3G iPhone in May, Another Device at WWDC?

[macduke]

so? nowhere has said iphone 3g has to run firmware 2.0 ot the box

Really? You honestly think Apple is going to release their brand new, state of the art phone with a 1.1.5 firmware that just adds the 3g and / or gps code? Then do what...update the firmware to allow all the new apps and features a few weeks later? That would be retarded, good sir.

I can see the headlines now: "Apple Releases 3g iPhone, Still No 3rd Party Apps". That would be a FAIL. Thats what one of the major gripes about the original was, and I'm sure they want people to know from the beginning that it supports new apps, and that won't happen until 2.0 is installed. Most iPhone owners I know don't even know when a new firmware comes out or what it does. They just know what the phone did when they bought it. Same for the iPod Touch. My roommate's girlfriend has one and she didn't know she could buy mail, maps, etc until I asked if she had downloaded it. The average consumer doesn't keep up with this stuff like we do.

I know its never been stated anywhere that the 3g iPhone has to run software 2.0 out of the box, but use your heads people. Seriously. Either Apple has completed the 2.0 software ahead of schedule, or we will see the 3g iPhone sometime later when it is finished. It could be true that the 3g iPhone has nothing to do with the AT&T employee vacation time block restriction, as the interface itself wouldn't change much so they wouldn't need much training. What would be interesting is if this AT&T thing is for the 3g iPhone. Why would they need that much time? For training? Are there going to be THAT many new features?? I am certainly hoping that is the case.

[infowarfare]

That's why it's more likely they will release this new iPhone early with little fanfare and a completely new product at WWDC along with the SDK (that will bridge the iPhone's touch abilites with the Macbook line, as per my "things are getting touchy" post!)

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In light of recent news, anyone care to revisit and speculate on the meaning of the two diverging Golden Gate bridges on the WWDC poster...

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I wonder, are the bridges diverging, or CONVERGING, ie Mac+iPhone= tablet?

That's what I've been saying all along! And I reiterate, Things ARE getting touchy!

http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/48/advert6zb0.jpg

Trust me on this and remember, you heard it here first!

[probably]

Oh yawn. Get over it already. No one sees what you see because you are shortsided. Leopard can and WILL work with finger based multitouch. And people said the exact same thing about the iPhone's interface before its release yet it seems to be doing quite well.


That isn't analog. We've been using mouse and keyboard OS X for a long time now - it clearly isn't about touch usability. I'm PRETTY sure, and maybe some of the every-single-modern-mac-users would agree, it was constructed for a mouse/trackpad and keyboard. It doesn't matter what hidden frameworks or APIs are underneath (and CocoaTouch is not one of them right now), the GUI is made for a cursor.

The iPhone proved pre-release doubters wrong by demonstrating (after it got into reviewers hands) that it was *completely* focused on compensating for the shortcomings of using fingers and enhancing the things fingers do make easier. And it does this spectacularly and with unprecedented grace.

edit: I'm going to stop checking this thread because trying to explain to you the point you're missing is making me sad.

[infowarfare]

That isn't analog. We've been using mouse and keyboard OS X for a long time now - it clearly isn't about touch usability. I'm PRETTY sure, and maybe some of the every-single-modern-mac-users would agree, it was constructed for a mouse/trackpad and keyboard. It doesn't matter what hidden frameworks or APIs are underneath (and CocoaTouch is not one of them right now), the GUI is made for a cursor.

The iPhone proved pre-release doubters wrong by demonstrating (after it got into reviewers hands) that it was *completely* focused on compensating for the shortcomings of using fingers and enhancing the things fingers do make easier. And it does this spectacularly and with unprecedented grace.

And you are so shortsided that you can't seem to make the [very small leap] on how they will translate that unprecedented grace of user experience over to a Tablet?

That's what get's me about you. You agree they can pull it off with the iPhone but you act like its some huge technological hurdle beyond Apple's capabilities to implement this into a laptop (even though they've already taken the first step with development on the iPhone and the second step on the Macbook Air.)

Come on, open your mind a bit...

[MattInOz]

That's what I've been saying all along! And I reiterate, Things ARE getting touchy!

http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/48/advert6zb0.jpg

Trust me on this and remember, you heard it here first!

Oh you tease....
Would think screen more iTouch than Leopard.

[Akzel]

All I want is a new Macbook with decent graphics card, or a new Macbook Pro with newer design before the next uni term. Is that too much to ask? :(

[dicklacara]

You are so completely wrong on this. Leopard (which is what iPhone is running) DOES support multitouch. In case you missed it, the latest Macbooks now have multitouch trackpads to slowly ease people into the feel of multitouch on a Macbook. Transfering those gestures from trackpad to screen is not that big of a leap (it's all already built into Leopard which you would have known if you did your research.) And still no stylus needed...

Apple has a patent application to use multitouch entry of handwriting-- you use your fingers as if you were holding a pen or stylus. The software, essentualy triangulates a point within your thumb & 2 fingers as a virtual pen. Try it on a flat surface-- very natural!

[probably]

And you are so shortsided that you can't seem to make the [very small leap] on how they will translate that unprecedented grace of user experience over to a Tablet?

That's what get's me about you. You agree they can pull it off with the iPhone but you act like its some huge technological hurdle beyond Apple's capabilities to implement this into a laptop (even though they've already taken the first step with development on the iPhone and the second step on the Macbook Air.)

Come on, open your mind a bit...

It's not at all beyond Apple to do this: I just don't think a third platform to develop for is what people were looking to find out at WWDC. That's kind of a buzzkill - especially when none of the listed course/workshop offerings give you more information about it :D

edit: oh and since you've used it twice now: 'shortsided' is not a word, or at least the word you mean to say.

Apple has a patent application to use multitouch entry of handwriting-- you use your fingers as if you were holding a pen or stylus. The software, essentualy triangulates a point within your thumb & 2 fingers as a virtual pen. Try it on a flat surface-- very natural!

Ooh that does feel nice!

[infowarfare]

That isn't analog. We've been using mouse and keyboard OS X for a long time now - it clearly isn't about touch usability. I'm PRETTY sure, and maybe some of the every-single-modern-mac-users would agree, it was constructed for a mouse/trackpad and keyboard. It doesn't matter what hidden frameworks or APIs are underneath (and CocoaTouch is not one of them right now), the GUI is made for a cursor.

The iPhone proved pre-release doubters wrong by demonstrating (after it got into reviewers hands) that it was *completely* focused on compensating for the shortcomings of using fingers and enhancing the things fingers do make easier. And it does this spectacularly and with unprecedented grace.

edit: I'm going to stop checking this thread because trying to explain to you the point you're missing is making me sad.

And you are so shortsided that you can't seem to make the [very small leap] on how they will translate that unprecedented grace of user experience over to a Tablet?

That's what get's me about you. You agree they can pull it off with the iPhone but you act like its some huge technological hurdle beyond Apple's capabilities to implement this into a laptop (even though they've already taken the first step with development on the iPhone and the second step on the Macbook Air.)

Come on, open your mind a bit...


Here, watch this video mock-up (http://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/upgrade/4243000.html?page=1) that somebody did when we thought the Macbook Touch was coming at the last Macworld. It will give you a brief glimpse on how Touch on Leopard can be viable (and man, you need to change your name to probably-not with such negativity and doubt!)

It's not at all beyond Apple to do this: I just don't think a third platform to develop for is what people were looking to find out at WWDC. That's kind of a buzzkill - especially when none of the listed course/workshop offerings give you more information about it :D


WWDC. Hmm, so, two bridges converging, Mac + iPhone. Not 3 platforms, but the convergence of their two platforms into one... you still can't see it? I give up on you.

[idannyb]

FWIW RUMOR: New Apple Device to Outshine iPhone? (http://idannyb.wordpress.com/2008/02/20/rumor-new-apple-device-to-outshine-iphone/)
A few images and discussion on topic > Gary Krakow & Brittany Umar interview on Apple’s purported development of a new touch-screen device with more sophisticated technologies than the iPhone.

[ivahardy]

Apple has a patent application to use multitouch entry of handwriting-- you use your fingers as if you were holding a pen or stylus. The software, essentualy triangulates a point within your thumb & 2 fingers as a virtual pen. Try it on a flat surface-- very natural!

tried it just ended up doing random squiggles. without a very quick/live visual feedback your whole function of writing goes out of the window. and thats just anthropometric's.

Also who has ever enjoyed writing using a stylus/fingers on a touch pad using those preset letter shapes that look, sometimes, nothing like the real letter?

[stagi]

Nice, hope the 3g iphone is out on tuesday and next month a cool tablet device :)

[probably]

Here, watch this video mock-up (http://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/upgrade/4243000.html?page=1) that somebody did when we thought the Macbook Touch was coming at the last Macworld. It will give you a brief glimpse on how Touch on Leopard can be viable (and man, you need to change your name to probably-not with such negativity and doubt!)



WWDC. Hmm, so, two bridges converging, Mac + iPhone. Not 3 platforms, but the convergence of their two platforms into one... you still can't see it? I give up on you.

That video just demonstrates that Leopard's GUI isn't meant to be used with the multitouch 'mode,' which is all I wanted to get across.

If a cute graphic used in a mass-emailing ACTUALLY has that intended depth of interpretation it's about CocoaTouch and the next version of OS X, not a singular tablet that smushes together the iPhone environment and Leopard.

[infowarfare]

edit: oh and since you've used it twice now: 'shortsided' is not a word, or at least the word you mean to say.



So when your argument doesn't hold up, you resort to being the grammar police. Great. You are correct, I meant shortsighted which you very much ARE!

[MattInOz]

If you want a realistic guess at how big this device will be,if it's coming at all then ask the question what is the biggest screen you can get with resolution between 160-200 dpi?

I can't see it being any bigger than 4-5 inch screen this year at least.
Any lower res and it just doesn't have the crispness needed.
Still that would make a pretty nice addition to the product range.

[ownersbox]

Honestly this sucks.... I cracked my iPhone two months ago and have been hoping that they would release the new version earlier than WWDC. Now they might but I can't buy it because if there is a mini tablet coming out I will have to wait to see that, I can't afford both. Damn you Apple

[infowarfare]

idannyb posted this earlier (http://idannyb.wordpress.com/2008/02/20/rumor-new-apple-device-to-outshine-iphone/) in the thread, but here is another mockup (from that link) with possible size comparison between the iPhone and the Macbook Touch:

http://idannyb.files.wordpress.com/2008/05/08_macair_080505e1.jpg?w=600

LoopRumors has learned through reliable sources that Apple is developing a new touch device with more sophisticated technologies than the iPhone. The new device, said to arrive by mid-2008 will use Multi-Touch 2.0 and incorporate a more robust processor, capable of more taxing tasks such as iChat video conferencing via Wi-Fi. While a specific processor was not mentioned, it’s possible that Intel’s new Montevina chip would be a candidate for the forthcoming device, or Apple would opt for the same custom processor Intel developed for the MacBook Air.

[mongoos150]

So more choices will confuse buyers so much they won't buy anything (or will buy non-apple)? Sorry, I just don't buy that.

