upside down W.

Plenty of fonts utilise an inverted W for an M. Have a look at the MacBook.


That and apple is not gonna put the usb port on the sides, the mouse cord is gonna get in the way of itself. They put the usb port on the top for a reason.
Before the current iMac, every Mac had the USB at the side, at the top.

The jagged edges on the usb cord in the birds eye view of the keyboard tell me that it has been cut around in photoshop and added. It's sloppy photoshopping, it's not pixelation OR aliasing. Zoom in on it in photoshop you can tell. And it only shows in some areas and not others, further proving it's NOT pixelation or aliasing.
I can barely see anything and what little there is looks like image size reduction to me. If they photographer's reduced the originals by a odd percentagem this can sometimes happen.

The keyboard is tan-ish because of the lighting, and the USB cord is bluish because of different lighting. Further proving the cord was added in photoshop and therefore wouldn't be a working model.

Two different surfaces will not necessarily reflect the same colour light. It looks perfectly natural to me.

Plus it's ugly. If by a strange chance this was real, i'll stick with my current keyboard or buy a 3rd party keyboard.
It's a derivative of the MacBook keyboard. You can't call something a fake just because you think it's ugly AND there's virtually an identical keyboard in production already!

[The Macster]

Plenty of fonts utilise an inverted W for an M. Have a look at the MacBook.



Before the current iMac, every Mac had the USB at the side, at the top.


I can barely see anything and what little there is looks like image size reduction to me. If they photographer's reduced the originals by a odd percentagem this can sometimes happen.


Two different surfaces will not necessarily reflect the same colour light. It looks perfectly natural to me.


It's a derivative of the MacBook keyboard. You can't call something a fake just because you think it's ugly AND there's virtually an identical keyboard in production already!

YES!! I'M VERY PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THAT THIS IS THE ONLY MAN IN THIS THREAD THAT IS MAKING PERFECTLY GOOD SENSE!!

[Digital Skunk]

What about the cube? Not just expensive, but underpowered = no sense.

Saying that, I did own one. If someone gave me a good offer - I would still buy one. Much better than the mini (to look at).

Forgot about that one... touche. I think I can recant that statement after looking at some of the mistakes that Apple has made besides the Cube. It was a bit better to look at and more customizable but I think the Mini holds it's own. I may still get one over the Apple TV if someone can hack it to use a real HDMI port.

Doesn't it stand to reason that if the iMac was going to be all metal, the keyboard would be too? It'd look like a Powerbook keyboard. The keyboard, to me, suggests it will look like a slimmed-down version of the current iMac with a metal edge, if you get me - so the edge of the screen will be white plastic and the sides will be aluminium.

Plus, if that picture set is real, there'll almost certainly be a black iMac.

I would love to see a black iMac but on that looks like the keyboard ( with a white front metal on the edges) would be an eye sore.

YES!! I'M VERY PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THAT THIS IS THE ONLY MAN IN THIS THREAD THAT IS MAKING PERFECTLY GOOD SENSE!!

You haven't been reading or keeping up with the posts. The guy you quote makes sense just like every other supporter of the "this is real" statement but no one on that side of the fench has yet to offer and answers to the two main questions as to why this is certainly a fake/prototype never to see the light of day.

(1) The keyboard layout makes no sense... read past posts for explaination
(2) The keyboard is inconsistent with Apple design trends, and standard/proven keyboard ergonomics... read past posts for explanation
(3) The keyboard if just FUGLY

It's not "fake," per se.

It's a cosmetic EVT prototype. Apple Legal has not pulled it likely because it is so far from the final design that it's not worth going through the hassle of getting it removed. Besides, they appreciate the attention.

Because of that, everyone who thinks the keyboard's ugly can breathe easy... unless you think the final design is ugly too.

