Tablet Mac Coming in Fall 2008?

[MacRumors]

http://www.macrumors.com/images/macrumorsthreadlogo.gif (http://www.macrumors.com)

Jason O'Grady revives rumors (http://blogs.zdnet.com/Apple/?p=1786) of a tablet Mac in his 'The Apple Core' blog (http://blogs.zdnet.com/Apple/) today with claims that the long-rumored Mac Tablet would finally be arriving later this year.

Specifically, he believes that Apple will announce a 12" or 13" tablet "in the fall" of this year. The Mac Tablet will reportedly run full Mac OS X, a slot loading Superdrive, 'iPhone-type' GPS chip and an Intel Core Duo processor.

O'Grady believes September or October as the most likely months for the launch of the device and claims that his source "has been reliable in the past". While this rumor may overlap (http://www.macrumors.com/2007/09/26/the-return-of-the-newton-apple-pda/) with earlier rumors of an Apple PDA, they appear to detail different features. The earlier PDA rumors suggested more of a larger iPhone rather than a tablet-ized Mac as O'Grady suggests.

http://images.macrumors.com/article/2008/05/23/162751-tablet_400.jpg

Images from an Apple Patent (http://www.macrumors.com/2005/05/10/apple-tablet-computer-design-patent/) from 2005
Rumors of a tablet Mac always spark a debate about practicality of the tablet form factor. Regardless, it's clear that Apple has been working on a tablet Mac over the years with numerous patents depicting such a device.

Article Link (http://www.macrumors.com/2008/05/23/tablet-mac-coming-in-fall-2008/)

[mwxiao]

I don't think so.

Apple is focusing on iPhone. I don't think they have more energy on Mac.

[UCLA-Bruin]

no service contract required means development independent of cell phone providers. also it fits into a unique market. you would buy this thing and still need an iphone and laptop and desktop. why not? priced at $799.

[notjustjay]

Hmm...

http://blogs.oreilly.com/digitalmedia/headphone-pod-vs-padd.jpg

Bring it on! :D

[David G.]

Specifically, he believes that Apple will announce a 12" or 13" tablet "in the fall" of this year. The Mac Tablet will reportedly run full Mac OS X, a slot loading Superdrive, 'iPhone-type' GPS chip and an Intel Core Duo processor.

Why no Core 2 Duo processor?

[cRuNcHiE]

I'd still prefer a 12" eee pc style mac.

[trip1ex]

Interesting, but I would have to doubt it.

I just don't see the market there for one.

And I can't imagine why I would need one.

Plus Apple seems to have their hands full with the new iPhone and everything else.

Of course if they make it a bigger cousin of the iPhone then maybe it's doable.

I definitely don't see a reason to put a super drive in it. If they aren't putting a super drive in the MB Air then why would they in a tablet?

[SirOmega]

I just want bluetooth so I can tether to an iPhone for internet access out in the field. It'd be great to have one out doing data collection.

[SodiumBenzoate]

I'm not a big fan of tablet PCs - I don't have any use for them - but it is an up-and-coming market, so I wouldn't be surprised if Apple comes out with one in the speculated timeframe.

[orbital]

Why do illustrations for patents have to looks so bad?

[SodiumBenzoate]

Why do illustrations for patents have to looks so bad?

They're not meant for marketing, they're meant to outline an idea in as clear a way as possible.

[Nappa]

http://www.macrumors.com/2008/05/23/3g-iphone-other-new-device-in-route-to-us/

Does anyone else see a possible connection here

[BornAgainMac]

I wish the illustration had a black turtle neck sweater on the person.

[SodiumBenzoate]

http://www.macrumors.com/2008/05/23/3g-iphone-other-new-device-in-route-to-us/

Does anyone else see a possible connection here

I don't think so, the timing isn't right at all

[MrT8064]

If the air doesnt have a CD drive, NO WAY this will...

[husJAF]

Sounds cool but I don't see why they would put a superdrive into a tablet if they didn't have one for the MBA...

Wonder what gestures they'll integrate into OSX, can't wait :D

[bbydon]

the ZDnet article was still quoting that german intel executive "Germany CEO Hannes Schwaderer spilled the beans that an “iPhone” that will be using Intel’s new Atom processor after which he was quickly corrected by Apple. Where there’s smoke, there’s fire indeed."

But i thought that was debunked and that he never even mentioned apple using Atom

[neven]

Why do illustrations for patents have to looks so bad?

Because you don't want to reveal too much of the actual design and give your competition a heads up. It's not marketing - it's disclosure you have to begrudgingly make. You want to make your product look as unappealing as possible - hence the ugly anatomy of people and the early 1980s look of the whole thing.

Also, a tablet with a SuperDrive? They just introduced the Air, a laptop with no optical drive, but they'd put one in a tablet Mac?

[hhaeschen]

no service contract required means development independent of cell phone providers. also it fits into a unique market. you would buy this thing and still need an iphone and laptop and desktop. why not? priced at $799.

Nobody needs a laptop and a tablet and a desktop. It's more like either or.

[iSee]

Does Jason O'Grady have a good record on rumors? His source "has been reliable in the past", after all...

[neven]

the ZDnet article was still quoting that german intel executive "Germany CEO Hannes Schwaderer spilled the beans that an “iPhone” that will be using Intel’s new Atom processor after which he was quickly corrected by Apple. Where there’s smoke, there’s fire indeed."

But i thought that was debunked and that he never even mentioned apple using Atom

He mentioned it as a "possible use". He might have said that because he was aware of a pending deal, but that's unlikely. He just used a bad example, and I'm sure he heard from both Intel and Apple about it.

[SodiumBenzoate]

Also, a tablet with a SuperDrive? They just introduced the Air, a laptop with no optical drive, but they'd put one in a tablet Mac?

I wouldn't rule it out, but you're right, it doesn't really fit. Tablets are almost universally low-power thin-and-lights, so why would Apple go in a different direction with this than the MBA?

[dante@sisna.com]

Hmm...

http://blogs.oreilly.com/digitalmedia/headphone-pod-vs-padd.jpg

Bring it on! :D

Nice, Star Trek Overlay. I hear yah.

I think the Tablet Mac is a a very real possibility.

I expect it will do great integrative things with other apple devices from iTV to Mac Pros.

[steadivision]

Can you swallow it?

[arn]

Does Jason O'Grady have a good record on rumors? His source "has been reliable in the past", after all...

He ran/runs PowerPage.org, and has had both ups and downs regarding rumors. He was targeted in Apple's Asteroid lawsuit, but also the source of the Plasma TV rumor which wasn't true.

In the end, I trust him that if he says he has a reliable source, I believe him. (vs some random blog who says the same, I would not necessarily believe it)

arn

[granex]

I'd like to see Apple get back to (or continue developing) the original "pod" idea of distributed personal digital equipment. Imagine this tablet being aware and seamlessly integrated with the other network appliances available around you -- your computers, iphone, AppleTV, ipod, Time Capsule. You can use it as a remote while watching TV, to control your AirTunes, to get email. Away from home you use it to watch movies on the plane, take notes, etc. The whole point is to "whip it out and go" (just like the iPhone) as opposed to having to open up a laptop and find a surface to operate it on (try using a laptop with one hand while standing). This approach has always stood in contrast to Microsoft's MediaCenter approach to the problem.

Also, if Apple does it correctly, then having one of these purchased by every doctor and hospital worker in the country would not be a bad market. My doctor currently brings a clunky laptop into the exam room. Even my dental hygienist uses a computer to record the condition of my teeth and schedule the next appointment. The market here is huge (although very competitive).

[tgildred]

I don't think so.

Apple is focusing on iPhone. I don't think they have more energy on Mac.

haha, right... why make more money when you can continue making some money?

[MacFly123]

Nobody needs a laptop and a tablet and a desktop. It's more like either or.

Haha, just like we never needed more than one TV or computer??? :rolleyes:

If it will do home automation and control an Apple Centered Media Center/Home Theatre then you can count on me buying a few of them for my house, and thats while still owning an Apple desktop, laptop, and iPhone!

[tgildred]

I wish the illustration had a black turtle neck sweater on the person.

Awesome. They should do that in all their patent drawings. Throw in some bad drawings of Steve Jobs using the devices...

[Umbongo]

Why no Core 2 Duo processor?

I wouldn't read anything in to the author not using Core 2.

[twoodcc]

can't wait to see what happens at WWDC. we'll see if that PDA thing really comes out.

[theheadguy]

What does O'Grady's track record consist of when it comes to rumors?

[Xfujinon]

This would be huge in the healthcare market. Absolutely huge.

I'm planning on using an iPod touch during my rotations for medical school. Once the SDK comes out, all sorts of handy medical applications will replace those clunky paperbacks that interns and residents carry around.

It will be nothing less than huge. Trust me.

[punkybadhip]

If true, then that sucks. I plan on selling my iMac next month (since its when I believe the Ipod touch/pda to be announced)

I'm thinking this is not true. First, a tablet does not need full Mac OSX, or even a superdrive. Furthermore, what would be the point of the Macbook Air?

I find the Mac OSX to be mostly superficial junk, as the only thing I need and most other urban nomads need is email, a web-browser, and some basic everyday applications, along with a music/video player.

All I use my iMac for is to email my friends in Japan, and import some CD's and clothing. Don't need a computer for that!

The iPhone/pod OS is perfect, especially for multinational use. All it needs is some updating to copy/paste, ect. Along with the ability to not need a computer to activate it, ect. An independant product!!

However I guess the youtube/myspace/porn addicts provide more income. I check this website regularly for the last few months, waiting... every new "rumour" makes it looks like I will be disappointed. What else is there? A Sony Mylo or whatever? god damn it.

[dukishdary]

this will come but not this year. earliest macworld 2009

[macFanDave]

I wish the illustration had a black turtle neck sweater on the person.

It was that fact that made me thing the patent was a fake!

Isn't an "iPhone-type" GPS chip like a iPod Shuffle LCD screen?

[tgildred]

Because you don't want to reveal too much of the actual design and give your competition a heads up. It's not marketing - it's disclosure you have to begrudgingly make. You want to make your product look as unappealing as possible - hence the ugly anatomy of people and the early 1980s look of the whole thing.

That's actually a good point. I don't know the whole iPhone development timeline, but might that 2005 patent be an iPhone related patent with a misleading drawing of a tablet computer? (which, in small sense, the iPhone is). I know the patent drawing is shown here in the context of this rumor for illustration only, but still I wonder.

[azdude]

I don't doubt that Apple has something like this planned, but I don't particularly believe this rumor in particular:

Something like this will *NOT* have a SuperDrive. Anyone who thinks Apple developed Remote Disc and an external USB SuperDrive solely for the MacBook Air is a bozo.

Remote Disc gives them the freedom to make devices like this (full Mac OS X tablet) without the need for a SuperDrive. Optical drives are terribly humongous to work into a design of something you're trying to keep elegant, portable, and ergonomic.

[cnote678]

If Apple makes a tablet that costs about as much as a MacBook(maybe a bit more?) I'd buy it. Just because it would be freaking sweet.

[mac jones]

Consulting Future man (who is a friend of mine)

He says there's no need for a tablet this large

He sees a HUGE need (ok, HIS need ;) ) for one about iPhonex2.

So this can't be true.

[ricg]

With the iPhone and Touch Apple has pretty much nailed the neoNewton PDA people have been waiting for (when the next iPhone hits the stores, my old Clie will finally be going into retirement). The Axiotron Modbook and Apple's Ink has the iTablet market under control.

To date, nobody has produced *the* killer eBook device. Amazon and Sony have made some improvements to the basic concept, but they are sadly lacking in many other respects. Right now, only Apple possesses the kind of outside-the-box design genius to do the eBook right. If they can provide ability to highlight text, add handwritten notes, perform Google-like searching, display high resolution color graphics and offer massive (SuperDrive-size) removable storage, they may have something that has a chance of supplanting paper textbooks and field manuals. This would not only open up a huge market, but the opportunity to (once again) introduce a lifestyle-changing technology.
-Ric
P.S. - Nice composite notjustjay--an iTriCorder would be pretty cool, too!

[zombitronic]

The whole point is to "whip it out and go"

But where could you "whip" something like this out from? Your marsupial pouch? The whole touch-tablet idea does seem very cool except for the problem of protecting it. An iPhone fits nicely into your cotton lined pockets. A laptop folds in half like a clamshell, protecting its screen, keyboard and trackpad.

I wouldn't want an unprotected tablet in my backpack, for fears that the unprotected screen would get scratched on something inside. Even just carrying a tablet around in your arm leaves the screen a bit more exposed than most would be comfortable with, considering what they'd probably spend on it. I suppose you could get a protective sleeve (or pouch), which may be the best bet, but that somehow takes away from the "instant access" appeal that the iPhone has.

I suppose sacrifices must be made.

[big_malk]

To everyone saying that there isn't a market for a tablet PC like this, would it be just appletastic and very Steve Jobs-esc to just invent the market for it?
About the medical practice comments before, a tablet PC would be waaay more hygienic as you could wipe it clean much more easily and affectively than a keyboard, which are renowned for being great a trapping dirt and germs etc.