Did you even bother to read my post? Or do you add your own pretext to everything you read. Confusion doesn't equal a total halt of customer purchasing. It equals customer confusion and hesitation, not to mention a sloppy product lineup.

[mongoos150]

idannyb posted this earlier (http://idannyb.wordpress.com/2008/02/20/rumor-new-apple-device-to-outshine-iphone/) in the thread, but here is another mockup (from that link) with possible size comparison between the iPhone and the Macbook Touch:

http://idannyb.files.wordpress.com/2008/05/08_macair_080505e1.jpg?w=600

Hideous.

[Roessnakhan]

Could have least spaced the icons to accommodate the space. :p

[jooak]

It probably will come the second to third week of this month. Then "King of Apple" Jobs will then release some super cool conversion device at WWDC '08.

www.softwarebay.co.cc for free os x software

[Mykbibby]

Ooh that does feel nice!

That's what she said...

[Mykbibby]

Trust me on this and remember, you heard it here first!

I will :rolleyes:

[MattyMac]

Just hold on. :) They haven't introduced anything yet. I doubt apple would ruin the simplicity that they use in every aspect of their products including the line up. Just trust steve!

Does anybody else worry that this rapid product introduction cycle will eventually result in far too complex product lineup where it becomes too difficult to distinguish between value added by moving between products? This product sounds great, but what added benefit will it give us that a software update to the iPod Touch / iPhone wouldn't give us?

It just seems like Apple's crowding it's "message" of simplicity by introducing too many specialized products when they could simply continually improve their current offerings.

[infowarfare]

Trust me on this and remember, you heard it here first!

I will :rolleyes:

Awe, come on, why you gotta be like that? You of all people should be excited about the possibilities of this technology happening (and where you heard it from!)

[Mykbibby]

I give up on you.


I'll pass...


Things are getting touchy

Just a matter of getting the timing right....

That's What She Said!!!

This thread about multitouch is just asking for it...

[infowarfare]

That's What She Said!!!

This thread about multitouch is just asking for it...

It is beginning to sound like Brokeback MacTouch isn't it.

[Mykbibby]

Awe, come on, why you gotta be like that? You of all people should be excited about the possibilities of this technology happening (and where you heard it from!)

I'm as excited as you can get!

[gugy]

I will repeat again.

iPhone 3G will be announce at WWDC. With availability immediately or a week later.
AT&T vacation plans is just after WWDC.

Steve Jobs loves the limelight and he will introduce the new iPhone alongside the new software.

16gig $399
32gig $499

Sure, Steve can announce "one more thing" at WWDC, but there is no way the new iPhone will only show up without much fanfare.
If you look at WWDC schedule, there are tons of iPhone relate sessions and that's the best venue to make a huge splash. Also Apple and AT&T are using the time to clear all the inventory of the old iPhone.

WWDC, guys. Bet on it! ;)

[Merlosso]

Really? You honestly think Apple is going to release their brand new, state of the art phone with a 1.1.5 firmware that just adds the 3g and / or gps code? Then do what...update the firmware to allow all the new apps and features a few weeks later? That would be retarded, good sir.

I can see the headlines now: "Apple Releases 3g iPhone, Still No 3rd Party Apps". That would be a FAIL. Thats what one of the major gripes about the original was, and I'm sure they want people to know from the beginning that it supports new apps, and that won't happen until 2.0 is installed. Most iPhone owners I know don't even know when a new firmware comes out or what it does. They just know what the phone did when they bought it. Same for the iPod Touch. My roommate's girlfriend has one and she didn't know she could buy mail, maps, etc until I asked if she had downloaded it. The average consumer doesn't keep up with this stuff like we do.

I know its never been stated anywhere that the 3g iPhone has to run software 2.0 out of the box, but use your heads people. Seriously. Either Apple has completed the 2.0 software ahead of schedule, or we will see the 3g iPhone sometime later when it is finished. It could be true that the 3g iPhone has nothing to do with the AT&T employee vacation time block restriction, as the interface itself wouldn't change much so they wouldn't need much training. What would be interesting is if this AT&T thing is for the 3g iPhone. Why would they need that much time? For training? Are there going to be THAT many new features?? I am certainly hoping that is the case.

Aside from referring to philgilder's post as retarded, I completely agree with you. It makes the most sense for the firmware and the hardware to be released together. Releasing new hardware first with the same old firmware would not be understood by the general public or the media. I know plenty of people that are just like your roommate's girlfriend and would never know to upgrade to 2.0 or would do the upgrade (when prompted by iTunes) but would not understand what was different.

Of course, only time will tell who is right and I don't care who it is. I just want my 3G iPhone. :)

[tomegun]

I've read a lot of the posts, but not all of them. I don't claim to be an expert about what Apple is going to do, but I don't get some of the comments.

If Apple waited to release new hardware and software - free software - at the same time, wouldn't everyone with the current iPhone at least try the new software on their phone? That being the case, what percentage of those users would opt for the same device with the new software? If they do that Apple make zero money. However, if new hardware was dangled in front of them for three-four weeks before they could get the software they might be tempted to buy the new hardware.

Additionally, introducing new hardware (iPhone 2) similar to current hardware (current iPhone) would surely sell. Add to that the possibility of a newer, smaller phone that could attract more customers and it would make sense to come out with something now. Dropping everything at once could cost Apple when all is said and done. When we talk about what makes sense it makes sense for them to do what they can to make the most money.

[infowarfare]

I've read a lot of the posts, but not all of them. I don't claim to be an expert about what Apple is going to do, but I don't get some of the comments.

If Apple waited to release new hardware and software - free software - at the same time, wouldn't everyone with the current iPhone at least try the new software on their phone? That being the case, what percentage of those users would opt for the same device with the new software? If they do that Apple make zero money. However, if new hardware was dangled in front of them for three-four weeks before they could get the software they might be tempted to buy the new hardware.

Additionally, introducing new hardware similar to current hardware would surely sell. Add to that the possibility of a newer, smaller phone that could attract more customers and it would make sense to come out with something now. Dropping everything at once could cost Apple when all is said and done. When we talk about what makes sense it makes sense for them to do what they can to make the most money.

Very true and well put.

[tomegun]

Aside from referring to philgilder's post as retarded, I completely agree with you. It makes the most sense for the firmware and the hardware to be released together. Releasing new hardware first with the same old firmware would not be understood by the general public or the media. I know plenty of people that are just like your roommate's girlfriend and would never know to upgrade to 2.0 or would do the upgrade (when prompted by iTunes) but would not understand what was different.

Of course, only time will tell who is right and I don't care who it is. I just want my 3G iPhone. :)

As long as iPhones are connected to iTunes Apple can make people aware of downloads. They could just about force an update if they wanted.

[MacGohil]

What's the possibility of seeing a flip/clamshell version of the IPhone?

We have already seen a patent for such a device.... but again the same patent can hold true for a folding version of a tablet with touch keyboard as well!!

.... With :apple: anything is possible... only time will tell.

[PinkyMacGodess]

Apple seems to like Tuesdays to announce, right?

What has me curious is why Target has been doing promos on their touches and nano's.

First it was a $40 or $50 gift card with a touch and now a Burt's Bees gift set with a nano.

Are they not selling for some reason? Although I did get a 'brand new' touch that didn't come with the update apps on it from there.

'till Tuesday...

Oh, and the tablet mock ups? ICK!!! Too big and to strange. They'd have to be flash based too... To much potential for movement when it's running I'd think...

[corrado7]

I will repeat again.

iPhone 3G will be announce at WWDC. With availability immediately or a week later.
AT&T vacation plans is just after WWDC.

Steve Jobs loves the limelight and he will introduce the new iPhone alongside the new software.

16gig $399
32gig $499

Sure, Steve can announce "one more thing" at WWDC, but there is no way the new iPhone will only show up without much fanfare.
If you look at WWDC schedule, there are tons of iPhone relate sessions and that's the best venue to make a huge splash. Also Apple and AT&T are using the time to clear all the inventory of the old iPhone.

WWDC, guys. Bet on it! ;)

Thanks for the info Steve Jobs!:rolleyes:

[puercaeli]

Possibilitiees:

1. iPhone(1st gen) becomes available again, shortage was due to the unforeseen factors[Burma??]. iPhone 3G released as expected in June. No dramas.

OR

2.iPhone 3G released next week without the conference or similar due to its similarity with current gen except the 3G related functions.[i.e. there are not any outstanding features that was not expected]

WWDC will be reserved for radical newly designed MB and MBP possibly with colour screen based muti touch trackpad which can be also used with Windows Sideshow. OR transparent trackpad which turns into multi touch trackpad with iPhone or iPod inserted[seems very unlikely though].

iPod Touch & iPhone wireless Sync and control ability also.

Just a wild wild wild.... guess

[PinkyMacGodess]

What's the possibility of seeing a flip/clamshell version of the IPhone?

We have already seen a patent for such a device.... but again the same patent can hold true for a folding version of a tablet with touch keyboard as well!!

.... With :apple: anything is possible... only time will tell.


I'd love a flip version of the iphone. Tuesday?:eek::D:apple:

[Merlosso]

As long as iPhones are connected to iTunes Apple can make people aware of downloads. They could just about force an update if they wanted.

I agree but that was not my point and I'm too tired to clarify.

I wonder how many posts this thread will get before the phone is actually announced...

[KurtangleTN]

I have a quick question about 3G in America, I saw AT&Ts coverage and it does cover the area I'm moving to soon, but when I click 3G coverage it shows me a fairly small list of cities.

Is that the only place I'll get 3G?

[MacFly123]

I don't think this is very likely but I can't completely rule it out. I would think that a surprise iPhone Nano would be more likely. Either way I am waiting till after WWDC to get my iPhone 2.0 :D

I think the Tablet would be marketed as a model above the iPod Touch, but what features would it add to the Touch to make it differentiated??? This is for the MacBook Touch people :)

[berkleeboy210]

Everyone knows what 3G is, Everyone knows what GPS is, so unless they have some kicka** new feature in the phone such as a video chat function, I don't see why they couldn't do a non-event release. We all know Software update 2.0 is coming.

There are no secrets as far as we know, so just release the damn thing!

[ewxlt]

But will this device be able to cut and paste? Will it have Push? Will I be able to search my mailbox? Will I be able to send via different email identities? 3G is at the bottom of my list...for now.

[MikeELL]

I think people are forgetting that WWDC is a Developer's conference. They don't do hardware launches unless it is relevant to to the type of software the developer's are being asked to write. Some sort of tablet device announcement at WWDC is more plausible (than the second-gen iphone) because it would shed light on how apple plans to expand the touch interface to the desktop environment (which seems to be where it's all heading), and how developers would incorporate this new interface option into their programs. It would be an intermediate step towards this: http://www.macrumors.com/2008/02/21/advanced-multitouch-writing-without-a-stylus-and-more/) .

The SDK has already been released to developers so I don't see how launching the second gen iphone at the conference makes sense. It would definitely be frustrating to all the developers in the SDK-use streams at WWDC to be using old phones if a new one has just been announced for release in less than a month.

