Apple's February 28th 2006 Event Rumors and Speculation

[MacRumors]

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

Earlier this week, Apple sent out invitations (http://www.macrumors.com/pages/2006/02/20060221131020.shtml) (picture (http://guides.macrumors.com/Image:Funnewproducts.jpg)) to select members of the media for a news event on February 28th 2006. Apple teases:

Come see some fun new products from Apple.

The invite-only event kicks off at 10:00am Pacific at the Apple Town Hall Building. The event has sparked speculation by analysts about what Apple might introduce at the upcoming event.

American Technology Research (http://www.macworld.co.uk/news/index.cfm?home&NewsID=13930) expects Apple to announce "its first, full-length films available for download on iTunes". This would expand iTunes content beyond the music, music videos and television episodes currently available. ATR also expects a widescreen consumer notebook and an entry level Mac mini which includes a remote control and FrontRow software. In what may provide possible confirmation, FreeMacBlog claims (http://www.freemacblog.com/no-you-may-not-order-your-mac-minis/) that Apple is no longer taking large orders for Mac minis, suggesting that they may have cleared out current inventory.

Indeed, the most recent hints we've heard suggests that Apple will likely be introducing a new Intel-based Mac mini as previously described (http://www.macrumors.com/pages/2005/11/20051129005319.shtml) as well as an iPod companion product that was originally described in December (http://www.macrumors.com/pages/2005/12/20051212210230.shtml) in anticipation of Macworld San Francisco.

While rumors of a touch screen iPod (http://www.macrumors.com/pages/2006/02/20060209095419.shtml) have sparked the imagination of readers, there's no word on the likelihood of its release. Yesterday's claimed "Video iPod" photo (http://www.macrumors.com/pages/2006/02/20060223132904.shtml) has generated a lot of discussion (http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=182346).

[Chundles]

The iSteve - a collection of turtle neck jumpers for your iPod.

Available in an assortment of colours, so long as they're black.

[ajcannon]

I'm hoping for an Intel Mac Mini. Preferably with Front Row on it. That will get me to finally switch to the Mac.

[UKmac man]

i hope that steve anounces a tablet mac on teusday.

[ezekielrage_99]

Intel iBook?
G5 PowerBook?
Intel Mac Mini?
iPhone?
iPorn?
iDontKnow?

[AndyR]

Come on Macbook!

[R.Youden]

I would love to see a mac mini with a built in TV card of some sorts so I can connect to my TV and also run Sky through the box without needing any of the software. Basically a mac mini with built in front row that includes a TV card option, similar to being able to run an Eye TV device through front row

[UKmac man]

G5 PowerBook?

what about a 17"MacBook Pro (but with a different name)

[mbamac]

this week intel shows new low cost pentium d processor, so i think it's time for mac mini.

http://www.xbitlabs.com/news/cpu/display/20060222135908.html

[ipacmm]

what about a 17"MacBook Pro (but with a different name)

It would be nice to see it but I hope it comes out in a few months so they can use a better/faster chip in it.

But I would like to see either the new ibooks, 12" MBP's or a new 120GB iPod because I already filled my 60GB one....

[shorty116]

what about BLUETOOTH MIGHTY MOUSE? it can't be that hard to pull the wire out of this thing...

[UKmac man]

what about BLUETOOTH MIGHTY MOUSE? it can't be that hard to pull the wire out of this thing...

YES YES YES YES! then £35 ($49) will be worth it, but then again i got my mighty mouse came with my power mac

[rosalindavenue]

Can a mac mini support 1080p video? I'm ready to spring for a DVR and I'm thinking about HDTV as well. And with respect to the touch-screen ipod, I read about that for a couple of hours yesterday and I don't think I've ever seen such a consensus of "it must be real" opinions.

EDIT: Found this post (http://forums.macrumors.com/showpost.php?p=2139211&postcount=76)-- apparently 1080i would be the highest res broadcast-- I'd settle for 480p to save disk space, I think.

[mvelinder]

How about the new iPod everyone is speculating about?

[spine]

A mac tablet is a HUGE leap from anything Apple has released before.
I seriously doubt that it would be announced as a "fun, new product."

Best bet - ipod accessories, mac mini with front row 2.0.

