New Powerbooks on Tuesday - Part 2? [Archive]

MacRumors

Dec 6, 2003, 03:47 PM

Last week (http://www.macrumors.com/pages/2003/12/20031202035247.shtml) were last minute claims that PowerBooks would see revisions on Tuesday. Tuesday came and went without any new releases... which seemed to effectively bury that rumor.

But, again, there are new notes that PowerBooks may see speed bumps this Tuesday... with suggestions of speeds toping out at 1.42GHz 17" PowerBooks with 1.33 GHz 15" PowerBooks. Same old tired rumor? or is there truth to it?

PowerBooks were last bumped (http://www.macrumors.com/pages/2003/09/20030916055045.shtml) in September after a prolonged wait. More frequent updates may help spur more consistent year around sales for Apple. In a surprise move, Apple recently did bump the mid-line PowerMac from 1.8GHz to Dual 1.8GHz.

QCassidy352

Dec 6, 2003, 03:49 PM

that's a pretty small speed bump. I can't see anyone really caring. How about the 12" though? Still 1 ghz?

k2k koos

Dec 6, 2003, 03:50 PM

Oh dear, I can't wait....

arn

Dec 6, 2003, 03:50 PM

I wouldn't necessarily put a whole lot more credence into this than over last week's powerbook on tuesday rumor.

but if you were about to buy a PowerBook, it might be reasonable to wait until Tuesday.

arn

TomSmithMacEd

Dec 6, 2003, 03:57 PM

It would always be nice to see new updates.

k2k koos

Dec 6, 2003, 03:59 PM

instead of speed bumps, perhaps they have a solution to the screen problems reported on the new 15" Alu powerbooks, and in might be nothing more than that, on the other hand, both would be nice, perhaps even a G5?........

Well I can dream can I?

Giaguara

Dec 6, 2003, 04:02 PM

Fixing the 15" screen issue sounds more probable.

New Powerbooks next tuesday, eh? How come this sounds to me like the "New iPods next tuesday"-thing that kept going from January to the end of april ..? :rolleyes:

k2k koos

Dec 6, 2003, 04:08 PM

Hey there? did you just move this article from the front page, to page 2, I was a little confused there, or is my Safari browser playing tricks on me?

arn

Dec 6, 2003, 04:11 PM

Originally posted by k2k koos
Hey there? did you just move this article from the front page, to page 2, I was a little confused there, or is my Safari browser playing tricks on me?

accidently posted it to the front page initially... was always meant to be a Page 2 rumor.

arn

k2k koos

Dec 6, 2003, 04:28 PM

Ah thanks, I just wondered....

Great job Arn, i really enjoy this site, I try to log on daily, but as I work at sea, I do miss out a lot....

hobbes3113

Dec 6, 2003, 04:29 PM

Why would Apple update the PB line this close to the holidays, and even more important, so close to Macworld? That is when I could see the line getting an update...

pjkelnhofer

Dec 6, 2003, 04:42 PM

Is there the possibility that Apple would increase the frequency of speed-bumps for all of the G4 computers in a effort to use up chips before everything goes to G5 sometime in the next couple of years.
I can't imagine that they still want new 800 MHz, 933 MHz and 1 GHz chips. So will they sell those until they are gone then make 1.25 GHz the slowest availible?
Has Apple ever "official" said when everything would be G5 (2005, 2006?).
Anyhow, my 450 MHz G3 iMac continues running strong (noticeably faster with Panther), and I continue to save money for what ever is the the top of the line Powerbook and the end of next.
Hopefully, by then they will be G5.

Ja Di ksw

Dec 6, 2003, 04:47 PM

Originally posted by hobbes3113
Why would Apple update the PB line this close to the holidays

So people buy them for the holidays. Not that I think it'll happen, I just think it would be a good idea, IF they could get them shipped in time for xmas, Chanukah, etc. Like that'll happen :rolleyes:

QCassidy352

Dec 6, 2003, 05:21 PM

Originally posted by hobbes3113
Why would Apple update the PB line this close to the holidays, and even more important, so close to Macworld? That is when I could see the line getting an update...

I don't think they would update them at MWSF unless it was a big update (i.e. G5s) which is probably not going to happen. A little speedbump is not something SJ would get all hyped about onstage at macworld.

brhmac

Dec 6, 2003, 05:41 PM

Hi,

Anyone own a 12" PowerBook running @ 1 GHz? What do you think about it?

I'm looking to replace my PB G3 (300 MHz) asap, but I want to wait to see what happens next month in SFO. If Apple bumps it to 1.25 G and drops the price about $200 or so, I think I could be pretty interested.

But I have no real first-hand experience with the machine -- other than the ones I've toyed with in Apple store.

Thanks.

rdowns

Dec 6, 2003, 05:43 PM

Originally posted by arn
I wouldn't necessarily put a whole lot more credence into this than over last week's powerbook on tuesday rumor.

but if you were about to buy a PowerBook, it might be reasonable to wait until Tuesday.

arn

Arn:

I'd like to submit a rumor for publication next weekend. I have it on good authority that new PowerBooks are to be released Tuesday 12/16. Please keep this anonymous.