I have not seen the final design but I just really hope that it isn't like the ones we have seen so far. I liked it at first and thought it was a step in the right direction but as I studied it some more and heard the other responses my favoritism faded away to realism. I hope the keyboard either uses actual desktop keyboard parts, or MacBook Pro keys that have a back light with them. The MacBook keys are okay, but if we have to use laptop parts for everything now can we use ones that are a bit more cooler and professional? And keep the key layout the same... it doesn't make any sense to change it, and the one on the mockup is terrible and lacks logic.

[cleanup]

It's not "fake," per se.

It's a cosmetic EVT prototype. Apple Legal has not pulled it likely because it is so far from the final design that it's not worth going through the hassle of getting it removed. Besides, they appreciate the attention.

Because of that, everyone who thinks the keyboard's ugly can breathe easy... unless you think the final design is ugly too.

[AlexisV]

(1) The keyboard layout makes no sense... read past posts for explaination
(2) The keyboard is inconsistent with Apple design trends, and standard/proven keyboard ergonomics... read past posts for explanation


Is there a possibility there are a few of these keyboards with keys in different positions, which are being tested to determine which works best?

In fact, it may be easier to get hold of a rejected keyboard layout in order to photograph it.

[slughead]

For what it's worth, here's my take on it:

http://normalkid.com/2007/07/28/final-verdict-keyboard-fake-ipod-ui-real/

with a history of Apple's legal involvement in leaks.

arn

>Apple Legal never asked Asteroid information to be pulled

Yeah, except Thinksecret's "Nick" is getting his balls sued off by Apple trying to find his source.

They didn't ask for it to be pulled, but they're going after him personally trying to stop future rumors (the damage from the asteroid leak already been done).

[Digital Skunk]

Is there a possibility there are a few of these keyboards with keys in different positions, which are being tested to determine which works best?

In fact, it may be easier to get hold of a rejected keyboard layout in order to photograph it.

That makes sense. I don't know if you are in favor of the thing being real or fake but that is the first logical reason anyone on this thread (I have been reading since post #8) has given for why the keyboard layout may have been changed.

You my friend are one the few... and the proud posters that actually thinks about things and adds to the conversation, rather than taking things at face value.

[mathwhiz90601]

That makes sense. I don't know if you are in favor of the thing being real or fake but that is the first logical reason anyone on this thread (I have been reading since post #8) has given for why the keyboard layout may have been changed.

You my friend are one the few... and the proud posters that actually thinks about things and adds to the conversation, rather than taking things at face value.

Hey, I've been saying it was a prototype myself... :P

[Tom B.]

There are a number of reasons I think this is going to be the new iMac keyboard. First of all, an aluminum keyboard would obviously go nicely with an aluminum iMac. That one is a bit obvious, but I think some of the slightly less obvious information on the back of the keyboard really seals the deal for me. The build is listed as "DVT2 Al-1," which would signify the second revision of a developer prototype, and is consistent with internal naming/numbering. The components listed also seem to match up: Molex sells thing USB connectors, and Jin-Haw is one of two suppliers Apple uses for USB cables.

More reasons to believe it is true.

no one on that side of the fench has yet to offer and answers to the two main questions as to why this is certainly a fake/prototype never to see the light of day.
(1) The keyboard layout makes no sense... read past posts for explaination
Maybe its just a prototype in which Apple tried one of many possible new layouts.
(2) The keyboard is inconsistent with Apple design trends, and standard/proven keyboard ergonomics... read past posts for explanation
I'm sure 90&#37; of users will like it. Or maybe it's because it's a prototype!
(3) The keyboard if just FUGLY
Your opinion!

Digital Skunk, it appears that you only say it's fake in the hope that if you say it enough times it will magically become a fake. Remember that your opinion is just your opinion, rather than absolute undeniable truth. Can you not accept that this keyboard is possibly just a prototype in which Apple tried a new Function key layout?

And lets not forget, we are only talking about a keyboard here! No need for aggression. :) (Not directed at anyone in particular.)

[Digital Skunk]

Hey, I've been saying it was a prototype myself... :P

You gotta be more definite.


Maybe its just a prototype in which Apple tried one of many possible new layouts.

Been there... you're a little late.