They have everything ready to release this, remote disc and the MBA external super drive, inkwell hand writing recognition, the iPhone is 'based' on OS X, I wouldn't be too surprised if the OS on this was somewhere in between the iPhone OS and the full features OS X.

I wouldn't say this isn't a real rumour just because it mentions a super drive and we don't want one... Chinese whispers anyone?

I personally love the idea of a tablet, I'm not expecting it to be released anytime soon, but I wouldn't rule it out and I'd definitely consider buying one if Apple did release one now.

If any company is in the right situation to break open the tablet market, and to do it with elegance and style, it's our friend Apple Inc.

[pmoeser]

I'm not a big fan of tablet PCs - I don't have any use for them - but it is an up-and-coming market, so I wouldn't be surprised if Apple comes out with one in the speculated timeframe.

My same old opinion.

Tablets would be suitable for a very small niche of people. I doubt Apple would waste any time putting them into full production.

It would be fantastic of course and I'd buy one...

[Marx55]

Whatever it is, we need a full Mac OS X inside to open NATIVE Keynote and PowerPoint presentations. With full wired and wireless video out. And as small and light as possible. We do not want a MacBook but a much smaller and lighter device. With true FireWire and Ethernet ports. And we need thousands for our University. Something like this, but with Mac OS X inside:

OQO model e2
http://www.oqo.com

[kkat69]

Maybe he should have gotten some screenshot from http://www.axiotron.com/index.php?id=modbook and scaled them down.

Although the modbook uses a stylus this one very might use the iPhone technology but somehow I see it a mid level between the modbook and iPhone. The modbook is nice, we pitched an idea to use one as a wall mounted control center for lights, etc for a business. The one thing they didn't like was the stylus.

If this comes true, it could make a pitch turn into a project for us. We did pitch the idea of a touch screen and a mini but we wanted to go for total portability not being tied with wires, etc. The only wire being a power cord for recharging.

[creativecatalys]

I saw the Modbook at MWSF 2008

http://axiotron.com/

http://axiotron.com/index.php?id=modbook

[Stately]

Sounds cool but I don't see why they would put a superdrive into a tablet if they didn't have one for the MBA...

Wonder what gestures they'll integrate into OSX, can't wait :D

Cause the Macbook Air stiiiiinks. LOL, sorry. . :D

[daneoni]

I dont see it happening. There's no market besides healthcare and possibly education, this should be evident from failure of the Tablet PC/UMPC in general. Also why would Apple put a SuperDrive in a tablet mac but not the MacBook Air?

There is already a tablet mac on the market...the Modbook (http://www.axiotron.com/)

[Rot'nApple]

He ran/runs PowerPage.org, and has had both ups and downs regarding rumors. He was targeted in Apple's Asteroid lawsuit, but also the source of the Plasma TV rumor which wasn't true.

In the end, I trust him that if he says he has a reliable source, I believe him. (vs some random blog who says the same, I would not necessarily believe it)

arn

Sources on Asteroid - TRUE, Sources on Plasma TV - NOT TRUE...

So what you are saying is that he's got a 50% chance of being right and 50% chance of being wrong. :confused:

[azentropy]

If Apple comes out with a Tablet before coming out with a midrange tower than that confirms that if there is a God he doesn't like me very much... :mad:

[fastbite]

100% it will come, at least this is what I think. At the end of the day the iPhone is the embryonic tablet -- so the thing will grow into a baby (bigger feature wise) iPhone and then mature into a tablet.

[Pepumu]

Im reading a lot of people trolling about how stupid it is to think the tablet could have a super drive, the lack of an optical drive is not an evolution on laptops, it can actually prove bothersome in a lot of cases, and has been the main issue that have made people i know to refrain from buying the MBA.

The MBA lacks optical drive because its purpose is to be light and small to the point of leaving only the essentials, its not better, its just different, and an optical drive is still almost always a necessity since we are still away from leaving optical media behind.

I think the Tablet would be useful if it was compatible with sensible stylus pens, specially for art professionals, but then again Axiotron has this covered, will Apple invade the Axiotron market?

If the tablet is not compatible with this stylus, then it would only mean a step forward in laptop technology, but not a particulary useful one, even when it would be more comfortable to use and clean. Maybe a purchase for tech and mac fans only, until all mac laptops come to use this technology.

[Thanatoast]

Maybe the iPhone, with it's compact size and restricted OS was always kind of a sandbox to create new ways (UI, workflow, testing practicality) of creating a full-on tablet?

[kkat69]

I think the Tablet would be useful if it was compatible with sensible stylus pens, specially for art professionals, but then again Axiotron has this covered, will Apple invade the Axiotron market?


I honestly don't think it would. If anything it would be just a mid range piece. I've seen landscape artists use a modbook and the stylus helps with drawing. A finger/touch screen may or may NOT register a soft tip pen.

Competition is good. I think the better deal would be for both to team up (or Apple may buy them out) and THAT would offer more choices.

[mixotic]

He ran/runs PowerPage.org, and has had both ups and downs regarding rumors. He was targeted in Apple's Asteroid lawsuit, but also the source of the Plasma TV rumor which wasn't true.

In the end, I trust him that if he says he has a reliable source, I believe him. (vs some random blog who says the same, I would not necessarily believe it)

arn

You, arn, deserve more respect and credence than that hack Jason does. He has no reliable sources and is consistently wrong about Apple product releases.

[Stately]

Nobody needs a laptop and a tablet and a desktop. It's more like either or.

What if you could take your tablet around with you all day and then slide it into the side of your desktop when you get home, like in all those patents?
Or something like this photo floating around.

[big_malk]

What if you could take your tablet around with you all day and then slide it into the side of your desktop when you get home, like in all those patents?
Or something like this photo floating around.
http://att.macrumors.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=117024&stc=1&d=1211581117

"Invalid Attachment specified. If you followed a valid link, please notify the administrator"

[mitch88ell]

I like idea of this but I think this might be the new PowerMac Cube 3G. :cool:

[hhlee]

guys, why not something more revolutionary like....

http://www.engadget.com/2008/05/20/olpc-unveils-first-prototype-of-xo-2-0/

"tablet" yes but with keyboard and ability to change the orientation!

[pubwvj]

A tablet mac would be great. My money's burning a hole in my bank account waiting...

[GQB]

Too big.
9" diag max.

[LloydBraun89]

all of you people who think a tablet would be a good idea should be put to sleep!

[EagerDragon]

They're not meant for marketing, they're meant to outline an idea in as clear a way as possible.

and 10 year old kids don't charge much.

[Derwood]

...the debates about the table form factor are there for all to read.

I reckon if Apple institute a nice, most likely proprietary, slot-docking option (like a simple, screwless VESA mount monitor stand) this could fly. Coupled with a wireless apple keyboard and mouse and you've got a very versatile solution.

IMO.

Derwood

[bug67]

Nice mock up of things they way they could be if only in June '08 Mac Life Magazine:

http://www.maclife.com/the_magazine

[cthomet]

same old debate about the plausibility of a tablet. theres those that think its marketable and those that dont. nothing new.

what im wondering, is why make a designated tablet, why not make something like a macbook with a touchscreen? maybe have the screen rotate/flip over...just brainstorming here

also, if they do decide to go with a designated tablet, apple has determined there is a viable market for it, especially in the ebook and medical fields i would presume, and they would know better than me

[Stately]

I dont see it happening. There's no market besides healthcare and possibly education, this should be evident from failure of the Tablet PC/UMPC in general. Also why would Apple put a SuperDrive in a tablet mac but not the MacBook Air?

There is already a tablet mac on the market...the Modbook (http://www.axiotron.com/)

The Modbook is hideous and heavy. Two H's that just don't go together in terms of Apple products. Portability, sleekness, character, performance . . . :apple:

[Foxglove9]

12-13" is still too large for my usage. What I also like to know is how do hard drives hold up on tablet PC's since they get moved around a lot.

I'd still prefer a 7-9" EEE PC style laptop.

[Stately]

all of you people who think a tablet would be a good idea should be put to sleep!

So you feel the same about those who own iphones too then huh?

[bacaramac]

I would love a Tablet, not that I need it, but it would be something I would buy. I know a lot of people say there is no market, but that is what all you haters said about the MBA. I love the comments about "There is no market". So are all of you people market analyst?

As for the sketches, they probably make it look as generic as possible while still getting the point across as to not reveal the actual new product that the patent would apple to.

[macuserfan22]

there's no way they wouldn't use the air's remote disk feature

[Marzzz]

This would be huge in the healthcare market. Absolutely huge.

Most EMRs use some kind of tablet PC for input and management of data- one of the reasons I have hesitated going electronic (aside from the cost!) is being forced to use PCs instead of Mac. Interesting to note that very few companies have jumped to Vista, but then again none are really supporting the Mac at this point.

[gmoney550]

I highly doubt Steve would announce any new product in the fall.

[LloydBraun89]

So you feel the same about those who own iphones too then huh?

not at all. i wouldnt consider the iphone a tablet computer. if it is a tablet then why would apple need to come out with another tablet?

[jaduffy108]

As an animator...I would buy one in a heart beat. Thinking right now of getting the 12" Cintiq...but now...I may wait.

Artists in general would love one (and many buy Tablet PCs).

[gkarris]

If Apple comes out with a Tablet before coming out with a midrange tower than that confirms that if there is a God he doesn't like me very much... :mad:

It's not that God doesn't like you, Steve Jobs doesn't like you...

[Zillatron]

If I had told you that the iPhone would be fully touch enabled had no stylus AND no slide out keyboard 6 months before it came out...you would have called me crazy.

Just because we can't see how it would work doesn't mean Apple aren't re-inventing the idea.

One of the biggest reasons tablets haven't made it in the mainstream market is because nobody has done it right. I'm not saying that consumers are now or ever will be ready for a tablet that replaces a laptop, but that's probably not what it's primary role is anyway.

Don't forget, the iPhone's phone in only 1 of it's 3 core (but very different) features.

Z

[Stately]

not at all. i wouldnt consider the iphone a tablet computer. if it is a tablet then why would apple need to come out with another tablet?

It is a tablet, a tablet phone, with an OS. A complete tablet that has the ability to do heavy computing will follow if not sooner than later. I pray for the former. ;)

[Obi-Wan Kubrick]

Nice, Star Trek Overlay. I hear yah.

I think the Tablet Mac is a a very real possibility.

I expect it will do great integrative things with other apple devices from iTV to Mac Pros.

Now if you could just download the tri-corder hum and the blue prints of DS9 from itunes you would be all set.

[gwerhart0800]

It's not that God doesn't like you, Steve Jobs doesn't like you...

You mean there's a difference between the two?

[dawnraid]

Is this it, this pics been floating around for a couple of weeks.
http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/48/advert6zb0.jpg

[safXmal]

It is a tablet, a tablet phone, with an OS. A complete tablet that has the ability to do heavy computing will follow if not sooner than later. I pray for the former. ;)

Me too

A slate twice the size of an iPhone could be very useful. Just a few examples of things it would be better at:
Book reading
web browsing
Storage
Quick proving and editing of pictures
in car navigation and entertainment
presentations
Medical applications
etc...

[pjarvi]

With a CoreDuo processor it will hopefully be targeted at the budget Mac Mini crowd. iMacMini for the win! :D

[paja]

Think über Newton. Ultra thin with 7" touch screen. Hand writing technology, stylus input, wifi, bluetooth, running full OS X.

This and the iPhone2 would be grounds for divorce.

It's either that or Apple's new hand held game console (God I hope not).

I guess the secret item could also be the updated Mac Mini.

Can't wait!

[Darrin Bell]

Interesting, but I would have to doubt it.

I just don't see the market there for one.

And I can't imagine why I would need one. Every time I see one of these threads, I can't help but think those two statements (or ones like it) are inextricably linked. You see, I can imagine why I (and anyone in my profession) would need one, and not coincidentally, I do see the market for it.

Besides, I'm sure Apple wouldn't launch something like this unless they had good reason to think they could grow a decent-sized market for it.

[bigandy]

If the tablet can register touch on it with a stylus/pen too (and pressure in particular), like the wacom cintiq, and a decent GPU, I'd happily trade my MacBook Pro for one.

I don't really use my MBP off power with the opening and the closing etc, but I would love having a screen on a cradle/dock on the desk, next to my external monitor/keyboard/mouse and drives, that i can just pick up and take away just like a big iPhone.

That'd be freaking sweet, to quote Family Guy. ;)

[trojan675]

I see one of three designs.
1). A Macbook sized tablet with a superdrive and remote disc. Mainly used as a media center to control Apple TV and your Macs and Macbooks. Has Macbook/Macbook Pro specs.

2). A 2-3X iPhone lookalike that can be put into a screen and used. Uses only Remote Disc and can be used as a media device to contrrol your Apple Products.

3). The 2x iPhone that doubles as a phone. Has the same specs as design 2.

Either way we know it will happen. I say if it is Design 1, we can see a June "touch" on it, then a confrence in October, and a Fall 08-Winter 09 release.

Design 2 could come out March 09 at the latest and 3 would be out in July 09

This is just what I think.
What do yall think?

[trojan675]

I also forgot to put in stylus for design 1. And blue T, Wi-Fi, and all that other good stuff for all 3.