Thank you:

Randy
:D :D

weev

Dec 6, 2003, 05:57 PM

I am still waiting on the 15" 1.25 PB which I ordered BTO a week after they were launched.

If they do update, this might the first case of a product ordered at launch that fails to get delivered before it's superseeded.

Am I pissed at Apple? - yes. Would an update satisfy this pissed-offness? Absolutely.

I will probably get a call from the reseller on Monday, saying its in, now that would really piss me off if the following day it were updated.

:mad:

fussball

Dec 6, 2003, 06:00 PM

I am just waiting for a 64mb video card in the 12" PB... once that happens I will buy a nice new book with my student developer's discount :-)

anyone know if there are chances of a 64mb card in the 12's by february?

aub32

Dec 6, 2003, 06:03 PM

We have 25 15" powerbooks on order, and 1 17" on order for a classroom cart that is ready to be shipped upon our word.

Its interesting because the apple rep keeps desperately trying to get us to accept the shipment. We are still trying to figure out where the computers are going to go, and in the meantime, we're all wondering why he's being so pushy. If there are upgrades coming, I would have to say that they're coming this week, and if they happen, he will probably give us a price cut OR we can opt for the upgraded models.

I'd put my money on this week for new PB's!

crees!

Dec 6, 2003, 06:24 PM

Originally posted by k2k koos
instead of speed bumps, perhaps they have a solution to the screen problems reported on the new 15" Alu powerbooks

From what I heard the screen issues are already taken care of as well as latch issues. I was told if you have a screen issue call Applecare and they'll overnight you a shipment box and will replace your LCD.

Also if it's just a little speed bump releasing it before the holiday sounds more feazable as it's not a worthy enough update for MWSF. Most likely WWDC is when the next major revision will come in my mind.

crees!

Dec 6, 2003, 06:25 PM

Double post. Sorry.

diehldun

Dec 6, 2003, 06:36 PM

i just got my brand-new PowerBook 17" (i'm typing on it right now).

if it turns out to be true, is it possible to return it for the NEW, updated model????

because i got it on thursday, i believe there is a 10-day return policy, although i believe it would probably be impossible.

phampton81

Dec 6, 2003, 06:36 PM

Can anyone tell me where the new powerbooks usually ship from, I just helped my sister order a 12" on Tuesday and it is shipping from Taiwan, is that normal? Even though it said 2-3 days shipping the Fed Ex estimates it will not arrive till this next Tuesday. Do they ever just ship the newer model without telling the customer? Thanks

zaphoyd

Dec 6, 2003, 07:10 PM

My powerbook (667 DVI) shipped from Taiwan. So yes, they definitely do ship powerbooks from there. Apple also has been known to bump unshipped orders of an old product to a similar new one.

davebl

Dec 6, 2003, 07:15 PM

Snowy_River

Dec 6, 2003, 07:31 PM

Sunrunner

Dec 6, 2003, 07:45 PM

I don't know if I agree with the "powerbook updates on Tuesday" rumor... With it being this close to MWSF, I would think that Apple would want to let it wait until then. That way they get mor bang for their presentation buck in January. On the other hand, they may want to cathc some of the Christmas shopping revenue stream... updated iBooks maybe?

johnnyjibbs

Dec 6, 2003, 07:48 PM

Using a 1GHz 12" here. I love it, especially now with Panther! It's nice now with only 256MB RAM so I can't wait to see what it's like when I have 768 in it!

From a selfish point of view it would be nice if there weren't updates next Tuesday ;) :p but then I've been in love with this machine for the whole 8 weeks that I have had it! Maybe they will update the graphics to 64MB as I said last week if anything happens but, having said that, I've had no issues with this and I'm depriving it of RAM! Great machine!

Sunrunner

Dec 6, 2003, 07:53 PM

I only wish Apple had better video card options for their portable lineup. I think that issue is one of the larger stumbling blocks to better portable sales figures.

johnnyjibbs

Dec 6, 2003, 07:56 PM

Yeah, I think the 12" PB is a brilliant machine but I can't help think that they ought to be putting 64MB graphics and 512MB RAM in the thing by default - especially for the amount it costs. Ok, so I've yet to see a nicer laptop but...

snofseth

Dec 6, 2003, 08:07 PM

I think this could be true what if temporarally that had 6 models or how ever many so that would be all the existing modles and then some speed bumped one and add a 100-200 price drop on all then you would have a one modle at a price range for every costomer im sure many people would like a 1799 or 1899 15" then you would have so many choices wow! that would be cool. I think this also may encourage many to buy who want to wait for a g5 but cant

MacNut

Dec 6, 2003, 08:14 PM

I was all set to put an order for a BTO Al15"PB tonight but im wondering, 1. are the screen and latch issues truly fixed and 2. If by some reason they do update the powerbooks on Tuesday will i get an updaded machine or the one im about to order? and if they do update and the prices are different will i either pay the difference or for some reason if Apple drops the prices which im not expecting do they refund the difference?

