iPods, Notebooks, and... iMacs before the Holidays?

[MacRumors]

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

AppleInsider recaps (http://www.appleinsider.com/articles/08/08/27/ipods_macbooks_imacs_up_next_on_apples_2008_roadmap.html) many of the circulating rumors which expect both iPod and Mac notebook updates in September. Some rumors have pegged September 9th (http://www.macrumors.com/2008/08/25/apple-event-for-september-9th/) as the possible day for at least some of the updates.

The iPod Nano and iPod touch are expected to see revisions, and long standing MacBook and MacBook Pro rumors point to revised case designs (MacBook (http://www.macrumors.com/2008/08/04/leaked-aluminum-macbook-case/), MacBook Pro (http://www.macrumors.com/2008/07/09/leaked-macbook-pro-casing-confirmed/)) that adopt an aluminum/tapered look.

Newly reported, however, are expectations that the Apple iMac will see a refresh prior to the holiday season:Separately, Apple is also planning to refresh its line of 20- and 24-inch iMac seasons ahead of the holidays. People familiar with these plans have described the refresh to consist of 'speed bumps' rather than major internal or external changes. Based on the roadmap presented to AppleInsider, these systems would debut later this fall following the release of the new MacBooks, making their way to market with little fanfare.An iMac update would be contrary to expectations (http://buyersguide.macrumors.com/) as the iMac is the most recently updated Mac. The iMac was updated in April of this year and introduced early Montevina-like (http://www.macrumors.com/2008/04/28/intel-provides-early-montevina-like-technology-to-imac/) technology. As a result, there would be only marginal improvements if it were updated to the most recently released Penryn/Montevina chipsets.



Article Link (http://www.macrumors.com/2008/08/27/ipods-notebooks-and-imacs-before-the-holidays/)

[lexus]

Hopefully redesigned mbp's very soon.

[kabunaru]

I think Apple will use their own custom chip-sets with Intel processors.

[Orlandooo]

A nice new Macbook Pro PLEASE!

Quad core... maaaybe!?

[L3X]

I don't buy it. Nothing new until Jan.

[happydude]

it would be tragic to have aluminum macbooks, it kills the wifi range. plus it's nice to have the macbooks stick out against the mbp's, just as a substantial difference in appearance between lines. new form factor, ok, but keep the mb's plastic!!

[kabunaru]

it would be tragic to have aluminum macbooks, it kills the wifi range. plus it's nice to have the macbooks stick out against the mbp's, just as a substantial difference in appearance between lines. new form factor, ok, but keep the mb's plastic!!

Apple, make the MacBook Aluminium please.
I am sure the Aluminium MacBook would still have a good design.

[fanbrain]

I would love to see a notebook refresh. Specifically MacBook's. I am in the market for one to replace my Powerbook G4. The current Blackbook is cool, but the white models look and feel so cheap...

[tri3limited]

Not buying the iMac update... I'm fairly sure that'll be January, speed increase or otherwise.

[kabunaru]

The current Blackbook is cool, but the white models look and feel so cheap...

Would you buy an 13" Black Aluminium MacBook then if Apple made one?

[xix]

I'm gonna go with "DUH" on this one.




I would love to see a notebook refresh. Specifically MacBook's. I am in the market for one to replace my Powerbook G4. The current Blackbook is cool, but the white models look and feel so cheap...

Macbook's what?

[Fleetwood Mac]

I don't know about all this. Seems like they'd be going hog-wild with hardware updates. After the MobileMess and CrappStore, doesn't it seem more likely Apple will pace themselves? There are some educated predictions, but timing is certainly suspect. I mean, really, a huge refresh of the iPod and Mac lines (less only mini, xserve and pro) all at once...

I guess we'll see.

[iGuardian]

I'm hoping for a mac tablet.

I can dream, can't I? :p

[billystlyes]

When the heck is Apple going to show the mini some love? Dammmm, Steve is such a snob.

[tobian]

new generation macbook pro or 'newton' please.. :rolleyes:

[SirOmega]

If Apple refreshes the iMac, its time to ditch the 20" LCD - go 22" for the baseline and 26" for the upper tier. Either that or make the baseline model $999 with the 20" screen.

[Enigmafan420]

I own three minis in my family-we LOVE them-I know they are nothing compared to the iMac-but for what we use them for-they are great-none of us are hard core gamers anymore. Stable, Quiet, SMALL-PLEASE APPLE-gives us a new ones.... Schmegal wantssszzzz it...:apple:

[urbanskywalker]

It's a rumor a minute a round here. To bad it's the same one over and over again. Groundhog day!

[bytethese]

iPods, Notebooks and iMacs... Oh my!!

Follow the Apple Brick road, follow the Apple Brick road!

[iMacmatician]

Newly reported, however, are expectations that the Apple iMac will see a refresh prior to the holiday season:That's what I had originally thought. I should have stuck to that.

The iMac was updated in April of this year and introduced early Montevina-like (http://www.macrumors.com/2008/04/28/intel-provides-early-montevina-like-technology-to-imac/) technology. As a result, there would be only marginal improvements if it were updated to the most recently released Penryn/Montevina chipsets. Not necessarily.

Since the 3.07 GHz Penryn is now 45 W instead of 55 W, this leaves room for a 3.2/3.33 GHz Penryn at 55 W, giving all models a 133/267 MHz speed bump (2.4 GHz » 2.53/2.67 GHz, 2.67 GHz » 2.8/2.93 GHz, 3.07 GHz » 3.2/3.33 GHz).

And also there are the quad-core (35 W 2.27 GHz, 45 W 2.53 GHz, possible Apple-only 55 W 2.67/2.8 GHz) Penryns that work with Montevina which could deliver large boosts in multithreaded performance if Apple decides to use them.

I also hope there's a GPU upgrade.

If Apple refreshes the iMac, its time to ditch the 20" LCD - go 22" for the baseline and 26" for the upper tier. Either that or make the baseline model $999 with the 20" screen.Only if the resolution increases too.

I don't know about all this. Seems like they'd be going hog-wild with hardware updates. After the MobileMess and CrappStore, doesn't it seem more likely Apple will pace themselves?AppleInsider says "a final phase of product introductions that will stretch over the course of the next two months," which means September, October, and maybe early November.

They also say the Mac mini and Mac Pro have not been seen on update plans. :(

[allymac]

Still nothing on the mini - anyone else thinking it's going to be scrapped?

[duncyboy]

I'd be gobsmacked if they do "bump" the iMac line again so soon, especially at a major event. That kind of update has a sneaky Tuesday release all over it.

Plus there are gonna be some very disappointed punters come September. There's been talk of the Mini, iMac, Pro, Macbook and MBP in one form or another and everyone's getting excited for their own wishes.

I'm not a gambling chap but the only updates I'd put any kind of faith in/wager on would be

iTunes 8
Minor Touch update (capacity and pricing- maybe plastic backs a-la iPhone)
Nano revamp

I do think something will happen to either the Macbook or MBP range but not both- and I'm not sure what that something might be either!!!*

* there's nothing like being vague as Hell, is there? :D

[yorkshire]

I'm not exactly bothered about new imacs, but at least it another update which will hopefully make some people happy. I'll take a refreshed touch, and a nice aluminium macbook please!!

[Scharpie]

The wait is driving me crazy! :P
I want/"need" a new laptop now. I would probably be quite happy with a current macbook, but not at that price... it's too expensive for what you get (especially since there's a new one coming soon) :(

Oh well, I'll just have to wait a liiiittle longer...

Wouldn't it be nice if the macbook and/or the macbook pro would look like this nice mockup?
http://flickr.com/photos/elchinocudeiro/2802517685/

[swingerofbirch]

Come on Al MacBook! This is like watching a very long birth labor.

[ditzy]

An iMac before the end of the year. I'm not sure whether to be happy or sad about that. If it's a quad core I'll have to have a serious think about whether I sell this one. If it's just a minor speed bump I'll keep this baby.

[owdin]

They should keep the MB different from the MBP.
Maybe by making the MB also aluminum, but keeping the black/white color.

[yorkshire]

Come on Al MacBook! This is like watching a very long birth labor.

Couldn't have said it better myself.

[iMacmatician]

Come on Al MacBook! This is like watching a very long birth labor.Almost like experiencing a very long birth labor.

An iMac before the end of the year. I'm not sure whether to be happy or sad about that. If it's a quad core I'll have to have a serious think about whether I sell this one. If it's just a minor speed bump I'll keep this baby.I have my doubts about quad-core. And just because the CPU gets a small speed bump doesn't mean that the rest of the components won't get big updates.

They should keep the MB different from the MBP.
Maybe by making the MB also aluminum, but keeping the black/white color.I think the MacBook will have a white keyboard and a black display bezel instead of a black keyboard and an aluminum colored bezel.

[milo]

I'm dying for a MP update, they're painfully overdue for one.

And what about the mini, that thing hasn't been updated forever and is pathetically out of date and uncompetitive.

[jojo13]

Hope all this comes soon :D

[group09]

Quad-core would be sweet, but it would definitely drain battery like no other. Of course, I try to always be near an outlet!

The interesting thing about this AppleInsider report is that is specifically points to a staggered release schedule of iPods first, then other products after. I guess I was hoping for one big announcement, especially one about MBP's!

[xix]

Just so everyone knows, if you post something that the moderators don't like on this website, they will edit it to make it look like you said something else.

If I were you, I'd find another community that DOES believe in free speech, because this one doesn't.

[iMacmatician]

The interesting thing about this AppleInsider report is that is specifically points to a staggered release schedule of iPods first, then other products after. I guess I was hoping for one big announcement, especially one about MBP's!Same here.

Personally I think it will be:

iPods (September 9) » Notebooks (Late September / October) » iMacs (October/November).

[nagromme]

Maybe LED backlights have become practical in iMac sizes?

Re timing, FWIW, the Touch student promo runs through 9/15.

Sometimes those promos list qualifying Macs and iPods very specifically with model numbers, in which case anything released on the 9th would not fall under the back-to-school promo. Other times they've just stated a general product name, and so new models WOULD fall under the promo.

I could not for the life of me find Apple's list of qualifying Macs and iPod Touches, to see how they're listed for the back-to-school promo. If anyone knows where that list is, and it gives a model number for the Touch, then new Touches on the 9th (excluded from the promo by their new model number) sounds plausible to me. Otherwise, I'd expect new Touches after the 15th--and maybe Macs on the 9th.

[digitalbiker]

Quad-core would be sweet, but it would definitely drain battery like no other. Of course, I try to always be near an outlet!

The interesting thing about this AppleInsider report is that is specifically points to a staggered release schedule of iPods first, then other products after. I guess I was hoping for one big announcement, especially one about MBP's!

Anything is still possible. Maybe at a new ipod introduction on Sept. 9th, we will see a demo of the new notebook line to be released at months end.

[ditzy]

I have my doubts about quad-core. And just because the CPU gets a small speed bump doesn't mean that the rest of the components won't get big updates.

I'd have to make my mind up about whether it was worth it. The Grapics card I have at the moment is fine for me. As is the hard drive. I guess increasing the amount of possible RAM would be good but not enough to get me to sell this. I really think that the only thing that would make me trade up would be a quad core processor. A 30" iMac might make me take another look too, but really I think that 24" is big enough. My best friend already says that this is ridiculously big.

[Bengt77]

New MacBooks pretty please. Aluminium would be awesome, although I like how they look now, too. Discrete graphics would be awesome, although the new Intel X4500 would be more than adequate, given how they're said to perform. A 250GB hard drive and 2GB RAM standard would also be very, very welcome. And if possible for the (supposedly lower than current) price point, please throw in a multitouch trackpad and a LED screen. Apart from these things, I don't see anything changing. (But that's still quite a lot of changes/upgrades*, if they all happen.)

*) However you see them.

[iMacmatician]

Interesting… no tablet rumors at all since July.

It seems that Apple is keeping it fairly secret in the weeks (months?) leading up to its release…

New MacBooks pretty please. … And if possible for the (supposedly lower than current) price point, please throw in a multitouch trackpad and a LED screen.Multi-touch glass trackpad please. :D

I wonder if the upcoming iMac revision will have a multi-touch Mighty Mouse or a large multi-touch glass trackpad.

[CmdrLaForge]

I really really hope that Apple will not change the keyboard on the Macbook Pro. I really like the current keyboard and don't like the Macbook and Air Keyboard. Even worse would be if they changed the color to black. Well - we will see. I do have to buy Macbook Pros because I cannot stand the glossy screens. Macbook Pros are the only option left (beside a Mini or Mac Pro with an external display) :eek::cool:;):o

[puckhead193]

please a new designed MBP for the love of god

[nagromme]

I would guess that if any "far out" new devices such as tablets (which could become another "hobby" like Apple TV) are ever going to get out of the labs, it will be at MWSF in January, at the soonest. Apple has lots to release with their existing successful lines between now and then anyway.

please a new designed MBP for the love of god

I think they're going to stick with the same 2003 design until the rest of the notebook world catches up with it :o

I do love backlight keys in black, though--so much more visible than backlit silver.