[Abstract]

I believe Apple will have a tablet with NO optical drive, no harddrive, a high resolution Kindle-like screen, and a derivative of the iPhone OS (which is based on OSX). It'll also have a 7-8 inch screen, not 12" or 13". It'll run off a low-powered Intel CPU like the MBA.

[trojan675]

i just thought of something, a on-off stylus to finger touch. I dont know how they would protect the screen. It could also very well be released WAY later and the "mystery" could just be a new Mac Mini inside and out. Or a portable Mac Mini(dont ask me how it would work or spec).

[ZiggyPastorius]

(try using a laptop with one hand while standing).

Just wanted to say for this one little tidbit :D:D:D I do this on a daily basis.

It's incredibly unsafe, I know, but there's atleast one time every day where I walk through the halls of the school with my laptop in one hand, using it with the other. It looks really ridiculous, and it's gonna end up costing me one day, but just letting you know some very rare individuals do do this :p On another similar note, I also use my white Macbook as an iPod. I own an iPod classic and an iPod touch that I carry with me at all times (both of them) along with my laptop (it very rarely leaves me), but occasionally, I'll turn on insomniaX and a song, close up the laptop, and carry it around, listening to tunes.

[HymerSchmidt]

I'm thinking -- if this is true -- there is a dual announcement at WWDC, and the iPhone2 comes out shortly after, then the tablet meets this fall date(like the original iPhone announcement and release being months apart). I think the rumored 3G delay is telling us what we already know -- there is a disparity between the stock of current iPhones and the next gen's arrival.

A WWDC iPhone announcement could, in fact, be a delay itself; we don't know when it was originally scheduled. And with this dual announcement it would validate the rumor awhile ago, the one about the tablet debuting at WWDC and iPhone2 in May -- except, keeping in mind the delay, they both debut.

[HymerSchmidt]

I believe Apple will have a tablet with NO optical drive, no harddrive, a high resolution Kindle-like screen, and a derivative of the iPhone OS (which is based on OSX). It'll also have a 7-8 inch screen, not 12" or 13". It'll run off a low-powered Intel CPU like the MBA.

No harddrive? Explain yourself!!:D

Do you mean a SSD comes standard?

[mac jones]

Is gambling allowed on this site?


cuz I've got a C note that says this is BS.


(I didn't see it in the rules section.I find it hard to believe that nobody has abused this)

better late then never?

[motulist]

This rumor makes much more sense now than it did in the past.

Through developing the iPhone Apple already has invested a lot of time and money on creating all the technology that's required by a tablet, from the touchscreen interface software to the touch sensitive hardware. They now have a lot of experience on creating touch based devices, so they wouldn't need to spend too much R&D on creating a tablet, and they can also benefit from economies of scale in the touch based hardware.

Apple now has many fewer reason to not come out with a tablet.

[luminosity]

I wish this would go away. Forever.

[carve]

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)

hmmm, I'm not sure about it coming out this year, but definatly next year

[Random Guy]

The Illustration looks more like one of those laptops where the screen can swiveled and be folded down so that it's like a tablet but normally it's just a regular laptop.

Seeing as apple will supposedly update their macbooks in Q3 this this might be what will happen. It would make sense, especially with multi-touch.:apple:

[macerroneous]

All signs point to it. I really can't imagine anyone who uses an iphone as much as I do (and I'm not making many phone calls) who wouldn't see the benefit of a bigger screen. This isn't for carrying around out in the wild, like a phone. This is made for moving from your dock on your desk to the couch, kitchen table, bedroom, or around your office.

When Apple produces this tablet, which is probably within 12 months, but after the new iphone release, it will HAVE to be multitouch. I don't think it's Apple any other way. That means iphone OS, not MAC OS. After iphone SDK, there will be a ton of software for this platform. I also believe Steve won't port iphone OS to x86 systems because he could lose control of his hardware and software more easily. It'll probably run on PA Semi proprietary designs.

Steve will want this to be as flat as possible, so no optical drive. No hard disc either, just 32 GB flash. WIFI n so it will stream seamlessly. Bluetooth keyboard optional. You really don't need any other computer (for my low grade purposes) if you mate this with a time capsule. Apple TV built into the tablet so you can download your itunes HD movies directly.

You high-power users will undoubtedly still require pro platforms. Other than on websites like this, are there many of you out there? After all, it does seem Apple is moving deeper and deeper into the CONSUMER market, though not yet abandoning you PROs.

[SkippyThorson]

All signs point to it. I really can't imagine anyone who uses an iphone as much as I do (and I'm not making many phone calls) who wouldn't see the benefit of a bigger screen. This isn't for carrying around out in the wild, like a phone. This is made for moving from your dock on your desk to the couch, kitchen table, bedroom, or around your office.

When Apple produces this tablet, which is probably within 12 months, but after the new iphone release, it will HAVE to be multitouch. I don't think it's Apple any other way. That means iphone OS, not MAC OS. After iphone SDK, there will be a ton of software for this platform. I also believe Steve won't port iphone OS to x86 systems because he could lose control of his hardware and software more easily. It'll probably run on PA Semi proprietary designs.

Steve will want this to be as flat as possible, so no optical drive. No hard disc either, just 32 GB flash. WIFI n so it will stream seamlessly. Bluetooth keyboard optional. You really don't need any other computer (for my low grade purposes) if you mate this with a time capsule. Apple TV built into the tablet so you can download your itunes HD movies directly.

You high-power users will undoubtedly still require pro platforms. Other than on websites like this, are there many of you out there? After all, it does seem Apple is moving deeper and deeper into the CONSUMER market, though not yet abandoning you PROs.

Amen. Amen. Amen.

I've wanted a full Touch Tablet for so long - I don't care if it has the iPhone OS or OSX, I'm buying it. All this speculation on components and performance is fueling the firestorm of ideas in my mind. :)

[sleepingworker]

If I had told you that the iPhone would be fully touch enabled had no stylus AND no slide out keyboard 6 months before it came out...you would have called me crazy.

Just because we can't see how it would work doesn't mean Apple aren't re-inventing the idea.

One of the biggest reasons tablets haven't made it in the mainstream market is because nobody has done it right. I'm not saying that consumers are now or ever will be ready for a tablet that replaces a laptop, but that's probably not what it's primary role is anyway.

Don't forget, the iPhone's phone in only 1 of it's 3 core (but very different) features.

Z

It is a tablet, a tablet phone, with an OS. A complete tablet that has the ability to do heavy computing will follow if not sooner than later. I pray for the former. ;)

I agree completely with both of you. The touch technology will just get better and better. I can't wait to one day touch interact with programs like PS and Sketch up.

[strategize]

Slate form factor. The convertible tablet form factor is no good; insubstantial swiveling hinge is the primary weak point. Convertibles necessitate the inclusion of keyboard and mouse.

Keyboards and touchpads suck. The exclusion of a mouse is obvious in the slate form factor. I carry a HHKBPro2 keyboard with my MacBook everywhere because the keyboard on it (and every other notebook) is painful to type on for more than a minute. For those who don't mind the notebook keyboard, throw a bluetooth apple keyboard in your bag (most will absolutely keep the slate in a bag or something).

Give the tablet a stowable leg that stabilizes it at normal viewing angles while working at a desk.

Wacom dual-input RRFC/EMR. Wacom's EMR pen technology is great; AFAIK RRFC should be able to detect multi-touch. If not (forcing Apple to use an alternative) the likeliness of incoporating pen sensors and a pen-friendly surface decreases dramatically. The target consumer group decreases in size with that exclusion.

Brighter LED backlit 10 inch screen above 1024x768. Apple's notebook screens have low pixel density and brightness. The current 13 inch screens have resolutions that make them troublesome to work on; exacerbated by the tendancy of mac apps to use windows that are only a fraction of the viewable area (and provide scroll bars for viewing all the content). Pixel density needs to increase at least 20% while maintaining touch/pen tracking accuracy. I'm thinking 140-160ppi (visual acuity at less than around 60cm, approximately typical tablet/notebook viewing distance. My typical viewing distance is 40cm/approx 250ppi visual acuity. iPhone is 160ppi). Ever worked on a 15 inch 1920x1200 (147ppi)? It's great.

Much larger viewing angles would be great too, but priorities must be made. Wide screen format is not terribly important, but pointless for non-video use at low resolutions (so I can fit one more toolbar row on the side...um, okay I guess).

Continue the magnetic power connector but make the cable more substantial and give it better stress boots; Every day I unwrap the cable on my MacBook adapter is the day I think it will fail on me.

Ditch the integrated optical drive in all portables. Mounting disk images or drives for installing stuff over the network is fast, easy, and reliable. Grabbing an external optical drive when sitting at the desk is no problem.

Some kind of card reader or expresscard slot. Slip in flash chips containing a bunch of movies rather than reaching for disks or filling the HD. The major concern here is the situations where this storage would be used; away from home/work mobile situations where anything hanging off a port would be broken.

DVI-I port.

There is plenty more that could be done but these are at least the major thoughts that I'm having.

[NT1440]

if this is happening then it just shows what many "experts" are saying, apple is forming a habit of releasing niche products.

[rockosmodurnlif]

no service contract required means development independent of cell phone providers. also it fits into a unique market. you would buy this thing and still need an iphone and laptop and desktop. why not? priced at $799.
$799? What Mac with a screen costs under $1000?

But anyway I wouldn't be interested.

[Raidersmojo]

if this is happening then it just shows what many "experts" are saying, apple is forming a habit of releasing niche products.

didn't know a cell phone was a niche product...

or an MP3 player...

[NT1440]

didn't know a cell phone was a niche product...

or an MP3 player...

what these "experts:rolleyes:" are referring to is things such as the MBA, apple tv, and rumors like these.'


its not my opinion, and its geared towards where apple is supposedly heading, not what theve done.

[SamoanDude]

Man I hope this rumor is true!

[AidenShaw]

The touch technology will just get better and better.

Yes, it's getting better and better. You should have seen Microsoft's multi-touch demos in Mountain View yesterday....



http://news.cnet.com/8301-10784_3-9950674-7.html

[eyedot66]

You folks are missing the really point here -- the education market. That's Apple's bread and butter (remember, on campuses Macs are number 1, Pee-cees are "number 2"). The idea here is to be able to take notes, access info, and acts as an e-reader. As an academic, this is what I want. Many of my colleagues say, I won't buy a mac because they don't make a tablet version. Lots of people want to draw pictures, equations, etc, and laptop is just not right for that. It's really aimed as a being a PDA in the traditional sense.

[Zillatron]

I agree completely with both of you.

Thank you :)

I've noticed some people calling for things that are typically associated with a tablet. By now you must have learnt that Apple take no notice of the stereotypes in technology - iPhone doesn't have a stylus or a physical keyboard and we all know how bad THAT worked out.

So why does a tablet NEED a DVD drive, stylus or a hard disk?
It doesn't, for exactly the same reason.

I donno about any of you, but I can't wait to see how Apple solve the problems the tablet has faced so far...the technical and interface boundaries are both gone only it's position in the market is the mystery.

Z

[Dmac77]

I would totally get one, but only if it ran full OS X had 80Gb or larger HDD or Flash storage, it would also have to have all the ports that the macbook has, minus the ethernet. An finally it would have to have support for a stylus and multi-touch. I know I'm picky. :)

[elgruga]

If the tablet has all the features of a Macbook, then why bother?
A 13" screen? Thats nuts - you might as well buy a laptop and get a full-sized and useful keyboard.

Whats the POINT of a tablet? It serves no useful purpose for 99% of consumers at all.

This smells of O'Grady/Powerpage, once a big Mac site, now much reduced in popularity due to bad writing, boring articles, uninspired approach, etc, trying to drum up hits.

We have the Touch already - most people surfing on laptops in cafes seem to have Macbooks/pros - who needs the tablet?

[strategize]

Thank you :)

I've noticed some people calling for things that are typically associated with a tablet. By now you must have learnt that Apple take no notice of the stereotypes in technology - iPhone doesn't have a stylus or a physical keyboard and we all know how bad THAT worked out.

So why does a tablet NEED a DVD drive, stylus or a hard disk?
It doesn't, for exactly the same reason.

I donno about any of you, but I can't wait to see how Apple solve the problems the tablet has faced so far...the technical and interface boundaries are both gone only it's position in the market is the mystery.

Z

The iPhone/Touch is useless for the Medical/Education/Artist market segments that need direct to screen input with high resolutions and complete OS application support.

A tablet shouldn't need a stylus. It would benefit from a pressure sensitive (wacom?) EMR pen as a secondary input option to touching. Excluding that option would kill this device for a large portion of the target niche market. Multi-touch can never replace the function (and FEEL) that this sort of pen provides.

The Modbook doesn't provide touch input at all. Wacom pen is the primary and sole input method. Coupled with some supply issues, it is not a viable option for many.

[elgruga]

Thank you :)

...the technical and interface boundaries are both gone only it's position in the market is the mystery.

Z

No mystery - it has almost ZERO position in the market.

[strategize]

No mystery - it has almost ZERO position in the market.

It could be considered the only product worth getting in that part of the market though. The profit margins could be huge and it would still sell the same number of units. The MBA has a much less clear market position (executive notebook? hot toy?)...and it seems to be doing okay.