MacBoyX

Dec 6, 2003, 08:16 PM

yoman

Dec 6, 2003, 08:45 PM

In an unprecedented strategy Apple will be updating its popular powerbook line every tuesday starting this week (Dec-8) until the end of the year. This strategy is expected to spur more sales of Apple's portable porfessional line throughout the Christmas shopping season. Apple officials reported that the updates will include video card upgrades, mild processor speed increases, and other "special" surprises.

This of course is a joke :) But it would be neat if this were possible.

chancellor

Dec 6, 2003, 09:16 PM

In the past, it seems that a couple weeks before announcing a new model, Apple products stop shipping. And after the announcement Apple offers people with outstanding orders the option of getting the newer model.

My 1.25 PB was shipped today (Saturday). As such, I doubt this rumor is true.

Though, if it is true and I don't get a price cut, I'll be pretty annoyed.

ITR 81

Dec 6, 2003, 09:50 PM

I was talking with Apple Rep at CompUSA and he said there is price cut coming up soon. He wasn't sure if it was for Christmas or because of new upgrade models.

Either way Apple holds to a pattern of doing things and I doubt a new upgrade is coming to the PB's model line next week. I do however expect maybe pricecuts to boost sales in Dec. and to clear older machines out as I believe they will be shown at MW or CES.

Apple went 1.42 about 3 months or so before introducing the G5 PM. I believe this to hold true with the PB's line as well. I would say after the bump in 3-4 months the G5 PB will debut.

This is my opinion based on Apples current patterns of introducing new products and software to the world.

I still think it's funny that people doubted my predictions and now it looks like atleast half of them will come true if not more. And right now I expect atleast 2 more to come true by the time of MW or CES shows.

weev

Dec 6, 2003, 09:51 PM

Originally posted by Sunrunner
I don't know if I agree with the "powerbook updates on Tuesday" rumor... With it being this close to MWSF, I would think that Apple would want to let it wait until then. That way they get mor bang for their presentation buck in January.

Let's have a reality check.

An increase from 1.25 to 1.33 is a total increase of 83Mhz.

I can see Steve Jobs striding confidently across the podium...

'And one more thing ... powerbooks .... are 83Mhz faster...you heard it hear first, we are making them 1.6 per cent faster!!!'

Woman swoon, men faint.

MacWhispers

Dec 6, 2003, 10:17 PM

... actually, the new G5 Powerbooks are to be releaased on Tuesday.

Really.

My buddy in Taiwan told me.:)

MacNut

Dec 6, 2003, 10:28 PM

I dont think it is so far fetched to bump the Powerbooks now except they missed half of the holiday shopping season already. That being said if they have extra chips sitting around why not put them in now. But i wonder what the battery life would be on the 17" with a 1.43ghz chip. If you look at it tho the imac and powerbooks are simular in chip speed and this bump would be enough to seperate the two by just enough. As for G5 Powerbooks by MWSF I highly doubt it. Lets say this revision will last 6 months that would put us to May 2004 to announce new Powerbook G5's

ethernet76

Dec 6, 2003, 10:48 PM

Originally posted by weev
I am still waiting on the 15" 1.25 PB which I ordered BTO a week after they were launched.

If they do update, this might the first case of a product ordered at launch that fails to get delivered before it's superseeded.

Am I pissed at Apple? - yes. Would an update satisfy this pissed-offness? Absolutely.

I will probably get a call from the reseller on Monday, saying its in, now that would really piss me off if the following day it were updated.

:mad:

I got mine no more than 10 days after ordering.

AndrewMT

Dec 6, 2003, 11:35 PM

Originally posted by fussball
I am just waiting for a 64mb video card in the 12" PB... once that happens I will buy a nice new book with my student developer's discount :-)

anyone know if there are chances of a 64mb card in the 12's by february?

Thank you! I'm glad to see that I'm not the only one waiting for video card upgrades in the powerbooks. People buying powerbooks (not ibooks) should expect nothing less than an nvidia 5600FX, nvidia 5700FX, or radeon 9600 with 64mb or more memory. Better yet, why not just offer Apple customers more BTO options for video cards? If I can get a radeon 9600 (128mb) rather than a geforce 5200FX (with a measly 32mb memory) for $200 extra, I'll do that. People that don't care about video cards can go with the default.

Just in case you don't know, a lot of the new "desktop replacement" pc laptops offer these kind of BTO options. Take a look at the HP zd7000 series or the Sony PCG-GRT series. Yeah, they are bigger than most powerbooks, but they pack as much power as a high-end desktop. If I don't see this kind of power in powerbooks soon, I'm going to have to stick with a pc as my laptop.

Photorun

Dec 7, 2003, 12:17 AM

My understanding is that the Powermac G4 1.42 was merely and overclocked G4 1.25 (74/5XX?) sooo if we do see a 1.42 PB it stands to reason it'll only be an overclocked G4 chip, albeit incredibly slight at best.

guillermo

Dec 7, 2003, 12:43 AM

There are two product lines of Macs:
- Professional: PowerMac, PowerBook, Xserver
- Consumer: iMac, iBook

- PowerMac has been upgraded with G5 processor, 64 bits, fast... a competitive product.
- Xserver needs an upgrade with G5 processor, surely with the new PowerPC 90nm.
- iBook has 1 Ghz G4 processor, too close to PowerBook.
- iMac recently updated.
- Intel Centrino notebooks are fast, with long battery life, 400 Mhz bus, integrated capabilities... a success of Intel.
- No more Motorola G4 upgrades, IBM has the word.