[Clark Gable]

New MacBooks pretty please. Aluminium would be awesome, although I like how they look now, too. Discrete graphics would be awesome, although the new Intel X4500 would be more than adequate, given how they're said to perform. A 250GB hard drive and 2GB RAM standard would also be very, very welcome. And if possible for the (supposedly lower than current) price point, please throw in a multitouch trackpad and a LED screen. Apart from these things, I don't see anything changing. (But that's still quite a lot of changes/upgrades*, if they all happen.)

*) However you see them.

The x4500 is pretty great as far as nondedicated graphics goes. it can do 1080p which helps for the bluray apple will come out with (in like 4 years. geez apple way to be wayyy behind on that curve. snobs). I think base macbooks have 160gb hard drive but get a bump to 2 gb ram. then the option of possibly a 250 and 320 gb one as well (as well as for mbp's).

I'd love to see new imac bumps but it will be a while before those get updated again most likely. Mini needs to just die if apple will not update it asap (as in before october).

I bet all we see it ipod touch and nano revisions as well as just a new macbook casing for updates now. And I will love seeing all these way way to anxious apple kool aid drinkers start crying like "waaahh thats it" then 2 days later everything else is updated.

[O. Frabjous-Dey]

Same here.

Personally I think it will be:

iPods (September 9) » Notebooks (Late September / October) » iMacs (October/November).

Agreed. They won't mingle their product lines, but each one is going to get its own special day.

I wonder where Mac Pros fit into this - it seems to be on its own release cycle.

[happydude]

Apple, make the MacBook Aluminium please.
I am sure the Aluminium MacBook would still have a good design.

it'll probably have a great design for aesthetics, but for function, just like the new plastic iphone gets better reception than the previous iphone and the current plastic macbook gets better reception than the current mbp, it will just hurt the actual function of the mb. i just hate to see apple sacrifice function or looks.

[sam10685]

An iMac before the end of the year. I'm not sure whether to be happy or sad about that. If it's a quad core I'll have to have a serious think about whether I sell this one. If it's just a minor speed bump I'll keep this baby.

Is "24" Alu iMac, 3.06 Ghz, 4 GB RAM 500 GB HD" too slow? A quad core wont make it noticeably faster. It'll just burn a hole in your pocket.

[11800506]

Seems a bit odd for Apple to update the iMacs when they were the most recently updated but then neglect the Mini still. I guess the saying holds that the more things change the more they stay the same...

[group09]

I really really hope that Apple will not change the keyboard on the Macbook Pro. I really like the current keyboard and don't like the Macbook and Air Keyboard. Even worse would be if they changed the color to black. Well - we will see. I do have to buy Macbook Pros because I cannot stand the glossy screens. Macbook Pros are the only option left (beside a Mini or Mac Pro with an external display) :eek::cool:;):o

Yes, the spaced out key layout is kind of unnatural feeling. That's one thing I prefer about the current MBP. Hopefully they don't change!

[macjiro]

Is "24" Alu iMac, 3.06 Ghz, 4 GB RAM 500 GB HD" too slow? A quad core wont make it noticeably faster. It'll just burn a hole in your pocket.

So is the consensus that an Imac will come out by Xmas or when
Snow Leopard is released sometime next year? How much faster actually is a QuadCore to the current 3.06?

[jgvl79]

mini is going out soon

first, ipods
second, macbooks
then, imacs

[nyprospect]

A new imac? Damn i was gonna buy a refurb this week.I don't buy this at all.I'm sure we will see the ipod nano but not the imac so soon.Oh god.

[kabunaru]

I think the MacBook will have a white keyboard and a black display bezel instead of a black keyboard and an aluminum colored bezel.

So, black keyboard will mean = pro (if the MacBook Pro will get an black keyboard like the MacBook Air).

[iMacmatician]

I would guess that if any "far out" new devices such as tablets (which could become another "hobby" like Apple TV) are ever going to get out of the labs, it will be at MWSF in January, at the soonest. Apple has lots to release with their existing successful lines between now and then anyway.Agreed. New products seem to come out mainly at MWSF anyway.

I wonder where Mac Pros fit into this - it seems to be on its own release cycle.Probably January 2009 or so.

How much faster actually is a QuadCore to the current 3.06?Theoretically, assuming perfect scaling:

In single-threaded and two-threaded tasks, the 2.53 GHz quad-core is 83% as fast as the 3.07 GHz dual-core.
In multi-threaded tasks, the 2.53 GHz quad-core is 65% faster than the 3.07 GHz dual-core.

[PinkyMacGodess]

How about a 32" IMac?

I know people with more money than sense that would walk right in and buy one on the first day.

Heck, I'd consider it if it wasn't 3 times the price of an average priced 32" teevee... Just think: wireless keyboard, mouse, headphones/speakers...

With Apple TV hardware built-in. Heck, that would be a true 'Apple TV'. Apple TV pro?

It would have to be wall mountable, unlike my new 20". :-(

[macshill]

Apple, make the MacBook Aluminium please.
I am sure the Aluminium MacBook would still have a good design.

I agree. I'm positive they're aware of the interference issues and probably have found an innovative way to get past it. I don't think they'd put style over function.

Although the PP mentioning not having a distinguishing factors w/ all Alum. is true, but that can be overcome by screen edging and keyboard colour/material (white, black/aluminum).

[macshill]

Come on Al MacBook! This is like watching a very long birth labor.

Longer than Gwen Stefani's births (plural)! :p

When it comes to the Minis: Apple, it's time to either p**s, or get off the pot. Make a decision one way or another.

[skitheast]

I could not for the life of me find Apple's list of qualifying Macs and iPod Touches, to see how they're listed for the back-to-school promo. If anyone knows where that list is, and it gives a model number for the Touch, then new Touches on the 9th (excluded from the promo by their new model number) sounds plausible to me. Otherwise, I'd expect new Touches after the 15th--and maybe Macs on the 9th.

check out this link that specifies which ipods you can get.

http://www.apple.com/promo/pdf/BTS08_TCS.pdf

hope that helps

[FrenchKheldar]

Theoretically, assuming perfect scaling:


Which is only remotely true with audio/video encoding and some narrow scientific fields... Since we do not know what the poster is using his iMac for, we can't really say anything specific. But in general, outside these fields, I would stick with a dual core until Grand Central and Snow Leopard...

[PinkyMacGodess]

I don't see why people are drooling over tablets considering that they've been on the market for how long and they really aren't that well received.

I've only seen one, and it was broken (Saw a bunch at a trade show a few years back. Nice but very expen$ive.). There aren't many uses for a tablet that a common mac or pc can't fit rather well.

Heck, even in cop cars, it's not 'tablets' that are the norm, it's notebooks with detached and hard mounted monitors that are the killer system now. (Or maybe they are car mounted thin client systems. Admittedly I don't spend near enough time in cop cars to know. ;-)

I think that tablets are a niche system awkwardly looking for a market.

Heck, maybe you can thank Windows for, ironically, killing the tablet. I've heard that their operating system leaves a whole lot to be desired...

[PinkyMacGodess]

An aluminum macbook wouldn't make much sense. It would needlessly confuse the buying public.

I like the black only top end machine. I see many of those around. You know what they are when you see them. It's a status symbol for those that don't want the thigh searing MacBook Pro (which should get a Teflon coating on the bottom so that your pants (and skin) don't stick to it when it's running).

I'd vote for better video, more rez... And hey: What about a gloss/non-gloss screen option on ALL portables? I often find myself cursing my glossy screen...

[jpmittins]

A nice new Macbook Pro PLEASE!

Quad core... maaaybe!?

Would apple really put quad core in their notebook line before they put it in the iMacs?

Would you buy an 13" Black Aluminium MacBook then if Apple made one?

I would. If it looked like the current black Classic. Also, Apple (if they make the switch to aluminum MacBooks but are still colored) should definitely offer one in red like the Nano. A PRODUCT (RED) MacBook. Not only would it look sweet, but it would be for a good cause.

The wait is driving me crazy! :P
I want/"need" a new laptop now. I would probably be quite happy with a current macbook, but not at that price... it's too expensive for what you get (especially since there's a new one coming soon) :(

Oh well, I'll just have to wait a liiiittle longer...

Wouldn't it be nice if the macbook and/or the macbook pro would look like this nice mockup?
http://flickr.com/photos/elchinocudeiro/2802517685/

Good god, that's an ugly mockup. Also, it's completely ridiculous. It's impossible to get pro components inside the case of a MBA. Especially if you include a superdrive. Not to dis you or anything, but that is one of the worst notebook mockups I've ever seen.

How about a 32" IMac?

I know people with more money than sense that would walk right in and buy one on the first day.

Heck, I'd consider it if it wasn't 3 times the price of an average priced 32" teevee... Just think: wireless keyboard, mouse, headphones/speakers...

With Apple TV hardware built-in. Heck, that would be a true 'Apple TV'. Apple TV pro?

It would have to be wall mountable, unlike my new 20". :-(

I don't see that ever happening. If anything is going to be combined with the Apple TV, then it would be the Mini. Besides, a 32" iMac would cost so much and unless you had a huge desk, no one would have room for it.

[nagromme]

check out this link that specifies which ipods you can get.

http://www.apple.com/promo/pdf/BTS08_TCS.pdf

hope that helps

Thanks. That's what I was after, and it's quite clear! New iPod Touch model numbers will NOT qualify for the promo that ends on the 15th. So Apple could release new ones on the 9th and people could still choose to buy leftover "old" Touches for the sake of getting one for free. (Besides, I don't expect any big changes with the new ones.)

On the off chance that new Macs show up before the 15th, they WOULD qualify for the promo, if paired with the current Touch.

[CWallace]

In regards to the iMac, if the MacBook, MacBook Pro and Mac Mini go to nVidia chipsets, then so must the iMac since it, too, is based on mobile parts and it is unlikely Apple will want to keep it alone on an Intel mobile platform.

So we might see a basic speed-bump (and perhaps a quad-core option) in the "immediate" future followed by a later move to the nVidia chipset.

[macshill]

An aluminum macbook wouldn't make much sense. It would needlessly confuse the buying public.

I don't think they'd be Mac users if they could be confused so easy.


I like the black only top end machine. I see many of those around. You know what they are when you see them. It's a status symbol for those that don't want the thigh searing MacBook Pro (which should get a Teflon coating on the bottom so that your pants (and skin) don't stick to it when it's running).

But that feeds into the "elitist" image that's a turn off for so many. With all due respect. Perhaps make the Pro a Black alum. (the exact word for high-end black metal escapes me atm).

I'd vote for better video, more rez... And hey: What about a gloss/non-gloss screen option on ALL portables? I often find myself cursing my glossy screen...

Yeah, can't go wrong w/ more resolution. I can see your point on cursing out a glossy screen.

[photo-video]

Here's some nice analysis about MacBook and MacBook Pro updates which indicates September updates:

MacBook and MacBook Pro release cycle analysis - September 2008 updates likely (http://switchtoamac.com/site/macbook-and-macbook-pro-release-cycle-analysis-september-2008-updates-likely.html)

[iMacmatician]

An aluminum macbook wouldn't make much sense. It would needlessly confuse the buying public.People can't tell the difference between a "MacBook" and a "MacBook Pro"?

I'm sure there will be other cosmetic differences as well.

[kabunaru]

Intel mobile platform.

So, only the Mac Pro will stay on the Intel chip-set then? The Mac Pro would not be "transitioned"?

[mandoman]

Mac updates all depend on montevina availability in quantity. I don't see the imac being updated until montevina notebook supply meets demand. The mini also is desperate for an update, so I see that being updated before the imac (or at the same time as the imac).

It'll be:

ipod/appletv updates in Sept.
macbook/mbp updates in Oct.
imac/mini updates in Nov.
Mac Pro/ACD + 'one more thing' MWSF Jan.

[macshill]

Mac updates all depend on montevina availability in quantity. I don't see the imac being updated until notebook supply meets demand. The mini also is desperate for an update, so I see that being updated before (or at the same time as the imac).

It'll be:

ipod/appletv updates in Sept.
macbook/mbp updates in Oct.
imac/mini updates in Nov.
Mac Pro/ACD + 'one more thing' MWSF Jan.

Sounds good to me. But the MacBooks in the last week of September or the first week in October at the latest. C'mon, Apple! *chants "Macbook!"* :apple:

[econoline06]

Originally Posted by fanbrain
The current Blackbook is cool, but the white models look and feel so cheap...