Here's my predictions, (for what its worth):
Sprint/Summer 06: lots more content to the iTunes store, including feature-length movies. iBooks with intel

October 06: new "true video" iPod with full front screen

January 07: the tablet

Anyone disagree?

[solvs]

Fun. That's the key word here people. Think fun.

Isn't it obvious?

[UKmac man]

A mac tablet is a HUGE leap from anything Apple has released before.
I seriously doubt that it would be announced as a "fun, new product."

Best bet - ipod accessories, mac mini with front row 2.0.

Here's my predictions, (for what its worth):
Sprint/Summer 06: lots more content to the iTunes store, including feature-length movies. iBooks with intel

October 06: new "true video" iPod with full front screen

January 07: the tablet

Anyone disagree?

yes

i do agree that a mac tablet would be a huge leap, but then the anouncment that they would be shifting over to intel chips. they have the technology, they have the know how. and i really really want one

please steve:) :D

[UKmac man]

Fun. That's the key word here people. Think fun.

Isn't it obvious?

iFun, a new product which makes fun! that makes perfect sence...:D

[R.Youden]

Fun. That's the key word here people. Think fun.

Isn't it obvious?

No, please do tell....

[Chundles]

Can a mac mini support 1080p video? I'm ready to spring for a DVR and I'm thinking about HDTV as well. And with respect to the touch-screen ipod, I read about that for a couple of hours yesterday and I don't think I've ever seen such a consensus of "it must be real" opinions.

Nup. It can't even do 720p video. My iBook handle 480p but anything higher than that drops frames and just looks bad.

There is absolutely no way in hell Apple would bung a Pentium D into the Mac mini, the thing would melt in just a few seconds. The Mac mini will share the iBook replacement's processor - whether that be slower Core Duo or a Core Solo processor. The Core processor is what Apple switched to Intel for, not the mess that is the Pentium D. Intel's new desktop chip is going to be out later this year based around the higher specced 64bit version of the Core Duo. Those will go into the PowerMac, xServe and possibly the iMac.

I don't think we'll see a Mac announced at this event - I get the feeling it's going to be more iPod/recreational consumer electronics for this one. Mac mini and iBook replacements I think will be out in autumn, probably around April.

[redAPPLE]

Fun. That's the key word here people. Think fun.

Isn't it obvious?

i also don't know why this has not been mentioned more often. the iGame. the Apple game console.

[spine]

yes

i do agree that a mac tablet would be a huge leap, but then was the anouncment that they would be shifting over to intel chips. they have the technology, they have the know how. and i really really want one

please steve:) :D


I want a tablet also - but it seems like its not the right time.
They want all their machines to be intel before they introduce a tablet.
It makes sense, from a marketing viewpoint, to not crowd the announcements.
Of course, when has Apple ever follwed the rules?!?!

[ezekielrage_99]

what about a 17"MacBook Pro (but with a different name)

The ULTIMATE G5 PowerBook with a Hydrogen Fuel cell.....:rolleyes:

[mjstew33]

I want a tablet also - but it seems like its not the right time.
They want all their machines to be intel before they introduce a tablet.
It makes sense, from a marketing viewpoint, to not crowd the announcements.
Of course, when has Apple ever follwed the rules?!?!
Yeah, a Tablet would be awesome, I'd buy one.

[evansls]

There's a lot to offer in those rumors:

- Full length films on iTunes
- Intel Widescreen MacBook (iBook)
- Intel Mac Mini
- iPod Companion Product (iPod Boombox)
- New iPod Video

Well, it's my understanding that Apple holds January/June as their main announcments and everything in between as their smaller announcements. This special event is definitely an iPod event. If Apple does go the direction of films on iTunes then they will most likely split the store up into two. The iTunes Movie store and the iTunes Music store, but then I'm sure people would ask... what about the iTunes TV Store? I don't know... just a thought.

I think it's an iPod event, because there was nothing really of an iPod event in January. Since June is so far away it only makes sense for Jobs to reveal what's new to the iPod community now... So, I don't think were going to see iBook upgrades to be called MacBooks until June and the same thing for the Mac Minis. What do you all think?