Conclusion?

Apple must become PowerBook a competitive product again, they can't presume in technical terms now. Yes, Xserve needs an upgraded also and Apple will do it, but it is not so important comercially as PowerBook.

When?

As soon as they can do it, sure. It is high priority.

Next?

PowerBook G5 1.6 Ghz with PowerTune... wow, G5 in a notebook, this is an impressive release ...Apple likes this kind of surprises because it gives money. In this business if you don't run you die. 800 Mhz->1 Ghz->1.25 Ghz...->1.6 Ghz, all this upgrades are 25% faster than predecessor. But the important thing is the word: G5, people remember this.

IBM is being to produce PowerPC 970 on 90 nm, less consumption, less hot, less size. And remember that PowerTune is like Centrino technology: slow frequency of processor when it's possible, so it optimize the consumption and the processor dissipates less heat. With 90 nm and PowerTune a PowerBook G5 is possible.

Sol

Dec 7, 2003, 05:58 AM

Originally posted by guillermo
Apple must become PowerBook a competitive product again, they can't presume in technical terms now. Yes, Xserve needs an upgraded also and Apple will do it, but it is not so important comercially as PowerBook.

When?

As soon as they can do it, sure. It is high priority.

Next?

I think that initially, the G5 laptop will be introduced as a seperate line to the PowerBook. If you want to run high-end applications on the fastest hardware such a line would suit you and so would a 20" screen.

jadren0

Dec 7, 2003, 06:01 AM

Repeating what a previous poster asked: if this update does happen, will those of use who just received (ie within 10 days) our PBs be able to swap them for the new ones?
Thanks.

johnnyjibbs

Dec 7, 2003, 07:48 AM

Normally they wouldn't ship it to you just before the update - it would be delayed so you could get an updated machine. But if they did I guess you could return it under the returning policy and then buy the updated version. To save the hassle, Apple would probably just update yours for free. Not too sure about BTOs though.

On the other hand, I noticed that the iMac page (Apple UK at least) still notes in small print at the bottom that not all iMacs come with Panther. Ok, so they're covering their backs but I'd be pretty pissed if I ordered a new Mac now and it didn't come with it and I'd have to order it for £14 shipping! (Doesn't mention it would necessarily be included in the box either).

Icekey

Dec 7, 2003, 08:29 AM

I posted a similiar content to the first rumors, but here in Australia, one of the Apple Centre people explained to me that Apple changed the manufactorer for the 15" powerbooks cause of the white spots and other issues. So, if this holds true, then there is more likely chance that a new machine would come out, as it's easier I guess to start from scratch with a new manufactorer. My guess is, the new ones are already getting ready to be shipped, just waiting for announcements, and all the ones people are receiving at this moment are the remaining bits of the powerbook line.

I'll tell you guys something quite interesting. After having white spots on my screen, my powerbook was declared DOA. I refused a replacement at that point because I hated waiting for a replacement then most likely I was going to get white spots again. So after a month with living with the white spots, I said, stuff it, and asked for a refund. The technician was like, yeah that's fine. Just bring back everything in the box, we'll ship it back to Apple Australia, and they'll credit us, in which we'll be able to give you a refund. I said cool. Went in on Friday to collect my cheque, and the guy goes, now Apple Australia is coming back at us asking why I'm not wanting to receive a replacement blah blah blah. My predictions are that they want to get rid as many of the older models as possible before the announcement, thus trying to push it. Fortunately, I said I will only take a refund, so we'll see how it goes.

I love Apple. They make your life more exciting day by day as you start hearing rumors of a product release or an update :) What would we be all doing without rumors?

QuiteSure

Dec 7, 2003, 08:44 AM

Originally posted by brhmac
Hi,

Anyone own a 12" PowerBook running @ 1 GHz? What do you think about it?

I'm looking to replace my PB G3 (300 MHz) asap, but I want to wait to see what happens next month in SFO. If Apple bumps it to 1.25 G and drops the price about $200 or so, I think I could be pretty interested.

But I have no real first-hand experience with the machine -- other than the ones I've toyed with in Apple store.

Thanks.

I recently bought a 12" PB running 1 GHz with 768 mb RAM. Incredible and wonderful machine. Not so much that you would care, but if you do, here's the saga that lead to my purchase:

I had a 12" 700 mhz iBook. Great computer. The 12" form factor was phenomenal. Took it with me everywhere.

Decided to start using FCP 4. Figured I wouldn't be using it THAT much on my PB because I'm a lawyer and we're not supposed to have that much fun, and I couldn't run it on my then G3 iBook. Agonized over the 15" vs. the 12". Decided to stick with the 12" form factor. Use it for FCP all the time and the screen is just fine. Sure, if I am doing heavy duty compositing it gets a little crowded, but I can manage. Wouldn't trade the 12" for anything.