Ever use most PC notebooks? ;)

[econoline06]

In regards to the iMac, if the MacBook, MacBook Pro and Mac Mini go to nVidia chipsets, then so must the iMac since it, too, is based on mobile parts and it is unlikely Apple will want to keep it alone on an Intel mobile platform.

So we might see a basic speed-bump (and perhaps a quad-core option) in the "immediate" future followed by a later move to the nVidia chipset.

I currently have an iMac with an ATI graphics chipset in it. In your opinion, what is better, the nVidia or ATI chipsets? Or am I opening pandoras box? ;)

[Clive At Five]

No mini, huh? Glad I built my Hackintosh.

-Clive

[econoline06]

How about a 32" IMac?

I know people with more money than sense that would walk right in and buy one on the first day.

Heck, I'd consider it if it wasn't 3 times the price of an average priced 32" teevee... Just think: wireless keyboard, mouse, headphones/speakers...

With Apple TV hardware built-in. Heck, that would be a true 'Apple TV'. Apple TV pro?

It would have to be wall mountable, unlike my new 20". :-(

lol that would be insane. My 20 inch seemed so huge when I first upgraded. I find myself drooling all over the 24 inchers at the Apple store now.....:o

[.Chris]

I'm having a felling Steve will have a "super launch" type event al lon the same day. The keynote will start at 10AM PST on Sept. 9th. Music will play, he'll come on, talk about the apple sales and some more "iphone news" :rolleyes: as well as problems with mobile me. He'll explain in great detel (with out confusing us or making us bored) what went worng and give an sincere apology. He'll then anouce anywhere between 5 -7 products either refresh or brand new. at around 10:10 am he'll start with the ipods. Refresh on all 3 models with shuffle getting a color update or being discoutuned. Touch will get "air tunes" wirelessly share music and content between touch G2 users. iTunes 8 will also be anouced with new subscruption as well as the itunes wifi "STORE" will get video and podcast. Download them over your iphone or ipod touch. This will be a good half hour. At around 10:40/10:45 he'll do the macs. This will be anouther half hour. All notebooks expect the air will get a visual refresh along with spec bump. imacs will eirther get a spec bump or a visual refresh. Mac mini will be renamed to mac nano and get a new apple TV form factor,,,,,

all of this will end by at least 11:15 or 11:30. With it up for download by noon.

[econoline06]

No mini, huh? Glad I built my Hackintosh.

-Clive

How do you get around all the awful driver issues that cause instability? This is not the thread for this discussion I know...but I did build a hackintosh that was horribly unstable.

[Eric S.]

I'm gonna go with "DUH" on this one.

Me too. Except for discussing the possible iMac update, this is a rehash of the latest rumors we have already seen before.

Multi-touch glass trackpad please. :D

What do you expect to get from glass?

Here's some nice analysis about MacBook and MacBook Pro updates which indicates September updates:

MacBook and MacBook Pro release cycle analysis - September 2008 updates likely (http://switchtoamac.com/site/macbook-and-macbook-pro-release-cycle-analysis-september-2008-updates-likely.html)

Pure speculation, though, mostly based on past releases. Also it seems to miss the rumors that Apple will go with a custom nVidia chipset instead of Montevina (even though it's true we would expect Apple to use the new Penryns).

[macshill]

lol that would be insane. My 20 inch seemed so huge when I first upgraded. I find myself drooling all over the 24 inchers at the Apple store now.....:o

Now imagine a cablecard in that 24-incher... or better, a 30-incher. You may need one of those trucker's "pee bombs" they throw on the roads (a plastic bottled water used for relieving oneself) 'cause you'll never leave the room!! And factor in Blu-ray drive! :D :D

[macshill]

I'm having a felling Steve will have a "super launch" type event al lon the same day. The keynote will start at 10AM PST on Sept. 9th. Music will play, he'll come on, talk about the apple sales and some more "iphone news" :rolleyes: as well as problems with mobile me. He'll explain in great detel (with out confusing us or making us bored) what went worng and give an sincere apology. He'll then anouce anywhere between 5 -7 products either refresh or brand new. at around 10:10 am he'll start with the ipods. Refresh on all 3 models with shuffle getting a color update or being discoutuned. Touch will get "air tunes" wirelessly share music and content between touch G2 users. iTunes 8 will also be anouced with new subscruption as well as the itunes wifi "STORE" will get video and podcast. Download them over your iphone or ipod touch. This will be a good half hour. At around 10:40/10:45 he'll do the macs. This will be anouther half hour. All notebooks expect the air will get a visual refresh along with spec bump. imacs will eirther get a spec bump or a visual refresh. Mac mini will be renamed to mac nano and get a new apple TV form factor,,,,,

all of this will end by at least 11:15 or 11:30. With it up for download by noon.

lol I think you're in-the-know here. ;) You might be setting off fire alarms over at Apple Campus. You're gettin' hot, baby! :D

http://i33.tinypic.com/zm0fet.jpg

[owdin]

I'm having a felling Steve will have a "super launch" type event al lon the same day. The keynote will start at 10AM PST on Sept. 9th. Music will play, he'll come on, talk about the apple sales and some more "iphone news" :rolleyes: as well as problems with mobile me. He'll explain in great detel (with out confusing us or making us bored) what went worng and give an sincere apology. He'll then anouce anywhere between 5 -7 products either refresh or brand new. at around 10:10 am he'll start with the ipods. Refresh on all 3 models with shuffle getting a color update or being discoutuned. Touch will get "air tunes" wirelessly share music and content between touch G2 users. iTunes 8 will also be anouced with new subscruption as well as the itunes wifi "STORE" will get video and podcast. Download them over your iphone or ipod touch. This will be a good half hour. At around 10:40/10:45 he'll do the macs. This will be anouther half hour. All notebooks expect the air will get a visual refresh along with spec bump. imacs will eirther get a spec bump or a visual refresh. Mac mini will be renamed to mac nano and get a new apple TV form factor,,,,,

all of this will end by at least 11:15 or 11:30. With it up for download by noon.

Would be Lovely :D

[captnfun]

Interesting… no tablet rumors at all since July.

It seems that Apple is keeping it fairly secret in the weeks (months?) leading up to its release…

Multi-touch glass trackpad please. :D

I wonder if the upcoming iMac revision will have a multi-touch Mighty Mouse or a large multi-touch glass trackpad.

What is the big deal about a glass trackpad, why would we want glass?

[macshill]

What is the big deal about a glass trackpad, why would we want glass?

To test the theory if human blood among the shattered remnants of broken glass voids the Apple Care warranty, silly? :p

Why do I have the Annie Lennox song in my head now ("...It feels like I'm walking on broken glass.")?

[sprice25]

i only find it realistic that the next imac update would include at least a CTO for a 4-core cpu. or make 4-cores standard on the 24-inch. we'll see. exciting news though.

[Luzzio]

Would be nice if they could increase the resolution on the Macbook's iSight.

[johnmcboston]

i only find it realistic that the next imac update would include at least a CTO for a 4-core cpu. or make 4-cores standard on the 24-inch. we'll see. exciting news though.

Blu ray? better graphics cards? More user memory?

[Marx55]

AND THE APPLE SECRET MAC:

http://macdailynews.com/index.php/weblog/comments/rumor_apples_secret_product_is_macbook_touch/P100

[patmort02]

I think with all these rumors circulating around, we will surely be disappointed about something. There are simply too many rumors going around and there is no way for apple to deliver on all fronts.

[macshill]

Then I think the disappointment will be on the Mac Mini not happening in 2008 (if ever!) and the iMac coming before the holidays and not in Sept./Oct.

[mattlovemac]

sound good and great deal with new products. I need bad buy for MacBook Pro. See and wait for coming out anytime.

[BraveArts]

I think with all these rumors circulating around, we will surely be disappointed about something. There are simply too many rumors going around and there is no way for apple to deliver on all fronts.

Sorry to say it but I agree. It would be great from a consumer point of view to get all these new products at once but it doesn't make any sense business wise. How could they follow that? Do we wait a year for any further updates? I don't think so. I think a sustained release pattern of updates and/or new products would make more sense. I only hope that they start with the new Macbook Pros, the motherboard on my G4 Powerbook 17" just got fried in an electrical storm.:(

[macshill]

Sorry to say it but I agree. It would be great from a consumer point of view to get all these new products at once but it doesn't make any sense business wise. How could they follow that? Do we wait a year for any further updates? I don't think so. I think a sustained release pattern of updates and/or new products would make more sense. I only hope that they start with the new Macbook Pros, the motherboard on my G4 Powerbook 17" just got fried in an electrical storm.:(

Sorry to hear. Were you using a surge protector? How old is it? If it's a 2001 model, then you're due for an update and you should treat yourself! :)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PowerBook_G4

[kabunaru]

Apple should just update the MacBooks and MacBooks Pros on a Tuesday, Cinema Displays, Mac Mini and iMacs the next day or are three updates too much in one day?

[Rocketman]

The current iMac has the "bleeding edge" monevenia chip, whereas the speed bump will adopt the very similar but widely made version so there is cross line compatibility between iMac and MacBook lines on some subcomponents.

It is a manufacturability issue leading to expected mass adoption of Macs during the current cycle as predicted by virtually all financial news outlets. The aluminumization of MacBooks will reduce wifi reception but give Apple one more ecological chit to claim and also offer manufacturability improvements at the expense of easier damage to finish by end users. That should be good for 3rd party sleeve sales indeed.

Please offer 3G/EDGE in the 'Books!

Rocketman

[iBunny]

Everything is going to be updated at once. Why?

They are adding Blu-Ray to all machines. They cant just add it to some and not others, so Looks like the iMac will get updated too.

Blu-Ray for all. :D Finally

[kabunaru]

Everything is going to be updated at once. Why?


Let everything be updated. Give the PC World some competition.

[macshill]

Maybe they've solved the reception problems (like making the whole damn metal thing one big antena). I like to hope so, anyway. Productivity over style. :)

[twoodcc]

now this would be great. can't wait to see these updates happen

[netsql]

Will they remove the cheap looking glaring glossy displays?

that is a no go for me, I will go to windoze if I have to.

please save me

[Darkroom]

if they do release new iMacs i hope they have better screens, so when i send mine in for screen replacement (i'm on my 3rd) i'll receive one that's not from the current line... IE: resembling something straight from a sub $200 budget PC...

man, it still pisses me off that apple has the nerve to sell a $2000+ with a $15 screen... what a joke (http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=406302).

[Chris Rogers]

what's going to be left to talk about after everything new comes??

[macshill]

Will they remove the cheap looking glaring glossy displays?

that is a no go for me, I will go to windoze if I have to.

please save me

really?? :eek: wow. idk if having a matte screen makes up for it.

you know, you can get those 3m stick-on filter screens that cling to your screen to reduce gloss. then you can have the best of both worlds.

[kabunaru]

what's going to be left to talk about after everything new comes??

Updated AppleTV? New Tablet perhaps if anything? Mac OS 10.5.5? Mac OS 10.5.6 and Blu-ray support? ATI Radeon HD 4850 and 4870 for the Mac?
Oh yeah. There is going to be loads of discussions still.

[Chris Rogers]

Updated AppleTV? New Tablet perhaps if anything? Mac OS 10.5.5? Mac OS 10.5.6 and Blu-ray support? ATI Radeon HD 4850 and 4870 for the Mac?
Oh yeah. There is going to be loads of discussions still.

Awesome :D just making sure I have a reason to come back here

[kabunaru]

Will they remove the cheap looking glaring glossy displays?

that is a no go for me, I will go to windoze if I have to.

please save me


http://www.powersupportusa.com/products/ef.php?category=ib
Problem solved.

[.Chris]

Will they remove the cheap looking glaring glossy displays?

that is a no go for me, I will go to windoze if I have to.

please save me

When I see a computer with a matte display I think thats cheep. Glossy means more money = high end (not cheep)

really?? :eek: wow. idk if having a matte screen makes up for it.

you know, you can get those 3m stick-on filter screens that cling to your screen to reduce gloss. then you can have the best of both worlds.

+1

if you dont do graphic work then dont stick the computer in the light!

[Rtb1]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3090/2796361827_9d2214e4c0_o.png

[Darkroom]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3090/2796361827_9d2214e4c0_o.png

that looks nice, and i bet it'll break faster than you can say "genius bar"!

at least my 2nd generation iPod Nano is still running perfectly... i'd be surprised if this new iPod is a sturdy what with all the junk apple's been overselling these past few years...

the apple brand is just simply no longer about quality anymore.

[I Am Steve Jobs]

Wow, speculation everywhere, yet I know for a fact we are missing something. Steve always has something clever up his sleeve, we all need to quit thinking about what it might be and just wait a couple weeks at best, and then we will all know exactly what's been cooking in the kitchens over at Cupertino.