Also, since the ATT vacation block-out only starts mid June that would suggest the release of a new product (read: tablet thingy) at the end of June. Snowflakes chance in hell that Apple will wait that long to release the new iphones. I think it makes sense that Apple will release the 3G iphone before WWDC, and May sounds just fine to me. :D

[Mr. Fong]

Apple seems to like Tuesdays to announce, right?

What has me curious is why Target has been doing promos on their touches and nano's.

First it was a $40 or $50 gift card with a touch and now a Burt's Bees gift set with a nano.

Are they not selling for some reason? Although I did get a 'brand new' touch that didn't come with the update apps on it from there.

'till Tuesday...

Oh, and the tablet mock ups? ICK!!! Too big and to strange. They'd have to be flash based too... To much potential for movement when it's running I'd think...

I work as the Electronics Specialist at my Target store, so I can tell you about these sales. The gift card sales are just a sale that we seem to do every month or so on random iPods. We obviously don't drop prices on them, so we do gift card deals to stimulate other purchases. And the Burt's Bees deal was just a thing for Mother's Day.

And sorry about the problem with your Touch purchase. The people that stock them just look at the picture on the front and put it with like items, and the team members that work in that area probably just don't give a crap about it being in the right spot either :rolleyes:

[inkswamp]

3) Apple would need to organize some type of press event in an incredibly short time for it to be in May. This makes no sense with WWDC just around the corner.

4) It's worth saying again, WWDC is just around the corner!

Why people keep assuming Apple must have some kind of press event for the release of the hardware is beyond me. The big news about the iPhone is the software (third-party apps, enterprise features, 2.0) and will come, sensibly enough, at WWDC. It doesn't make any sense for Apple to steal WWDC's thunder by hyping the new iPhone hardware. Instead, I suspect they'll release it, let the Mac sites, blogs and news media go to town with the excitement about it, and then they will extend that hype with the WWDC announcements. If Apple holds a press event for the hardware and hypes the rest at WWDC, they run the chance of overdoing it. If they lay low and coast on the initial hardware release and then pounce at WWDC, they get the most bang for their buck.

I think it would be a little embarrassing for Apple to hold press events for every iPhone announcement. It's a little too much "oh look, baby made another poo" kind of overindulgence. I think the hardware will come out with a low-key announcement and the real hype machine will start up at WWDC.

[dicklacara]

I think people are forgetting that WWDC is a Developer's conference. They don't do hardware launches unless it is relevant to to the type of software the developer's are being asked to write. Some sort of tablet device announcement at WWDC is more plausible (than the second-gen iphone) because it would shed light on how apple plans to expand the touch interface to the desktop environment (which seems to be where it's all heading), and how developers would incorporate this new interface option into their programs. It would be an intermediate step towards this: http://www.macrumors.com/2008/02/21/advanced-multitouch-writing-without-a-stylus-and-more/) .

The SDK has already been released to developers so I don't see how launching the second gen iphone at the conference makes sense. It would definitely be frustrating to all the developers in the SDK-use streams at WWDC to be using old phones if a new one has just been announced for release in less than a month.

Also, since the ATT vacation block-out only starts mid June that would suggest the release of a new product (read: tablet thingy) at the end of June. Snowflakes chance in hell that Apple will wait that long to release the new iphones. I think it makes sense that Apple will release the 3G iphone before WWDC, and May sounds just fine to me. :D

Bingo!

[wizard]

Seems odd especially after they just released the macbook air… why would they release a tablet that would cannibalize the airs' sales?

1.
First; they are not even remotely in the same ball park as far as usage or targeted markets.

2.
More so many of us simply find the current iPhone just to small for some of the uses we could put it to. As long as this guy can fit into a pocket we are all set.

Frankly the only thing this rumors does or will do is to keep me from buying anything until after WWDC.

Dave

[wizard]

Now I don't know whether to get a 3G iPhone when it comes out in May or if I should wait for the WWDC announcement. If there's some product feature overlap, I might do better keeping my current iPhone and seeing what new comes out?

If iPhone2 does come out in May, then I really do think you will want to wait. No body seems to have any idea what this new device will do for us, but if it has cell capability it will be an absolute smash.

Dave

[timimbo85]

That's What She Said!!!

This thread about multitouch is just asking for it...



ahahha yes!!! I love it.

You can never go wrong with a "thats what she said comment"

If the 3G iPhone is out this month my world can be complete. What would tie a new car together then a new iPhone..

Tablet would be sick as hell too.

Someone mention iPod air? = iPod broken in 2 hrs of purchase.

[corrado7]

I think people are forgetting that WWDC is a Developer's conference. They don't do hardware launches unless it is relevant to to the type of software the developer's are being asked to write. Some sort of tablet device announcement at WWDC is more plausible (than the second-gen iphone) because it would shed light on how apple plans to expand the touch interface to the desktop environment (which seems to be where it's all heading), and how developers would incorporate this new interface option into their programs. It would be an intermediate step towards this: http://www.macrumors.com/2008/02/21/advanced-multitouch-writing-without-a-stylus-and-more/) .

The SDK has already been released to developers so I don't see how launching the second gen iphone at the conference makes sense. It would definitely be frustrating to all the developers in the SDK-use streams at WWDC to be using old phones if a new one has just been announced for release in less than a month.

Also, since the ATT vacation block-out only starts mid June that would suggest the release of a new product (read: tablet thingy) at the end of June. Snowflakes chance in hell that Apple will wait that long to release the new iphones. I think it makes sense that Apple will release the 3G iphone before WWDC, and May sounds just fine to me. :D

Fair enough, good points. But here is my issue with ATT vacation block out and the "tablet". I doubt the tablet will be enabled so consumers can talk on it ie phone. However it could be 3G enabled for data only. That creates a whole other set of questions such as: will it work with my current iphone contract, separate contract... you get the picture. So then why would ATT block out a vacation days for a tablet?? I fail to see how the table (if it comes out) is relevant to the ATT block-out days.

[wizard]

I have a quick question about 3G in America, I saw AT&Ts coverage and it does cover the area I'm moving to soon, but when I click 3G coverage it shows me a fairly small list of cities.

Is that the only place I'll get 3G?

I don't know where you are coming from but you will find that in some places in America you will get no cell coverage at all. So in some cases 3G is the least of your worries.

As to map coverages from the various carries, realize that they are always out of date. This due to the continuous build out of the network.

Dave

[macerroneous]

Wirelessly posted (Mozilla/5.0 (iPhone; U; CPU like Mac OS X; en) AppleWebKit/420.1 (KHTML, like Gecko) Version/3.0 Mobile/4A102 Safari/419.3)

I'm voting June 10 iPhone availability for the following reasons.
1 One month after apple made iPhone unavailable (they never said "sold out")
2 AT&T still selling iPhone online. (this means they need to clear inventory before new release, just like the euro carriers)
3 June 10 is a tuesday
4 it's after the keynote
5 nobody can bitch and return their newly purchased obsolete phone.
6 All apple really needs to do to keep Wall Street happy is sell more iPhones this quarter than last year. Last year, the iphone was only available in one country and only for 30 hours. Plus, they want to make sure that next year they can beat this year.

[MattInOz]

Fair enough, good points. But here is my issue with ATT vacation block out and the "tablet". I doubt the tablet will be enabled so consumers can talk on it ie phone. However it could be 3G enabled for data only. That creates a whole other set of questions such as: will it work with my current iphone contract, separate contract... you get the picture. So then why would ATT block out a vacation days for a tablet?? I fail to see how the table (if it comes out) is relevant to the ATT block-out days.

It might not be an iPhone in that you put to your ear and talk, still no reason for it not work with bluetooth hand/headset to make calls.

Oh, no CD will in the device.
That empty void just makes the thing unbalanced or worse gyroscopic when the CD is inside. Better use is a battery or flash chips.

[Diode]

Maybe the current iphone / size was the "nano" all along^^

[freddiecable]

my thought exactly!

if they release the 3g iphone in May, then I'm waiting until I found out what they have in store to announce at WWDC in June before I get one.

I'm sensing too high of expectations. good set up for a let down.

[joeshell383]

I don't know where you are coming from but you will find that in some places in America you will get no cell coverage at all. So in some cases 3G is the least of your worries.


While what you said was true, it is misleading, and I wish you would have framed it better. There are some places with no coverage, but they are rare and getting rarer by the month. The percentage of the population without any cell coverage at all (not talking about technologies or carriers) is virtually zero. There are enough misconceptions about U.S. wireless infrastructure as is it.

[GottaLoveApple4]

Im thinking that since the iphone is unavailable, it will be released either this week or next week since the ipod touch/ipod nano/ipod classic revisions were not released at an event so the 3G iphone upgrade could be in the middle of the week.

With this new device deal at WWDC... I have a feeling that it might not be a portable at all (unless we know it will for sure? Im never sure with Apple though) but I really think it will be an apple tv game console fused into one!!! Just think about it, rumors about developing a wii-like remote/controller and apple getting into the gaming market, apple tv DVR functionality patents to the FCC, WWDC will have tons of developers that can develop games and applications for it so a great place to show it off, and hey, the apple tv has been just a "hobby" for quite a while now so I think it would be a great time to do something like that. Heck i might as well say that it can fuse the mac mini into the combo as well at this point since it hasn't seen an update yet...

Thats just my idea but heck if that was to be true then ill buy 4 right now for each room in the house!!! Now that will be my new "dvd player"!!! forget blu ray...:D:D:D:D:D:apple:

[MattInOz]

Maybe the current iphone / size was the "nano" all along^^

Well the iPod Nano is just a die shirk of the previous generation of iPod classic.
Why not take the same approach with iPhone?

Other than not being able to shrink the screen any more than 1/2inch max, still lots of room to get the same function (maybe with 3G) in a smaller package.

So Two families one is about best function, the other best size.

[sfoalex]

RIMM is making official their announcement of BB9000. So the heat is on for Apple. I'm betting we hear something official by morning. If not tomorrow, Tuesday.

Alex

[bpm2000]

tried it just ended up doing random squiggles. without a very quick/live visual feedback your whole function of writing goes out of the window. and thats just anthropometric's.

Also who has ever enjoyed writing using a stylus/fingers on a touch pad using those preset letter shapes that look, sometimes, nothing like the real letter?


yea - and for the record I am using computers, keyboards, keypads, etc so I don't have to write anymore. My ability to handwrite is going the way of the dinosaur as of late :D but I don't mind so much. I almost think stylus' are a regression of sort if they include it.

[Chundles]

Im thinking that since the iphone is unavailable, it will be released either this week or next week since the ipod touch/ipod nano/ipod classic revisions were not released at an event so the 3G iphone upgrade could be in the middle of the week.


The current range of iPods were released at a Special Event back in September. It was huge, loads of media attended.

A massive update to both the iPhone hardware and software would warrant an event. Due to the heavy reliance on developers to make the upcoming 2.0 release worth it's while the WWDC would be the perfect place for it - although why everyone is expecting iPhone OS 2.0 to be out at WWDC when Steve said "late June" is beyond me.