Also, FWIW, I'm glad that I didn't wait for the G4 iBook, because that would have further increased my agony of making that decision. For FCP use, the PB is the only choice.

Does that answer your question?

uv23

Dec 7, 2003, 09:44 AM

I too have a 12" 1Ghz w/ 768mb of ram. As a switcher, coming from a 1Ghz Athlon adn a 2.8GHz P4, I love it. Would I have liked a 64mb ATI video card? Sure, but the 32mb Geforce suits me fine. Most laptops in this size range don't even have a video card - they use integrated graphics off of the MB.

diehldun

Dec 7, 2003, 11:57 AM

so, can you or can you not return a PowerBook (it has now been used), for a new one (particularily if the PowerBook drops in price???)

rog

Dec 7, 2003, 12:12 PM

Well this is what they need to do. instead of waiting 6-9 months, just keep updating them every three months because sales always drag after 4 months because everyone expects new models and the old specs just aren't worth the same price they were 4 months before. Apple needs to become like the PC world where there are incremental updates all the time so that deals are always as good as they can be and equipment always has the latest and greatest, not that a 1.42 G4 is the latest and greatest, but another 5% speed boost can't hurt.

dho

Dec 7, 2003, 12:16 PM

Normally after seeing this i would think wtf. Now this will come as little surprise.

Remember the last update to the g4s before the g5 came out? It was actualy a very similar speed diference.

I think this is something to hold people out a little longer until the powerbooks get a large update. Hopefully a g5, but maybe not. Some mystery unrelesed portable ibm chip perhaps?

edit: some speed increase is better then none. even a 1ghz tibook would be my dream machine. I am currently limited to cumputers under 500mhz with no qe :(

ronrosell

Dec 7, 2003, 12:38 PM

My expectation is that the announcement will not be a major upgrade, but something to mollify PB15 buyers (those who have white spots, and those who have nothing yet). I've been waiting nearly three weeks for my AlPB 15" 1.25ghz, and I'm told by the dealer ... one of the major mail order houses ... that their backorders on this model go back to early October.

It's interesting that the 1 ghz model is currently available from most sources. This tells me that indeed the screen and latch problems are all resolved. I doubt that the problem is a shortage of 1.25ghz chips, although I suppose that can't be ruled out.

Most likely, it's Apple putting a hold on shipments of the higher-end 15" model so that customers won't get pissed off by receiving what we ordered and having an improved/less expensive model appear a few days later. They've done this sort of thing before, several times. They figure that we'll all forget about the white spots, and even the delay of a few weeks, if we get something that's better than we'd bargained for. And they're probably correct.

It's like being pissed off because your significant other is sneaking around and for weeks, then discovering that you've been thrown a surprise party. All is forgiven, and then some.

crees!

Dec 7, 2003, 12:57 PM

I know some people stated that when the PowerMac G5 was debuted that Apple didn't release the PowerBook at that time for the fear of less sales for the PowerMac. Yes, it sounds sort of ridiculous... people either want a desktop or a laptop right? But if this is true then do you think releasing a G5 Powerbook and a 3Ghz PowerMac at the same conference will happen?

pimentoLoaf

Dec 7, 2003, 01:13 PM

Let's see...

My 1.33ghz 17"pb is 80mhz faster than last year's 1.25ghz desktop.

Bumping up to this year's 1.42ghz desktop is 90mhz better, but 160mhz better than last year's model.

If you been waiting for a 17", this might be good to spring for, unless...

unless...

there's something waiting in the spring.

:cool:

diehldun

Dec 7, 2003, 01:18 PM

hello?

captain kirk

Dec 7, 2003, 02:19 PM

Originally posted by chancellor
In the past, it seems that a couple weeks before announcing a new model, Apple products stop shipping. And after the announcement Apple offers people with outstanding orders the option of getting the newer model.

My 1.25 PB was shipped today (Saturday). As such, I doubt this rumor is true.

Though, if it is true and I don't get a price cut, I'll be pretty annoyed.

This is absolutely correct, from what I understand there is far too much inventory in the retail channel for them to update the models. This is the first time in several months that the entire powerbook range is available from resellers to take away.
A price cut is a possibility although personally I don't believe it is necessary.

ronrosell

Dec 7, 2003, 02:28 PM

Originally posted by captain kirk
This is absolutely correct, from what I understand there is far too much inventory in the retail channel for them to update the models. This is the first time in several months that the entire powerbook range is available from resellers to take away.
A price cut is a possibility although personally I don't believe it is necessary.

I don't think I'd call backorder lists going back two months for the AlPB 15 1.25ghz (at places like Macconnection, Macmall, and CDW) "the entire powerbook range ... available from resellers to take away." By and large the 1.25 ghz has been out of the retail channel for several weeks, with the exception of very limited shipments to dealers and to Apple stores.

captain kirk

Dec 7, 2003, 02:34 PM

Originally posted by ronrosell
I don't think I'd call backorder lists going back two months for the AlPB 15 1.25ghz (at places like Macconnection, Macmall, and CDW) "the entire powerbook range ... available from resellers to take away." By and large the 1.25 ghz has been out of the retail channel for several weeks, with the exception of very limited shipments to dealers and to Apple stores.