Evan

[sartinsauce]

i also don't know why this has not been mentioned more often. the iGame. the Apple game console.


Uuh, they have, check this thread:

http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=181820

Don't see Apple waiting thirty years to get into the gaming industry.

[reybart]

Fun. That's the key word here people. Think fun.

Isn't it obvious?

Yes it is.. but fun means a lot of things.. you
can be using your new laptop, ipod etc. with a lot of "funs" on it: by just playing and exploring a new laptop is already a fun for me though:) how much more if I am going to but it.:D

[JasonDawg18]

Is there any chance we'll ever see a PDA that runs a "light" version of OSX? I'd LOVE that. I'd order today.

[iDM]

A full release of videos on iTMS paired with a Mac-Mini-Media that you can connect to your TV seems to perfect of a pairing.

[R.Youden]

The thing is with all these old product updates was they where just purely updates and there are complex timing stratergies for this sort of thing. But now with the transition to Intel I think it has to be, right this product is ready, lets get it shipped. At the end of the day they need the Intel transition to be as quick as possible.

Also didnt someone say that some items where delayed at MacWorld because they where not quite ready?

[R.Youden]

A full release of videos on iTMS paired with a Mac-Mini-Media that you can connect to your TV seems to perfect of a pairing.

I agree 100%, lets hope anyway

[sluthy]

i also don't know why this has not been mentioned more often. the iGame. the Apple game console.
Perhaps because their last game console (Pippen) was a dismal failure?

[Poff]

Fun. That's the key word here people. Think fun.

Isn't it obvious?

Of course it is! Feature films and the new iPod Cinema!

And if they'll throw in Airport Express and films on iTMS.no I'll be a happy man.. :cool:

[Chundles]

I would like to know from all you guys who want tablets, what the hell would you do with them? I've been racking my brains and still can't come up with why it would be preferable to a laptop. Come to think of it, a PDA is pretty useless for most of us too.

If a big screened iPod comes out, I'd certainly like to have one but I just can't see the point in a PDA or a tablet.

My itinerary for the tuesday event:

iTunes:
- upped to 6.1, adds support for longer, widescreen downloads.

- 1 billion songs discussed, talk about market share etc.

New iPod products:
- Some sort of speaker system, sleek, nice, I want one.
- Some sort of wireless doohickey that I can't explain but I will probably want one too.

iPod nano capacity upgrades, 2GB, 4GB, 8GB

iPod shuffle replaced, smaller form factor, no screen, white/black - not much else changed. 512MB and 1GB.

One more thing.....
Why longer, widescreen content?
- Widescreen iPod pano, 80GB, same size as current iPod but a bit thicker, really, really nice touchscreen LCD screen. Limited iCal integration, more "front row-ish" user interface, US$449 - maybe less, I don't know, just guessing here.

[NeoMac]

There's a lot to offer in those rumors:

- Full length films on iTunes
- Intel Widescreen MacBook (iBook)
- Intel Mac Mini
- iPod Companion Product (iPod Boombox)
- New iPod Video

Well, it's my understanding that Apple holds January/June as their main announcments and everything in between as their smaller announcements. This special event is definitely an iPod event. If Apple does go the direction of films on iTunes then they will most likely split the store up into two. The iTunes Movie store and the iTunes Music store, but then I'm sure people would ask... what about the iTunes TV Store? I don't know... just a thought.

I think it's an iPod event, because there was nothing really of an iPod event in January. Since June is so far away it only makes sense for Jobs to reveal what's new to the iPod community now... So, I don't think were going to see iBook upgrades to be called MacBooks until June and the same thing for the Mac Minis. What do you all think?

Evan


You would think Apple would just rename the iTunes Music Store to iMedia.

[NeoMac]

I would like to know from all you guys who want tablets, what the hell would you do with them? I've been racking my brains and still can't come up with why it would be preferable to a laptop. Come to think of it, a PDA is pretty useless for most of us too.

If a big screened iPod comes out, I'd certainly like to have one but I just can't see the point in a PDA or a tablet.

My itinerary for the tuesday event:

iTunes:
- upped to 6.1, adds support for longer, widescreen downloads.

- 1 billion songs discussed, talk about market share etc.