We will probably see an announcement with shipping in 3 - 4 weeks if Apple can get the whole FCC short-term confidentiality thingy going.

[joeshell383]

since the ipod touch/ipod nano/ipod classic revisions were not released at an event


???

[playmaker21]

I have been waiting for iphone 2 for a long time now and I am going crazy with my outdated razr and 06 ipod nano. Although, even if they came out with a 3g iPhone in May i would still wait to June to see what they announce at wwdc. Thats just my opinion.

[Peace]

Apple's going to sit tight for another week without any iPhones for sale on their website. This will instantly build hype on the inter-rags for a few days then out comes an invite to a special event. Jobs then shows off the new iPhone rev 2 with a preview of the Apps store. iPhone ships 6/2 with the store starting up a week later at WWDC. Which is where we see this Newtonish device as a BAM!.

In the meantime Apple bumps specs on the Macbook and maybe Macbook Pro.


Interesting 4 weeks coming eh ? :)

[i.maverick]

Any guesses as to whether we will be able to tether the new iPhone to a laptop , to get 3G internet on the laptop? This is possible with the current iPhone I believe with jail breaking, but I was wondering if it'd be legit this time.

Steve

how is it possible after jailbreaking?
i'd like to know. really seriously. I'd like to use it.

[MikeELL]

There's still plenty of time for a launch in May.

If I recall correctly, the last two media events (that weren't MWSF or WWDC) only sent out invites to the media a week in advance. I'm betting we see invites sent out this Tuesday (or next) for an event the following week.

It's not like I'm getting my phone until late June anyway (in Oz here) but I just want to see what I'll be getting (3G, better camera with video and I'll be happy, hardware wise).

[AppleMojo]

I don't get these "too many products" posts. I, for one, would consider this "new product" an iPod Touch v2, with more emphasis on video capabilities, slightly larger virtual keyboard, better browsing experience, etc. If anything, it helps differentiate the Touch from iPhone. Of course, it would run the 2.0 version of the firmware.

Exactly.

A week ago, I was reading complaints here about how Apple doesn't offer enough solutions, blah blah.

Now, the posts are the opposite. Complaints that Apple would have too many product options and make things confusing.

Personally; I think it would be strange for Apple to release the 3G iPhone just weeks ahead of WWDC.

However, keep in mind that not every Mac user knows what WWDC is or even cares, in addition non Apple users are in this same boat.

Was just speaking to my brother, who converted to Mac's this last fall. I asked if he was looking forward to WWDC and what was on the way, and he had never heard of it. It's all relative. ;-)

My other brother with a Mac is a professional welder, if I asked him about WWDC, he'd ask if that was going to be on Fox or ESPN.

[jnc]

LOL! I just wrote a long post yesterday after finding this very same rumor. I bet we'll see a second device at WWDC. If you think about it, it makes sense for Apple
to replace the iPod Touch with a different device, possibly a bigger, more capable tablet ala Nokia's N800 tablet. It will end the confusion between the iPhone and iPod touch, and allow Apple to charge more for it while not cannibalizing iPhone sales for people who want a smaller, "front pocket"-sized device.


Confusion? One's a phone, one isn't.

how is it possible after jailbreaking?
i'd like to know. really seriously. I'd like to use it.

Lifehacker has an article on it.

[wesk702]

wouldn't be surprised if its just the new ACD's for WWDC.
Tablet... doubt it.

Iphone soon please, I'm ready to stand at ATT again :)

It's Apple INC now right? Maybe they have another consumer product in store.

[antielectrons]

I think that if Apple has sold out of iPhones it is because they planned to sell out around this time. We do live in the time of JIT production/stock management after all.

O2 discounting was clearly an attempt to empty the channel for this date.

And the only possible reason for EOLing the iPhone is to bring out the iPhone 2. You dont leave the shelves empty for a whole month.

iPhone 2 will be a global affair. I very much doubt therefore it will be launced at the WWDC, but rather have its own event. By the looks of things in the next 7 days.

[aswitcher]

If this thing has a much larger touch keyboard and a full OS I might be tempted.

[yanke]

I have written this post last February: http://forums.macrumors.com/showpost.php?p=4922207&postcount=21

if we cannot have psychical keyboard on it .. allow to connect a bluetooth one

still hoping and still waiting ;-)


Yanke

[robogobo]

blah

[backdraft]

Well if Apple is releasing a tablet then it would be the perfect platform for PA SEMI's PWRFICIENT CPU unless Apple goes with the Xscale. Then again the PowerPC ISA is much more advanced/cleaner then the x86 and much harder to crack, would be a perfect fit. Having Hypertransport 3.0 vs Intels FSB would also shrink down the amount of hardware for a smaller form factor, not to mention more bandwidth between CPU and memory.

[mccldwll]

Ok. It's coming sometime between today and end of June.
Moving on, the fact 8GB was discounted and that present iPhone barely available suggests:

--production of existing EDGE only iPhones will be discontinued due to economies of scale in production
--new iPhones will be available for activation on an EDGE only plan, primarily in areas where 3G not operational, but possibly in all areas (remember, existing EDGE iPhones will have to work everywhere with same or better quality as exists now)
--minimal hardware upgrade to camera
--new iPhone could begin shipping almost immediately, EDGE ONLY activated, on upgraded 1.x.x firmware, with 2.0 and apps before end of June. This also explains aapl's strange post-3/6 accounting

This solves gap problem and moves product out the door, especially for new users. It allows existing users who intend to upgrade to have it in hand waiting for 2.0 release when AT&T has more staff on hand. It's the software/apps, not the hardware, that will be the most important, and that will come at WWDC.

[winterspan]

Confusion? One's a phone, one isn't.

I didn't say I was confused, I'm talking about the average person. And confusion maybe isn't the most appropriate term --- how about "lack of differentiation". Think about it, it's always been sort of awkward that both devices were so similar. It would make sense to get rid of the touch and upgrade it to a larger, although still somewhat pocket-friendly tablet. This would provide a better product lineup, in addition to a future iPhone-nano

[gloss]

--new iPhones will be available for activation on an EDGE only plan, primarily in areas where 3G not operational, but possibly in all areas (remember, existing EDGE iPhones will have to work everywhere with same or better quality as exists now)


3G does not run extra. Data is data.

[jacobj]

I have to agree that my hopes are for a May release of a 3G iPhone, but I can't see it happening without a major press event: even if it were just a 3G chip and that was it, Apple would want the press to build up to it; after all, many many many people will have held off for the 3G and there Apple will want the world to know about it. In the UK the BBC has often reported Apple releases on their technology pages (usually main article), but they have never done it unless there was an event surrounding it.

Then there is the 2.0 firmware release with a confirmed June date: we have all seen that the latest version of 2.0 includes 3G on/off. Having said that, there is no reason that Apple can't release a 1.XXX version since we all know that their accounting practices will allow for a FREE update at a later date (grumpy iPod Touch owner here).

Anyway, my hopes are going to be dashed as I want a 3G, 32GB, GPS (with TomTom software), 5MP flash enabled camera, firmware V2.0 and MS Office for iPhone version of the iphone and I ain't gonna get it.

[winterspan]

Well if Apple is releasing a tablet then it would be the perfect platform for PA SEMI's PWRFICIENT CPU unless Apple goes with the Xscale. Then again the PowerPC ISA is much more advanced/cleaner then the x86 and much harder to crack, would be a perfect fit. Having Hypertransport 3.0 vs Intels FSB would also shrink down the amount of hardware for a smaller form factor, not to mention more bandwidth between CPU and memory.

Both Apple and their customers could care less about how advanced or "clean" the instruction set on the CPU in their computer is. All that matters is speed, cost, and power efficiency. And to assume Apple would go back to using POWER-based chips for anything they do is far-fetched at best. It would have to provide exclusive, game-changing benefits. I would assume the have spent all their time optimizing the OSX libraries and kernel for x86 since the transition and now the ARM fork. As for PA SEMI, I though that horse was dead long ago; Apple did NOT buy them for their current products or technology.

And where did HyperTransport come into this? Agreed that Intel's FSB is crap, but that will be gone with Nehalem.





...
new iPhones will be available for activation on an EDGE only plan, primarily in areas where 3G not operational, but possibly in all areas (remember, existing EDGE iPhones will have to work everywhere with same or better quality as exists now)
...

If history and current practices are any guide, there won't be any type of differentiation between EDGE and UMTS/HSDPA when it comes to access plans. At least in the USA, none of the carriers distinguish between EDGE and UMTS when you are adding data packages to a cell phone plan or for using laptop data cards. There is no "EDGE only" or "3G" data package, data access is data access, no matter the technology you utilize to connect. I had a 2G Treo 650 with unlimited data, then I upgraded to a Treo 700W with 3G data, and nothing had to change on my contract at all.

[Intarweb]

Seems odd especially after they just released the macbook air… why would they release a tablet that would cannibalize the airs' sales?

Because the MacBook Air is an absolute failure?

[gloss]

Because the MacBook Air is an absolute failure?

Funny, the sales numbers say otherwise.

[sterlingindigo]

Would love it if this rumor came true but it doesn't jibe with the AT&T employee vacation blackout June 15-July15. Perhaps announcements vs. availability is the key here.

[macerroneous]

First, I really like mccldwl's logic. Especially, the reference to Apple's accounting. I also wondered why they had to defer all iphone revenue starting 3/6. So, I think we might see the 3g iphone ship this month with 3g disabled until 2.0 software. However, I still say June 10 more likely.
Second, I think the two bridges ad for wwdc has implied to me that touchOS and MacOS are two different product lines. I don't think they'll converge. I don't think you'll ever see a tablet that runs MacOS. However, I speculate we will see more and bigger products running touchOS. Specifically, a TABLET. Furthermore, Steve will never port touchOS to x86 devices because HE DOESN'T WANT THEM TO RUN WINDOWS. That's why Apple will, in fact use the newly acquired chip technology soon, if not immediately.
BTW AAPL to jump $10 today.

[BongoBanger]

Funny, the sales numbers say otherwise.

What are the Air's sales numbers? Would like to know as I've been trying to get a product split for last quarter for ages.

[MacinDoc]

Because the MacBook Air is an absolute failure?
Have a look under the Apple Store (http://store.apple.com/us)'s "Top Sellers" and explain your claim. As of this moment, the Air is listed as the store's #1 seller.

[mccldwll]

If history and current practices are any guide, there won't be any type of differentiation between EDGE and UMTS/HSDPA when it comes to access plans. At least in the USA, none of the carriers distinguish between EDGE and UMTS when you are adding data packages to a cell phone plan or for using laptop data cards. There is no "EDGE only" or "3G" data package, data access is data access, no matter the technology you utilize to connect. I had a 2G Treo 650 with unlimited data, then I upgraded to a Treo 700W with 3G data, and nothing had to change on my contract at all.

You may very well be right. However, data usage on iPhones much, much higher than on other phones so might be a way to nickel/dime consumers (another $5 for 3G) and not tick off people in the hinterlands who don't have access to 3G, but otherwise would pay same amount as the "city folks."