I guess this situation in the US is not the same as in the UK. Almost every major UK reseller now has stock across the entire range. This would be a first since it is usually the US which sees stock before the rest of the world.
On the other hand this could mean the UK is gonna get shafted with lots of old models!:p

ronrosell

Dec 7, 2003, 02:51 PM

Originally posted by captain kirk

On the other hand this could mean the UK is gonna get shafted with lots of old models!:p

I'll wager that's the case. Folks in Cupertino are still awfully bitter about the war of 1812. :)

Seriously though, my strong suspicion is that Apple is holding back on 1.25 Ghz shipments (but not the 1.0 Ghz model), and that this is an indication of some small modifications to come, soon, on the high-end 15" PB ... maybe a small speed bump, or even a slightly larger screen (as the design originally called for).

chancellor

Dec 7, 2003, 04:58 PM

Originally posted by ronrosell
I've been waiting nearly three weeks for my AlPB 15" 1.25ghz, and I'm told by the dealer ... one of the major mail order houses ... that their backorders on this model go back to early October.

. . .

Most likely, it's Apple putting a hold on shipments of the higher-end 15" model so that customers won't get pissed off by receiving what we ordered and having an improved/less expensive model appear a few days later.

There's no hold. My 1.25 GHz PB shipped yesterday (Saturday). I ordered it last Sunday. The high end 15" PBs _are_ shipping.

The only backorders, I believe, are on the 5400 HD BTO models. The rest are shipping.

ronrosell

Dec 7, 2003, 05:13 PM

Originally posted by chancellor
There's no hold. My 1.25 GHz PB shipped yesterday (Saturday). I ordered it last Sunday. The high end 15" PBs _are_ shipping.

The only backorders, I believe, are on the 5400 HD BTO models. The rest are shipping.

Well, that may be your experience, but it's not mine. And I've checked with several dealers (all volume shippers) who are reporting the same order backlogs for the high end 15" AlPBs.

Where did you order yours from? Was it directly from Apple, or through a vendor?

chancellor

Dec 7, 2003, 05:16 PM

Originally posted by ronrosell
Where did you order yours from? Was it directly from Apple, or through a vendor?

Directly from Apple. If the backlog is only with vendors, you may well be right.

Mac Dummy

Dec 8, 2003, 01:51 AM

Originally posted by brhmac
Hi,

Anyone own a 12" PowerBook running @ 1 GHz? What do you think about it?

I'm looking to replace my PB G3 (300 MHz) asap, but I want to wait to see what happens next month in SFO. If Apple bumps it to 1.25 G and drops the price about $200 or so, I think I could be pretty interested.

But I have no real first-hand experience with the machine -- other than the ones I've toyed with in Apple store.

Thanks.

I recently purchased one on September 25th. I got mine with the Superdrive and no RAM upgrade. It was pretty quick then, when Apple upgraded the L2 cache from 256 to 512MB it really helped performace I think; I haven't dealt with the old 867Mhz models very much, so I can't be a real authority there but the new 12'' Pbook seems fast. I upgraded the RAM to 512MB(Crucial.com, I got a discount) and installed an Airport Extreme Card, and I have had no problems with anything so far. :)

Now would be a good time to buy 12" if Apple is bumping the processor speed, and the fact that Panther is now available. I had Jaguar 10.2.7 on my Pbook originally, then I upgrade to Panther, what a difference I think Panther is optimized better so its faster (initial booting and program execution). That's important with the slowest processor and FSB in the bunch. I would say if you care about screen size and need better than 1024x768 resoultion then go with the 15", but if you want something that you can carry through airports, etc. Or if your buying one for a student, then the 12" is a good chose. It only weighs 4.6 pounds.:cool:

jettredmont

Dec 8, 2003, 04:04 AM

Originally posted by aub32
We have 25 15" powerbooks on order, and 1 17" on order for a classroom cart that is ready to be shipped upon our word.

Its interesting because the apple rep keeps desperately trying to get us to accept the shipment. We are still trying to figure out where the computers are going to go, and in the meantime, we're all wondering why he's being so pushy. If there are upgrades coming, I would have to say that they're coming this week, and if they happen, he will probably give us a price cut OR we can opt for the upgraded models.

Hmmm, more likely cause for a sales rep to be pushy is that he has a mortgage to pay and quota to hit.

Apple sales reps really know no more than you or I do about upcoming products, at least not until they are really close to coming out.

jettredmont

Dec 8, 2003, 04:11 AM

Originally posted by Sunrunner
On the other hand, they may want to cathc some of the Christmas shopping revenue stream... updated iBooks maybe?

This is precisely why I seriously doubt such rumors:

If they're significant, they will reduce holiday sales, not increase them. With any significant product change, you have all existing inventory going to seed, an initial backlog, and people dealying their purchases to avoid the transition period.

Morover, you generate ill will because of the rather large number of folks who ordered at the end of last month and have a now-obsolete product sitting under a Christmas tree waiting to be unwrapped.