New iPod products:
- Some sort of speaker system, sleek, nice, I want one.
- Some sort of wireless doohickey that I can't explain but I will probably want one too.

iPod nano capacity upgrades, 2GB, 4GB, 8GB

iPod shuffle replaced, smaller form factor, no screen, white/black - not much else changed. 512MB and 1GB.

One more thing.....
Why longer, widescreen content?
- Widescreen iPod pano, 80GB, same size as current iPod but a bit thicker, really, really nice touchscreen LCD screen. Limited iCal integration, more "front row-ish" user interface, US$449 - maybe less, I don't know, just guessing here.

That way you can't "spill" anything on the keyboard. :D

[jer2eydevil88]

If they start shipping intel mac mini's I would like them to include free chocolate chip cookies. I think i'd be much more enticed to drop $500 on another mac if it came with a cookie... Unfortunately I think the cookie would get more attention from me when opening the box and I may break the mac getting to it...

Oh the things I think of at 8:30a.m. in the morning...

[Porchland]

The iMac could be going all Intel very soon. The 20-inch iMac G5 ($1,499) is showing 1-2 business days on shipping, and Apple is already shipping the 20-inch iMac Intel ($1,699). I wouldn't be too surprised to see Apple move the remaining G5s to secondary markets and announce Tuesday that the iMac is all Intel.

The 12- and 17-inch PowerBooks still say 24 hours. The 15-inch MacBook Pros still stay 3-4 weeks. Both iBooks, all three Mac minis, all three Power Mac G5s, all three Cinema Displays and all iPod models still say 24 hours.

Apple likes to start hardware at the beginning of a quarter, which is probably why the MacBook Pro is still 3-4 weeks.

No refreshes? All NEW products? Another event April 1 to announce an all-Intel laptop lineup?

[joemama]

I would like to know from all you guys who want tablets, what the hell would you do with them? I've been racking my brains and still can't come up with why it would be preferable to a laptop. Come to think of it, a PDA is pretty useless for most of us too.


All it has to be is a larger, widescreen iPod that allows you to take notes with a pen or input through a touch-screen keyboard, and it will be the hottest thing in a while, bridging the gap between the current iPod (no input) and a full laptop which may be overkill for some.

Imagine waking up so a song where iCal is reminding you of a meeting. On your way there you listen to songs, watch a video and (now) perhaps a movie. During the meeting you jot down a few notes using the included pen, input your next meeting right there in iCal, and on the way home you go back to your entertainment.

Heck, even PC users would buy it as long as there was some sort of 'sync' software for their PC's.

PDA's didn't last because they didn't do (too) much. People would use a tablet/widescreen iPod for entertainment 95% of the time, scheduling/contact for 5%.

[c-Row]

I have read so much about the Tablet Mac, but excuse my ignorance - what should I imagine what this ominous tablet is? My idea would be something like the display of my PowerBook, just without the second half of the notebook. Just a slim 15" monitor to carry around.

Please enlighten me. :confused:

[FrenchBen]

Fun. That's the key word here people. Think fun.

Isn't it obvious?

Think Fun.... ?
I really tried hard !! :)

There is not doubt it's gonna be iTune related !
But they will make three product annoucements (Think fun in three act!)
There is my thoughts :

- Full length films on iTunes => 100% Sure :)

- Intel Widescreen MacBook (iBook) => probably, as they want to do the intel transistion very quickly ! It should be in june, but because the intel transition is so "hot" ....it can be very "fun" to release a new product with an intel chip now !

- Intel Mac Mini => 100% Sure - The Mac mini is fun, especially if it is closely designed to work with the new iTunes movie store !

- iPod Companion Product => No ! That's not fun at all !

- iTablet => pointless !

- New iPod Video => noway ! strategically speaking they won't release a new iPod now, it's a lot better for the sales to release one or two months before Xmas ! Think $$$$, I mean fun :D

- ... and, one more think .... the new iDontCare ! no, iMkidding

[Porchland]

A full release of videos on iTMS paired with a Mac-Mini-Media that you can connect to your TV seems to perfect of a pairing.

Yep. If this is a go, I'll be curious to see how Apple handles the encoding.