:apple:Sam

[macshill]

Sam, then I think he has a tablet coming out, since most people say that won't happen. It's creative... kinda. It's useful... kinda. And it's gimmicky... oh, you betcha!

Let his ace card be lower price points on MacBooks!

edit: Then again... Windows 7 says their IE will be touch-enabled for you to navigate web pages through your finger than your mouse. So maybe we're just too early into adoption of it.

But I don't want fingerprints on my screen nor do I want to touch strangers' fingerprints on other machines I use. If it's touch sensitive where I have to put my finger pretty close to the screen, but not on it (like a magnetic pull) to alter screens, then we'll talk. But I'm not convinced using my finger is easier than using a mouse. Then again...

Life before a mouse and an introduction to it:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-QBiQUOmcJw

[CWallace]

So, only the Mac Pro will stay on the Intel chip-set then? The Mac Pro would not be "transitioned"?

Correct. Right now, nVidia does not make a chipset compatible with the Xeon CPU.

When it comes to Core i7, there is confusion as to whether or not nVidia has a license for QPI, which the Mac Pro's implementation of Core i7 will require (the mobile versions of Core i7 will not use QPI). If they do have (or acquire) a QPI license, then the Mac Pro could use nVidia when it goes to Core i7.


I currently have an iMac with an ATI graphics chipset in it. In your opinion, what is better, the nVidia or ATI chipsets? Or am I opening pandoras box? ;)

The ATI drivers are better optimized for Core-Animation, so applications that take advantage of them perform better, in general, on ATI hardware. That being said, I am sure Apple is working with nVidia to get their Core-Animation support up to snuff if Apple is adopting their chipsets.


The current iMac has the "bleeding edge" monevenia chip, whereas the speed bump will adopt the very similar but widely made version so there is cross line compatibility between iMac and MacBook lines on some subcomponents.

The current iMac actually uses an enhanced version of the Santa Rosa chipset that provides the same 1066MHz FSB and 800MHz memory bus of Montevina.



And I love that Nano, rtb1.

[Firefly2002]

Hopefully new MBPs with Radeons, non-rounded corners and non-chiclet keyboards, otherwise I'm blowing up Apple HQ :)

[kabunaru]

The ATI drivers are better optimized for Core-Animation, so applications that take advantage of them perform better, in general, on ATI hardware. That being said, I am sure Apple is working with nVidia to get their Core-Animation support up to snuff if Apple is adopting their chipsets.


Will Nvidia even let Apple use ATI video cards if Apple moves to Nvidia chip-sets?

[I Am Steve Jobs]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3090/2796361827_9d2214e4c0_o.png

Btw, that iPod Nano looks stunning, I'd def buy one of those.

:apple:Sam

[CWallace]

Will Nvidia even let Apple use ATI video cards if Apple moves to Nvidia chip-sets?

They can't really stop Apple from doing so, but I would expect ATI would only be an option on the Mac Pro. The rest of the line would have either integrated or discreet nVidia GPUs.

Of course, with CUDA being an nVidia technology, Apple (and Apple consumers) wouldn't really want ATI GPUs once Apple adopts it in their OS and applications.

[kabunaru]

non-rounded corners and non-chiclet keyboards, otherwise I'm blowing up Apple HQ :)

Why do you dislike the MacBook/Air keyboard?

[macshill]

Why do you dislike the MacBook/Air keyboard?

This says it all...

http://i37.tinypic.com/sopgea.jpg ;)

[I Am Steve Jobs]

Why do you dislike the MacBook/Air keyboard?

I personally do not like the Macbook Air's keyboard one bit. It just doesn't feel right, and I don't like the color being off from the color of the laptop. Just not used to it I guess.

:apple:Sam

[kabunaru]

This says it all...

http://i37.tinypic.com/sopgea.jpg ;)

Awesome photograph.


And let's not forget, the MacBook Air might get updated this year as well:
http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=543960&highlight=MacBook+Air+to+be+updated

[macshill]

I wish someone would make and post a video of a MacBook Air turned on and put in a manila envelope like the commercials/print ads suggest and watch it catch fire. lol

Aw... isn't anyone willing to sacrifice one in the name of humour? :p

"The MacBook Air! It slices. It dices. It Juliennes." It's its own kindling. :)

[nagromme]

Will they remove the cheap looking glaring glossy displays?

that is a no go for me, I will go to windoze if I have to.

please save me

I prefer the look of matte myself. But I have to say, I'm used to my glossy Air and I really like that look too. Even in bright environs it has been fine.

Glass is neither cheap nor cheap-looking (to me). It's just that I prefer the look of matte.

But FAR more important to me is the ease of cleaning. I can have a screen that's smudged and smeared and scraped like all my matte displays, or I can have a glossy one that wipes clean much more easily.

Or, best of all, I can have rigid GLASS like the iMac. No fears of harming it when I clean it, and no fears of someone poking the thing (as certain people seem compelled to do).

I've always thought LCDs should have glass to protect them, and have been almost angry when big desktop screens and flat TVs lack that. And most still do! The iMac corrects that glaring omission.*

So even as a die-hard matte fan, I have to say that removing the iMac's glass would be a big step back. They do after all have some kind of anti-glare coating, so it's not like a full-strength reflection.

* I crack myself up.

[kabunaru]

I prefer the look of matte myself. But I have to say, I'm used to my glossy Air and I really like that look too. Even in bright environs it has been fine.

A question. Is there such thing an hybrid glossy-matte screen (mix of matte and gloss)? I never seen one.

[nagromme]

A question. Is there such thing an hybrid glossy-matte screen (mix of matte and gloss)? I never seen one.

Well, there are variations in the coating, but I've never seen something marketed in that way. It's not an absolute thing: matte screens do reflect SOME outside light, and glossy screens don't reflect all of it--the reflection is dimmed considerably. (I notice bright white lamps reflect as a kind of blue-purple on my Air.)

A matte-textured glass might be a nice option--but since so many people seem to like glossy (they would even pay extra for it on Windows machines) I suspect it's here to stay. "Pro" models may offer a choice, but I don't expect the iMac will.

[kabunaru]

A matte-textured glass might be a nice option--but since so many people seem to like glossy (they would even pay extra for it on Windows machines) I suspect it's here to stay. "Pro" models may offer a choice, but I don't expect the iMac will.

The 24" iMac should be called: "iMac Pro" with option for matte screen, ATI FireGL or Nvidia Quadro, Quad Core chips, etc...
The 20" iMac will remain the consumer machine.

An analogy:
24" iMac: MacBook Pro of all-in-one desktop Macs
20" iMac: MacBook of all-in-one desktop Macs

[cg165]

Agreed. New products seem to come out mainly at MWSF anyway.

Probably January 2009 or so.

Theoretically, assuming perfect scaling:

In single-threaded and two-threaded tasks, the 2.53 GHz quad-core is 83% as fast as the 3.07 GHz dual-core.
In multi-threaded tasks, the 2.53 GHz quad-core is 65% faster than the 3.07 GHz dual-core.

Wow, is this true?! I thought quad-core was more hype than performance and that it was just specifically for tasks that could accommodate to 4 cores but didn't do anything for tasks that couldn't. That would be amazing then to get quad-core instead if those numbers are correct!

[iParis]

Here's what I think will/want to happen:
-----------------------------
I believe that they may change the casing of the Macbook to aluminum, this might either look good or bad.
The MB will have capacity upgrades.
And it will most likely be available in black and silver.

I don't know how they could upgrade the iMac other than making the screen bigger, giving it spec bumps, and lowering the price.

I'm not sure about the Mac Mini; not a great fan mainly because of it's specs.
But if it does get an upgrade it will probably get a nice spec upgrade and both version will have a superdrive instead of combo drive or super drive.

I'm really upset that no one has mentioned the iPod Classic (well I could be wrong since I didn't bother reading pages 4 and 5).
There is very slim chance that it will be dropped.
It will probably have a capacity upgrade, maybe a new screen with better resolution, and possibly a redesign.

The iPod Touch is something that I really hope gets a nice upgrade.
It will most likely have a capacity upgrade, possible camera, possible new back covering, and a new software update.

I don't really know what to expect out of the Nano.
It's probably going to be available in 16GB.
It may have a redesign to it, I'm not sure.
There are also rumors going around that it may come in multiple colors.
-----------------------------

I have also just noticed a pattern that Apple is doing and that is probably going to continue throughout November; this also backs up what other people are saying:

July - iPhone 3G
August - Fix bugs in iPhone 3G and make 3G range bigger.

September (9th?) - iPod update and possibly Apple TV
October - Notebooks; MB/MBP
November - Macs; iMac/Mac Mini

So as you can see I think that Apple is going on a huge updating session that's probably going to last 5-6 months.

And who knows, there may even be a couple more udpates in February like there were for the iPod Touch and iPhone.

[nyprospect]

Bad idea to get a refurbished imac?

[iParis]

Bad idea to get a refurbished imac?

Yesh, not a very good idea.
Wouldn't that suck if you got one and then a couple months later a new one came out?
And even if you get a refurbished one after the new ones come out, it will still be better than if you didn't wait.

[iMacmatician]

Wow, is this true?! I thought quad-core was more hype than performance and that it was just specifically for tasks that could accommodate to 4 cores but didn't do anything for tasks that couldn't. That would be amazing then to get quad-core instead if those numbers are correct!Only in CPU-bound multi-threaded workloads, and even then only in theory.

[MacHappytjg]

i just hope the macbooks are still plastic because if there alumium then they will be the same as every other firckin mac yay aluminum no choice, if anything they should have the macbook alumium and plastic (white black) and then they wont be total boring and all the same, what happened to think different?

[lucasmonger]

Please, please, please let these Sept 9th rumors be true. I hoping (dreaming, drooling, praying) that everything gets updated (iPod shuffle, iPod nano, classic, iPod touch, MacBooks, MacBook Pros, iMacs, Mac Minis, Mac Pros, AppleTV and even a secret trick up Steve's sleeve.)

Why don't we throw in the Xbox/Playstation/Wii killer while we're at it?

[Axemantitan]

MacDrought: 4 Months with No New Macs (http://lowendmac.com/musings/08mm/mac-drought.html)

The drought can't continue long. To remain competitive - especially in the notebook market - Apple needs to update its offerings, and when that happens, Mac users will flock back to their favorite websites in great numbers.

Just what can we expect from Apple from September through November?

Mac mini, Sept. 2008. Finally moves to Santa Rosa chipset, X3100 graphics, and 800 MHz system bus with 2.0 and 2.4 GHz CPUs. That's outdated by most standards, but a step up from the 667 MHz bus and GMA950 graphics it's been using since 2006. No change in pricing unless Apple makes the optical drive an external option.

MacBook Pro, Sept. 2008. Possible addition of smaller (12" to 13.3") model. Possible elimination of built-in optical drive along with $200 price drop. New multitouch trackpad (like MacBook Air). Quad-core build-to-order option.

MacBook, Sept. 2008. Speed bump. Possible elimination of built-in optical drive with $100 or better price reduction. New multitouch trackpad.

MacBook Air, Sept./Oct. 2008. Speed bump to 1.8 GHz and 2.0 GHz. Higher capacity hard drive and Solid State Drive. No change in pricing.

iMac, Nov. 2008. Speed bump. Possible quad-core build-to-order option. Possible elimination of built-in optical drive, but less likely than with other models. If Apple does go that route, expect a SuperDrive that clips to the back of the iMac.

[viccles]

MacDrought: 4 Months with No New Macs (http://lowendmac.com/musings/08mm/mac-drought.html)

Please please please 13" MBP!!!

[iParis]

Please, please, please let these Sept 9th rumors be true. I hoping (dreaming, drooling, praying) that everything gets updated (iPod shuffle, iPod nano, classic, iPod touch, MacBooks, MacBook Pros, iMacs, Mac Minis, Mac Pros, AppleTV and even a secret trick up Steve's sleeve.)

Why don't we throw in the Xbox/Playstation/Wii killer while we're at it?

YES! You're my new best friend!
That's everything I want.

And do you know how happy I would be if Apple made a game system that PWND the Xbox/PS3/Wii?!
I would never be sad again!

[macshill]

I can't wait! Thank god* for this site and you guys.

http://i34.tinypic.com/2uhbkzt.jpg

* Steve Jobs

[Mindflux]

I hope for the sake of the two new iMac's in my family in the last month that we don't see updates this 'soon' after the last round.

I bought in October 07 and already a refresh happened. I could have had a 2.8 and 2GB of ram out of the box if I had waited.. ho hum.