[i.maverick]

Confusion? One's a phone, one isn't.



Lifehacker has an article on it.

yup.
got it. have felt a need for this feature on more than one occasion.
:)

[mccldwll]

What are the Air's sales numbers? Would like to know as I've been trying to get a product split for last quarter for ages.


Everyone should remember that bongo is a paid shill by an apple competitor. Review his post history.

[megfilmworks]

Anyway, my hopes are going to be dashed as I want a 3G, 32GB, GPS (with TomTom software), 5MP flash enabled camera, firmware V2.0 and MS Office for iPhone version of the iphone and I ain't gonna get it.
You forgot the garage door opener. :D

[saminsocks]

I doubt the new product will be a "something for everyone" product. With the exception of the new line of notebooks and desktops that came with the Intel chips, the new products announced in the past few years have catered to a specialized crowd, instead of the average guy looking for a computer or mp3 player. This can somewhat be seen with the iPhone and iPod Touch, a bit more with the Mac Mini and especially with the MacBook Air. Unless they introduce a powerful but scaled down sub-$1000 notebook or something similar for the budget-conscious consumer who needs more power than the Mini, the new products will something amazing for the niche that needs it, but won't appeal to everyone. Also, for those who say that Apple wouldn't create a product that doesn't function out of the box, the MBA is pretty useless without another machine. Same with the iPod. With the Back to My Mac feature of Leopard, I wouldn't be surprised if we see more thin client like products to encourage people to become a multi-Mac household and get a .Mac subscription.

I thought some sort of deposit was required for a pre-order, if not the whole cost up front. Although I know they won't have a problem moving the iPhone, not requiring anything from the consumer is kind of risky no matter what product you're selling. That being said, I still don't doubt a pre-order of the iPhone, with a ship date in June. It would affect sales numbers but the number of units sold wouldn't suffer as much. It would be nice if they came out this month, though. I didn't really want one when they first came out but I'm thinking about getting one now. I don't like to get products when they originally release, though, and I need it at the end of June, so this would give me a month to decide.

And while I'm somewhat skeptical about it being released before WWDC, mostly because I can't imagine what bigger news they might have, I also doubt they would go for a month without sales just so people couldn't return them when the new one came out. For people who really need a phone and just casually decided on an iPhone, if they aren't available they'll completely lose those customers. Apple has always released product updates without much warning. The MacBook Pro is constantly getting updated, and I'm sure other products, too, but I don't really follow them. Anytime you buy a Mac you should expect something new in a few months. I don't think there would have been as big an uproar about the iPhone if it was just an update, but it was an update along with a price drop.

As for getting the new iPhone if you take your old one in for problems, I think it's possible. When I first bought my iPod the person who sold it to me said not to get the engraving because if something happened and it needed to be replaced it would be replaced with whatever model was currently out there. The engraved one would be sent for repair, even if it was major. Also, I ended up with a MBP because I was having problems with my PB. This was after they stopped selling them, but refurbished ones were still available. The genius gave me the option to repair or replace, since there were other factors involved, but I don't think he had enough clout to get me a brand new machine if it wasn't their policy to replace them with what is current. And considering the iPhone stock is depleted, it would be a bad business move to hold on to some just for those people who happen to have technical issues with the phone right after the new one comes out.

[MrCrowbar]

Have a look under the Apple Store (http://store.apple.com/us)'s "Top Sellers" and explain your claim. As of this moment, the Air is listed as the store's #1 seller.

Yea. You'd think they don't sell too many of those, but I've seen more Airs than regular Macbooks in the wild recently.

[Manderby]

I dont see the iphone coming out sooner than expected, and I dont really care, but the rumor of another device that could come out at wwdc makes me listen. Remember the days of the iPod-Introduction? First, they went for the (now called Classic) High-End-Model with harddrive, screen, menu, extras and so on. Then, the went down the stairs a little bit and made the IPod mini with less features but with higher acceptance in the consumer market. Last, they went for the shuffle, the "cheap" product for those who like just want the device to play music. Nothing else.

I think apple is progressing with the iPhone the same way. First, a device for fans, for customers that need everything, an maybe even object of prestige. The iPhone surely was a bang in the smartphone-market, thats what they wanted. Now, they have their first experiences, they know, what functionality is needed, what customers love the most and then, they scale down the phone to a stripped down phone having just the features appreciated the most for a much lower price.

I would highly appreciate a scaled down iPhone, maybe I even would buy one. No Internet and therefore no 3G, no games, no videos, no photos, no widgets, no whatsoever. Just phone, texting, addresses, a simple music player, just the things that are used nowadays by most people. Later on they could go further down just having a phone that do the phone-stuff and texting, for a few dollars. Imagine how thin and nice this products could be. If they stuck with the current iPhone with stuff I never even think of using it like right now, this will never end in my pocket.

[michaelsviews]

Local AT&T store is stocked with iPhones here in town, both models and still gets them shipped from Apple .

Supposedly AT&T is going to have the lower price on the iPhone if your plan says your qualified for the an upgrade or your a new customer. Substantial savings.

Also besides the 3G, GPS and a 5 mega pixel camera is what we are hearing , mite be nothing mite be something.

BB9000 is coming out and the 3G iphone. I'd be betting end or May at the latest than again it could be Tuesday the 13th of May.

Also the company that was awarded the contract is new so maybe it will take a little longer or NOT.

Either way its going to be interesting to read and see whats going to coming out as a 2nd gen iphone and the internal workings

[jmorrison0722]

I would say the current stock level online at the Apple Store speaks volumes. Does anyone actually thinking Apple would sit for an entire month with no units to sell? Either they have more stock of current gen iPhones on the way, or they will announce the new model very soon, perhaps tomorrow. Even if they cannot deliver these phones until June, they'll start taking orders.

[heavensblade23]

While what you said was true, it is misleading, and I wish you would have framed it better. There are some places with no coverage, but they are rare and getting rarer by the month. The percentage of the population without any cell coverage at all (not talking about technologies or carriers) is virtually zero. There are enough misconceptions about U.S. wireless infrastructure as is it.

Depends on where you are. In areas of low population density there's often spotty or non-existent coverage. The entire area where my wife's parents live is entirely unserviced by anybody. Her grandma's house has one bar of the lowest quality GSM service.

[L3X]

2. What if Apple's going to sell the iPhone themselves, possibly unlocked, and then a month later AT&T starts selling it through their stores, locked and subsidized. Regarding their exclusivity contract: do Apple stores qualify as competition? As long as there isn't another version specific to another carrier, isn't it still exclusive? Also, I wouldn't put it past Steve to have sold AT&T on 5 years exclusivity for the "iPhone", but then neglect to mention or promise anything about the "iPhone 2". The new version may not be exclusive at all.
This is one of the most interesting speculations on here.

[bjdku]

I really cannot see how a 3G iPhone is worthy of a keynote address. Unless of course it has a redesign or a laundry list of other new features. They already had a iPhone 2.0 firmware presentation, so doesn't seem to make much sense to have another. So it makes you wonder.

[Dangeresque]

I don't think Apple is crowding it's "message" of simplicity. If you look at it from the standpoint of an iPhone being released and then some other gadget being released shortly after, then yes it could seem like product overkill. However, it didn't stop Apple from creating a variety of iPod choices, so why would this be any different. Especially, if you look at from the perspective that this can be the beginning of Apple's family of "multi-touch"? Just like the iPod has the shuffle, nano, classic and "Touch" in various capacity sizes and colors. The Multi Touch family could be looked at this way... iPhone, Touch iPod, Maybe some multi touch tablet versus a multi touch laptop and a multi touch "Wii" like 'gaming system' game pad or something. Who knows what's up Apple's sleeve, but if you categorize it as a "Family of Products" versus one product announcement after the next then it doesn't seem that Apple is losing it's way or crowding it's "message" of simplicity.

When you put it like that, it sounds almost too good to be true. You sure you don't work for :apple:PR?

[sfoalex]

I really cannot see how a 3G iPhone is worthy of a keynote address. Unless of course it has a redesign or a laundry list of other new features. They already had a iPhone 2.0 firmware presentation, so doesn't seem to make much sense to have another. So it makes you wonder.

I'm with you. The bulk of the keynote would and should be just the software potential. They can announce the iPhone hardware now and build up a backorder before the keynote. There are over 200,000 developers for this. All of which have access to the 2.0 beta. So there is nothing really to announce. We all know what it is already.

Alex

[gkarris]

I would say the current stock level online at the Apple Store speaks volumes. Does anyone actually thinking Apple would sit for an entire month with no units to sell? Either they have more stock of current gen iPhones on the way, or they will announce the new model very soon, perhaps tomorrow. Even if they cannot deliver these phones until June, they'll start taking orders.

Refurbs (they'll probably have a lot of people bring their recent purchase back for the new one) or the AT&T stores still have them...

[eme jota ce]

I would say the current stock level online at the Apple Store speaks volumes. Does anyone actually thinking Apple would sit for an entire month with no units to sell? ... Even if they cannot deliver these phones until June, they'll start taking orders.

Good points and conclusion.

Local Chicago store is out of iPhones and the online refurb inventory is empty, too. Seems that we'll have to see some new iPhone's soon.

IF the AT&T vacation restriction rumor is accurate, it makes we wonder if waiting until June would be a good idea. There was another rumor within the past couple weeks that AT&T might subsidize the cost of iPhones. After all, even after the uproar after the initial iPhone price drop that lead to store credits, the credits were only about half of the original price premium that earliest adopters paid. This is at least some evidence that the companies feel they can get a premium from early adopters, for example, you can buy / order the new 3G iPhone in May, but if you wait until June, uncle AT&T will pay for half of it.

[jouster]

Also, I wouldn't put it past Steve to have sold AT&T on 5 years exclusivity for the "iPhone", but then neglect to mention or promise anything about the "iPhone 2". The new version may not be exclusive at all.

You think that would not have occurred to AT&T's lawyers?

[Lepton]

I really cannot see how a 3G iPhone is worthy of a keynote address. Unless of course it has a redesign or a laundry list of other new features.A laundry list of new stuff is just what you'll get. 3G, GPS, Enterprise, new countries, and OS 2 is going to have lots and lots and lots of new stuff we haven't heard about yet. I expect search, keychain, security upgrades, better sync, better .Mac, sync of notes and todo, App Store apps, more push mail, plenty of stuff to fill two hours of keynote. And a better headphone jack - don't forget the better headphone jack! It's bound to get wild applause.

[JoB4031]

Just a guess but could it be that Apple misguessed the demand for the iphone version 1 leading up to WWDC? They under projected the amount of phones they would sell, possibly expecting demand to dip a bit with version 2 coming out, but demand actually increased. Now all of the iPhone production is for version 2 and stock of version 1 is running dry. If this is the case, will Apple release version 2 early? My guess is no, but again this is all hypothetical.

[diamond.g]

You think that would not have occurred to AT&T's lawyers?