I'm sure 90&#37; of users will like it. Or maybe it's because it's a prototype!

You haven't read the posts. And you already said it was a prototype but just like the others that said it that broad answer doesn't justify why the artist would jumble the keys around. A prototype could have a key layout that made sense and "it's a prototype" isn't an excuse for terrible design.


Your opinion!

It was a joke... hence why it was small and why I said "two" and not three. You have to read the posts.

Digital Skunk, it appears that you only say it's fake in the hope that if you say it enough times it will magically become a fake. Remember that your opinion is just your opinion, rather than absolute undeniable truth. Can you not accept that this keyboard is possibly just a prototype in which Apple tried a new Function key layout?

I am not even going to touch this one, you are reading too far into the posts and making assumptions based on your own feelings. Why don't you quote everyone else that says it's fake and tell them how you feel. Either way you slice it... you still haven't brought any facts either... while the two reasons I gave (not the third that was obviously a joke) were bold facts that only one poster has been able to shed some light on. Stop repeating other posters and read the thread... if you don't want to read it fine, but don't go around throwing your assumptions at people... PLEASE.

This thread has been very civil so far, please don't bring it down.

[kingslod]

Hey Digital Skunk,

If you're going to keep calling everyone an idiot or a moron, please spell-check your posts first. It doesn't help your arguments.

Cheers...

[Digital Skunk]

Hey Digital Skunk,

If you're going to keep calling everyone an idiot or a moron, please spell-check your posts first. It doesn't help your arguments.

Cheers...

Dude... I am not making an argument and what does my spelling have to do with someone's brash statements and poor conversation skills?

When did I ever .... "Keep calling everyone and idiot or moron" huh?

What's your problem?

[kingslod]

Dude... I am not making an argument and what does my spelling have to do with someone's brash statements and poor conversation skills?

When did I ever .... "Keep calling everyone and idiot or moron" huh?

What's your problem?


I read your post wrong--you called the fictional person who created the mock-up a moron and an idiot. My bad.

But, back to a previous post -- that "M" is the same M that's on my Macbook keyboard--which in no way validates the authenticity of the images, nor discounts them either.

[Digital Skunk]

I read your post wrong--you called the fictional person who created the mock-up a moron and an idiot. My bad.

But, back to a previous post -- that "M" is the same M that's on my Macbook keyboard--which in no way validates the authenticity of the images, nor discounts them either.

I agree with you on the M part. I took a look at the MacBook keyboard and saw that it was an upside-down "W" as well.

p.s. Didn't mean to sound harsh in my last post to you... I don't want to start flaming each other over a prototype/mockup/imaginary/possible/rumored product from apple that may never see the light.

[cleanup]

Hey, Digital Skunk, we all know what you think now. Don't keep this up until August 7th. It's only a week away. C'mon. You've posted in this thread like 50 times. :rolleyes:

[Tom B.]

I am not even going to touch this one, you are reading too far into the posts and making assumptions based on your own feelings. Why don't you quote everyone else that says it's fake and tell them how you feel. Either way you slice it... you still haven't brought any facts either... while the two reasons I gave (not the third that was obviously a joke) were bold facts that only one poster has been able to shed some light on. Stop repeating other posters and read the thread... if you don't want to read it fine, but don't go around throwing your assumptions at people... PLEASE.

This thread has been very civil so far, please don't bring it down.

You seem surprised that I haven't read all 600 posts about a keyboard. :p
And to be honest, after rereading my last post, it does sound a bit more hostile and less like a joke than I meant it to be, sorry. But i still think it is a prototype.

[Digital Skunk]

You seem surprised that I haven't read all 600 posts about a keyboard. :p
And to be honest, after rereading my last post, it does sound a bit more hostile and less like a joke than I meant it to be, sorry. But i still think it is a prototype.

That's alright. When I wrote my post I got a little hostile at the end then I though... hey, he didn't mean all that stuff. :)

Hey, Digital Skunk, we all know what you think now. Don't keep this up until August 7th. It's only a week away. C'mon. You've posted in this thread like 50 times. :rolleyes:

I'm just trying to make it to Mac Rumors Demi God... I don't know how many posts you need for that though.