[iMacmatician]

i just hope the macbooks are still plastic because if there alumium then they will be the same as every other firckin mac yay aluminum no choice, if anything they should have the macbook alumium and plastic (white black) and then they wont be total boring and all the same, what happened to think different?Maybe it's "think different" with internal components (custom chipset etc.).

MacDrought: 4 Months with No New Macs (http://lowendmac.com/musings/08mm/mac-drought.html)I like those predictions a lot.

[ErikCLDR]

not gonna lie but isn't this kind of an obvious rumor.

Clearly apple will put out new and desirable products for the holiday season.

[rockosmodurnlif]

And in Mac Pro news ...

::crickets::

[Rtb1]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3270/2796139135_66985c26c0_o.png

[Buschmaster]

Good, just in time for my iMac purchase. Quad-core 24", please. :)

[ll PiStoNs ll]

Yesh, not a very good idea.
Wouldn't that suck if you got one and then a couple months later a new one came out?
And even if you get a refurbished one after the new ones come out, it will still be better than if you didn't wait.

Even worse would be if they dropped the prices on the base imac to around the same price as a refurb.
Like my friend got a 60gb ipod video refurb like last august for 249 (299 new) then in early september they announced the 80gb ipod classic and those were 249 for brand new and 20 gb more!! he was so upset

[angemon89]

I sold my 16GB touch today for $240. Do you guys think that was a good deal? It was almost out of warranty and I hate having outdated electronics so it was worth it to me.

[jpmittins]

The 24" iMac should be called: "iMac Pro" with option for matte screen, ATI FireGL or Nvidia Quadro, Quad Core chips, etc...
The 20" iMac will remain the consumer machine.

An analogy:
24" iMac: MacBook Pro of all-in-one desktop Macs
20" iMac: MacBook of all-in-one desktop Macs

Not going to happen. To Apple, the iMac is the consumer desktop, with the Mac Pro being the pro (despite the iMac being powerful enough in the high end to be considered pro anyway). Besides, if the 24" iMac of your imagination came into being, it would be either much bigger or more expensive; none of which Apple wants to happen. Just my opinion.

[.Chris]

dear god if they remove the optical drive please let it be on a BTO. Some want an optical drive. If I'm out i have my CDs I have no where to insert them then i'm in deep trouble.....

I may be an ass here but if apple does in fact remove all opical drives from their systems and just go the air aprouch with wireless newtork drives or an external $100 one then theres no way i'll go to a mac. I like my things all in one. Its a notebook removiong these features will only add the cost to the cousmer as they need to buy more things just to get a damn CD in the system!

[Enigmafan420]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3270/2796139135_66985c26c0_o.png

The "pictures" provided display the word Albumes not "Albums"-thinkin I think they are fake...

[jpmittins]

The "pictures" provided display the word Albumes not "Albums"-thinkin I think they are fake...

That's because the language is set to Spanish.

What I don't get is why people want a longer Nano. I would be afraid of breaking something that long. Plus, why would Apple give it a touch screen (I assume; it's got the touch interface) but still include the interface? There will only be one input, not two. I actually don't think Apple will phase out the Classic and the Nano for a while. The Shuffle, maybe. Not sure. Makes a good entry iPod though, so Apple will probably keep it unless they replace it with something at a similar price point and (improved) function.

[brendanspah764]

The "pictures" provided display the word Albumes not "Albums"-thinkin I think they are fake...

Of course they are...
If you look on the side of one of the "iPod's" you see the author's name on it.

[Eidorian]

I'm not getting worked up over update rumors anymore. I guess we've been saturated with them and Apple hasn't made any updates, still.

I'll just stay calm and wait to do damage control after the release.

[mdntcallr]

BLU-RAY!!!

need blu-ray support and technology included finally.

it's way too overdue!!!

[Darkroom]

Please, please, please let these Sept 9th rumors be true. I hoping (dreaming, drooling, praying) that everything gets updated (iPod shuffle, iPod nano, classic, iPod touch, MacBooks, MacBook Pros, iMacs, Mac Minis, Mac Pros, AppleTV and even a secret trick up Steve's sleeve.)

Why don't we throw in the Xbox/Playstation/Wii killer while we're at it?

you forgot about the cinema displays... but don't worry, so did apple...

[skellener]

Not going to happen. To Apple, the iMac is the consumer desktop, with the Mac Pro being the pro (despite the iMac being powerful enough in the high end to be considered pro anyway). Besides, if the 24" iMac of your imagination came into being, it would be either much bigger or more expensive; none of which Apple wants to happen. Just my opinion. I agree. But I'm sure a quad core iMac will eventually come out. Probably next year at some point along with faster video cards, chips etc. I would also imagine the ability to add more RAM as well if it's quad core. The 24" iMac right now kicks ass though. I've been very happy with mine. :D

[skellener]

BLU-RAY!!!

need blu-ray support and technology included finally.

it's way too overdue!!!No Bluray until FCP Studio is rev'd and then only on Mac Pros as BTO.

[.Chris]

No Bluray until FCP Studio is rev'd and then only on Mac Pros as BTO.

why wait and why only on mac pros? why cant MBP, imacs get them?

[Amerrican]

Lack of VESA mount on the 17" iMac is a major shortcoming on the current iMacs.

We know many businesses with dozens of 17" G5 iMacs, which cannot be replaced with the current, non-compliant models.

VESA MOUNTS FOR EVERYTHING!

[THX1139]

Good, just in time for my iMac purchase. Quad-core 24", please. :)

It kind of cracks me up when I see people requesting pro features in a consumer desktop. Why would someone who settles for an iMac need 4 cores? Is that to make Safari go faster? If you need 4 cores, then you probably also need hard drive and ram expansion and better video card options. Wait! Apple already has a computer with that! It's called a Macpro. You should buy one of those if you really need the power and then you'd have 8 cores for Safari! :eek:

Same as those of you who are requesting shiny aluminum Macbooks. Is that because you can't afford the Macbook Pro... but want to have the look of one? :D

[reflex]

It kind of cracks me up when I see people requesting pro features in a consumer desktop. Why would someone who settles for an iMac need 4 cores? Is that to make Safari go faster? If you need 4 cores, then you probably also need hard drive and ram expansion and better video card options. Wait! Apple already has a computer with that! It's called a Macpro. You should buy one of those if you really need the power and then you'd have 8 cores for Safari! :eek:

The iMac is still cheaper than a Mac Pro, and a lot smaller too (i.e. takes up less space). The more powerful it is, the better.

Not that 4 cores will make a difference for most people, but it can be nice to have.

[captnfun]

No Bluray until FCP Studio is rev'd and then only on Mac Pros as BTO.

Yeah, Apple loves being dead last in their core markets.

I think everyone is missing the point, all these items will come at once, it will be the big 'Apple goes Blu' event. And like I said at this point the company that makes the very best video editing suite is dead last to the Blu-Ray standard.

[Stuart in Oz]

LMAO if the iMac gets a bump. I just bought the 3.06GHz 24" in early May.

I know we all get overtaken by new models sooner or later (usually sooner with Apple) but only four months!

[reflex]

Four months is plenty :)

[mmulin]

MBA bump please!

[pimentoLoaf]

Bring on the quad-core iMacs! :eek:

They will come eventually. Maybe end of next year, if not January?

Nice self-contained audio & video system for me in that kind of package.

[iMat77]

With the current economic situation and not positive outlook on the economy I really think Apple will not let their entry model die, particularly considering the iPhone halo effect and the option to use the Mini as an entry model into the homes (getting people used to MacOSX and then make them purchase other models).
Furthermore the MacMini is their competition to cheaper models by Dell and the like.


I don't think they will ditch it, because it fits an interesting "switcher niche" (those who have screen, mouse and keyboard but are interested in making the switch for cheap before deciding further).

In an "enterprise" perspective the Mini is also really important because it allows for companies to implement fully Mac networks, as we are doing.

The example, enterprise-wise, is our architect office. We have 2 MacPros (G5), one iMac (24"), one MacBook Pro and one MacBook.
Now, one of the secretaries will also receive a MacMini, since they currently are on Windows (the other a 20" iMac). It wouldn't make any sense for a secretary to have much more than a Mini, also considering we have the screen and keyboard already.

If the Mini receives a big enough speed and memory bump we might even consider ditching the current Exchange server (tower computer) and use Leopard server. We are not big enough for Xsan, since we wouldn't use grid computing or the power of such a system and wasting an iMac for a server use is out of question (and we don't want to use a server as a client at the same time).

So, in conclusion, I think the Mini has an interesting enough market to stay in Apple's offering in the future.

And the design of the computer is simply amazing!

[centauratlas]

One question I have (and I'd love to see it added to the Buyer's Guide) is when we'll see Apple TV updates. I'm going to buy a 3rd, but will wait if they seem soon. Given the length of time, it would not be surprising to see an update, but then again there is little or no history to suggest what is normal. ;-)

[JG271]

Wow, so many upgrade possibilities!
I'm looking for a MacBook/MBP and and iPod of some sort, hopefully the apple laptops will get updated first!

[vendettabass]

13.3" MBP!

PS, anyone heard anything about the UK back to school thing?

[t0mat0]

The http://lowendmac.com/musings/08mm/mac-drought.html link is great - on another note, I didn't realise there were so many websites for Mac, and their relative Alexa ranking:

(better ranking)
VersionTracker - 3,409
MacRumors - 4,200
Macworld - 16,055
Unofficial Apple Weblog - 20,166
AppleInsider - 25,439
MacNN - 29,075
MacUpdate - 31,743
Mac OS X Hints - 36,920
MacLife - 44,997
DealMac - 49,421
MacInTouch - 51,873
Low End Mac - 54,588
WebKit - 55,322
MacFixIt - 58,564
Mac Observer - 61,192
Cult of Mac - 65,666
EveryMac - 65,705
Roughly Drafted - 68,264
Daring Fireball - 70,482
MacSurfer - 71,968
(lower ranking)

So we should know by the end of Tuesday if anything's coming up on the 9th? Does Apple give a week's warning for updates (bar the silent unannounced ones they sometimes do)? Or is that for bigger events?

[polee]

Wirelessly posted (BlackBerry8320/4.2.2 Profile/MIDP-2.0 Configuration/CLDC-1.1 VendorID/167)

I have a white macbook and it certainly does not look cheap to me. If fact, that's one of the reasong why I chose it over the many generic looking aluminium notebooks. Then again, one person's meat is another's poison.

[myod-rules]

One question I have (and I'd love to see it added to the Buyer's Guide) is when we'll see Apple TV updates. I'm going to buy a 3rd, but will wait if they seem soon. Given the length of time, it would not be surprising to see an update, but then again there is little or no history to suggest what is normal. ;-)

It's occurred to me lately that AppleTV interfaces so well with my home network with the Take2 software that there's really no need for a bigger hard drive (no need for a drive at all, for that matter). It's not like software v1 where you had to tell it whether you were looking for media on the hard drive or another computer. Everything just shows up in "My Movies" or "My Music" in the current version, regardless of physical location of the files.

I don't know what else you would need to add to the AppleTV- more RAM, new graphics card, etc would not make any noticeable difference in the user experience.

As somebody who already owns 2 AppleTVs, what else are you looking for in an upgraded model?

[Digital Skunk]

Bad idea to get a refurbished imac?

No!

The best way to purchase a new Mac or most of the Apple peripherals.

[aswitcher]

Mac mini gets upgraded, drops by 30% in price, and everyone buys one.

[yorkshire]

Sep 9th:
Redesigned iPod touch and nano. Touch goes down in price, dropping 8gb. Introducing 64gb??* Nano same prices, but double memory for current prices.

Classic gets small price drop, better battery life.

iTunes 8. Some new features are talked about.

Late Sep (special event):
New aluminium MB, black keyboard, 2gb ram standard across board. LED backlit screen, speed bump(Still no backlit keyboard).

New MBP, black keyboard, 4gb ram standard, higher resolution screens. 17" gets backlit keyboard. Speed bump.


Oct/Nov: Spec updates on mini and iMac. No event for these though.


*I know many people have said the 32gb touch has 2x16gb modules, but are people sure of this? I was just looking at the touch spec page, http://www.apple.com/uk/ipodtouch/specs.html. It says "8GB, 16GB or 32GB flash drive". Could this indicate there is just one 32gb drive in the touch? It also says the weights are the same for all 3 models of touch (120 grams)-I would have thought if there was an extra flash drive in the 32gb touch it would weigh slightly more??

I'm probably wrong though. Apple should maybe indicate more clearly what's inside the touch on the spec page.

[Lesser Evets]

Sounds good.

[bektravels]

13.3" MBP!