Obviously AT&Ts lawyers are no match for Apples lawyers. :D ;)

[jnc]

I didn't say I was confused, I'm talking about the average person. And confusion maybe isn't the most appropriate term --- how about "lack of differentiation". Think about it, it's always been sort of awkward that both devices were so similar. It would make sense to get rid of the touch and upgrade it to a larger, although still somewhat pocket-friendly tablet. This would provide a better product lineup, in addition to a future iPhone-nano

I never said you were confused either.

Anyway, it doesn't "make sense" to get rid of the iPod touch, at ALL while iPhones remain tied to a carrier, neither for Apple nor the consumer.

iPod touch is almost everything the iPhone is without the call plan, which suits people happy with their current phone, and suits Apple because all money goes to Apple.

[frank781]

The prediction of the 4G iPhone and the new device might be correct. but the timing doesn't make sense.

We are too close to WWDC not to wait for that event to release the IPhone 2nd Gen. Aparts fro the 2.0 software, the device should see several potential improvements (3g Capability, GPS?, better camera/, etc) and so,e minor case changes to differentiate it from the original one. The current shortage of iPhones is just Apple's way to creating an extra buzz by having an artificial shortage (Just like Nintendo does on the Wii). A lotta of people out there are not aware of the rumors of the next iPhone or even know what 3G means to them So the device is selling more than Apple anticipated when they cut their orders.

So it makes more sense for Apple to use WWDC to launch iPhone 2.0 along with the SDK and other accessories they might have under their sleeves.

As far as this other devic (iTablet?, iBook?) while I on't discount it's existence, announcing it in WWDC would either: a). minimize iPhone 2.0 announcement and/or b). get lost in the iphone's hoopla.

As for the device itself, I do feel that an "internet communicator" is coming. This would the 3rd world class device that Steve mentoned on the Mcworld keynote last when he announced the iPhone. At that moment the iPhone was all 3 of the "world class" devices being announced (widescreen ipod with multi-touch, world class mobile phone, and internet communicator). Teh widescreen ipod with multi-touch has been done (ipod touch). We will probably see by 2009 a simple iphone nano (phone and ipod, but no web). So an Internet communicator (iTablet) would be the third leg of this iPhone platform.

This device could probably make the Newton promise a reality. A device that can carry all your important documents with you. It would probably have a cellular radio in the same way that the kindle does (and download anything from the cloud). you can make call on your blu-tooth while surfing or playing on it.

Teh difference between this and the old PDA is that multi-touch has made the small extremely usable unlike the stylus driven PDAs. And with Mac OS, you have an actual desktop class OS instead of that hobbled windows mobile or Palm os have.

[infosprt]

If Apple does make the rumored Newtonish PDA (1.5x size of iPhone) then it is going to be a killer product. I can't wait.

My guess for the name iMac Air.

[frank781]

I never said you were confused either.

Anyway, it doesn't "make sense" to get rid of the iPod touch, at ALL while iPhones remain tied to a carrier, neither for Apple nor the consumer.

iPod touch is almost everything the iPhone is without the call plan, which suits people happy with their current phone, and suits Apple because all money goes to Apple.

While I agree that iPod Tuch (have one myself) and iPhone) Want one) should still be in the market (the touch has bigger storage for teh same price and you're not tied up to AT&T). Eventually I do see a future in which the ipod touch might disappear.

Apple has stated that they are not married to any single model for selling the iphone. And based on teh announcements, Italy and Australia seem to have multiple carriers. So exclusivity is no longer the norm. France will have unlocked phones later this month (by law the carrier has to offer unlocked phones up to 6 months after introduction, ad the iphone was introduced in November in France). So unlocked phones will also be available. And if teh rumors are true, we will see AT&T subsidizing this next phone for up to $200 usd.

ISo, do see in the future (when the iphone nano or mini appears) and Apple gets closer to being the market elader, that you might see Apple dropping the touch in order not to dilute the brand. Now, this would be most likely 3-4 years down the line. Right now Apple needs both products to expand as much as possible the iPhone platform. This is no longer just one device, it is a platform in the same sense that Mac is a platform

[winterspan]

You may very well be right. However, data usage on iPhones much, much higher than on other phones so might be a way to nickel/dime consumers (another $5 for 3G) and not tick off people in the hinterlands who don't have access to 3G, but otherwise would pay same amount as the "city folks."

Besides the fact that carriers are not and have not ever made that distinction, I think this would be too complicated for a number of reasons.

1) Managing the functionality - I'm not an telecom engineer so I don't know, but I would guess that they wouldn't be able to enable conditional access to UMTS different than EDGE. Basically, how would they block you from connecting to a UMTS tower if you have a 3G phone while at the same time letting you connect to the GSM/EDGE tower. That seems way too complicated and expensive.

2) AT&T's 3G/UMTS network is constantly being built out, so people who have EDGE now will eventually get 3G. Also, people are moving all the time, switching jobs, etc. This all leads to people constantly switching their data plan depending on if they get 3G coverage or not, which would be a major billing headache.

3) Most importantly of all, Apple wouldn't allow this to happen as it would be WAY too confusing for joe six-pack to figure out. Remember, they want the utmost simplicity for the iPhone -- they already reduce the plans and options to 3 or 4 simple choices to make things easier. Why on earth would they want to complicate it so much.


Furthermore, Steve will never port touchOS to x86 devices because HE DOESN'T WANT THEM TO RUN WINDOWS. That's why Apple will, in fact use the newly acquired chip technology soon, if not immediately.

I wouldn't say that, depending on what happens to Intel's ATOM and/or other x86 processors from the like of VIA, etc. They may have a strategic advantage in the future over using ARM's future processors. For now, the technology just isn't there yet, and it has to be seen whether there will be an intrinsic advantage as they have already done all the difficult work porting OSX to ARM. Also, I *highly doubt* they ever do anything with the POWER architecture again.. remember, they did not buy PA SEMI for their products or POWER technology.

Would love it if this rumor came true but it doesn't jibe with the AT&T employee vacation blackout June 15-July15. Perhaps announcements vs. availability is the key here.

I think you have the key here. Everyone keeps saying that all the evidence points to June -- but that may be a RELEASE/SHIPPING in June, and an announcement much sooner. No way would they sit here for another 4+ weeks saying "we have no information when the iPhone will be available".
As you mentioned, that theory also fits the AT&T vacation blackout. They need to train their people and increase store workers for the RELEASE in the June AFTER the announcement is made this week or next.


I have written this post last February: http://forums.macrumors.com/showpost.php?p=4922207&postcount=21
if we cannot have psychical keyboard on it .. allow to connect a bluetooth one. still hoping and still waiting ;-)
Yanke

I don't doubt at some point Apple will have a psychical keyboard/input device for a future iPhone, but I just don't think it will be ready for iPhone 3G :D:D:D

[jnc]

While I agree that iPod Tuch (have one myself) and iPhone) Want one) should still be in the market (the touch has bigger storage for teh same price and you're not tied up to AT&T). Eventually I do see a future in which the ipod touch might disappear.

Apple has stated that they are not married to any single model for selling the iphone. And based on teh announcements, Italy and Australia seem to have multiple carriers. So exclusivity is no longer the norm. France will have unlocked phones later this month (by law the carrier has to offer unlocked phones up to 6 months after introduction, ad the iphone was introduced in November in France). So unlocked phones will also be available. And if teh rumors are true, we will see AT&T subsidizing this next phone for up to $200 usd.

ISo, do see in the future (when the iphone nano or mini appears) and Apple gets closer to being the market elader, that you might see Apple dropping the touch in order not to dilute the brand. Now, this would be most likely 3-4 years down the line. Right now Apple needs both products to expand as much as possible the iPhone platform. This is no longer just one device, it is a platform in the same sense that Mac is a platform

Oh, if they go ahead and drop exclusive carriers worldwide there'd definitely be grounds to drop the iPod touch. A 3.5G, 32GB any-network iPhone is my dream :D

[winterspan]

Anyway, it doesn't "make sense" to get rid of the iPod touch, at ALL while iPhones remain tied to a carrier, neither for Apple nor the consumer. iPod touch is almost everything the iPhone is without the call plan, which suits people happy with their current phone, and suits Apple because all money goes to Apple.

While I agree that iPod Tuch (have one myself) and iPhone) Want one) should still be in the market (the touch has bigger storage for teh same price and you're not tied up to AT&T). Eventually I do see a future in which the ipod touch might disappear. .... exclusivity is no longer the norm. ...... unlocked phones will also be available. And if teh rumors are true, we will see AT&T subsidizing this next phone for up to $200 usd.

ISo, do see in the future (when the iphone nano or mini appears) and Apple gets closer to being the market elader, that you might see Apple dropping the touch in order not to dilute the brand. Now, this would be most likely 3-4 years down the line. Right now Apple needs both products to expand as much as possible the iPhone platform. This is no longer just one device, it is a platform in the same sense that Mac is a platform

Oh, if they go ahead and drop exclusive carriers worldwide there'd definitely be grounds to drop the iPod touch. A 3.5G, 32GB any-network iPhone is my dream :D


Trust me, I understand the appeal of the iPod Touch as I own one. Something got left out when people starting replying to my post.. I said Apple might drop the iPod touch because of the similarity to the iPhone which isn't an ideal situation. HOWEVER, I said they would NOT get rid of it all together, but REPLACE it with this new possible mini-tablet device. Basically, it would be iPod touch version 2.0 --- the device mentioned in the rumors about a larger "1.5x the size of the iPod Touch" internet tablet ALA the Nokia N800. I guess the main problem is that when rumors say "tablet" device, we don't know if they are talking about a "pocket tablet" like the Nokia models with a 4-5" screen or a 12-14"+ screen laptop replacement. If it is the later, then they wouldn't be replacing the iPod touch obviously.


The prediction of the 4G iPhone and the new device might be correct. but the timing doesn't make sense.
Nope, the time sure doesn't make sense. AT&T won't have a 700mhz 4G/LTE network up and running until 2011-2012... :D

[winterspan]

Depends on where you are. In areas of low population density there's often spotty or non-existent coverage. The entire area where my wife's parents live is entirely unserviced by anybody. Her grandma's house has one bar of the lowest quality GSM service.

Where exactly do your wife's parents live, and what is the population? distance to nearest Metro area of 100,000+?

[viniciusc]

It's just a thought but I guess Steve Jobs doesn't like the idea of a portable device that doesn't fit in a pocket (except for notebooks, of course). Nevertheless, iPhone Applications don't work like desktop apps, they have fixed resolution, how would they work in a bigger device? That is the question.

[jnc]

Something got left out when people starting replying to my post.. I said Apple might drop the iPod touch because of the similarity to the iPhone which isn't an ideal situation. HOWEVER, I said they would NOT get rid of it all together, but REPLACE it with this new possible mini-tablet device. Basically, it would be iPod touch version 2.0 -

Oh, no I don't buy this whole "new tablet" thing at all. It just seems like a rumour that won't die to me.