Markets for this device:
Public Safety; police patrol vehicles, fire trucks, etc.
Healthcare; mobile carts, wall mounts, physician reference
Education; people say this is a potential market but I don't see it so much...the teachers don't know how to use computers in a way that enhances the learning process. Much training is needed here before progress can be made.
Artist; 3d sculpting/painting, 2d painting/drawing, photo retouching/restoration, video editing, animation
Gamer; unique interface
Websurfer; many possibilities, not much probability of large sales
Industrial Control Systems;
Home Theater; programmable remote with bluetooth or wifi IR blaster (could dominate this market segment with the right capabilities), direct control of Apple TV
Executive Notebook; next big thing...of course they will buy it
Developers; completely new capabilities that can create brand new markets

of course some of this could be done on the iPhone/Touch but most of the software is already available for general-purpose OS

[Polish97]

Maybe something like this?

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3006/2334238234_47f318bdde_b.jpg

Images from apple.com

[hhaeschen]

Sounds to me, like I should buy a bunch of AAPL stocks before WWDC... What do you think? :rolleyes:

[strategize]

Sounds to me, like I should buy a bunch of AAPL stocks before WWDC... What do you think? :rolleyes:

Apple's stock tends to drop slightly just after these conferences. Then it drops more. There were a couple exceptions IIRC. Mostly the stock just rises until the day before then starts dropping. It gets inflated by those kinds of thoughts then everybody panics to sell when it does nothing or drops on the first day.

I got it @120 back in Feb after it tanked.

[Zwhaler]

I'm not sure if I would rather have a tablet sized iMac or a larger-than-iPhone PDA. I think I would rather go for the latter, so I could bring it with me. Really, unless Apple plans to eliminate the laptop computer, I think most people would rather have that than an equally sized tablet. (unless they make it really easy to use, which they probably will)

[ggf]

I just don't get why so many people are so negative about a tablet form factor.
If you build a desktop stand with a built in magsafe connector it is virtually an imac. If you pick it off the stand you can walk into a meeting without having to lug in papers, if you can do inkwell and iphone like browsing you can take notes and retrieve information while you are in a meeting and you can take it on a plane and use it in the economy cabin which is something which is impossible with most laptops because you can't open them far enough. The big advantage over an iphone is screen size. The advantage over a laptop is you can leave the keyboard behind and save weight or if you need the keyboard a separate bluetooth keyboard would allow you to do all a laptop can do. A removable fold over cover for the screen could be used to prop it up on a desk at a useable angle on a desk. Where is the donwnside? Sure it won't fit in your pocket but I always have to carry papers into meetings so where is the problem. If you have a bluetooth headset you don't even need a separate iphone

[Raukodur]

Hmm, all this talk of a tablet, why don't apple consider copying the design of the OLPC XO gen 2 computer?

So basically it can fold in half, with 2 multi-touch screens, where one can act as the keyboard, the other the screen, and when required, you can flatten the thing out to get a normal tablet?

[MacinJosh]

I would definately buy a tablet Mac if one came out in WWDC. The problem is that if it would be announced in WWDC and released sometime in the fall, i don't know if I could wait :( I'd prolly get an iPhone or iPod Touch instead... I need a new toy NOW :D

Joshua.

[MacRonin]

Maybe something like this?

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3006/2334238234_47f318bdde_b.jpg

I know it is just a quick (yet clean) PhotoChop, but with all that space on the 'forehead' (yeah, iMac has a 'chin', I am calling all that space above the screen on your mockup the 'forehead'…) you need to integrate an iSight camera/microphone & possibly perforations for stereo speakers… I would like to see a second iSight camera on the backside of the tablet, for 'point & shoot' photo taking.

I would rather see the 'forehead' made smaller though…

[djellison]

" have a slot loading Superdrive,"

And yet be smaller than an MBA? Yeah, right.

There's already a tablet Mac - it's called the Mod Book - looks great, works great, has integrated GPS even. Hands up if you bought one...

oh.

[bartelby]

Hmm, all this talk of a tablet, why don't apple consider copying the design of the OLPC XO gen 2 computer?

So basically it can fold in half, with 2 multi-touch screens, where one can act as the keyboard, the other the screen, and when required, you can flatten the thing out to get a normal tablet?

I really like the look of the XO Gen 2. But I'd be surprised if it ends up looking like that and still only cost $70...

[arn]

" have a slot loading Superdrive,"

And yet be smaller than an MBA? Yeah, right.

There's already a tablet Mac - it's called the Mod Book - looks great, works great, has integrated GPS even. Hands up if you bought one...

oh.

No one said thinner than a MBA.

And you can't compare it to a Modbook. That's like saying there were smartphones before the iPhone.

The Modbook is nice, but it's still a hacked together piece of hardware that was not originally intended for tablet use. You don't think an Apple designed tablet that is intended for tablet use would have any more functionaltiy or appeal than a modbook? Multitouch?

arn

[Pepumu]

I honestly don't think it would. If anything it would be just a mid range piece. I've seen landscape artists use a modbook and the stylus helps with drawing. A finger/touch screen may or may NOT register a soft tip pen.

Competition is good. I think the better deal would be for both to team up (or Apple may buy them out) and THAT would offer more choices.

A buyout would seem more plausible, then again, maybe the modbook techonology(probably the same wacom uses) isnt that comptible with apple touch screen technology, and since the pressure lies on the stylus and not the "on-screen pressure" i dont know how can apple aproach that topic, or if theyre even interested on that.

[i0Nic]

I think a 'tablet' will come out sometime soon, but the specs listed in this rumour are completely wrong. There is no way this thing will have an optical drive, nor will it have a dual core processor and be a full blown mac.

Here is what I think a device like this might be like, I posted this in the iPhone forum a few days ago:

"Rumours of the mac tablet have been around for a while. I think it's only a matter of time before Apple release this device, but the purposes of this type of device have been questioned and some people don't see the point of it. I would like to describe my vision of the future of this type of device.

It would have a 6 inch screen, and be iPod touch thin. Tapered edges like the macbook air, and very thin with long battery life. It would use the iPhone's mobile OSX. So what's it for?

This device falls into a category no other device is in. The closest current device I can think of would be the Kindle. Think of a device that replaces your magazines and books, but can also access the internet and all of the services that go along with it - an 'always on' connected device using EVDO or some other technology.

Subscriptions could be pulled straight from the net to your device, probably through iTunes. Think of websites, how more and more are being designed to handle the iPhone screen creating a unique touch experience. With this type of device dropping in price and other manufacturers jumping on the bandwagon, I see the future of the web, web 3.0 if you'd like to call it, being touch and social networking based - with websites primarily being accessed through these type of 'tablet' (bad word - connotations of microsoft flipping laptops) devices.

This device would live in your living room, when you're watching TV you can pick it up off your coffee table and browse the net, in a form that it is condusive to touch. Executives can pack this device, along with their ultra-thin low powered laptop into their briefcase and use it to read up on some documents or check a website. In fact it could replace their laptop if they have no need to substantially create or edit documents on the go, as all their important info would be on it along with tools for basic editing. Students can use it to write notes, watch movies, doctors can use it, there is unlimited potential through the use of various apps that can be created.

The screen on this device would be akin to the OLPC XO laptop, but a better version. Basically a multi touch LCD, however when the backlight is turned off, the screen basically becomes similiar in look to e-ink. If anyone who has seen this on an XO you'll know what I'm talking about.

This is not a computer in the traditional sense. Computing is becoming decentralized, with Apple selling more and more laptops and being able to introduce niche devices successfully like the Macbook Air, they will continue to push the boundaries of touch decentralized computing. This device would not live on your desk docked in like an ipod, nor will there be some docking device with a screen to turn it into a desktop replacement.

This thing is the future of magazines, of books, of websites, of email, of personal computing, of the internet and the way we interact with technology. It will also have the applications that will make the iPhone a game-changing device, and just like the iPhone it will be able to pull this information from the Cloud anywhere anytime. The iPhone was the first device of this scale to introduce us to multi-touch, this new 'iPad' device will introduce the true capabilities of multi-touch along with the integration of all the various technologies and services that we can't even see a need for right now but we will take for granted in the future.

Just some thoughts."

[dawnraid]

atleast i hope its something like this
http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/48/advert6zb0.jpg

[SeeLos]

I'd be happy using this device for school. It'd be great to not have to take my macbook everywhere, and it's nice and flat on the desk so you don't feel obnoxious in some classes. Speed would be extremely unimportant to be honest. I would be mainly use it for a multimedia device (movies, music), class (notes) and as a great web browser. Using Macbook Air technology, seems to me like it could be pretty flat. Makes a lot of sense, but it's also pushing it for apple to expect me to get this tablet between my macbook and iPhone. I'd be tempted though, very.

[SeeLos]

You folks are missing the really point here -- the education market. That's Apple's bread and butter (remember, on campuses Macs are number 1, Pee-cees are "number 2"). The idea here is to be able to take notes, access info, and acts as an e-reader. As an academic, this is what I want. Many of my colleagues say, I won't buy a mac because they don't make a tablet version. Lots of people want to draw pictures, equations, etc, and laptop is just not right for that. It's really aimed as a being a PDA in the traditional sense.

Yes, Yes, Yes. I want to and used to take my macbook with me to class to take notes, but it's just to cumbersome and obnoxious. If apple put together a intuitive notes taking application using multi-touch geared towards the education market, they would clean up. Having a virtual note pad/ media player/ internet browser/ email client/ calendar/ and address book all in one sleek device that can be laid indiscreetly flat on a desk would be my dream come true. And very likely given this news.

[sushi]

A tablet Mac would be nice.

Personnally I've been waiting for something like this since the Newton.

[PowerFullMac]

atleast i hope its something like this
snip


That looks cool! :)

A tablet Mac would be really cool, I wouldnt mind messing with one, probably wont get one though! :D

[fastbite]

It's not a matter of if but when

[tobian]

I wish the illustration had a black turtle neck sweater on the person.

http://www.sweb.cz/kamen.drevo/162751-tablet_400.jpg

:p

[kornyboy]

Wirelessly posted (iPhone: 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)

Interesting we will have to wait and see.

[sushi]

That looks cool! :)
Yes it does.

[djellison]

No one said thinner than a MBA.

Especially me. A handheld tablet machine has to be smaller than an MBA.

Unlike Steve Jobs,I don't confuse ' thin ' and ' small '

[geiger167]

I can't help but thinking it's musical applications would be immense, running a revised Logic with full touch controls over faders and pots. People have been crying out for something like this for years. Just considering the potential live applications for musicians is exciting as there isn't really a great deal of direct competition in this market, there are a a few controllers out there but they are extremely expensive. I can definitely see a market for something like this :)

[ipodtouchy333]

This sounds pretty cool. Too bad I won't have enough money to buy it AND the 3g iphone.

[Bonte]

I don't see a big market for a "heavier than Air" expensive tablet Mac, a cheaper "bigger than Touch" iPod would be my choice. Specialized apps with revenue charing and more iTunes sales for movies and other not yet available digital content.

[freebooter]

Hmm...

http://blogs.oreilly.com/digitalmedia/headphone-pod-vs-padd.jpg

Bring it on! :D

Nice...tricorder functionality.... This will go well with the Apple iVisor currently undergoing field tests where no one has gone before. http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b90/Planter12/useless/iVisor.jpg

[i0Nic]

I don't see a big market for a "heavier than Air" expensive tablet Mac, a cheaper "bigger than Touch" iPod would be my choice. Specialized apps with revenue charing and more iTunes sales for movies and other not yet available digital content.

Exactly.

Why would Apple create a touch screen mac using a keyboard/mouse designed UI such as OSX, particularly when they've got an awesome specially designed touch OS?

Why would they put in an optical drive?

13" screen?? No, if you want a light portable to do some real work get a Macbook Air.

Core 2 Duo? What the hell for, this will most likely use a slightly beefier processor than the iPhone. Possibly the Atom or a PPC chip.

All the specs listed in this rumour are wrong. BUT we will see a bigger touch device coming soon, it's inevitable.

My specs for this device:
6.7" multi-touch LCD screen, OLPC XO 'e-ink' style when backlight is off
800mhz low-power chip
256mb RAM
32gb flash drive
built in EVDO
wifi b/g/n
bluetooth - pairing with apple keyboard
dimensions: 7.8x4x0.35 inches
kickstand
Price- $599 (ipod touch/iPhone to receive price drops)

new products from Apple:
E-book service
Touch apps for students (note taking, organising, mindmap creation)
+ many more and 3rd party apps

[sushi]

Maybe something like this?

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3006/2334238234_47f318bdde_b.jpg

Images from apple.com

atleast i hope its something like this
http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/48/advert6zb0.jpg
IMHO, something along the lines of these two concepts.

A slighter larger iPhone/Touch also seems reasonable as well.

I doubt we will see a large tablet -- one that is bigger than the MBA. Also, I do not think we will see an optical drive included.

[macerroneous]

It just dawned on me. Remember those rumors about a screen "for" Apple TV? Maybe this device represents the screen with Apple TV in it! I would think the device as envisioned here already has enough power as long as its got WIFI n. I would speculate that this will not come with HDMI port, so you'll still need ATV to get HD onto your plasma, but this will allow you to stream content from itunes store directly to your face as long as you've got broadband. (Carry an airport express with you on the road to go from wires to WIFI) It also addresses Steve's "Nobody wants to watch video on a tiny screen" remark.