If you buy "The Incredibles" for your media center in HD quality weighing in at 5-6 GB, won't you run out of space soon? Can H.264 get it much smaller than that? Is streaming the answer? Will media center content purchases include a down-coded copy at 500 MB to offload to your spankin' new iPod video? What if I just want the down-coded copy?

Are the other networks besides Universal, Disney and Paramount TV on board? Is Rupert Murdoch blowing smoke about Fox not going iTunes? Will there be a subscription plan for TV? Will new shows start downloading ahead of broadcast so media center users can watch them "real time" with the broadcast?

Will cable companies retaliate by jacking up the cost of Internet access? Will Time Warner divest its cable properties and side with Apple?

There are a lot of IT and marketing issues that Apple will need to get right the first time for something this seismic -- we're talking paradigm shift from cable to Apple -- to work.

[jameshopkins]

Think Fun.... ?
I really tried hard !! :)

There is not doubt it's gonna be iTune related !
But they will make three product annoucements (Think fun in three act!)
There is my thoughts :

- Full length films on iTunes => 100% Sure :)

- Intel Widescreen MacBook (iBook) => probably, as they want to do the intel transistion very quickly ! It should be in june, but because the intel transition is so "hot" ....it can be very "fun" to release a new product with an intel chip now !

- Intel Mac Mini => 100% Sure - The Mac mini is fun, especially if it is closely designed to work with the new iTunes movie store !

- iPod Companion Product => No ! That's not fun at all !

- iTablet => pointless !

- New iPod Video => noway ! strategically speaking they won't release a new iPod now, it's a lot better for the sales to release one or two months before Xmas ! Think $$$$, I mean fun :D

- ... and, one more think .... the new iDontCare ! no, iMkidding


I really hope they release a new mac mini, I can't really afford an iMac, and don't need the all the power. A mac mini that can handle some decent HD res, would be sweet and allow me to make the transition from my 5 year old Dell!

[azentropy]

The iMac could be going all Intel very soon. The 20-inch iMac G5 ($1,499) is showing 1-2 business days on shipping, and Apple is already shipping the 20-inch iMac Intel ($1,699). I wouldn't be too surprised to see Apple move the remaining G5s to secondary markets and announce Tuesday that the iMac is all Intel.


I went to Costco yesterday and they were selling the 20" iMac G5... I think the price was $1467...

[osustudent]

All it has to be is a larger, widescreen iPod that allows you to take notes with a pen or input through a touch-screen keyboard, and it will be the hottest thing in a while, bridging the gap between the current iPod (no input) and a full laptop which may be overkill for some.

Imagine waking up so a song where iCal is reminding you of a meeting. On your way there you listen to songs, watch a video and (now) perhaps a movie. During the meeting you jot down a few notes using the included pen, input your next meeting right there in iCal, and on the way home you go back to your entertainment.

Heck, even PC users would buy it as long as there was some sort of 'sync' software for their PC's.

PDA's didn't last because they didn't do (too) much. People would use a tablet/widescreen iPod for entertainment 95% of the time, scheduling/contact for 5%.

That's been your thinking, my thinking, and a whole lot of others people's thinking for the week - mainly because of the iCal logo on the invite. I'd absolutely love to see it. It would indeed bridge the gap between laptop and iPod. Imagine college students walking to class with this (it seems 90% already have an iPod), setting it on their desk and taking notes on it or using a small keyboard, putting in their next assignment on iCal, and heading back listening to music. I'm pretty sure the demand would be incredible.

I doubt this will happen Tuesday, though. It seems like a huge leap to make. This time next year, perhaps. Would really, really be nice though ...

[themacman]

well they said fun.... whats more fun then isight and a new version of phtobooth?

[millypede]

The reason those of us want a tablet, we dont want to spend $3000 on a Wacom Cintiq, yeah they are great, but after using the 21" at work for a few hours It became a natural part of the way I draw, and Im sure a lot more people would also like the idea of drawing on a tablet rather than a A4 Graphics Tablet, which mean hand-eye being good ;p but we thought about using them in a shop, If we had tablets whilst demoing the products to the customer we could show infomation, build up a sale as the items would be selectable there and then and its a really cool way of showing off. The PC Tablet market is poo, it doesnt have any were to go, its all laptops with a rotating screen, imagine, JUST a screen... drooooool... I for one need one other wise I will be buying a Windows Tablet much to my disgust, and this is me a Apple Retailer saying I will buy a Windows laptop because Apple dont have the technology, wierd.