[The Macster]

I'm just trying to make it to Mac Rumors Demi God... I don't know how many posts you need for that though.

You have to donate to Macrumors for that.

[AlexisV]

Hey Digital Skunk,

If you're going to keep calling everyone an idiot or a moron, please spell-check your posts first. It doesn't help your arguments.

Cheers...

You leave off Digital Skunk! He's my new best friend :D:D:D

[phatspider]

Interesting - my bro had a 17" iMac refurb in his basket but didnt checout

He had a phone call from apple saying they were coming off the site tonight so should place his order now.

[JoeG4]

The keyboard strikes me more as a 3rd party keyboard, for a few reasons:

1. The lack of an "Apple" key. It'd be nice, but it's not Apple, lol.

2. The location of the buttons o_O

Yes, on laptop keyboards, F1 and F2 are also brightness control, but on the desktop keyboards this has always been F14/15.

[Digital Skunk]

You have to donate to Macrumors for that.

$$ How much? $$ :D

[TheAnswer]

$$ How much? $$ :D

$25 a year (http://guides.macrumors.com/Help:MacRumors_FAQ#How_do_I_contribute_to_MacRumors.com.3F).

[LizKat]

Interesting - my bro had a 17" iMac refurb in his basket but didnt checout

He had a phone call from apple saying they were coming off the site tonight so should place his order now.

That's pretty interesting. That's the first thing I've heard that actually makes me think they might roll out an iMac. Or are you just having us on??

[Kawasaki]

I looked at the photo. Can you say "Star Trek"?

[Voltayre]

I was personally hoping that the new iMac design would be black and aluminium like the iPhone, rather than white and aluminium... this is, of course, assuming that a) this keyboard has anything to do with the new iMac at all, b) that it's the final appearance, c) that it's even genuine ;)

Keyboard looks fine to me though. I've always liked the softer typing action you get on laptop-style keys anyway. Wonder when the bluetooth version's due?

[vandlism]

Are you ready for this Digital Skunk? Boom! New keyboard...

[ChrisK018]

I, for one, welcome our new keyboard overlords.

[AlexisV]

So, that keyboard was the real deal.

WILL ALL THE DOUBTING THOMASES PLEASE START THEIR APOLOGIES NOW...



:D:D:D:D:D

[MIDI_EVIL]

Wohoo I knew it was real, it's pretty hot.

Rich.

[33scottie33]

I sorry! :o :(

[tuc]

wired:
http://images.apple.com/keyboard/images/index_hero_wired20070807.png

bluetooth:
http://images.apple.com/keyboard/images/index_hero_wireless20070807.png

http://www.apple.com/keyboard/

Bluetooth one lacks numeric keypad. Wired one has "two USB 2.0 ports provide high-speed connectivity for your iPod, Mighty Mouse, digital camera, and other USB-based electronic devices."

[ascender]

One new keyboard ordered. Went for the wired one as I like the option of the keypad. Not really sure why they dropped it tbh.

[samh004]

Woohoo I found the correct pics :D

[gceo]

Well, it's official. No more Apple key. RIP little guy.

It'll take me a while to get over this when doing phone consults.... no more "Apple A, then Apple C....." => "Funny pretzel A, then funny pretzel C...."

[backsidetailsli]

Well, it's official. No more Apple key. RIP little guy.

It'll take me a while to get over this when doing phone consults.... no more "Apple A, then Apple C....." => "Funny pretzel A, then funny pretzel C...."

are you serious? are there pics to confirm?

[vohdoun]

One new keyboard ordered. Went for the wired one as I like the option of the keypad. Not really sure why they dropped it tbh.

Ughhhh this is so tempting, will I, wont I, will I, wont I, will... whos will!

Whats the difference between a English keyboard and English (Int'l) which I assume is International...?

[Edit] Nevermind.

[Peace]

I ordered one.