[CG81]

Ok, I didn't take the time to read all 140 comments before me, so maybe someone has said this already but here it is: For all those saying what is the need for a tablet, and why do I want one or need one when I have a laptop or desktop etc. you need to take a serious look at the market tends and where we are heading, especially on Apples part. Right now laptops are either neck and neck or outselling (I haven't seen a report percentage in about 6 months I admit) desktops. And look at Apples notebooks, the pro line is just as powerful as the iMacs in most instances (and any small difference is modest; certainly not enough for most people to notice). Apples market share in the laptop category is far far higher the the desktop market and they know this is where we are heading. Soon we will just have the laptop and come home and wirelessly integrate into a monitor, keyboard, and mouse. If you really think about it, if you had a laptop that was powerful enough, why have two computers in the first place. Now yes I know there are other hurddles to jump through i.e. disk space, dvd drives, not being to upgrade etc, and I am not saying the death of the desktop is near, because it isn't but this is where we are headed for the mainstream user. And remember, the mainstream user listens to a few songs, uploads a few pictures, checks their email, maybe has a chat session, and browses the web. Most people are not the power users that are probably reading this. Also, at the same time what did Apple do with the blackberry? -What would be considered the standard pda phone b4 iPhone. They took away the keyboard and gave you a bigger screen to do more with. Now a laptop is very similar in this respect, except you don't need a larger screen, you just don't need the keyboard (as long as touch key tech gets better). The iPhone is a good enough start though, I do admit that I would like it to be just a bit better, but I highly doubt Apple isn't working on that. So what is Apple taking away from the laptop? Just the freakin keyboard. This isn't that big of a deal people, and I personally welcome it. Now, I will be upset if it has the tiny macB air processor, because there isn't much reason not to create a tablet at the expense of performance. And don't even dare compare that crap out on the market with windows on it. Those are not the tablets that Apple would produce. Any, unix based OS such as OSX would much more stable, and much faster than MS Windows. Not to mention Apples sucess with touch on the iPhone. You don't have to agree, just think about it though.

End Rant

[big_malk]

Ok, I'm not saying were going to see this in the iTablet, if there is going to be such a thing... but if there's not going to be a keyboard, what about voice control? They made huge improvements to the text-to-speech with Alex for Leopard, they must have been thinking about the speech recognition at the same time.
Right now it's not perfect and I wouldn't want to try and write an essay with it, but if they've been working on it, making it a bit more intelligent so you don't have to use set commands, etc... it's a possibility.

[the vj]

The primary use would be as a universal "remote control" for many applications. Imagine to be able to costumize interfaces and functions.

There is the Jazz mutant lemur 12" tablet at $3000 and is amazing! as well as expensive. You can change interfaces by draging and moving.

Imagine having an interface for each virtual instrument on Logic Pro and being able to switch on real time.

Just take a look at this http://www.jazzmutant.com/

[The Sand People]

Maybe this new tablet goes in conjunction with this earlier rumor:

http://www.macrumors.com/2008/01/03/apple-creating-imac-like-docking-station/

that way you could use it both as a desktop computer and as a portable tablet

[milzay]

http://www.tuaw.com/media/2006/02/macpad_maybe_fake.gif

Source: www.tuaw.com

Looks pretty real to me, although the picture is from 2006. I expect (if a tablet is introduced), it to look a lot like that.

[Tallest Skil]

Nah, it'd have a small black border around the screen, be widescreen, and possibly have a chrome trim a-la-iPhone.

The basic design there is good, however. It does need a built-in iSight.

[JAYGEE]

This will be interesting to see if a product like this is released.

I'd like an iPod Touch, but I am going to wait for till after the 2.0 software release. I want an Ipod Touch, as it is like a pocket PC, with the Safari web browser, email etc. I wonder if Apple will release an updated Touch in September, as they normally release new iPods around the Sep/Oct time.

[MrTech40]

I dont think that apple will introduce a tablet. A big goal for apple right now is to market themselves as "The Greener Apple" My predictions are that we will see a Macbook revision, 3G iPhone, and cinema display updates really soon.

[Everythingisnt]

Interesting but I'm not sure how well it would sell..


Knowing Apple though, I'm sure they'd cover all the options before releasing something like this out into the wild..

[kenaustus]

This would be huge in the healthcare market. Absolutely huge.

I'm planning on using an iPod touch during my rotations for medical school.


You might want to Google Osirix for medical imaging - and figure out how you could use that on a touch or tablet.

The challenge in medicine is obviously software. I use an autopap and can only download data via Parallels, Win 3000 and a USB-Serial adapter. Ugly.

On the positive side, open source like Osirix is fantastic and I even read about med students cutting the time to learn heart sounds by two thirds through using an iPod instead of a stethoscope.

By the way, congrats on your medical studies and all the best in your future work. It's a grand achievement.

[i.mac]

The new iTablet wil have a flip cover...

a. when on the go, the flip is closed, and you have multi-touch on both sides of the iTablet.

b. when opened, the flip cover becomes a multi-touch keyboard and/or multitouch pad

c. the iTablet has to be small enough to fit on a medical doctor's and factory floor worker oversized pockets to be practical. (Have you been to the doc lately? every one has a laptop nowadays, even the dentists).

d. has to be easily carried by students and proffs. Academia all the way from 1st grade to PhD will use this thing.

What do you think?

[Tallest Skil]

A big goal for apple right now is to market themselves as "A Greener Apple".

How is a tablet specifically not "green"?

[princigalli]

I would probably buy it. Hope it runs FCP properly.

[Clark Gable]

only if it has 400 tb of hard drive space and 25 tb of ram. no less.

[i_am_a_cow]

Interesting, but I would have to doubt it.

I just don't see the market there for one.

And I can't imagine why I would need one.



Just because you don't need one... I imagine that this would be just like a macbook. I don't think you realize how useful this would be for creative applications like graphic design, audio recording, modeling, etc.

The tablet form factor has recently seen it's killer app come close to fruition: multitouch.

[Bonte]

My specs for this device:
6.7" multi-touch LCD screen, OLPC XO 'e-ink' style when backlight is off
800mhz low-power chip
256mb RAM
32gb flash drive
built in EVDO
wifi b/g/n
bluetooth - pairing with apple keyboard
dimensions: 7.8x4x0.35 inches
kickstand
Price- $599 (ipod touch/iPhone to receive price drops)

new products from Apple:
E-book service

Ow man i want, i want. :o
I so need a comicbook reader with an iTunes bookstore.

[i_am_a_cow]

I wouldn't rule it out, but you're right, it doesn't really fit. Tablets are almost universally low-power thin-and-lights, so why would Apple go in a different direction with this than the MBA?

it would be useless for digital media purposes without an optical drive.

[skellener]

Specifically, he believes that Apple will announce a 12" or 13" tablet "in the fall" of this year. The Mac Tablet will reportedly run full Mac OS X, have a slot loading Superdrive, an 'iPhone-type' GPS chip and an Intel Core Duo processor. If they do release a tablet, I really doubt there will be any kind of superdrive in it. It will use that MacBook Air technology and "borrow" the drive. I'm sure Apple assumes it will not be someone's ONLY computer (as they do with the Air).

[corywoolf]

Captain obvious, there is nothing in this rumor that the average mac fan couldn't speculate about already. I am pretty sure the submitter meant Core 2 Duo, as the Core Duo would be a step backwards. More likely is just a tablet version of the MBA. Same chip size and using SSD or 1.8" HD. I would rather Apple focus on engineering the MacBook and MacBook Pro to be slimmer. Clearly the keyboard from the MBA will be seen in the next MBP revision. While I am sure that Apple has learned lots from the iPhone already, a touch screen Mac just seems a little too much for this year, seeing as Apple already released the MBA this year. At the earliest, I would think the next MacWorld would be a slightly more realistic time frame. Apple is better off investing in developing the current MacBook and MacBook Pro, then to invest in a small niche market that doesn't have mass appeal. I mean look at the iPod HiFi, that is a perfect example of what not to do. Apple would be better off trying to merge current product lines before creating new ones. How about axing the iPod nano and classic. There should just be a shuffle, small touch, and regular touch. The MacBook should have an entry model price of under $1000, like how the iBook used to be. Unless Apple has a secret killer touch screen App up its sleeve, I doubt we will see a Mac tablet in 2008. With the economy in recession, Apple should focus on more practical products that people wont question whether they need/want.

[sushi]

If they do release a tablet, I really doubt there will be any kind of superdrive in it. It will use that MacBook Air technology and "borrow" the drive. I'm sure Apple assumes it will not be someone's ONLY computer (as they do with the Air).
Agree.

Having a HD in a tablet form doesn't make sense to me. The added weight and size would be counter to the idea of a lightweight tablet device.

[God^Cent]

Agree.

Having a HD in a tablet form doesn't make sense to me. The added weight and size would be counter to the idea of a lightweight tablet device.

Right it would be completely impractical to put a HD into the new tablet (granted that its been done for years). Imagine carrying the PC around while working on it... I'm sure the HD will love the content change in axis. Solid state Hard Drives are the way to go for this product, IMO.

[Digital Skunk]

Is this it...

Yup, the POS mockup that I expected would come has finally arrived!

Maybe something like this...

If there will be a tablet, hopefully it won't look like this. This is terrible design and typical of a PC company regurgitating their unused parts. It's nice photoshop skills though.

Honestly, I don't think Apple will make a tablet at all. That market has been sucking for a lot longer than the cell phone market was and Apple went that route first... and it would have been easier to start with the tablet market than the mobile phone one... but I am sure a very verbose poster will call me an idiot, flame me, and take up 6 pages worth of space with their speculation and opinions doing it.

I'd rather see a more powerful iPhone with a 4" screen and attachable keyboard.

[kenaustus]

A few ramblings:

1. Both the iPhone and iPod touch are tablets - even if they have smaller displays than we are talking about.

2. With 200,000 downloads of the SDK for the iPhone/touch we should be seeing a lot of software hitting the market over the next year, defining the limits that an iPhone/touch (or tablet) can realistically do.

3. I believe that these new apps are first going to push the need for memory, which is one reason why I am holding off on an iPhone.

4. For me, in order for a Mac tablet to be successful there will need to be apps that drive sales. The work done by Apple and also the SDK will for most consumers be a critical driving factor.

5. Areas, like the medical field, offer promise for a tablet. My wife's oncologist office bought a dozen of them and used them to have patients respond to various questions, like "How do you feel today?" Didn't last long as they found it more informative to have a live person ask the question so they could ask follow-up questions.

In the hospital there are many uses, but right now the core patient chart is still paper based. The doctors study these charts before seeing the patient for a few minutes - and they spend more time working the chart than they do with the patient.

Tablets in medicine are going to need a lot more thought than what we see today. Areas like imaging can provide additional support (Like Osirix) and things like analysis in changes in blood results over time would be useful. As a side comment, every time I have an x-ray, CT Scan, PET/CT scan I always get a CD with the imagery data to load onto my MacBook (and, yes, I use Osirix) so other doctors have access to the images on the spot.

Basically, look for Apple (and iPhone/touch SDK developers) to deliver software to make a tablet something that people will lust after. That will be the time that the tablet will be released.

[Everythingisnt]

So maybe this is just an evolutionary leap in the form-factor of the iPhone?

[sushi]

Right it would be completely impractical to put a HD into the new tablet (granted that its been done for years). Imagine carrying the PC around while working on it... I'm sure the HD will love the content change in axis. Solid state Hard Drives are the way to go for this product, IMO.
I also meant to say, I doubt we will see a Superdrive either.

Both the SD and HD add weight, and decrease portability, which are counterproductive to the "lightweight" tablet concept.

So maybe this is just an evolutionary leap in the form-factor of the iPhone?
While many on this board would like to see something bigger, I believe that something larger than the iPhone/Touch, say up to two times bigger screen area wise, is probably what we will see.

Regardless, I don't expect to see a full sized tablet computer from Apple.

[deputylove8]

Hahaha..rumors of an apple tablet again? I don't know. For me, I'll believe it when I see it. Haha. Earlier, the mac tablet is being rumored to be released in the upcoming WWDC...and now...during the Q3 period..haha...:D

I really want a mac tablet but I'll only believe it when its realllly confirmed and released..

cheers amigos!:D

[aswitcher]

12-13" is still too large for my usage. What I also like to know is how do hard drives hold up on tablet PC's since they get moved around a lot.

I'd still prefer a 7-9" EEE PC style laptop.

You know it should be exactly X inches. ;)

[MrCrowbar]

Cause the Macbook Air stiiiiinks. LOL, sorry. . :D

I like the bright screen, backlit keyboard and the big multitouch trackpad. Performance wise it sucks for the price but it's nnice and small.

[rickeytarpley]

http://www.macrumors.com/images/macrumorsthreadlogo.gif (http://www.macrumors.com)

Jason O'Grady revives rumors (http://blogs.zdnet.com/Apple/?p=1786) of a tablet Mac in his 'The Apple Core' blog (http://blogs.zdnet.com/Apple/) today with claims that the long-rumored Mac Tablet would finally be arriving later this year.