Mmm quit making me drool:-)

[andiwm2003]

It kind of cracks me up when I see people requesting pro features in a consumer desktop. Why would someone who settles for an iMac need 4 cores? Is that to make Safari go faster? If you need 4 cores, then you probably also need hard drive and ram expansion and better video card options. Wait! Apple already has a computer with that! It's called a Macpro. You should buy one of those if you really need the power and then you'd have 8 cores for Safari! :eek:

Same as those of you who are requesting shiny aluminum Macbooks. Is that because you can't afford the Macbook Pro... but want to have the look of one? :D

great post:rolleyes:

if you want a sleek desktop you go for the imac. why should you not want a quadcore? maybe now it doesn't make a difference if you have four cores or two. but a lot of people do video editing for fun on their imacs or transcoding in the background. and in 3 years you most likely need four cores anyway. so what exactly is your reason to say: "no apple don't put a quadcore in an imac"

same for the macbook alu. i want a fully features 13 inch notebook at about 4 pounds weight. the MBA is too limited. i don't care if it's a $1200 MB or a $1800 MBP as long as it has ~2.4GHz, ~200GB HD at 7200RPM and is ~4LB. (btw the company would even pay it but i prefer to keep my private computing private;))

not everybody needs to show off a notebook or wants to pretend to own a MBP as your quite limited imagination makes you believe.

[zedsdead]

Sep 9th:
Redesigned iPod touch and nano. Touch goes down in price, dropping 8gb. Introducing 64gb??* Nano same prices, but double memory for current prices.

Classic gets small price drop, better battery life.

iTunes 8. Some new features are talked about.

Late Sep (special event):
New aluminium MB, black keyboard, 2gb ram standard across board. LED backlit screen, speed bump(Still no backlit keyboard).

New MBP, black keyboard, 4gb ram standard, higher resolution screens. 17" gets backlit keyboard. Speed bump.


Oct/Nov: Spec updates on mini and iMac. No event for these though.


*I know many people have said the 32gb touch has 2x16gb modules, but are people sure of this? I was just looking at the touch spec page, http://www.apple.com/uk/ipodtouch/specs.html. It says "8GB, 16GB or 32GB flash drive". Could this indicate there is just one 32gb drive in the touch? It also says the weights are the same for all 3 models of touch (120 grams)-I would have thought if there was an extra flash drive in the 32gb touch it would weigh slightly more??

I'm probably wrong though. Apple should maybe indicate more clearly what's inside the touch on the spec page.

There are 2x16 in the 32gig Touch. The price of the 32 is very high, hence the lack of inclusion in the iPhone this time around.

[mtrctyjoe]

I do not care if it is a MB or MBP.... how about an Apple Lap Top with a screen LARGER THEN 13 INCHES - that does not cost $2,000.00. I love apple products... but the price points on the lap tops are now SOOOOOOO far out there they need to do something...

They either need to significantly lower the MBP Prices or release a MB with a 15 inch screen.

Not sure how much longer I can wait for either....

[zedsdead]

I do not care if it is a MB or MBP.... how about an Apple Lap Top with a screen LARGER THEN 13 INCHES - that does not cost $2,000.00. I love apple products... but the price points on the lap tops are now SOOOOOOO far out there they need to do something...

They either need to significantly lower the MBP Prices or release a MB with a 15 inch screen.

Not sure how much longer I can wait for either....

It sounds to be only about a month away, hang in their.:p

[golfnut1996]

I do not care if it is a MB or MBP.... how about an Apple Lap Top with a screen LARGER THEN 13 INCHES - that does not cost $2,000.00. I love apple products... but the price points on the lap tops are now SOOOOOOO far out there they need to do something...

They either need to significantly lower the MBP Prices or release a MB with a 15 inch screen.

Not sure how much longer I can wait for either....

That won't happen. That would be shooting themselves in the foot. The whole idea of the 13.3" screen is that its small and portable, and costs less. If you want the larger screen/horsepower, then they want you to go to the MBP. It's all about marketing. If they had a 15" MB, they would sell less of the MBP's.

[mtrctyjoe]

That won't happen. That would be shooting themselves in the foot. The whole idea of the 13.3" screen is that its small and portable, and costs less. If you want the larger screen/horsepower, then they want you to go to the MBP. It's all about marketing. If they had a 15" MB, they would sell less of the MBP's.

Disagree Completely... then they need to drop the price of the MBP (that I agree might be stupid)..... people should not be forced to buy a high powered machine just to get some more real-estate on the screen.

Most people only need MB Power... and many of those people would like a screen bigger then 13 inches.... That would NOT be shooting themsleves in the FOOT.. that would be increasing share holder value.

[depulse]

Looking deep into the chrystal ball.....


Why keep the MBP and MB as two separate product lines?

What is the difference? Dedicated graphics, an expresscard slot and the screen size AFAIK. Most other specifications are the same (CPU, RAM, WiFi, etc).

Why not just merge the two lines, it should be cheaper for apple to handle one line of notebooks and differentiate by size instead.

Apple will bring out a sub-notebook (the iMove) to compete with Asus Eee etc. It will be priced at $299. The same components, without the screen, will be available in the new Mac Micro that will retail for $249. Hopefully they will not use the Atom processor (even though the new dual-core Atom should be more performant), that would be a step down from the current Mini performance. The Micro will replace AppleTV. Both will have a docking station for the iPod.

The new Mini and the 13" MB will use the same components. Redesigned cases, dual core, dedicated graphics, no superdrive or combo-drive, easily exchangable harddisk. Starting price $799 for MB and $499 for Mini.

The next step up is the 15" MB. Dual core, with BTO quad core. With superdrive, SDD BTO, easily exchangable harddisk, expresscard. Starting price $1299.

The 17" MBP will be dropped.

The standard iMac will be having a quad BTO for the 24". Price from $999.

The will also be an iMac Nano. The 17" model will be back again with the specifications of the Mini and 13" MB. Price $699. The perfect "kitchen computer".

:D:eek::cool::D:rolleyes::D

[karmachrome]

That won't happen. That would be shooting themselves in the foot. The whole idea of the 13.3" screen is that its small and portable, and costs less. If you want the larger screen/horsepower, then they want you to go to the MBP. It's all about marketing. If they had a 15" MB, they would sell less of the MBP's.

I think you'll find the next gen MB with only slightly less chutpah than the current MBP. The machine pros used 2-3 years ago plods along when simply loading your typical webpage anymore.

I simply want a Macbook that doesn't look like a sub-:apple:Standard machine. I already own an iBook and am tired of that plastic....smell....

[karmachrome]

Looking deep into the chrystal ball.....

The 17" MBP will be dropped.




Never: the 17" is a professional machine and an industrial standard in many fields.

[The Tall One]

Three words: Update Macpro NOW.

[Buschmaster]

It kind of cracks me up when I see people requesting pro features in a consumer desktop. Why would someone who settles for an iMac need 4 cores? Is that to make Safari go faster? If you need 4 cores, then you probably also need hard drive and ram expansion and better video card options. Wait! Apple already has a computer with that! It's called a Macpro. You should buy one of those if you really need the power and then you'd have 8 cores for Safari! :eek:

Same as those of you who are requesting shiny aluminum Macbooks. Is that because you can't afford the Macbook Pro... but want to have the look of one? :D
"Settling"?

Since when is buying an iMac "settling"?

Clearly anyone who doesn't own a Mac Pro, oops, sorry... Macpro is a poor son of a bitch who only uses Safari. You caught us.:rolleyes:

[Tman1523]

Quote:
Originally Posted by swingerofbirch View Post

Come on Al MacBook! This is like watching a very long birth labor.
Couldn't have said it better myself.

Agreed, I'm new to mac and this is just rediculas, BULL cHT

[SilverHandprint]

Any luck with a Blu-Ray option this time around? That's the main thing that's keeping me from getting a 24" iMac.

It'd be nice if they made the screen HD with an LED backlight too!

[Tman1523]

I really really hope that Apple will not change the keyboard on the Macbook Pro. I really like the current keyboard and don't like the Macbook and Air Keyboard. Even worse would be if they changed the color to black. Well - we will see. I do have to buy Macbook Pros because I cannot stand the glossy screens. Macbook Pros are the only option left (beside a Mini or Mac Pro with an external display) :eek::cool:;):o

Agreed this is not the approach mac should take, maybe reducing the space of each key on the current mbp is the better way to go. DAng it mac i get so upset.

[vaxt]

PowerBook G5 next tuesday?

[polar-blair]

All these rumors are starting to drive me crazy. I really need a laptop (MBP) cause our college that i have just joined uses mac pro G5's (i think maybe G4's forgot to check) but there doing my nut and they still run Tiger, what's up with that! Going from using an iMac AL at home then using old macs is difficult, No spaces! No right click mighty mouse! No scroll on the mighty mouse! No quick preview, time machine! its hard going back the old way when you love the new way.

Thats why I need a laptop, quick and waiting for a new one that might/might not come is really hard. Please apple enlighten us soon!

[Orlandooo]

The 17" MBP will be dropped.


What evidence do you have to support that unlikely statement!?
Of course, it's possible... anything is. But to do that would be ridiculous. What reason could there be for it??

[Orlandooo]

All these rumors are starting to drive me crazy. I really need a laptop (MBP) cause our college that i have just joined uses mac pro G5's (i think maybe G4's forgot to check) but there doing my nut and they still run Tiger, what's up with that! Going from using an iMac AL at home then using old macs is difficult, No spaces! No right click mighty mouse! No scroll on the mighty mouse! No quick preview, time machine! its hard going back the old way when you love the new way.

Thats why I need a laptop, quick and waiting for a new one that might/might not come is really hard. Please apple enlighten us soon!

Oh, tell me about it!
So many unis use old macs, its pretty annoying. My department in the one I'm about to join only uses PCs apart from one mac in a studio, I think, but I don't think I saw a single intel mac on all the uni open days I've been on, and most were probably before G5. Not that they're bad machines, you'd just expect to see more up to date ones around!

So a good MBP is a must... of course the current MBPs are very nice but an update would be great!

[TechnoLawyer]

Newly reported, however, are expectations that the Apple iMac will see a refresh prior to the holiday season:An iMac update would be contrary to as the iMac is the most recently updated Mac.

A little while ago when Arn retired from medicine, he wrote an uncharacteristically brash post on his personal blog about how he used a classic business judo technique to propel MacRumors into the stratosphere. He started publishing what the mainstream Mac publications didn't -- rumors.

But here's the funny thing. Now that Apple is a media darling, even mainstream newspapers publish Mac rumors, but mainstream Mac publications like MacWorld still don't. That is a major head-scratcher.

I hope someday Mac Rumors becomes a Harvard Business School case study. Arn's only remaining hurdle is to better monetize his huge audience. I think he'll need to hire his own salespeople.

Anyway, thank you Arn for a great daily read. :)

[derryquinn]

Dudes just thinking.... i bet the new notebooks will hae the same left/right one button clicky thing as the mighty mouse...anyone else think so?

[anthonymoody]

too lazy to read through the whole thread, so sorry if this has already been mentioned, but wrt the imacs getting a bump, apple may not have a choice. as intel shifts production they simply may not have enough remaining production of 'old' chips to satisfy apple's demand. this is what drove one of the recent macbook/mbp bumps.

one of the very lovely benefits of the switch to intel.

[Marx55]

STOP THE PRESS... HERE IT GOES... IS PATENTED BY APPLE:

Apple details next-gen multi-touch techniques for tablet Macs
http://www.appleinsider.com/articles/08/08/28/apple_details_next_gen_multi_touch_techniques_for_tablet_macs.html

[karmachrome]

http://www.appleinsider.com/articles/08/08/28/apple_details_next_gen_multi_touch_techniques_for_tablet_macs.html

(I'm a little concerned about the arthritic hand model)
Edit: Beat me to it!!

[zwobot]

Maybe the iMacs will be upgraded to LED displays, together with the line of CinemaDisplays, as part of Apples effort to make greener Macs ;))

[PBG4 Dude]

With Apple's announcement of reduced margins starting in September at the last quarterly report meeting they should hopefully announce some revamped non-iPod hardware in September.

[KindredMAC]

Wake me when the Mac Pro gets an update that DOESN'T consist solely of a processor bump and when the iMac can span TWO additional monitors into extended desktop without some gadget box like MacWorld reviewed on their podcast a couple weeks ago.

I want a redesigned case and Blu-Ray burning capabilities in my next Mac Pro.

Ok..... good night Gracie......

ZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.................

[Harun]

I don't see why people are drooling over tablets considering that they've been on the market for how long and they really aren't that well received.

I've only seen one, and it was broken (Saw a bunch at a trade show a few years back. Nice but very expen$ive.). There aren't many uses for a tablet that a common mac or pc can't fit rather well.