And iWork 08'

Cant wait to play with numbers.

[sbluetruck]

does anyone but me think that it would be extremely useful for the wireless bluetooth model to have a track pad???

Like the Dell XPS M2010, it would make wireless sooooooooooo convienent!!!!!!!! :rolleyes: better keep dreaming (multitouch trackpad in keyboard= awsome)

[vohdoun]

So the wireless has a power button on the side, but the wired does not?

Or is that power button just to switch on the keyboard, or is it to power on/off the Mac?

[Edit] I see.

Intelligent power management conserves battery life by automatically powering down the keyboard when you’re not using it and turning it on the instant you start typing.

[Multimedia]

Well, it's official. No more Apple key. RIP little guy.

It'll take me a while to get over this when doing phone consults.... no more "Apple A, then Apple C....." => "Funny pretzel A, then funny pretzel C...."It Never Was An Apple Key. It's The Command Key. If you don't think so then you are way to new to the Mac to understand. Any Mac vet will insist it's only and always was only the Command Key. :rolleyes:

I ordered one of the last Bluetooth Keyboards with Numeric Keypd from the refurb page for $49 today. Get 'em while they're still available all you numeric keypad lovers.

[cleanup]

Did that Digital Skunk guy who kept yelling fake fake fake make some sort of offer if he was wrong? :)

I'd like a foot rub, a back massage...

[cleanup]

Whoo! Just a second ago the http://www.apple.com/keyboard page showed both as $49... they fixed that quick.

[iW00t]

Where have you been since Apple's inception....? Or since Steve came back...? People make mockups of all apple products and have been for years and every one will continue to suck sans a few done by actual product designers. Every iMac mockup on the web sucks except for the one with the clear screen. That is the only one that carries Apple's design and innovation style, although some elements won't be available for many years to come. The keyboard was just easier to do for them I guess, or maybe they got tired of seeing iMac and iPhone mockups.

Geeks that just get their grubby hands on Photoshop think they are digital wizards by plastering a black box over top of the side of G5 or use Blender to make the iPhone into some God awful touchscreen iMac... it's horrible. I am glad that they don't work with JI or any part of Apple. They are young and influenced by the hype of new technology and Star Trek and don't take much practicality into consideration. Here is some of what I am talking about.

80873

FUGLY... beyond FUGLY.... no imagination what so ever and this thing is just terrible... let me not waste my typing.

80874

Even Fuglier. Can't believe they spent the time.

80875

This is exactly what I am talking about. This thing took no effort but all the MacRumors newbies were "Gee Goshing" it like it could have actually happened... :confused: Not trying to be too harsh but where have you ever seen Apple design like this? They blew us away with the iPhone design and then some guy thinks... "Hey the next iMac could look like this..." If it did then the machine better read my mind or do something amazing because it's bad.

80876

Now we all know what the iPhone looks like for real... so it really makes the mockups look terrible... but this was a nicer try then the ones that looked like iPods with numeric buttons on it. Let's take this for example. This is the mockup by a guy that had some imagination... Apple introed the iPhone and the design simply destroyed our wildest imaginations. So why would Apple toss us scraps from the MacBook table to feed our desktop keyboard needs? Why would they ever design something that was awful to use or too ugly to put on your desk next to you beautiful Apple product?

80877

This design has plenty of flaws I am sure but at least the designer thought of new and innovative ways to compute. That's what Apple does... that follows Apple's company profile that's Apple's essence... combine that with consistency and you have a company that can double their market share with paltry updates to their computers and one very cool phone.

Now, out of all of those designs which one would you pay $2000 for? None right? I wouldn't pay $29 for a laptop keyboard that was frankensteined into an uncomfortable aluminum inclosure either. And as stated before.... the layout makes no sense whatsoever... and Apple doesn't make products that make no sense. They may be expensive, they may be niche, and they may be for conformists with no real character or minds of their own (iPhone :D) but they all make sense and this keyboard is not one of them.

Reason. Logic. Think about it people.