Specifically, he believes that Apple will announce a 12" or 13" tablet "in the fall" of this year. The Mac Tablet will reportedly run full Mac OS X, a slot loading Superdrive, 'iPhone-type' GPS chip and an Intel Core Duo processor.

O'Grady believes September or October as the most likely months for the launch of the device and claims that his source "has been reliable in the past". While this rumor may overlap (http://www.macrumors.com/2007/09/26/the-return-of-the-newton-apple-pda/) with earlier rumors of an Apple PDA, they appear to detail different features. The earlier PDA rumors suggested more of a larger iPhone rather than a tablet-ized Mac as O'Grady suggests.

http://images.macrumors.com/article/2008/05/23/162751-tablet_400.jpg

Images from an Apple Patent (http://www.macrumors.com/2005/05/10/apple-tablet-computer-design-patent/) from 2005
Rumors of a tablet Mac always spark a debate about practicality of the tablet form factor. Regardless, it's clear that Apple has been working on a tablet Mac over the years with numerous patents depicting such a device.

Article Link (http://www.macrumors.com/2008/05/23/tablet-mac-coming-in-fall-2008/)

Does anyone think that it is possible for mac to be coming out with a slick new reader that goes toe to toe with Kindle from AMZN?
I believe AAPL already has in place iTunes, why not incorporate iRead.
Just think about it. With with OS X a touch screen would be perfect real feel of turning pages and dog ear the iRead for another time. What do you think?

[xnu]

Tiny iMac, think of the iMac only smaller, thinner and portable. Add a keyboard and a stand and you have your Macmini replacement. You won't want to edit video on it but everyone buying a $300-$1000 just to surf the web and read email will want one. I would think it would use the iPhone SDK.

I would definitely buy a Mac tablet, heck I bought 5 newtons, but I am in the minority. It has to fit into Apples product line which stresses, portability, all in one design, and consumer markets. This product could be sold as the mini is now in a way that does not eat into the Macbooks or iMacs market. And it also does not come with the stigmatism of having to sign up for cellular service.

It truly could expand Mac market share and not fail miserably like UMPC's have. Who wants a $2K partial computer, but an $750 ultraportable makes perfect sense for home use and second computer business use.

Once people get a taste of OSX they will be moving up to MacBooks and iMacs.

Apparently Apple already dominates the premium computer market of over $1k, this would be Apples style in aggressively attacking the sub $1K market . It also fits into the larger plan of getting developers to code for the Mac Platform, look at the progress in the last three years. Heck look at the excitement for the iPhone SDK. Having the apps is as important as the cool hardware and system software the Apple produces.

[Bonte]

Apparently Apple already dominates the premium computer market of over $1k, this would be Apples style in aggressively attacking the sub $1K market .

A cheap sub $1K tablet would have to fit into the iPod/iPhone family to profit on the extra iTunes revenue and allow for mass production. $400 - $500 would be a good price for the non GSM model.

[Digitalclips]

Nobody needs a laptop and a tablet and a desktop. It's more like either or.

Perhaps a desktop and a tablet would be a good mix. I am reading this on my old iBook G4 which is now relegated to just reading web sites and mail when away from my desk and Mac Pro and I think a pad would be nice for similar uses. Light, small and not required to do much inputing. If cheap enough a tablet would replace my iBook as a general purpose reading device that can also input some stuff when required. I am assuming it would have an onscreen keyboard. With gestures it may even be very good at some kinds of input and maybe typing on an image of a full sized keyboard might be quite easy. It kind of hope this is true, it might be a fun gizmo. After all, Scotty used one as previously noted ;)

[noneother]

I would like to see a tablet with a screen of about 6 or 7 inch diag screen, removable battery, and GPS, wifi, and that super 42MBPS 3G technology...

being on calls, via bluetooth, surfing the net, and taking notes from the call, all on one device.... oh maybe DUAL battery, so you can keep three batteries, and always be able to charge one while the other two are ready to go..

I would buy it, do all my work on it.. then email everything to work... not very secure, but very mobile and productive

[BlueRevolution]

Okay, I'm a little late to the game here, but I just want to throw in my 2¢ worth on the subject.

I would buy a tablet in a heartbeat if it had a stylus. I'm fine with this stylus-free input thing, but I want a tablet for writing and I'm sure as hell not writing my notes with my finger. I take notes on my iBook in a few classes, but it's easier to take notes from oral lectures on paper because of the more fluid nature of the discussion. I would love to be able to do away with my notebooks as well, since I have a habit of losing my paper notes but I always know exactly where my typed material is. I have actually been considering getting a PC tablet, so this is definitely something that would interest me.

If the tablet has a stylus, I hope it has a matte surface like the Wacom Intuos graphics tablet rather than the hard plastic surface of the Graphire/Bamboo. I find it difficult to write without any paper-like resistance.

Yes, tablets cater to a niche market, but no more so than ultralight notebooks like the MacBook Air. In fact, I think there would be a broader market for a tablet.

Wireless support is unlikely to the extreme, since none of the other laptops have it and are intended to be just as mobile. However, I can see it having an ExpressCard slot for the purpose.

[Bonte]

If the tablet has a stylus, I hope it has a matte surface like the Wacom Intuos graphics tablet rather than the hard plastic surface of the Graphire/Bamboo. I find it difficult to write without any paper-like resistance.

There already are stylus pen's that work with the iPhone but 'paper-like resistance' for a finger driven multitouch screen is not very likely. :cool:

[i.mac]

...


Wireless support is unlikely to the extreme, since none of the other laptops have it and are intended to be just as mobile...

I do not understand the sentence above. Can a mobile device exist without wireless support?

In any case, why do folks insist in comparing Apple products with what others in the industry have or have not done?

Apple has proven time and again that they do not abide by 'standards' or 'molds' since they are the ones that create the molds that others follow.

Can you imagine if Apple had not created the mold for the imacs, the ipods, the iphone? What a boring place this would be...

[drewsof07]

I do not understand the sentence above. Can a mobile device exist without wireless support?
they said "to the extreme" probably meaning only wireless b/g like the rest of apple's products, and not direct internet access through phone/data connection. Ultra-portable, but not an independent device most likely.

[stephenli]

OQO model e2
http://www.oqo.com

this is good. I also need sth like this. good for ppt / keynote presentation.
If sth comes with a dock and have HDMI out and running Full Ver OSX, i'll order mine immediately.

[olternaut]

I wish this would go away. Forever.

I wish you would go away forever.

MACTOUCH FTW!!!!!!!!!!

[PowerFullMac]

Screw this! Flexible, thin-as-paper OLED based-devices (http://www.advancedimagingpro.com/article/photos/1175288491375_ai03_07battle6.jpg) are the future! ;)

[notsofatjames]

Not sure if this has been mentioned, but didnt MacRumors report on another apple patent that could tell when you were pretending to hold a pen over a touchscreen. Maybe there is some truth in the rumor.

I don't have a need for a tablet myself, but I assume there will be a large enough market for apple to even consider making one.

[cobalts]

My 2 cents worth:

- 12" isn't too large IMO. I have an 8.9" tablet PC, and it's a little small for writing ("inking," even though I think that's a ridiculous word) more than a dozen lines of script. 12" diagonal is smaller than a sheet of 8.5" by 11" paper. It's about the size of a medium sized book. If you are familiar with paper and books, then you know what I'm talking about. If you read things on paper and write on paper but think to yourself, crap, if only this paper and everything on it were smaller, then yes, 12" diagonal is probably too large for you.

- I just saw a post this morning on some other blog (sorry I forget which one) about Intel announcing the new specs for a dual-core Atom processor to be released 2008 Q3, the same time the Apple tablet is rumored to come out in the post under discussion.

- Regarding input, the capacitative touch screen technology that allows for multi-touch will put some interesting design parameters around methods of input. I would imagine for example an onscreen keyboard would be much superior on a multitouch screen than on a resistive touch screen. But if there's no built in stylus with full software support for stylus input, I'd feel pretty skeptical about the overall usability of such a device. In other words, if you can look at it and multi-touch it but not write on it, that would be strangely limited.

- I don't understand why people say "there's no market for a tablet." There is, in fact, an existing market of tablets, called the "tablet PC market." It's the market that consists of the tablet PCs that you could have been buying for the past several years if you weren't all Mac heads. Those who think the market isn't big enough for Apple, I can understand that opinion. But consider that Dell had said that the tablet PC market was too small to enter into, but they have recently made a multi-touch tablet PC (without multi-touch functions).

Also, think about the iPod. When the 1G iPod came out, there was "no market" for mp3 players. Furthermore, the 1G and 2G iPods were absurdly expensive and had a single full sized firewire port for access and charging. But by the time the 3G iPod came out, there was a substantial market for mp3 players and the iTunes store was up and running, which allowed Apple to expand the size of the market. Almost everyone I know bought the 3G iPod, and then the sense of coolness and smug superiority set in. To which I say, if you didn't get a 1G or a 2G iPod or recognize their technical and functional merits, you're a hanger-on and have no business making statements about what there is and is not a market for.

- IMO, the ergonomics of the notebook PC design in general are somewhat crappy anyway. You'll remember this comment when you're 72 and have terrible osteoporosis and neck arthritis.

- I can understand not wanting to carry around a piece of technology with an open, unprotected screen. What I don't understand is that this has come up for every single Apple product with an open, unprotected screen, and it doesn't turn out to be a problem. I suppose it could be possible that just maybe a 3rd party might make some kind of protective shell for an Apple tablet, like a case, or a cover of some kind maybe....

- My prediction is that there will be an Apple tablet soon, some people will be upset that it's not a notebook or an iPhone, some people will say "it won't replace any of my current Apple products so I think it's crap," but then it will establish itself in the marketplace, and then some people will say things like "it took Apple to make a tablet PC that MS couldn't make in 12 years" and "there was no tablet before the iTablet." And then they'll buy the 3G iTablet and act like they knew all along.

:)

[NT1440]

Just because you don't need one... I imagine that this would be just like a macbook. I don't think you realize how useful this would be for creative applications like graphic design, audio recording, modeling, etc.

The tablet form factor has recently seen it's killer app come close to fruition: multitouch.

Look at it from a business sense. The demand for tablet computers just isnt there or big enough to justify a major release for a company thats famous keeping its product line small, and useful.

[Dasmo]

Jason O'Grady's missed the mark more often than not. He was going on about the death of firewire, the plasma thing, something else that was retarded that I can't think of now. He also cited "reliable sources" in those articles. I believe his "reliable sources" are the voices in his head. He's just trying to generate traffic for Advertising dollars.

[NT1440]

Jason O'Grady's missed the mark more often than not. He was going on about the death of firewire, the plasma thing, something else that was retarded that I can't think of now. He also cited "reliable sources" in those articles. I believe his "reliable sources" are the voices in his head. He's just trying to generate traffic for Advertising dollars.

on that note, i remember reading how the new generation of firewire will blow away usb 3.0 when they come out

[drewsof07]

My 2 cents worth:

- 12" isn't too large

- I don't understand why people say "there's no market for a tablet." There is, in fact, an existing market of tablets, called the "tablet PC market." It's the market that consists of the tablet PCs that you could have been buying for the past several years if you weren't all Mac heads. Those who think the market isn't big enough for Apple, I can understand that opinion. But consider that Dell had said that the tablet PC market was too small to enter into, but they have recently made a multi-touch tablet PC (without multi-touch functions).
:)
Okay, first of all to get it out of the way, That's what she said!

Secondly, yes there is a market for tablet pc's. Now take that number and divide out the 8-9% market share that Apple currently holds. That will give you a fair idea of the market volume we're talking about. Heck, i'll give you 12%. It would be interesting to see the % of pcs that are in fact tablets. Anybody have that info?

[the vj]

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[deputylove8]

Man, I do hope this is true....

[cobalts]

Okay, first of all to get it out of the way, That's what she said!

Secondly, yes there is a market for tablet pc's. Now take that number and divide out the 8-9% market share that Apple currently holds. That will give you a fair idea of the market volume we're talking about. Heck, i'll give you 12%. It would be interesting to see the % of pcs that are in fact tablets. Anybody have that info?

According to a post on ZDNet, dated March 2007, tablet PCs were 1.4% of the global PC market in 2006. I presume the number is higher now, although it's hard to say by how much.

http://blogs.zdnet.com/ITFacts/?p=12733

It's kind of hard to compare the existing tablet PCs or the Modbook with a multitouch tablet, though. Only recently with smaller form factors do we see tablet PCs with resistive touch screens. Wacom holds the IP for the pen-based screen technology in most tablets and in the Modbook, but they are not touch sensitive.

IMO, Apple is just developing capacitative touch screen technology and trying to find ways to integrate it into devices. The iPhone is just the first product, for logical reasons. (Or, you could include the multitouch pad, which is the same technology minus the screen.)

Both resistive and capacitative input devices (i.e., touchpads) have been available for a while but capacitative technology has been held back by extra cost and size. Touch on a 12" resistive touch screen is not be very responsive, because the software has to filter out unintended contact by your wrist or hand. You can more easily get away with a touch screen on a smaller device, either resistive or capacitative. The reason the iPhone is the first multitouch Apple product is that it has the smallest screen that would reasonably allow for someone to touch it in more than one place and perform some kind of gesture, without the problem of determining when someone is touching it unintentionally or non-purposively.