Heck, even in cop cars, it's not 'tablets' that are the norm, it's notebooks with detached and hard mounted monitors that are the killer system now. (Or maybe they are car mounted thin client systems. Admittedly I don't spend near enough time in cop cars to know. ;-)

I think that tablets are a niche system awkwardly looking for a market.

Heck, maybe you can thank Windows for, ironically, killing the tablet. I've heard that their operating system leaves a whole lot to be desired...

What Apple could do is make what would amount to a large iPod Touch, with more functionality. I would be in the market for one of these. I am looking for something smaller than a regular notebook, but not a PDA. Easy to take along on trips for checking email and putting pictures on, stuff like that. I am going to wait a bit more for one of these but if it doesn't come out probably get an iMac and keep waiting.

I would like to see a device like this maybe have a 9-10.5 inch screen and be light, have better battery life than a laptop and more features than the touch. No keyboard or anything like that, all touch screen. Sort of a mix of the Macbook Air and the iPod Touch.

[kingtj]

After all the rumors I've read, I'm starting to get this "big picture" of what the update scenario might be:

I can see Apple doing an update "across the board" primarily because they'll release new Cinema displays with HDCP video connectors on them. That means none of the current models of Macs will be able to connect to them. Revising the Macbook and Macbook Pro notebooks with newer video chipsets and HDCP connectors for external displays means they'd need to do at least a slight case redesign anyway, to accommodate the different size holes needed for the connector change. So they may as well go "all out" and give us something totally new and fresh looking while they're at it, there. Obviously, newer mobile CPU choices are available now, as well, so I'm sure we'll see those put to use too.

In the case of the Mac Pro, a revision will probably mainly consist of offering Blu-Ray drives in the machines (again, to pair nicely with native HD resolution Cinema displays), and new video card offerings (maybe the new ATI 4850/4870 they claim they've got coming soon for Mac?).

In the case of the iMac, it might be possible to attach a newer, HDCP connector enabled Cinema display to existing models as a 2nd. display option, by simply selling a required adapter cable/box that plugs into the "mini DVI" connection they've already got on the sides of them. That means they won't be as pressed to quickly update/refresh them ... and a later refresh could be as easy as a speed-bump.

When you look at it this way, it doesn't really seem like Apple's "outpacing themselves" too badly with this whole update. They always do the iPod refreshes around the time-frame predicted for this new updates, too - so that may well have been designed and ready a long time ago.... It can't be that hard to change around the shape of the Nano casing and select a different format of LCD screen for it each year.


I don't know about all this. Seems like they'd be going hog-wild with hardware updates. After the MobileMess and CrappStore, doesn't it seem more likely Apple will pace themselves? There are some educated predictions, but timing is certainly suspect. I mean, really, a huge refresh of the iPod and Mac lines (less only mini, xserve and pro) all at once...

I guess we'll see.

[Enigmafan420]

I am not sure what the big deal here is-there is a 3rd party solution for this IF YOU REALLY WANT ONE...

Most of you probably know this but: www.macsales.com sells MB coverted to tablet.

They are, of course, VERY EXPENSIVE-but I can't imagine Apple's own would be any less-and since they are built from MB, I am not sure that Apple's would be any better either.

[Lesser Evets]

I don't see why people are drooling over tablets considering that they've been on the market for how long and they really aren't that well received.

...

I think that tablets are a niche system awkwardly looking for a market.

Heck, maybe you can thank Windows for, ironically, killing the tablet. I've heard that their operating system leaves a whole lot to be desired...

The laptop is a crap design. You might be used to it, and so think it is keen, but it is an utterly crap design.

Saying something has a niche market because some PC makers bumbled the product and marketing is ridiculous. People want devices that are easier to use and more comfortable to use. The tablet is already in a note pad form - iPod Touch/iPhone, and the downsizing of a larger versions electronics are already produced in the MacBook Air. A tablet would stand right between those two devices, but be larger and more able than an iPod Touch/iPhone in terms of computing, and it would be far more ergonomic and portable than a laptop.

Everything is in place to make one, market one, and open the niche market that died due to sloppy efforts from previous companies.

I am not sure it will happen from Apple, but it is definite that the tablet is the future; if not this year or next, then in 5 or 10 years when the technology allows it to be made cheaply.

[sears.d.charles]

UGH... I hate this waiting game!! haha and its even harder cuz we dont no what they are going to push out!!! I really hope they push out new MacBook Pros haha and maybe even a new Apple TV with a Blu-Ray Player and Screen Sharing to ur computer!!! That would be SICK!! And i no what your all saying to urself y put a Blu-Ray Player in Apple TV well to be honest i dont really want to rebuy my movies on DVD and Blu-Ray so i can watch them on my apple tv. But still have the option of downloading video from iTunes. Also Screen Sharing would be tight having a wireless keyboard and mouse and just use ur computer wireless on ur TV hmmm sounds sexy

[christiemp]

They should really really really not update imacs before they update the notebooks. That would just be ridiculous.

I really want notebooks either the 2nd or the 9th. PLEASE :(

[Tman1523]

They should really really really not update imacs before they update the notebooks. That would just be ridiculous.

I really want notebooks either the 2nd or the 9th. PLEASE :(

agreed, mac is heartless and you know what they will lose some day you wait and see, continue to treat the consumer like trash and left in the dark, WE will turn to alternatives you wait and see.

[jpmittins]

It kind of cracks me up when I see people requesting pro features in a consumer desktop. Why would someone who settles for an iMac need 4 cores? Is that to make Safari go faster? If you need 4 cores, then you probably also need hard drive and ram expansion and better video card options. Wait! Apple already has a computer with that! It's called a Macpro. You should buy one of those if you really need the power and then you'd have 8 cores for Safari! :eek:

Same as those of you who are requesting shiny aluminum Macbooks. Is that because you can't afford the Macbook Pro... but want to have the look of one? :D

The iMac is powerful enough for the "prosumer" market, so actually four cores could be quite useful.

I do not care if it is a MB or MBP.... how about an Apple Lap Top with a screen LARGER THEN 13 INCHES - that does not cost $2,000.00. I love apple products... but the price points on the lap tops are now SOOOOOOO far out there they need to do something...

They either need to significantly lower the MBP Prices or release a MB with a 15 inch screen.

Not sure how much longer I can wait for either....

I have to agree. A MacBook with a 15" screen and maybe a larger hard drive (without BTO) would be great as long as is wasn't the same expensive price as the MBP. Going to college in a few years, I'll need a laptop and I don't want to spend that much just for the larger screen and better graphics (I really don't care about graphics now). Sort of like a Mac Mini Pro, except for laptops.

[JW008]

Maybe my judgment is being clouded by the fact that I'll be getting a new MacBook as soon as it's released, but it just doesn't seem like Apple could have a special event and introduce just the iPod/iTunes 8 rumors we're hearing now.

Last year's event saw an introduction of a pseudo-new iPod (the touch), the redesign of the nano, the redesign and rebranding of the classic, ringtones, and the iPhone price drop.

This year would be redesign of the nano, price drops, iTunes 8 and maybe 2.1 software for iPhone. So unless, iTunes 8 and iPhone 2.1 have some big new features the event feels a little light. Along the same lines, how much could Apple squeeze out of a media event with "just" redesigned laptops? I understand the sentiment that Apple shouldn't release too much at one time after the whole 2.0/3G/MobileMe fiasco and there is some merit there, it just seems the event will be a little low on content without introducing laptops.

I understand that historically iPods and laptops have not been introduced at the same time, but how much could Apple squeeze out of just iPods this year? It would seem a little reminiscent--at least to me-- of when they called the media event for the iPod Hi-Fi. That might have been the funniest media event ever. (Remember Steve saying: "Today we have some medium-level announcements")

[Thomas2006]

Not buying the iMac update... I'm fairly sure that'll be January, speed increase or otherwise.
The MacBook was updated with Penryn just 4 months after getting updated with Santa Rosa so I will buy the rumor the iMac is getting updated. This will buy Apple some time to update the internals of the iMac with newer technologies such as FireWire1600, USB 3.0, and DisplayPort.

[kabunaru]

13.3" MBP!

The new aluminium MacBook could be considered as an 13" MacBook Pro if it receives nice updates.

[wadejc85]

agreed, mac is heartless and you know what they will lose some day you wait and see, continue to treat the consumer like trash and left in the dark, WE will turn to alternatives you wait and see.

Let me remind you, you're reading a rumors site. None of this is fact, it's educated speculation. ;)

[kjs862]

I would love to see an all aluminum black macbook.

[yorkshire]

I would love to see an all aluminum black macbook.

+1

I think it would be great if Apple used the same metal as they use on the front of the iPod classics on the new MacBooks.

[THX1139]

The MacBook was updated with Penryn just 4 months after getting updated with Santa Rosa so I will buy the rumor the iMac is getting updated. This will buy Apple some time to update the internals of the iMac with newer technologies such as FireWire1600, USB 3.0, and DisplayPort.

Don't get your hopes up. It is extremely doubtful that Apple will release new technology that is not available on the MacPro first.


This will be the order of updates over the next 8 months:

• First, at the September 9th event, will be all the iCrap and software updates.

• Second, will be Macbook Pros (and maybe Macbooks too) 2nd week of Oct.

• Third, will be iMacs (around MWSF) with Mac Pro update announcements prior. A new computer platform will be revealed at this event!

• Fourth, the Mac Pro will be redesigned in the spring when they use Nehalem. We will finally see new LED ACDs around this time.

• Macbook Pros will get a total redesign around early summer.

• The Mac mini is going to be replaced with a new computer platform at MWSF.

By this time next year, the major part of the line-up will be a lot different than it is today.

[SAChopper]

I went to my local Apple reseller here in the UK and he pretty much told me he wouldn't sell me a current version ipod and that new version nanos and touches would be released at reduced prices on 9th September.

He also said the iPod Classic would not see a refresh as there isn't much more that can be done with the form factor.

Would a shop really give me that sort of concrete information based on rumors?

[Edmonal]

I just bought an iPhone earlier this month and have been impressed enough that I'm contemplating buying a MacBook to replace a older 14" Acer. I'm one of these people that once I've made up my mind, I act pretty quickly. This has become an exercise in patience, I would really like to start fooling around with OSX, but if the new MacBooks have the next generation of Intel integrated GPUs that would serve me much better. I'd do a minMac, but the specs are pretty weak for the price that they're asking for.

It's interesting to see all the speculation surrounding this, I've never really paid attention, Apple products were always out of my reach money wise, plus I prefer to build my own desktop computers. In some ways this is good, I'm possibly at the cusp of the release of the next generation MacBook and feel this will give me pretty good bang for the dollars spent.

[kabunaru]

It's interesting to see all the speculation surrounding this, I've never really paid attention, Apple products were always out of my reach money wise, plus I prefer to build my own desktop computers. In some ways this is good, I'm possibly at the cusp of the release of the next generation MacBook and feel this will give me pretty good bang for the dollars spent.

Definitely wait until the MacBooks are updated before buying. Who know but maybe Apple will surprise us all (no more integrated graphics).

[iMacmatician]

I agree. But I'm sure a quad core iMac will eventually come out. Probably next year at some point along with faster video cards, chips etc. I would also imagine the ability to add more RAM as well if it's quad core. The 24" iMac right now kicks ass though. I've been very happy with mine. :DI'm 95% sure it'll happen at or before the first 2010 refresh.

I do not care if it is a MB or MBP.... how about an Apple Lap Top with a screen LARGER THEN 13 INCHES - that does not cost $2,000.00. I love apple products... but the price points on the lap tops are now SOOOOOOO far out there they need to do something...

They either need to significantly lower the MBP Prices or release a MB with a 15 inch screen.

Not sure how much longer I can wait for either....Never: the 17" is a professional machine and an industrial standard in many fields.I personally prefer a reasonably small (13") display for easier carrying, but a higher resolution like 1440*900 or 1600*900.

Maybe Apple will further distinguish between the 15" and 17" MacBook Pros... lowering the price of the 15" version (with low-end GPUs etc.) and slightly upping the 17" version ($530 CPU by default).

Wake me when the Mac Pro gets an update that DOESN'T consist solely of a processor bumpIt happened on January this year, did you sleep through it? :)

[CWallace]

I personally prefer a reasonably small (13") display for easier carrying, but a higher resolution like 1440*900 or 1600*900.


Just how common are 13" displays with 1440x900? I'm not seeing anything coming up in Google. If they're rare, they'll be expensive which means, at best, a MacBook BTO option, but one that might add multiple hundreds to the price which would likely push the majority of folks to the 15" MBP.

[kabunaru]

I personally prefer a reasonably small (13") display for easier carrying, but a higher resolution like 1440*900 or 1600*900.


What about an 14" 16:9 ratio MacBook with 1600x900 resolution if that is even possible?