Guess what? Contrary to your perception Apple is as full as **** as every other design oriented company. Try again next time :)

[alkanenine]

does anyone know when these will be available to buy at an apple store? the one in soho didn't have them.

[Nappi]

Well.. at least they took the picture in better light so that it doesn't look all yellowish. Still pretty disappointed though. The bluetooth one looks a bit better with more empty space after the function keys, but I like the layout of the usb one better (especially control and arrow keys).

As I was afraid, they are pretty expensive too.

[icecone]

Can't believe it's true!
Doesn't look like too comfortable to type with

[ilkevinli]

Does anyone know if the wired keyboard would work on a Windows PC ?

[icecone]

Does anyone know if the wired keyboard would work on a Windows PC ?

sure, why not?

[Peace]

Should work fine.Why do you think they really removed the :apple: icon from the command key ;)

[gloss]

Did that Digital Skunk guy who kept yelling fake fake fake make some sort of offer if he was wrong? :)

I'd like a foot rub, a back massage...

Yeah, I've been looking around for him too.

[FoxyKaye]

It Never Was An Apple Key. It's The Command Key. If you don't think so then you are way to new to the Mac to understand. Any Mac vet will insist it's only and always was only the Command Key. :rolleyes:
That may be true for Mac vets, but for Apple vets (anyone who owned a ][, ][+, ][e, //c or //gs) it *is* the Apple key. Apple called it this themselves, and I still have the original //c tutorial floppies to prove it.

All that being said, the damn thing still strikes me a godawful for typing - I'm sincerely grateful I've got an ergonomic setup at work so when my new 20" arrives I can push that keyboard off on someone else. All it needs to go with it is a hockey-puck mouse from one of the G3 iMacs and it will be a perfect match made in hell. I can't stand the MacBook keyboards, if they could be called this, and almost always resort to plugging in an external.

[calvin]

Why do you think they really removed the :apple: icon from the command key ;)

Not sure but it was obviously a pretty late decision. The UK iMac website shows the command key to have the :apple: icon:

http://www.apple.com/uk/imac/design.html

(I'm sure they'll change this eventually, so I've attached the image)

Even though the US equivalent iMac website (and the UK keyboard website) both show the command key as having 'Command' written on the key.

[vohdoun]

Even though I thought when I first saw this it looked hideous, but this keyboard looks so hot!

Hopefully I should have the wired one sometime next week. :)

Got a full on Aluminium chubby! :D

[psychofreak]

I ordered one.

And iWork 08'

Cant wait to play with numbers.You could always try the trial (apple.com/iwork/trial/) for now, then put in the key when it arrives :)

Not sure but it was obviously a pretty late decision. The UK iMac website shows the command key to have the :apple: icon:

http://www.apple.com/uk/imac/design.html

(I'm sure they'll change this eventually, so I've attached the image)

Even though the US equivalent iMac website (and the UK keyboard website) both show the command key as having 'Command' written on the key.

The UK keyboards are different, e.g. my Macbook says alt while US Macbooks say Option...

[jayducharme]

Even though I thought when I first saw this it looked hideous, but this keyboard looks so hot!

I was at our local Apple store today to check it out. It wasn't that pleasant to type on; it's just too low. The most disconcerting thing was that I couldn't get any of the multimedia keys to function; I couldn't control volume or CD ejection or brightness or anything. The keyboard kept defaulting to the function keys.

I mentioned this to one of the Apple clerks there and he came over, eager to help, and said that it was just a simple key combination. He tried everything he could think of, but he too couldn't get the volume controls to work. He tried System Preferences but that was no help, not even under "Keyboard". And there was no help menu for it. Finally he gave up.

This is not how an Apple product is supposed to work. And BTW, that glossy screen looked terrible in the store. Lights were reflecting off of it all over the place, making it hard to see the desktop. The clerk said, "Yeah, I guess it's sort of a problem. But I do my computing in the dark, so I think it's great!"