How these kinds of problems will be solved on a device with a larger capacitative touch screen will be interesting and will be the key to Apple's success in transforming the market. But it's also a more expensive technology with different limitations. (In a way, the high price of the iPhone and iPod Touch is due to the cost of the R&D of a multitouch Mac tablet using capacitative technology and the development of Apple's IP applied to the consumer.) Multi-touch is great, but integrating it with stylus functionality seems pretty complex, given that you want a fast UI. How are you going to be able to rest your hand on a capacitative screen to write something with a stylus? Can the screen detect differential capacitances? If so, could it distinguish, let's say, a magic stylus from a finger on the basis of their electrical properties? And if you wanted to add pressure sensitivity and angular information, how would that work without overlaying a Wacom screen? It would be great to get all of these features in one device, but I don't think it's going to be possible, at least for a few generations of products.

One question I have is, is there an inherent reason why capacitative technology would limit stylus functioning? According to the CEO of HTC, the reason they did not use a capacitative screen in the HTC Diamond is that the resistive screen is necessary for handwriting recognition, which is very popular in their Asian market. Is this true?

Without reasonable stylus functioning, an Apple tablet would seem more like an entertainment and internet communications device with potentially unfriendly computer functions.

[CG81]

drewsof07

Secondly, yes there is a market for tablet pc's. Now take that number and divide out the 8-9% market share that Apple currently holds. That will give you a fair idea of the market volume we're talking about. Heck, i'll give you 12%. It would be interesting to see the % of pcs that are in fact tablets. Anybody have that info?
__________________
"If your attack is going as planned, you're walking into an ambush"

I just wanted to point out that you never get into buisness or in this case a market to meet the current demand of the market. You always do something different to create a market. That is good buisness, and that is what Apple is great at doing.

[sushi]

drewsof07

Secondly, yes there is a market for tablet pc's. Now take that number and divide out the 8-9% market share that Apple currently holds. That will give you a fair idea of the market volume we're talking about. Heck, i'll give you 12%. It would be interesting to see the % of pcs that are in fact tablets. Anybody have that info?
True.

Gut feeling says that Apple will not approach this like the PC market. i will grant you that the PC tablets are alluring. However, once you try one out they seem clunky in implementation. Most have the swivel screen arrangement which is flimsy, small keyboard and display, and they are not as light as you would think.

I would tend to believe that Apple is looking at a larger Touch type device. No optical or traditional HD, completely solid state in design. Of course this would mean no built in traditional tactical keyboard. Of course all bets are off if Apple pursues a larger form factor. Either way, I do not see the tablet running FCP as some have stated. Office type applications sure, but not graphics intensive at this time. The power required for FCP and similar apps in a small form factor is not there yet.

For me, the Touch has been a rather eye opening and effective device for me when on the go. With the third party apps that will be coming out, it could really become a powerhouse device. A little bigger version would be nice, but not too big.

[DrinkGuinness]

I think this is very likely one more component of several rumors going around about a single product under development.

*Andy Ihnatko repeatedly drops hints of a possible ultraportable under development at Apple.

*Recent rumors of a touchscreen keyboard for the AppleTV have come to light recently.

*The tablet-style Mac rumor that has been around for the last few years; an idea that Steve Jobs has thrown cold water on in his public criticism of table PCs and their failure to gain traction in all but a very small niche (*cough*MacBook Air*cough*).

While I would be excited about a Mac in the subnotebook range (sometimes lugging my MBP around all day kills my back and is often overkill when I just want to do some typing), I fail to see Apple embracing the tablet-Mac for anything more serious than controlling the AppleTV (think Sonos) and toilet surfing/ichatting (think Nokia 770 Internet Tablet). An Apple subnotebook would no doubt be underpowered, which we already have with the MacBook Air, and in many ways such a device already exists in the way of the iPod Touch and iPhone. If Apple does release a touchscreen keyboard/miniMac for controlling the AppleTV and mild Internet surfing, I hope they are wise enough to make the applications developed by the iPhone SDK compatible (which would drive sales of the applications and the device). How cool would it be to be able to buy a movie and immediately enter the transaction in your iBank account and add it to your Delicious Library collection?!

A micro-tablet-Mac computer would partially or completely cannibalize sales of the iPod Touch, Macmini, MacBook and MacBook Air. I just do not see any upside for Apple besides using it as a means of controlling your digital lifestyle.

BTW, two of my friends who swore by their table-PCs have recently traded them in for MacBooks. :p Their biggest complaint was that they could get more than twice as much done with a keyboard than their tables in the same amount of time.

[pagansoul]

I just noticed that Amazon's Kindle just dropped in price to $359 from $400. Can this be because Apple may introduce a new 'Reader' at the WWDC this year. I hope so because I'm tired of waiting and even through I hate the look of the Kindle I may just buy one if the price goes down enough.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000FI73MA/ref=s9kin_c1_imgk-2871_p/002-9533348-6126426?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-1&pf_rd_r=0XHQ0HNY1RKF4M7D2C63&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=398464101&pf_rd_i=507846

[Jabberwock]

Hey,

Am new to the forums. Have been reading for awhile, gaining tips and product insight, et cetera. Decided to voice a need. Have used an HP TC1100 for three years, a tablet w/ detachable keyboard. Should Apple use this as a go-by for size and format would buy. What do other people think of the uses?

[psychofreak]

I just noticed that Amazon's Kindle just dropped in price to $359 from $400. Can this be because Apple may introduce a new 'Reader' at the WWDC this year. I hope so because I'm tired of waiting and even through I hate the look of the Kindle I may just buy one if the price goes down enough.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000FI73MA/ref=s9kin_c1_imgk-2871_p/002-9533348-6126426?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-1&pf_rd_r=0XHQ0HNY1RKF4M7D2C63&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=398464101&pf_rd_i=507846

Doubtful, Jobs even said when asked if Apple would make a competitor "It doesn't matter how good or bad the product is, the fact is that people don't read anymore... The whole conception is flawed at the top because people don't read anymore."

Now, it is possible that if Apple make a Tablet Mac, there will be an e-reader for it, but I guess it would strain your eyes more than the Kindle.

[Lesser Evets]

http://www.landofthelost.com/slate2.jpg

Comes with a stylus, and needs no drives or memory, aside from yours. $799 - October.

2 years ago this rumor would have been amazing. Now it is merely expected.

[NT1440]

http://www.landofthelost.com/slate2.jpg

Comes with a stylus, and needs no drives or memory, aside from yours. $799 - October.

2 years ago this rumor would have been amazing. Now it is merely expected.

from people ive talked to, it still is a rumor. while patents and such may point to a tablet somewhere down the line, its not exactly a really sought after device at this point.:apple:

[dadudeness]

I'd love a ~10" tablet with multitouch capabilities all today's wireless stuff (except 3g) in it and a full OS X but without keyboard and I don't need a superdrive either.

But It's right, it needed some kind of stylus. Writing notes with the finger on the screen doesn't seem to be an option for me :eek:


If they came out with that one and a new Mac Mini I'd leave the house right now heading the next Apple dealer.
Often my MacBook is not as mobile as I would like it to be. Even the MBA wouldn't change anything in that. It's about having to get it out of its sleeve and opening up the screen....

[snarfer]

I used to own an NEC Versa Litepad. Bought it for new from Tiger Direct for $900 and used it for 2 years, until the mobo gave out. It was less than 1 kilo, slate, 10.4" XGA screen. Best buy ever. Why:

(1) Convertible tablets are too heavy and the form factor sucks. I don't want to carry around a keyboard and a CD/DVD drive most of the time.

(2) Every try instant messaging with a pen on a slate? Handwritten messages are awesome, especially because you can draw pictures.

(3) Try writing in Chinese on a keyboard. How lame. Even that crappy 900 MHz processor was able to recognize my Chinese characters without too much delay.

(4) When you have to read lots of text off a screen, it's really nice to be able to hold it up just like a book. You can look up at it while you're lying on your back. You can look down at it while you're lying on the couch. Surfing seems so effortless. No more tweaked shoulder from mouse overuse.

(5) Current UMPC models simply don't have enough screen real estate. I don't think there's a single one available with even a 1024x768 10.4" screen. Similarly, there isn't a single current tablet PC with weight less than 3 pounds.

Later NEC came out with a successor model that was only released in Japan with a slightly faster processor, and slightly thinner too. I tried to buy one from one of those Japanese tech import sites but they were discontinued.

Also, regarding the point about touch versus pen input earlier in the thread, there are several current tablet PCs with both capacitative and pen input. They have been on the market for at least two years now.

I'm not a doctor, but I'd buy a slate MBA in a second.

[kzin]

no service contract required means development independent of cell phone providers. also it fits into a unique market. you would buy this thing and still need an iphone and laptop and desktop. why not? priced at $799.


I wouldn't buy it at 12" or 13".

For one, if I want a tablet that big, why not buy a modbook?

Nope, I want a 8"-ish tablet. I outlined the UMPC/MID that I want under the iPod-Touch forum (http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=444809). Something like a Samsung Q1, only mac-ified, so similar size and lack of physical keyboard, virtual keyboard via the touch screen. Full Mac OS X, but with multi-touch-isms and perhaps a front-end program that does an iPhone like interface (sort of like FrontRow, only for tablet interaction instead of entertainment interaction). Also means "usable with external keyboard & mouse, and external display" ... so you COULD get by without a laptop or desktop. Almost like a cross between an iPod-Touch and a Mac-mini. But you would want an iPhone (if it adds tethering) for wwan access.

An 8" mac tablet as described above for $799? probably.

An 8" iPod Touch for $799? maybe... if it has all of the stuff my other post talks about.

[zarusoba]

I wouldn't buy it at 12" or 13".

For one, if I want a tablet that big, why not buy a modbook?



Because the modbook never shipped... Did it?

[kzin]

Because the modbook never shipped... Did it?

www.modbook.com takes you to axiotron's site, and it says it's shipping.

[snarfer]

The modbook weighs 2.5 kilos (5.5 pounds). 65% heavier than the Motion LE1700 and the Fujitsu ST5112, and more than twice the weight of the NEC Versa Litepad. That is way too heavy for a slate, and why I would never buy it.

[marcg007]

" have a slot loading Superdrive,"

And yet be smaller than an MBA? Yeah, right.

There's already a tablet Mac - it's called the Mod Book - looks great, works great, has integrated GPS even. Hands up if you bought one...

oh.

I want something that weighs less than my current 12 inch G4 Powerbook not more. And, I want something that fits in the footprint of my current PB or less so the MBA is not an option. If a tablet came out "loaded" only with what the MBA has in terms of processor, RAM, and HD/SSD, I would have no problem spending the money on it because it is appropriately powered for something like this.

[cobalts]

Two pieces of relevant information (for those who care):

1. According to this story, tablet PCs "doubled" their market share from 2006 to 2007 to 7% of the "mobile market." This is in contrast to the earlier story I posted stating that tablet PCs were 1.7% of the total PC market in 2006.

http://www.gottabemobile.com/Surprise+Tablet+PC+Market+Share+Is+Growing.aspx

2. A new set of benchmarks on the Intel Atom.

http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/intel-atom-cpu,1947.html

[scialex]

look at this site it is @ :apple:
http://developer.apple.com/documentation/Carbon/Conceptual/using_ink/ink_concepts/chapter_2_section_3.html
specifically look about halfway down at this pic
http://developer.apple.com/documentation/Carbon/Conceptual/using_ink/art/sloppy_ink.gif
(it says "sloppy text" i think)
why would they be developing this is fthey didnt expect to come out with a tablet

[scialex]

also look a third of the way down herehttp://developer.apple.com/DOCUMENTATION/Cocoa/Conceptual/EventOverview/EventObjectsTypes/chapter_3_section_3.html

[ctodd111]

You folks are missing the really point here -- the education market. That's Apple's bread and butter (remember, on campuses Macs are number 1, Pee-cees are "number 2"). The idea here is to be able to take notes, access info, and acts as an e-reader. As an academic, this is what I want. Many of my colleagues say, I won't buy a mac because they don't make a tablet version. Lots of people want to draw pictures, equations, etc, and laptop is just not right for that. It's really aimed as a being a PDA in the traditional sense.

Exactly!! As a teacher, I would buy a Mac Tablet in a heartbeat! It would need to be convertible, though because I need to use it as a regular laptop as well. I currently own (and love) my Toshiba tablet pc. The only thing holding me back from buying a macbook or macbook pro is the lack of pen input. I use the tablet functionality everyday in class while I'm teaching -- I hardly ever need to write on the board anymore. I think it would be extremely popular in the education and medical professions.

[cthomet]

look at this site it is @ :apple:
http://developer.apple.com/documentation/Carbon/Conceptual/using_ink/ink_concepts/chapter_2_section_3.html
specifically look about halfway down at this pic
http://developer.apple.com/documentation/Carbon/Conceptual/using_ink/art/sloppy_ink.gif
(it says "sloppy text" i think)
why would they be developing this is fthey didnt expect to come out with a tablet

multi touch trackpad...