This is not the time for a major update of any sort. If there is an update, I'd expect it to be extremely minor. I would expect an update of any significance to come, at the earliest, at the January expo, or in the weeks surrounding it.

true777

Dec 8, 2003, 06:28 AM

Originally posted by Sunrunner
With it being this close to MWSF, I would think that Apple would want to let it wait until then. That way they get mor bang for their presentation buck in January. On the other hand, they may want to cathc some of the Christmas shopping revenue stream...

What this looks like to me (*if* true) is that the speed bumped PBs were
Jobs' back-up plan for MWSF in case the other, bigger thing he's planning to announce (XServe G5? 2.4 GHz G5 & displays?) had last-minute problems, wasn't going to be available, etc.

I've noticed this strategy from him before. A few weeks before the conference, a smaller update on *another* product is announced, because that was his Plan B for the keynote, but the major thing came through and thus Apple's announcing the smaller thing before the conference.

He's such a perfectionist, he wouldn't be without a backup plan if plan A fell through. So if we get PB updates now, this probably means Jobs just learned that whatever he *really* wants to announce at MWSF will in fact be ready and working!

johnnyjibbs

Dec 8, 2003, 06:42 AM

That's an interesting idea. And that's what we saw with the iPods and iMacs in September. They as good as told us that PowerBooks were arriving at the Paris Expo else they would have been announced the following week.

However, even if they have PowerBooks ready, there is no particular nessessity from Apple's point of view to release them now. They could just hold back that update until a little later *unless* G5 PowerBooks are closer than we think...

spencecb

Dec 8, 2003, 04:20 PM

Possibly the rumors of new PowerBooks are possible for tomorrow? The Apple Store (online) has been down, with the famous message "We'll be back soon!"

ronrosell

Dec 8, 2003, 04:40 PM

Store's online at the moment, with nothing new that I can see. 20 minutes after your post about it being offline.

Still, one can hope.

captain kirk

Dec 8, 2003, 05:08 PM

Originally posted by ronrosell
Store's online at the moment, with nothing new that I can see. 20 minutes after your post about it being offline.

Still, one can hope.

Some of you guys sometimes don't realise that there is civilised life outside the shores of the US.

The UK, French and German sites are all currently down with the "back soon" post it note!

However I will eat my powerbook if there are new powerbooks within the next month and very tasty it will be:D

captain kirk

Dec 8, 2003, 05:28 PM

Sites back up, nothing new to report.
Guess they just like toying with us!

ronrosell

Dec 8, 2003, 09:08 PM

Originally posted by captain kirk
Some of you guys sometimes don't realise that there is civilised life outside the shores of the US.

The UK, French and German sites are all currently down with the "back soon" post it note!

However I will eat my powerbook if there are new powerbooks within the next month and very tasty it will be:D

Actually, I'm Canadian, although I live in the US currently.

One would expect, however, that if one Apple store is "down" for a product update all of them would be ... particularly the one for their "home" market. I don't think it's a sign of chauvanism to look at the Apple store in the US, see that it's up, and not proceed to try the two dozen or so other Apple sites around the world to see which one you might have been alluding to.

By the way, the UK, French and German stores are up. Just for good measure, I checked Taiwan as well.

Liquidity X

Dec 8, 2003, 10:19 PM

Originally posted by captain kirk
This is absolutely correct, from what I understand there is far too much inventory in the retail channel for them to update the models. This is the first time in several months that the entire powerbook range is available from resellers to take away.
A price cut is a possibility although personally I don't believe it is necessary.

I am about to order a 17, and est. shipping time is 2-3 weeks as of last week when i checked on friday I think. I'm waiting till tomorrow to order.

brhmac

Dec 9, 2003, 12:15 AM

Where do I go to buy my new PowerBook?

Good luck to all waiting for today to be the day!

;)

ronrosell

Dec 9, 2003, 12:23 AM

Originally posted by brhmac
Where do I go to buy my new PowerBook?

Good luck to all waiting for today to be the day!

;)

It's still Monday in Cupertino. :D

Maybe if we all clap really loudly and say "I believe, I believe ..."

joejg

Dec 9, 2003, 12:33 AM

*clap clap*

ColoJohnBoy

Dec 9, 2003, 01:18 AM

I sincerely hope they DON't issue updates tomorrow, even minor ones. I received the 1 GHz 12" that I'm using right now on November 30 - That would be within the 10-day window, but I think they count it as 10-days from date of shipment, not receipt. Anyone know for sure?

Grrrrrrr... if they'll let me return it, I'll totally do it, even if the replacement upgrade is relatively minor.

Anyhow, I sound drunk....

ronrosell

Dec 9, 2003, 01:32 AM

Originally posted by ColoJohnBoy
I sincerely hope they DON't issue updates tomorrow, even minor ones. I received the 1 GHz 12" that I'm using right now on November 30 - That would be within the 10-day window, but I think they count it as 10-days from date of shipment, not receipt. Anyone know for sure?

Grrrrrrr... if they'll let me return it, I'll totally do it, even if the replacement upgrade is relatively minor.

Anyhow, I sound drunk....

There will always be someone who buys something the day before an upgrade. The only alternative is for nobody to buy anything for a couple of months before an upgrade ... and that only works if you really know when the upgrade is coming!