Way to go, Apple.:(

[Wild-Bill]

The most disconcerting thing was that I couldn't get any of the multimedia keys to function; I couldn't control volume or CD ejection or brightness or anything. The keyboard kept defaulting to the function keys.



HAHAHAHAHA!!!!!! I was just at the Apple Store today to check out the new iMacs and I experienced the same thing!!!!! Couldn't do anything with the volume at all. I also think the keyboard is too low as well.

[vohdoun]

I was at our local Apple store today to check it out. It wasn't that pleasant to type on; it's just too low. The most disconcerting thing was that I couldn't get any of the multimedia keys to function; I couldn't control volume or CD ejection or brightness or anything. The keyboard kept defaulting to the function keys.

I mentioned this to one of the Apple clerks there and he came over, eager to help, and said that it was just a simple key combination. He tried everything he could think of, but he too couldn't get the volume controls to work. He tried System Preferences but that was no help, not even under "Keyboard". And there was no help menu for it. Finally he gave up.

This is not how an Apple product is supposed to work. And BTW, that glossy screen looked terrible in the store. Lights were reflecting off of it all over the place, making it hard to see the desktop. The clerk said, "Yeah, I guess it's sort of a problem. But I do my computing in the dark, so I think it's great!"

Way to go, Apple.:(

Unreal then that he never checked http://www.apple.com/downloads/macosx/apple/firmware_hardware/keyboardsoftwareupdate11.html

Working in the dark is so bad, it really draws my eyes. Don't know how he can do that.

How you liking the new keyboard? I'm absolutely in love with it, I've never typed so better. Love how quiet it is as well. Sounds like you're typing on a calculator.

[JamesWvr]

I was at our local Apple store today to check it out. It wasn't that pleasant to type on; it's just too low.

Keep in mind that at the Apple Store, you are standing up when typing, so the desk is lower than it would usually be when you are using it. I found the keyboard to be uncomfortable when I used it there, but my MacBook keyboard is great. The new Apple Keyboard should feel very similar to the MacBook keyboards because your palms will rest at almost the same level as the keys (like on a laptop).

The most disconcerting thing was that I couldn't get any of the multimedia keys to function; I couldn't control volume or CD ejection or brightness or anything. The keyboard kept defaulting to the function keys.

I mentioned this to one of the Apple clerks there and he came over, eager to help, and said that it was just a simple key combination. He tried everything he could think of, but he too couldn't get the volume controls to work. He tried System Preferences but that was no help, not even under "Keyboard". And there was no help menu for it. Finally he gave up.

Like someone else said, it is probably a matter of them not installing the Keyboard 1.1 update. It's probably not installed because Apple probably has a generic restore DVD they use on all of their computers, which must not have the new keyboard software. I'm surprised though that they didn't think about that when they set up all of the iMacs. I imagine that they'll have that all fixed within a week or two.

Does anyone know if the new keyboards will supply enough power to run a flash drive or power/charge an iPod? The USB 1.1 ports on the old Apple Keyboards were almost useless because they couldn't power anything, so you had to plug almost everything into the computer itself (you also got more speed by plugging it into the computer, but that is no longer a problem).

[jayducharme]

Like someone else said, it is probably a matter of them not installing the Keyboard 1.1 update.

That very well could be. Today I went back to the store and all of the new iMac keyboards were functioning as they were supposed to. I noticed the tiny icons over the function keys for Expose and Dashboard. Yesterday, the F12 key (where one of the volume controls is) was activating Dashboard. Today the proper icon activated it.

I still like having the Eject button at the far end of the keyboard, though. It's more intuitive there. What would be better is if none of the function keys were marked with those icons, and instead had a default configuration that you could easily change in System Preferences, putting the various functions wherever you wanted.

[vohdoun]

Does anyone know if the new keyboards will supply enough power to run a flash drive or power/charge an iPod? The USB 1.1 ports on the old Apple Keyboards were almost useless because they couldn't power anything, so you had to plug almost everything into the computer itself (you also got more speed by plugging it into the computer, but that is no longer a problem).