[btnnaz]

Ok everyone thinks 3g iphone has to have a press event. What about that day when they lowered the price on the iphone came out with ipod touch came out with new ipod nanos and replacing the current ipod videos. THERE WAS NEVER A PRESS EVENT FOR ANY OF THESE PRODUCTS. So why does everyone think apple has to have one for 3g iphone

[bc008]

Ok everyone thinks 3g iphone has to have a press event. What about that day when they lowered the price on the iphone came out with ipod touch came out with new ipod nanos and replacing the current ipod videos. THERE WAS NEVER A PRESS EVENT FOR ANY OF THESE PRODUCTS. So why does everyone think apple has to have one for 3g iphone

all bolded items had an event.

[woodekm]

Better get some product out before people spend their tax stimulation checks!


Personally, Im waiting for WWDC. I've been burned too many times "jumping" on a new product only to have a better one come out later.

Cant wait, regardless of whats going on.

[btnnaz]

all bolded items had an event.

I dont think they did. Remember there were leaked pictures of ipod nano a couple weeks before it came out. People would have known about the ipod touch before it came out but everyone was surprised

[bc008]

i just hope they have some sort of upgrade program for current iphone owners.

i want to keep my contract, ATT is decent in my area, but would like to have the new iphone as i already need more space, and an update makes it that more tempting

I dont think they did. Remember there were leaked pictures of ipod nano a couple weeks before it came out. People would have known about the ipod touch before it came out but everyone was surprised


http://gizmodo.com/gadgets/breaking/apple-special-event-goes-down-september-5-294415.php

[LeviG]

I dont think they did. Remember there were leaked pictures of ipod nano a couple weeks before it came out. People would have known about the ipod touch before it came out but everyone was surprised
there was a press conferance for the ipods, I remember quite clearly the pictures posted here and on other sites. :cool:

[btnnaz]

Oh sorry my bad i didnt think they did:D

[bc008]

Oh sorry my bad i didnt think they did:D

its all good :) lets hope you are right though, i dont want to wait much longer!! ;)

[metfan89]

has anyone heard of the possible release of the Macbook nano? could be it? what you guys think?:apple:

[jnc]

has anyone heard of the possible release of the Macbook nano? could be it? what you guys think?:apple:

MacBook nano? Where do people get this stuff? Did you miss the Air's launch?

[maddogeco]

I think I cracked it they’re bringing out a thing that when you think it does stuff for u but its still only going to have 1 USB port. its so obvious :D:D

[metfan89]

MacBook nano? Where do people get this stuff? Did you miss the Air's launch?

different thing mate, it's a palm sized device(not quite palm, but in the order approaching that title) running a somewhat full version of OSX. there was an article(with picture) in a magazine i read.

[Devil's Refugee]

Interesting theory which adds to the weight that a 3G device may turn up before WWDC and that slot is taken by a new device......handheld gaming platform ?

http://www.reghardware.co.uk/2008/05/12/apple_games_handheld/page2.html

[tacofreak]

stupid,why would apple do this? Apple would certainly not make another machine just focused on games and if it was we would hear more about it every where.

[jnc]

different thing mate, it's a palm sized device(not quite palm, but in the order approaching that title) running a somewhat full version of OSX. there was an article(with picture) in a magazine i read.

Palm sized device, running OSX... isn't that the iPhone? Between that and the Air I see no need at all for yet another product. The whole iTablet/ MacBook Nano angle just stinks of fanboy zeal to me.

I can't believe there's such hype for a product while everyone is so quick to beat down on the MBA and iPhone for being underpowered / underfeatured and expensive in comparison to competitors' offerings. Some 7 inch iPod touch is not going to shift that perspective.

But hey, I don't run a multi-billion dollar business - I'll go ahead and eat my words if such a device ever comes out.

[JAQ]

I would say the current stock level online at the Apple Store speaks volumes. Does anyone actually thinking Apple would sit for an entire month with no units to sell? It's happened before. In 2004 when Apple switched the iMac from iLamp G4 to iFrame G5, there was a long gap between when the G4s ran out and when the G5s were released. If you needed to buy a Mac that summer, you had your choice of a 'Book, a PowerMac, or an eMac. I'd hope Apple learned from that snafu to better manage production and inventory levels, but it's not without precedent.

[JAQ]

The post speaking of AT&T employees being restricted from taking a vacation from the 15th of June to the 15th of July. I worked for AT&T in a retail store last year with the release of the iPhone and still speak with many people who even though were not allowed to speak of the email by law they still confided in me that it was due to a product to be launched. Why would it have to be for a product launch this time? Why not for the launch of a new pricing/service plan: a price subsidy for the iPhone with an AT&T contract (as rumored)?

Many of y'all are blowing the 3G issue out of proportion. Yeah, it'll be nice to have that capability, but 3G service isn't even available in many areas. It's a geek upgrade, not the sort of thing Apple or AT&T is going to do a publicity blitz for.

Here's my tea-leaf-reading theory: 3G-capable iPhones will be showing up in stores soonish, with the current (or minor rev) software. Maybe with the 3G capability disabled, to be sneaky. Then in June after WWDC, AT&T will start selling discounted iPhones, and Apple will continue selling them at current prices... unlocked from AT&T. At the same time, they release the 2.0 software (enabling the 3G) as a free update to current owners, and of course the App Store. That combo would be worthy of some major media attention, and would get people stampeding into both the quiet little AT&T store and the already busy Apple store in malls across America.

If there's a tablet or some other not-an-iPhone product to be announced, that's just One More Thing...

[MacinDoc]

It's happened before. In 2004 when Apple switched the iMac from iLamp G4 to iFrame G5, there was a long gap between when the G4s ran out and when the G5s were released. If you needed to buy a Mac that summer, you had your choice of a 'Book, a PowerMac, or an eMac. I'd hope Apple learned from that snafu to better manage production and inventory levels, but it's not without precedent.
The difference was that there were still iBooks, eMacs and Power Macs to buy back then, but there is currently no available Apple alternative to the iPhone. Remember, Apple wants to rapidly increase its footprint in this market, and selling no phones for a month would be a huge blow to this goal, as frustrated consumers lock into long-term plans with other devices and carriers.

And as to the original topic, I strongly doubt that Apple will introduce another hand-held device at WWDC. Maybe changes to the iPhone and Touch, but not a completely new class of device. As I posted in another thread, I can see people on these forums setting themselves up for big disappointments at WWDC, simply since the expectations are way too high to be realistic.

[metfan89]

http://http://www.flickr.com/photos/dadaev/2196363000/sizes/o/
should have done this beforehand i guess but this is what i was referring to, the Macbook Nano. NOT Macbook Air. could just be load, but you know, whatever.

[cmcbridejr]

http://http://www.flickr.com/photos/dadaev/2196363000/sizes/o/
should have done this beforehand i guess but this is what i was referring to, the Macbook Nano. NOT Macbook Air. could just be load, but you know, whatever.

I could not get that link to work.

[James17]

I could not get that link to work.

It's because there was two "http"'s at the start of the link. Here,

http://www.flickr.com/photos/dadaev/2196363000/sizes/o/

[joeshell383]

I could not get that link to work.

Remove the first "http://"

[joeshell383]

http://http://www.flickr.com/photos/dadaev/2196363000/sizes/o/
should have done this beforehand i guess but this is what i was referring to, the Macbook Nano. NOT Macbook Air. could just be load, but you know, whatever.

I know it's just a mock up created before the MB Air was released, but if Apple didn't include an optical drive in the Air, there is no way they would include one in a device like that.

[jnc]

Ugh, Stuff Magazine. Biggest Apple fanboys the side of the Atlantic. Please disregard anything classed as news from those guys. They're more clueless than most of us.

What the hell was remotely "MacBook" about that mockup, for instance? $%£$% pipedreamers.

[sunfast]

http://www.flickr.com/photos/dadaev/2196363000/sizes/o/
should have done this beforehand i guess but this is what i was referring to, the Macbook Nano. NOT Macbook Air. could just be load, but you know, whatever.

It certainly wouldn't have an optical drive if it was true.

However, I fail to see what the value in such a device is for it to sell well. Sure, there'll be a couple of people who would find it fits some niche need perfectly but enough to sell in big numbers?

[jnc]

It certainly wouldn't have an optical drive if it was true.

However, I fail to see what the value in such a device is for it to sell well. Sure, there'll be a couple of people who would find it fits some niche need perfectly but enough to sell in big numbers?

Exactly. A phone without tactile feedback and a laptop without an optical drive are loopy enough, but if a product like this came out the mass market would just scratch its head. Maybe half of MacRumors will buy it, but that's not really enough...

[headfuzz]

Maybe half of MacRumors will buy it, but that's not really enough...

Yah, but the real fanboys would buy 2 :p

[timimbo85]

The tablet would be really sweet. It makes sense, CNN already has the big screen multi touch technology, and a handful of other companies have the tablets. It's Apples turn. I think they release the 3g early and introduce the tab and discuss the new features of the iphone at the WWDC. Just my guess.

It certainly wouldn't have an optical drive if it was true.

However, I fail to see what the value in such a device is for it to sell well. Sure, there'll be a couple of people who would find it fits some niche need perfectly but enough to sell in big numbers?


This statement is far from true, many people can benefit from the tablet and I think it would sell fine. It would go to hospitals, schools, union etc. Its small, fast and easy to access data and keep track on information.

[coachaaron]

i'd be an anxious, first day buyer for a mac tablet device. i'm an internet junky, facebook addict and movie/music lover. i don't like keeping my cell phone on me, so i don't care about the iphone or it's tiny screen to watch videos. this would be the perfect device for me, and i'd get alot of use out of it.

i just bought a wii last week for mario kart, and i don't really like it. now it's going the ebay route, so along with the government's stimulus check and my wii sell hopefully i'll have the cash for this device... if it's real that is.

i probably wouldn't care at all if it ended up being a gaming device though. i don't want to be the grown man in the crowd feverishly playing a game while cursing it out.

[louden]

One of m7 scenarios is to be able to use a device that's big enough to comfortably read Safari Books Online with a quick response time. A device like the one pictured in the flicker photo with 3G access would do the trick...

[cthomet]

lots of talk of the iphone obviously, and some speculation about the possibility of a tablet which i personally dont see as plausible. what about macbook and macbook pro revisions? was there not speculation about a june update a while back? what are you thinking in terms of that "june update" now that its getting closer?

[dynamite]

iPhone

[Tallest Skil]

iPhone

Nope. Hideous.

[jnc]

iPhone

how lazy, not even a front-mounted camera there...

[MikeELL]

The prediction of the 4G iPhone and the new device might be correct. but the timing doesn't make sense.

We are too close to WWDC not to wait for that event to release the IPhone 2nd Gen.

The Mac Pros were updated about a week before MWSF08. Different product sure, but I don't think your point stands.

[btnnaz]

go to apple store website. Click iphone then click. Window->Activity.

Notice lots of image files and others double click them and they will open.

Scroll Down some more

There is one that says this: http://a248.e.akamai.net/7/248/2041/1424/store.apple.com/Catalog/US/Images/violator_new_iphone.gif

But when u double click it it comes up a blank image. Strange- "New iPhone"

[winterspan]

go to apple store website. Click iphone then click. Window->Activity.