If you like your 12" PB, keep it! Chances are the upgrades, if any, will be minor ... or they may only be some holiday price adjustments.

I just wish it were possible to get a 15" 1.25ghz model in the US ... seems that other than ordering from the Apple store, they're nowhere in sight. Major vendors aren't even giving estimated arrival dates anymore! Been waiting 2 weeks for mine to ship.

diehldun

Dec 9, 2003, 01:33 AM

so if you purchaed a PowerBook on December 4, and if there is an updated version of the 17" powerbook, then i am eligible for a replacment for the newer model???

if this is true, then i'll definitely replace it.

so, CANY ANYONE TELL ME IF I AM ELIGIBLE????? and if so, will it cost me anything at all? what steps are necessary???... (now i'm getting all excited again!)

jade

Dec 9, 2003, 02:13 AM

Did you open it? Apple doesn't have anything in the rules about letting you switch because a better one is out. Normal return policy applies. You can return with a restocking fee!

AndrewMT

Dec 9, 2003, 03:41 AM

Is it possible that liquid cooled G5 powerbooks could be released tomorrow?

pjkelnhofer

Dec 9, 2003, 10:14 AM

What time of day do updates usually take place? I assume it is too late...
Maybe next Tuesday.

the_mole1314

Dec 9, 2003, 10:24 AM

Originally posted by diehldun
so if you purchaed a PowerBook on December 4, and if there is an updated version of the 17" powerbook, then i am eligible for a replacment for the newer model???

if this is true, then i'll definitely replace it.

so, CANY ANYONE TELL ME IF I AM ELIGIBLE????? and if so, will it cost me anything at all? what steps are necessary???... (now i'm getting all excited again!)

If you bought it over Apple.com and it hasn't shipped yet, it will be upgraded to the model closest to the price you paid for the other one. If you bought it at a store, tough luck. Thus is life of technology. My friend bought an 15gb iPod a week before the 20 came out. Trust me when I say that 1.42ghz and 1.33ghzs difference in speed isn't noticeable. I mean, MABEY a second faster in mp3 encoding, and 10 seconds in a huge iMovie file.

utilizer

Dec 9, 2003, 11:48 AM

Sadly, no updates to speak of as noon EST.
Oh well, they might save an annoucement for MWSF. You know how Steve likes to do the January Keynotes now, with no MWNY summer shows and all.

Not that this the thread to do it, but hear me out :D :

MWSF will bring:

-Updated PowerBooks, more than likely with overclocked 7457s at 1.25 Ghz to 1.42 on the 17 in.

-Updated G5s running up to dual 2.6 Ghz (yeah, you heard me right, no matter what MacOSRumors.com says!); one caveat though -- The top end ones will be slated to be shipped in late March, perhaps even April Fools Day, than April 15th for real just like the 17 in. PB earlier in the year! :p

-Software updates (who cares?!); Maybe I will but nothing "major" in my book.
Photoshop CS is slower than 7.0 and I took CS off yesterday. Couldn't stand it anymore!

pjkelnhofer

Dec 9, 2003, 12:30 PM

Originally posted by the_mole1314
If you bought it over Apple.com and it hasn't shipped yet, it will be upgraded to the model closest to the price you paid for the other one. If you bought it at a store, tough luck. Thus is life of technology.
I guess no one will be eligible for upgrades since there weren't any.
I must say I am a little sad. I was really looking forward to Apple introducing yet another system that I desperately want and cannot afford.:(

fussball

Dec 9, 2003, 02:12 PM

No updates, and I was so ready to get a 12" AlBook before Christmas. I guess it will have to wait for a bit...

johnnyjibbs

Dec 9, 2003, 02:17 PM

These were only sketchy page 2 rumours. There is no guarauntee that new PowerBooks will be released in January. In fact, I reckon we won't actually see an update until around March or April which may or may not be G5, but I could be wrong.

Those waiting for PowerBook updates could be waiting a while - it's not even been 3 months yet since the last update...

stcanard

Dec 9, 2003, 03:05 PM

Originally posted by AndrewMT
Is it possible that liquid cooled G5 powerbooks could be released tomorrow?

Don't be ridculous! They could never do that.

I have it on good authority that it's a liquid cooled G5 dual, with a fold out LCD similar to the old IBM butterfly keyboards, so it has a 17" screen, but closes into the same form factor as the current 12".

Snowy_River

Dec 9, 2003, 07:38 PM

Originally posted by stcanard
I have it on good authority that it's a liquid cooled G5 dual, with a fold out LCD similar to the old IBM butterfly keyboards, so it has a 17" screen, but closes into the same form factor as the current 12".

Now that would be a cool machine. I like big screens, but the 12" form factor is really what sells me on these machines. If you hear any more about when these machines will be released, let us know! ;)

crees!

Dec 9, 2003, 07:47 PM

Originally posted by stcanard
Don't be ridculous! They could never do that.

I have it on good authority that it's a liquid cooled G5 dual, with a fold out LCD similar to the old IBM butterfly keyboards, so it has a 17" screen, but closes into the same form factor as the current 12".

Oh.. OLED and it's a DUAL! I see now. You mind passing some of that crack this way?