I'm currently running a camera and flash drive off it right now with no power/speed issues. As the ports are USB2.0 now, don't forget. :)

[mongoos150]

Tested the new keyboard again. I_Love_This_Thing! It feels absolutely fantastic typing on, your hand doesn't need to (hardly) lift off of the surface of the table. Feels like you're literally typing on a desk (flat surface). Those who complain about it not being ergonomic are nuts - this thing epitomizes ergonomic! Now if my local Apple would stop selling out of the 24", I'd be set...:mad::rolleyes:

P.S. I had the same problem with the volume keys as well!!! WTF is going on? Does someone who has the keyboard at home (who's gotten a chance to play with it) tell us what's up?

[vohdoun]

P.S. I had the same problem with the volume keys as well!!! WTF is going on? Does someone who has the keyboard at home (who's gotten a chance to play with it) tell us what's up?

Install that and your media keys will work.

Unreal then that he never checked http://www.apple.com/downloads/macosx/apple/firmware_hardware/keyboardsoftwareupdate11.html

[mongoos150]

- Install this software to use your aluminum Apple Keyboard and take advantage of the special features....So the volume keys are a "special feature"?! :rolleyes:

[Father Jack]

Just received eMail from Apple to say my keyboard is on it's way ..... :)

[vohdoun]

...So the volume keys are a "special feature"?! :rolleyes:

It is if the keys have moved. ¬_¬

[JamesWvr]

Just received eMail from Apple to say my keyboard is on it's way ..... :)

I wish I knew that they would ship this early because I didn't order one 2 days ago because there was a chance it wouldn't arrive until after I left for college :(

On a related note, does anyone know why the $49 Mighty Mouse qualifies for free shipping on Apple's website while the $49 keyboard does not? This may just be a mistake on Apple's part, but right now the MM says you can get free shipping on it.

[zap2]

Wow, I was just watching the keynote....and the wireless keyboard doesn't have a number pad!?

that upsets me....either I buy a wired model, or lose my numberpad.....thats upsetting.


I guess I'll be keeping my old school BT mouse and BT keyboard

[TurboSC]

I went to the Apple store today and checked out the new keyboard. It's freakin' thinner than I thought, and it's actually very sturdy and types like a laptop keyboard, but with an apple twist.

[Father Jack]

I wish I knew that they would ship this early because I didn't order one 2 days ago because there was a chance it wouldn't arrive until after I left for college :(

I ordered the keyboard on Tuesday evening and received a email on Wednesday saying that due to high demand my keyboard would not be dispatched until 20 Aug .... :(
Go another email yesterday to say it had been dispatched and expected delivery on or before Wednesday 15 August. .... A pleasant surprise ... :)

[vohdoun]

Wow, I was just watching the keynote....and the wireless keyboard doesn't have a number pad!?

that upsets me....either I buy a wired model, or lose my numberpad.....thats upsetting.


I guess I'll be keeping my old school BT mouse and BT keyboard

Thats why I didn't go for the wireless, as I use the numpad from time to time. Not only that I get 2 more USB 2.0 ports.
It makes me think the wireless has had it's end sliced off.

http://img239.imageshack.us/img239/2592/wirelesskbxs0.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1171/1056673414_460c9149e0.jpg?v=1186631773

I ordered the keyboard on Tuesday evening and received a email on Wednesday saying that due to high demand my keyboard would not be dispatched until 20 Aug .... :(
Go another email yesterday to say it had been dispatched and expected delivery on or before Wednesday 15 August. .... A pleasant surprise ... :)

Have you got this widget? http://www.apple.com/downloads/dashboard/shopping/deliverystatus.html

I was amazed at how fast mine was dispatched. Sent out on the 9th, arrived next day on the 10th. Really wasn't expecting it until Monday at the earliest. As it normally takes 3 - 4 days in the uk, perhaps it was because I had to pay shipping.

[Father Jack]

Have you got this widget? http://www.apple.com/downloads/dashboard/shopping/deliverystatus.html


Thanks vohdoun ..... I do now ...... :)