[kzin]

look at this site it is @ :apple:
http://developer.apple.com/documentation/Carbon/Conceptual/using_ink/ink_concepts/chapter_2_section_3.html
specifically look about halfway down at this pic
http://developer.apple.com/documentation/Carbon/Conceptual/using_ink/art/sloppy_ink.gif
(it says "sloppy text" i think)
why would they be developing this is fthey didnt expect to come out with a tablet

Because they have a non-trivial number of artist customers who use a wacom pen/touch screen, and thus they're supporting that market?

[kabunaru]

http://www.macrumors.com/images/macrumorsthreadlogo.gif (http://www.macrumors.com)

Jason O'Grady revives rumors (http://blogs.zdnet.com/Apple/?p=1786) of a tablet Mac in his 'The Apple Core' blog (http://blogs.zdnet.com/Apple/) today with claims that the long-rumored Mac Tablet would finally be arriving later this year.

Specifically, he believes that Apple will announce a 12" or 13" tablet "in the fall" of this year. The Mac Tablet will reportedly run full Mac OS X, a slot loading Superdrive, 'iPhone-type' GPS chip and an Intel Core Duo processor.

O'Grady believes September or October as the most likely months for the launch of the device and claims that his source "has been reliable in the past". While this rumor may overlap (http://www.macrumors.com/2007/09/26/the-return-of-the-newton-apple-pda/) with earlier rumors of an Apple PDA, they appear to detail different features. The earlier PDA rumors suggested more of a larger iPhone rather than a tablet-ized Mac as O'Grady suggests.

http://images.macrumors.com/article/2008/05/23/162751-tablet_400.jpg

Images from an Apple Patent (http://www.macrumors.com/2005/05/10/apple-tablet-computer-design-patent/) from 2005
Rumors of a tablet Mac always spark a debate about practicality of the tablet form factor. Regardless, it's clear that Apple has been working on a tablet Mac over the years with numerous patents depicting such a device.

Article Link (http://www.macrumors.com/2008/05/23/tablet-mac-coming-in-fall-2008/)

I don't see this coming for some reason. I actually would think it would be strange if Apple releases something like this.

[cthomet]

tablets are most common in the education, construction, and medical fields. maybe apple is looking to gain control of this market segment, considering they already have a vice grip on the pocketbooks of the youth (look at many college campus pictures and they are dominated by mb and mbp).

i used to say that there is no way jose that they will make one, not viable, not enough market, not gonna revolutionize the majority of our lives. but hey, maybe apple is looking to expand little by little, market by market...

[Lesser Evets]

I believe AAPL already has in place iTunes, why not incorporate iRead... With with OS X a touch screen would be perfect real feel of turning pages and dog ear the iRead for another time. What do you think?

I am surprised no one replied to this post.

iRead might be far more limited in consumer interest than iTunes, but it doesn't have a lack of merit as a market. Specifically since the iPad (note pad mac) would be perfect for education markets, which is every person in the USA ages 6-18 and a good deal 18-23. Think of all the textbooks that won't have to be printed, and all that information being downloaded through the university computers or school system servers. All around it would be a successful solution to a lot of storage space, book sales staff, printing, paper, etc.

The problem until now has been making a pad computer that is easy to see and read in any light, as well as function of the computer as a writing/art device, connection, and solid market. But there has been a very large market waiting for it.

Laptop design has ALWAYS been goofy and clumsy. Argue as some might, it shows how inept they are to recognize error of design. The laptop needs effort and immobility to use, where a pad would be something anyone could use in an active life without having to unfold, sit, and hunch over.

I would suspect a pad to be 10" or 11" screen (no smaller than 8") and shaped like a notepad as shown in the Apple diagram. It will have no optical drive because the computer won't be nicely portable with a clunky mech. drive. Also, all optical drives will vanish in 10 years unless they can outstrip the flash drives in storage capacity and usefulness to common consumers in that time. As USB flash drives get cheaper to mass produce they will probably be used to store data-software-audio/video, and that is how we will purchase new software, which was predicted by Sony 20 years ago. It should have a minimal amount of ports, easy to charge, hold a long charge, multitouch screen with writing recognition, and it should be very thin and very light (about or under 2 lbs.).

Apple has all the technology in place to make and market this device, and they should look at it as a replacement for the low end notebook range. The iPhone is almost the device needed, but it is too small for a proper work area. They also need to give people the ability to record lots of symbols not on the ASCII keyboard, like Gregg shorthand.

A good $1000 pad computer,not meant for high end gaming or high end graphics/video, but capable of all midrange function of a Mac would be a success if it can link professionals and students to information and data storage needs while allowing access to internet and data bases.

[macerroneous]

it'll be so easy for apple, you know it's coming. Ebook reader is a natural for the large format touch pad. The point of this device, of course, is that you have named just one of an unlimited number of applications for which a slate is perfect.

[olternaut]

Doesn't any one have a solid lead or a new juicy rumor about a tablet mac or a super iphone deluxe......with cheese??! Is one coming in 2008 or do we have to wait for macworld 09? :confused:

[Tallest Skil]

Doesn't any one have a solid lead or a new juicy rumor about a tablet mac or a super iphone deluxe......with cheese??! Is one coming in 2008 or do we have to wait for macworld 09? :confused:

One isn't coming at all. Don't get your hopes up for a product that doesn't exist.

[olternaut]

One isn't coming at all. Don't get your hopes up for a product that doesn't exist.

You blaspheming liar! It will exist I tells you! :mad:

[Tallest Skil]

You blaspheming liar! It will exist I tells you! :mad:

Do us all a favor and...

post pictures! The MacTablet is the longest-running rumor that hasn't come true!

[olternaut]

Do us all a favor and...

post pictures! The MacTablet is the longest-running rumor that hasn't come true!

I will post pictures as soon as someone leaks them. Till then its in a top secret lab on the Apple campus. Oh and by the way, I will make sure to get Steve Jobs to NOT SELL YOU THE MAC iTABLET EVAR! Grrrrrr :mad:

[Tallest Skil]

Till then its in a top secret lab on the Apple campus.

"Dear Steve,

Hey, it's me, again. Just want to give you a heads up: never sell a 12" MacBook Pro or G5 PowerBook to olternaut on the MacRumors forums.

Thanks!
-Skil"

Right. :rolleyes:

[Lesser Evets]

Do us all a favor and...

post pictures! The MacTablet is the longest-running rumor that hasn't come true!

And post them with an elevator. We haven't had many elevators recently.

[olternaut]

And post them with an elevator. We haven't had many elevators recently.

I can't man! :( In the fine print of my NDA it says Steve gets to kill me slowly using a scalpel...one piece at a time if I leak any info on the tablet. :eek:

[Polish97]

Twice the size of an iPhone less processing than a Laptop.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3089/2695634219_939f176252.jpg?v=0

Runs regular app store and extras that allow use of the full screen.

This allows developers to use iPhone apps to start then invest more in apple with the larger applications.

[.Chris]

Twice the size of an iPhone less processing than a Laptop.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3089/2695634219_939f176252.jpg?v=0

Runs regular app store and extras that allow use of the full screen.

This allows developers to use iPhone apps to start then invest more in apple with the larger applications.

Dobut it will look like that.

Why cant people create a screenshot/phototype of something usefull/pratical instead of messing around with current products.

some people have no creatvity

[Tallest Skil]

Why cant people create a screenshot/prototype of something usefull/pratical instead of messing around with current products.

Straight from the halls of 1 Infinite Loop, it's Steve Jobs himself with the MacTablet! He fell on his knees and begged me not to post this, but the truth must be seen!

[Bubba Satori]

Dobut it will look like that.

Why cant people create a screenshot/phototype of something usefull/pratical instead of messing around with current products.

some people have no creatvity


Did I miss your creation ? :rolleyes:

[localoid]

Straight from the halls of 1 Infinite Loop, it's Steve Jobs himself with the MacTablet! He fell on his knees and begged me not to post this, but the truth must be seen!

OMG! OMG! Then the rumors are true! We can clearly see that Steve's thumb is not holding up the MacTablet which proves the MacTablet is able to fly!

The only mystery remaining is whether it will be able to function as a hover board! If so, the MacTable will change the way we build cities!

Exciting times... truly exciting times.

[Mr Maui]

OMG! OMG! Then the rumors are true! We can clearly see that Steve's thumb is not holding up the MacTablet which proves the MacTablet is able to fly!

The only mystery remaining is whether it will be able to function as a hover board! If so, the MacTable will change the way we build cities!

Exciting times... truly exciting times.

Or it simply proves that Steve wears a fake thumb during his keynotes. :p

[jnc]

Did I miss your creation ? :rolleyes:

You don't need to be a chef to... how does the rest of that go, again...

[jasonbuzz]

Straight from the halls of 1 Infinite Loop, it's Steve Jobs himself with the MacTablet! He fell on his knees and begged me not to post this, but the truth must be seen!

That tablet looks a little gaunt. Maybe we should sell our apple stock.

[.Chris]

Did I miss your creation ? :rolleyes:

No need to get so offensive. I wasn't even aiming the comment at youbut you responded so...... hmmmm

[deputylove8]

Hehehehe..I've been following this tablet rumour for about a year now. Hehe. Man I do wish it is true. This will be very useful in the Health Care Industry. hehehee..But man! I just got my air..and if this thing comes out. There will be a BLACK HOLE in my wallet.:eek:

[Bubba Satori]

You don't need to be a chef to... how does the rest of that go, again...

Touche'. :D

[Bubba Satori]

No need to get so offensive. I wasn't even aiming the comment at youbut you responded so...... hmmmm

Sorry, didn't mean to offend. I'm a smart *ss. :D

[olternaut]

Straight from the halls of 1 Infinite Loop, it's Steve Jobs himself with the MacTablet! He fell on his knees and begged me not to post this, but the truth must be seen!

I KNEW IT!!! Booyaaaaa!!! Eat it all you doubters!! :D

[macerroneous]

one more time:
8"x4.5"
Multitouch (duh)
n wifi
Bluetooth keyboard
Maybe keyboard/cradle combo.
? could this be why 3G dock connector is different? ie so it can plug into a full size keyboard?
Iphone OS
Front facing camera for iChat.
Accelerometers.
And it streams rented movies and acts as a laptop screen for apple TV. Not to mention remote access to apple TV and your desktop.

[jnc]

one more time:
8"x4.5"
Multitouch (duh)
n wifi
Bluetooth keyboard
Maybe keyboard/cradle combo.
? could this be why 3G dock connector is different? ie so it can plug into a full size keyboard?
Iphone OS
Front facing camera for iChat.
Accelerometers.
And it streams rented movies and acts as a laptop screen for apple TV. Not to mention remote access to apple TV and your desktop.

one more time: pipe dream

[macerroneous]

one more time: pipe dream

What's not to like?

You know there's going to be a larger touch.
Everything I've named is feasible.
I happen to think it's all desireable, ie marketable.
I think it'll sell for $1000, and would be A low margin product at that price, especially if it includes 64 gb flash drive.

In particular, what do you think about a combo keyboard/dock?

[Tallest Skil]

You know there's going to be a larger touch.


Nope, we don't. And I personally think that there won't be.

[ansj64]

What's not to like?

You know there's going to be a larger touch.
Everything I've named is feasible.
I happen to think it's all desireable, ie marketable.
I think it'll sell for $1000, and would be A low margin product at that price, especially if it includes 64 gb flash drive.

In particular, what do you think about a combo keyboard/dock?


I do believe this is not impossible. The problem really is more of a business decision....does Apple want to cannibalize their other products....why would you want to buy an iPod touch when there's a Macbook touch....So I think Apple is thinking carefully what they will introduce....you'll never have a so called complete system.....as they cannibalize the individual products they've already introduced so far in the market

[br0adband]

Bleh. Tried to post a pic, the img tags aren't working and neither are the attachments.

[t0mat0]

Playing devil's advocate for a minute - Isn't thinking about a Tablet from Apple as realistic as considering Apple might make a MacBook "Touch" - and then make it with a multi-touch screen, that can pivot on the screen's y axis, then fold down over the keyboard? Think HP's X41 Tablet Series (all the way from 2005)

The MacBook Air is Apple's (current) "ultrathin, ultraportable, and ultra unlike anything else"

MacBook Air weight: ~3.0 pounds (1.36 kg)
Axiotron Modbook: ~5.5 pounds (2.5 kg)
X41 Tablet (2005): ~3.0 pounds (1.36 kg) (without battery)

[nubix]

Just found this on Digg.

http://img528.imageshack.us/img528/5606/10585wm6.png
(the cable's kinda suss)
Impressive fake if not real. Using the ipod's lengths, the screen would go to about 8.9"

As excited as I am about these tablets, I'm really hoping for a physical keyboard.

[drewsof07]

Playing devil's advocate for a minute - Isn't thinking about a Tablet from Apple as realistic as considering Apple might make a MacBook "Touch" - and then make it with a multi-touch screen, that can pivot on the screen's y axis, then fold down over the keyboard? Think HP's X41 Tablet Series (all the way from 2005)

I really think that when :apple: makes the tablet it won't stick to hum-drum features of the other industry trendsetters (swivel screen, regular laptop body, etc)
I'm glad it is taking awhile to debut, that usually means they are either working out problems (good for us) or waiting for technologies to advance further (even better for us). The worst mistake they could make is introducing a product that isn't ready to perform up to the company's standards of excellence.