[donbadman]

They're going to update everything - macbook, macbookpro, imac, mac mini, mac pro all will get a new look and the option of blue ray they said they would this year so obviously it'll be before christmas.

[iMacmatician]

What about an 14" 16:9 ratio MacBook with 1600x900 resolution if that is even possible?I'm fine with that too.

[Eric S.]

I went to my local Apple reseller here in the UK and he pretty much told me he wouldn't sell me a current version ipod and that new version nanos and touches would be released at reduced prices on 9th September.

He also said the iPod Classic would not see a refresh as there isn't much more that can be done with the form factor.

Would a shop really give me that sort of concrete information based on rumors?

Your local reseller has no more information than the people who frequent this forum, and probably a lot less. What he is saying is based only on speculation.

Definitely wait until the MacBooks are updated before buying. Who know but maybe Apple will surprise us all (no more integrated graphics).

That depends on what you are after. I want to buy another Macbook for my household. I originally planned to wait for CPU upgrades, but I'm seriously thinking of getting one now, before the new ones come out. Why? Because I don't want an aluminum case, I don't care about dedicated graphics, I don't want a swoopy thin design, and I don't want the first version of a major overhaul that will be subject to as yet unknown problems. I would rather buy known good technology and then upgrade in another two years when they have worked the kinks out of the new models.

[macshill]

Any luck with a Blu-Ray option this time around? That's the main thing that's keeping me from getting a 24" iMac.

It'd be nice if they made the screen HD with an LED backlight too!

Exactly. Blu-ray in MacBooks, then Blu-ray in iMacs, too. Acer (freakin' Acer!) has Blu-ray in their MacBooks. lol Dudes, it's time!

[cdhfootball]

whats 'BTO' mean?

[AidenShaw]

I can see Apple doing an update "across the board" primarily because they'll release new Cinema displays with HDCP video connectors on them.

Two things...

First, there isn't really an "HDCP connector". There's a connector standard called "HDMI" which is commonly used in HD televisions. This standard supports an encryption protocol called HDCP.

There's an even newer display cable connector/standard called "DisplayPort". It has some advantages, especially for computer systems, over HDMI - and it also supports the HDCP encryption.

Second, I've already said this:

I lay odds that the Cinema Display redesign will move to DisplayPort (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DisplayPort) with HDCP and skip HDMI altogether.

Since Apple loves to jump the gun on new technology, the displays will also drop the "legacy" DVI and VGA connectors.

And, of course, the new Mac Pro and laptops will have DisplayPort only - meaning that you can't use a new display with an older system, nor use an older display with a new system.

The current top Dell monitors support all the ports (e.g. http://accessories.us.dell.com/sna/products/Monitors/productdetail.aspx?c=us&l=en&s=bsd&cs=04&sku=223-9379), so it will still make more sense to buy a monitor from Dell than from Apple.

http://i.dell.com/images/global/products/monitors/monitors_highlights/monitor_2709wfp_overview1.jpg

[AidenShaw]

whats 'BTO' mean?

Bachman-Turner Overdrive

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/d/db/Bachman-Turner_Overdrive_-_Best_of_BTO_%28So_Far%29_Coverart.png


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bachman-Turner_Overdrive

Bachman-Turner Overdrive (frequently known as BTO)


Sometimes it also means "build to order", referring to a custom computer configuration.

[.Chris]

Bachman-Turner Overdrive

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bachman-Turner_Overdrive

Bachman-Turner Overdrive (frequently known as BTO)


Sometimes it also means "build to order", referring to a custom computer configuration.

I hate it when the idoits who edit wikipedia do those dumb aberrations half are false.

I think for this case in apple, we mean bulid to order ;)

[CWallace]

Well, Apple would only really need HDMI on the new Apple Cinema Displays if they plan to put speakers into the thing (so it can carry the audio signal) and that is unlikely since it would ruin the aesthetics.

While DisplayPort video is not compatible with DVI or HDMI, it can pass those signals through. So Apple could offer a DVI to DisplayPort adapter that would allow older Macs (sheesh - my MBP bought two months ago is now an "older Mac" :rolleyes: ) to connect to it. However, I am not sure if folks have created a dual-DVI to DP adapter, so you might not be able to use a 30" display.

[macshill]

haha CWallace, isn't that always the way, eh? :) 2 months old an "older" Mac product. It doesn't seem to pay to buy a product a couple of months before an update. Now if they'd do an immediate price drop on these "older" products, then that's the horse of a diffferent colour.

[AidenShaw]

Well, Apple would only really need HDMI on the new Apple Cinema Displays if they plan to put speakers into the thing...

...or if they put a BD reader or writer into systems - you need HDMI or DisplayPort with HDCP to watch the HD BD video.



However, I am not sure if folks have created a dual-DVI to DP adapter, so you might not be able to use a 30" display.

No problem - DisplayPort supports the 30" monitor with a single-link cable. Just buy a new 30" and a new Mac Pro and you are set.

[rcfa]

it should not be forgotten that the iMac is based on laptop technology.
While the latest intel quad-core laptop CPUs which are aimed at enthusiast-gaming laptops are likely too power hungry to be used in Apple's MacBook and MacBook Pro computers, there's little that speaks agains them being used in the iMac series.

An upgrade to full Montevina chipsets, and a BTO quad-core configuration of the 24" iMac would make perfect sense for many who don't need, want or have space for a MacPro yet need more CPU power.

An iMac 24" with a quad-core chip that can take 8 or 16 GB of RAM would be a great intermediate system, particularly since the MacPro is soon getting Nehalem technology, which means 8-core plus hyperthreading, which allows for 16 simultaneous execution threads, which would put sufficient distance between a quad-core Penryn iMac with tops out at 4 simultaneous execution threads.

[Axemantitan]

Don't get your hopes up. It is extremely doubtful that Apple will release new technology that is not available on the MacPro first.


This will be the order of updates over the next 8 months:

• First, at the September 9th event, will be all the iCrap and software updates.

• Second, will be Macbook Pros (and maybe Macbooks too) 2nd week of Oct.

• Third, will be iMacs (around MWSF) with Mac Pro update announcements prior. A new computer platform will be revealed at this event!

• Fourth, the Mac Pro will be redesigned in the spring when they use Nehalem. We will finally see new LED ACDs around this time.

• Macbook Pros will get a total redesign around early summer.

• The Mac mini is going to be replaced with a new computer platform at MWSF.

By this time next year, the major part of the line-up will be a lot different than it is today.

You sound supremely confident of these predictions. Do you have an inside source or are you a time traveler from the near future? :D

[Jman6439]

i dont know if this has been brought up...
but i know there is a rumor about aluminum but what about a black brushed metal? for example, they would copy the ipod classics which come in aluminum brushed metal and black brushed metal.

just a thought for you all.







**soon to be an apple freshman!**

[jpmittins]

i dont know if this has been brought up...
but i know there is a rumor about aluminum but what about a black brushed metal? for example, they would copy the ipod classics which come in aluminum brushed metal and black brushed metal.

just a thought for you all.







**soon to be an apple freshman!**

I've been wishing for this as soon as I heard about the aluminum MacBook rumor. I really wish Apple would make one in the same red as the nano as well. Call it a PRODUCT (RED) MacBook, call it a marketing scheme, call it another way to differentiate between power of MacBook, whatever. I would definitely get one if it was a good enough notebook for the price.

[AJ1BostonMASS]

The idea of an AL MB have been around for a few months now and its not even certain they will ever make it.

Heres some thoughts though
1.If it looked like the air or the MBP or its own thing wouldn't it get just as hot as the MBP? If its skinnier than it then the MB would get hotter. I know my current MB gets hot not to bad but still hot.

2. The white macbook look they wont drop they will keep it even if its just base model. Its too well known.

woot :apple: though

[cdhfootball]

The "pictures" provided display the word Albumes not "Albums"-thinkin I think they are fake...

its spanish

[Bengt77]

Three words: Update Macpro NOW.
I hate to crash your party, but it's actually four words: Update Mac Pro (http://www.apple.com/macpro/) NOW.

[polar-blair]

whats 'BTO' mean?

Lol I was thinking the same thing

[CWallace]

Three words: Update Macpro NOW.

There is nothing to update it with.

No new CPUs are available.

No new systemboard chipsets are available.

And ATI is already providing new third-party cards.


It doesn't seem to pay to buy a product a couple of months before an update.

I had no choice. I needed my MBP two months ago, so I could not wait three or more months for the latest and greatest. Plus this thing is amazing as-is. :)


No problem - DisplayPort supports the 30" monitor with a single-link cable. Just buy a new 30" and a new Mac Pro and you are set.

True, but it will pretty much mean anyone with a current MBP (like myself) won't be able to buy the new Apple 30" ACD even if we really like it. On the plus side, I can't see it out-classing the Dell 3008FPW (especially) or that new NEC, so I'll be okay with one of those. :)

[AidenShaw]

No new CPUs are available.

No new systemboard chipsets are available.

Hmmm....

http://www.hardwarezone.com/img/data/nnews/2008/11521/Image/eclipse-up-small.jpg http://www.hardwarezone.com/news/view.php?id=11521&cid=

Nehalem and X58 are looking very good right now...

Quad Core i7, 24 GiB of DDR3, SLI, hmmmmm.

__________

Maybe we'll see the single socket Mac Pro Junior - the fabled mini-tower soon!

[iMacmatician]

24 GiB of DDR3:eek:

3 RAM slots and 24 GB??!!

So a 12-slot Mac Pro could have 72 GB!

[t0mat0]

Can't wait to see Nehalem roll in - it's going to be a huge boost to performance. Pity it isn't pin compatible with previous gen CPUs so we could have a chipset and C2D/Q/X now, then drop Nehalem in later on.
http://www.bit-tech.net/news/2008/05/30/nehalem-and-x58-show-up-in-taipei/
It seems the active cooling takes up much more space - twice the previous / current amount. To the Mac Pro it hopefully goes asap.
And with NVIDIA announcing native SLI support for the Intel X58 Chipset too...
http://www.anandtech.com/cpuchipsets/intel/showdoc.aspx?i=3395

[AidenShaw]

:eek:

3 RAM slots and 24 GB??!!

So a 12-slot Mac Pro could have 72 GB!

Check the picture again - 6 DDR3 slots (3 channels, 2 DIMMs per channel). With 4 GiB DIMMs, that's 24 GiB.

The two socket chipset that matches the current maxi-tower Mac Pro supports more slots - at IDF there were Nehalem two socket systems running with over 150 GB of RAM.

Don't know if they used 8 GiB DIMMs or what....

[snake101st]

Im buying my MBP on the 14th to take advantage of the free ipod either way (Ive been waiting since May to buy, because of all these stupid rumors, and Im starting to really need a mac and laptop for my digital arts major).

Then Ill have 14 days to return it, and if the new one comes out soon after that day is up, I will murder someone. I swear.

[E2.Mr]

I hope they will add an eSATA port to the new 17" MBP :cool:

[Tensakun]

Then Ill have 14 days to return it, and if the new one comes out soon after that day is up, I will murder someone. I swear.

Jeez, that's a bit extreme, eh? Glad I don't live in your neighborhood, Snakey old boy...:rolleyes:

[snake101st]

lol well Id be pissed for sure.

And yes, esata please! If its not in the MBP Im going to buy an express card for it anyways, so itd make it easier!

[Nom]

Well, I've been holding off making the switch to Mac, waiting for 2 things to reach the iMac range.

1. Built in Blue-Ray Player - I'm not really interested in writing, just playing

2. New video card - I spend most of my time gaming, so that's pretty much a must-have.

I was considering going to to Mac Pro, for about as long as it took me to find out it was a Xeon based system. ECC memory is a huge pain in the wallet, since I would never settle for less than 4GB memory.

[iMacmatician]

Check the picture again - 6 DDR3 slots (3 channels, 2 DIMMs per channel). Oops, I didn't see the 3 black DDR3 slots.

The two socket chipset that matches the current maxi-tower Mac Pro supports more slots - at IDF there were Nehalem two socket systems running with over 150 GB of RAM.

Don't know if they used 8 GiB DIMMs or what....24 slots of 8 GB = 192 GB.

[Baffles]

Im buying my MBP on the 14th to take advantage of the free ipod either way (Ive been waiting since May to buy, because of all these stupid rumors, and Im starting to really need a mac and laptop for my digital arts major).

Then Ill have 14 days to return it, and if the new one comes out soon after that day is up, I will murder someone. I swear.

It shouldn't be too hard to find a bunch of problems that "hinder useability" - you have 30 days to exchange it if you declare it had problems on arrival.

I just got my 5th MBP 3 days past my 2 weeks ended due to horrible unevenness on the screen. Now that I have a laptop made in week 32 (instead of the pieces of **** made in week 28) I don't see any big issues with it at all.