Notice lots of image files and others double click them and they will open.

Scroll Down some more

There is one that says this: http://a248.e.akamai.net/7/248/2041/1424/store.apple.com/Catalog/US/Images/violator_new_iphone.gif

But when u double click it it comes up a blank image. Strange- "New iPhone"


check out the HTML --- I cleaned it up a bit and took out some unimportant tags so you can see it better. If you do a "select all" on the page, you can see a blank square image that gets highlighted up above the "16GB" picture. That is the one with "new iphone" in it's name. What do you guys think the "violator" word refers to? I haven't been able to find it anywhere else in the code on the apple store?

<div class="promo_specs">
<div class="promo_option">
<h3><img src="http://a248.e.akamai.net/7/248/2041/1424/store.apple.com/Catalog/US/Images/iphone_title_8gb.gif"></h3>
<p class="availability">Ships: Currently Unavailable</p>
<p class="price">$399.00</p>
<div class="prod_btns"></div>
</div>

<div class="promo_option">
<div id="violator_new"><img src="http://a248.e.akamai.net/7/248/2041/1424/store.apple.com/Catalog/US/Images/violator_new_iphone.gif"/></div>
<h3><img src="http://a248.e.akamai.net/7/248/2041/1424/store.apple.com/Catalog/US/Images/iphone_title_16gb.gif" width="44" alt="Image" height="14" /></h3>
<p class="availability">Ships: Currently Unavailable</p>
<p class="price">$499.00</p>
<div class="prod_btns"></div>
</div>

</div>

[winterspan]

Why would it have to be for a product launch this time? Why not for the launch of a new pricing/service plan: a price subsidy for the iPhone with an AT&T contract (as rumored)?

Many of y'all are blowing the 3G issue out of proportion. Yeah, it'll be nice to have that capability, but 3G service isn't even available in many areas. It's a geek upgrade, not the sort of thing Apple or AT&T is going to do a publicity blitz for.

Here's my tea-leaf-reading theory: 3G-capable iPhones will be showing up in stores soonish, with the current (or minor rev) software. Maybe with the 3G capability disabled, to be sneaky. Then in June after WWDC, AT&T will start selling discounted iPhones, and Apple will continue selling them at current prices... unlocked from AT&T. At the same time, they release the 2.0 software (enabling the 3G) as a free update to current owners, and of course the App Store. That combo would be worthy of some major media attention, and would get people stampeding into both the quiet little AT&T store and the already busy Apple store in malls across America.

If there's a tablet or some other not-an-iPhone product to be announced, that's just One More Thing...

1) The iPhone 3G WILL be a big deal. A majority of the population will have 3G access by the end of the year, if not already. But beyond that, it's not just about 3G, it's about a second version of the iPhone. In addition to 3G, most people expect a revised design, a GPS chip, a better camera, possibly a secondary video conferencing camera on the front, maybe a camera flash, and who knows what else. Also, the idea of an AT&T subsidy to offset some of the cost would be a big deal if true.

2) It's extremely doubtful that Apple would launch a new iPhone without 3G enabled. First of all, they would definitely get bad press on launch day, and a quick tear-down would reveal the baseband chip in use and people would soon see that it is 3G capable and just not enabled. I don't see any version of this concept working out.

[marcg007]

The tablet would be really sweet. It makes sense, CNN already has the big screen multi touch technology, and a handful of other companies have the tablets. It's Apples turn. I think they release the 3g early and introduce the tab and discuss the new features of the iphone at the WWDC. Just my guess.




This statement is far from true, many people can benefit from the tablet and I think it would sell fine. It would go to hospitals, schools, union etc. Its small, fast and easy to access data and keep track on information.

even just something say, twice the size of the iPhone/iPod Touch as long as I could connect a bluetooth keyboard to it to take notes at school, I would buy it in a heartbeat. And please don't tell me I should just get an MBA. The fact that it is lighter than my G4 12inch PB is offset by the fact that would take up more space in my backpack. I need something small and light that I can take to school that won't put a huge burden on my back. Also, the MBA doesn't have enough RAM capacity for me to even consider it. I realize that with some kind of iPod Touch XL, I would not get as much either but my expectations would be different for something like that than they are for a laptop.

[jnc]

even just something say, twice the size of the iPhone/iPod Touch as long as I could connect a bluetooth keyboard to it to take notes at school, I would buy it in a heartbeat. And please don't tell me I should just get an MBA. The fact that it is lighter than my G4 12inch PB is offset by the fact that would take up more space in my backpack. I need something small and light that I can take to school that won't put a huge burden on my back. Also, the MBA doesn't have enough RAM capacity for me to even consider it. I realize that with some kind of iPod Touch XL, I would not get as much either but my expectations would be different for something like that than they are for a laptop.

You should just get an MBA.

[deputylove8]

I believe they MAY be releasing a new product to combat the sporadic introduction of new devices into the world of mobile computing.

Recently, HP just released their new HP 2133. Kinda affordable as well.

http://www.hardwarezone.com/articles/view.php?cid=14&id=2527

Hmm.. maybe the tablet is to combat these UMPCs???Who knows:apple:

[deputylove8]

Yo dudes and dudettes, check this out....A website that is selling
tablet version of the macbook:eek:

http://eshop.macsales.com/Customized_Pages/modbook/modbook_info_p1.html

[rhett7660]

Interesting.

[deputylove8]

Here is the link where u can place your order.

Kinda expensive. 2.4K!

http://eshop.macsales.com/shop/modbook

[theprizefight]

I was talking with an industry insider who claims to have actually seen the new iphone first hand. He claims it will be announced on June 9 (WWDC) and released about a week later (definitely not on the 9th or 10th). I know this isnt much new info but I figured id chime in to quell some of the rumors of a May release

[deputylove8]

I was talking with an industry insider who claims to have actually seen the new iphone first hand. He claims it will be announced on June 9 (WWDC) and released about a week later (definitely not on the 9th or 10th). I know this isnt much new info but I figured id chime in to quell some of the rumors of a May release

Did he say anything of a possible tablet ....?:D:D:D:D:D

[deputylove8]

:rolleyes::pNew macbook design?? Or new Mac UMPC this june??

The speculations nowadays are endless...:p:p

[Martin C]

Yo dudes and dudettes, check this out....A website that is selling
tablet version of the macbook:eek:

http://eshop.macsales.com/Customized_Pages/modbook/modbook_info_p1.html
Old, old news.

[Tallest Skil]

...new Mac UMPC this june??

It's called the MacBook Air. That's all that you're getting.

[btnnaz]

Check this out this is a chat i had with an online apple store agent

Hi, my name is Judy. Welcome to Apple!

How may I help you today?

Hi I have been looking to buy an iphone but the past 6 days they have been
sold out is something wrong?

We do not have any currently available and do not have information on when new ones will become available.

new ones?

She Never Responded after that

[X district X]

wow - any chance you could post up some other really uninteresting chats you have had with people??

like:

(looking at wall) hi i'm wondering if you have any info on the forthcoming iphone release....???


wall: never responded...


Check this out this is a chat i had with an online apple store agent

Hi, my name is Judy. Welcome to Apple!

How may I help you today?

Hi I have been looking to buy an iphone but the past 6 days they have been
sold out is something wrong?

We do not have any currently available and do not have information on when new ones will become available.

new ones?

She Never Responded after that

[marcg007]

You should just get an MBA.

hahaha that's funny... not.:)

[dc73pd]

a reliable source of mine has told me that AT&T will NOT be launching the 3g iPhone at the WWDC. He said that instead they will be launching a new breakthrough device similar to the iPhone. The mini tablet maybe? I want the 3G iPhone not something bigger and harder to carry around... Come on Apple!!!!

[marcg007]

I believe they MAY be releasing a new product to combat the sporadic introduction of new devices into the world of mobile computing.

Recently, HP just released their new HP 2133. Kinda affordable as well.

http://www.hardwarezone.com/articles/view.php?cid=14&id=2527

Hmm.. maybe the tablet is to combat these UMPCs???Who knows:apple:

If there were a mac laptop in that form factor around that price, I would buy it in a second. Of course it would need to have a hight maximum RAM level than that...

[jnc]

hahaha that's funny... not.:)

I wasn't really going for funny, it just makes sense to go for the tangible product that already meets your requirements (at the cost of maybe a new 1" wider backpack :rolleyes:) than hold out for a fantasy device.

[marcg007]

I wasn't really going for funny, it just makes sense to go for the tangible product that already meets your requirements (at the cost of maybe a new 1" wider backpack :rolleyes:) than hold out for a fantasy device.
True that it is a tangible product but false that it meets my requirements. I want to be able to install an absolute minimum of 3GBs of RAM and I want something that fits in a smaller footprint. Basically, I would like something with the footprint of my 12inch powerbook or smaller, and the weight of the MBA. I know such things exist except that I also want it to run the Mac OS.:D

[Tallest Skil]

...a reliable source of mine...

Your father's brother's cousin's sister's former roommate, right?

[JAQ]

Check this out this is a chat i had with an online apple store agent

Hi, my name is Judy. Welcome to Apple!

How may I help you today?

Hi I have been looking to buy an iphone but the past 6 days they have been
sold out is something wrong?

We do not have any currently available and do not have information on when new ones will become available.

new ones?

She Never Responded after thatThat's simply standard procedure for Apple sales/retail employees. They never comment on future availability because they have no information about future availability... whether "new ones" means "new model" or simply "new units of the same old model". If an Apple employee ever hints to you that he knows something... it's because he read it on MacRumors.

[dc73pd]

No a very well placed source at AT&T... lets say executive type....

[iphonesarecool]

I can't wait to see what they announce WWDC. Only 21 days (3 weeks) untill it.

[saminsocks]

Check this out this is a chat i had with an online apple store agent

Hi, my name is Judy. Welcome to Apple!

How may I help you today?

Hi I have been looking to buy an iphone but the past 6 days they have been
sold out is something wrong?

We do not have any currently available and do not have information on when new ones will become available.

new ones?

She Never Responded after that

I'm sure they're trained to spot people who are fishing for information on new products.

[jimleszczynski]

So glad I waited... I knew first shot at iPhone was going to be "near-perfect"... But the 2nd. Now thats going to be exciting. Hope it comes in May. Goodbye Verizon, hello Cingular.


:apple:

[jnc]

So glad I waited... I knew first shot at iPhone was going to be "near-perfect"... But the 2nd. Now thats going to be exciting. Hope it comes in May. Goodbye Verizon, hello Cingular.


:apple:

Uhh, there's not much of May left! I'll expect a showing at WWDC, with a release shortly thereafter. But who knows.

[Kurt]

If Apple doesn't release the new one tomorrow, I doubt they will do it any closer to WWDC. I would guess that the next generation are being built right now. That is why Apple stopped selling the old one; those assembly lines are ramping up production of the new model. With the rollout in so many countries that have been announced recently, they will need a lot of phones to fill the channel.

My 2 year old cell phone died when I dropped it on May 4 and I refuse to buy a new one until the new iPhones come out.