The iPod yeah we have seen and heard about that three thousand times, the iPod shuffle should of been replaced in Jan, as should of the mac mini, we are now looking a 2-3 Week delivery time on them.

So I predict, Mac Mini Media centre, another iPod, and *i HOPE* a Tablet

[Piarco]

I would love to see a mac mini with a built in TV card of some sorts so I can connect to my TV and also run Sky through the box without needing any of the software. Basically a mac mini with built in front row that includes a TV card option, similar to being able to run an Eye TV device through front row

Me too but it'll never happen. You'd end up having to have country specific Mac mini's and the cost just isn't worth it to Apple.

[~Shard~]

My bets are on an Intel Mac mini and some sort of iPod update, whether it be to the existing line or some new video thing as the rumors have been predicting. This would then also tie into an announcement that iTMS will be selling its first full-length movie, and that it will slowly be branching into movies as well as TV shows in the future - hence the need for a new iPod to play widescreen, higher quality movies - think of it as an "iPod Pro", for those who want the extras which the current iPod falls short on.

Intel iBooks are definitely due as well, but I don't know if it will be at this event or sometime in March. I guess it depends how big Jobs is planning on making this event and how much time he is planning on spending on each announcement.

Looking forward to Tuesday! :cool:

[agentmouthwash]

igame? ithinknot.
If Apple wanted to be in the gaming market they would make more games available for download on itunes for your ipod - at a cost of course. Apple is missing a big opportunity here. Who here would buy tetris for your ipod for $4.99? I know I would.

I think Apple is going to release:
1)Movie downloads for itunes
2)mention the macbook & mac mini upgrades - no big fanfare since the intel chip and front row have been discussed already.
3) Hopefully announce video game downloads for your ipod.
4) iboombox
5) Bluetooth mighty mouse

all that sounds like fun to me!

[dwd3885]

There is no way Apple will put a dual core chip in the mac mini at this point. Not for the $499 that it sells for anyway. You see lowend dual core options in the PC world, but they are at least $750.

It would be nice to see a Pentium D or Core Duo, but if the iMac got the Core Duo, putting in a better chip (Pentium D 920) in a mac mini would be ludacrous!

[AndyR]

A iTablet and iPodPDA would be the most likely as they are totally NEW wherase the Mac Mini would kinda be an upgrade...

Any chance of Apple Plasma TV/Macs :)

[MacMosher]

i hope that steve anounces a tablet mac on teusday.
I think you'll see a Intel ibook (MacBook) or new Mac Mini before you see any tablet.

[ftaok]

Nup. It can't even do 720p video. My iBook handle 480p but anything higher than that drops frames and just looks bad.
The mini could do 720p and 1080i if the video card were to be used to help decode the video. Right now, you need some serious Mac horsepower to watch HDTV without dropping frames because the video cards aren't being leveraged.

On the PC side, very modest PCs can process HDTV without dropping frames, provided the video card is decent.

I'm guessing that Apple is working on something that will split the decoding load and allow the video card to help out.

[Play Ultimate]

That's been your thinking, my thinking, and a whole lot of others people's thinking for the week - mainly because of the iCal logo on the invite. I'd absolutely love to see it. It would indeed bridge the gap between laptop and iPod. Imagine college students walking to class with this (it seems 90% already have an iPod), setting it on their desk and taking notes on it or using a small keyboard, putting in their next assignment on iCal, and heading back listening to music. I'm pretty sure the demand would be incredible.

I doubt this will happen Tuesday, though. It seems like a huge leap to make. This time next year, perhaps. Would really, really be nice though ...

Interesting but unlikely. More likely a stylus input to modify the iCal/Address Book function that is already on the iPod. Heck, this is what most people use a PDA for anyway. The functionality is already on the iPod. It just lacks input/edit functions.

Like everyone else, Mac mini, updated iPods (larger screen), seem likely.

Don't see iTunes adding full-length movies yet. Maybe just additional content will be announced.

The rumor-mongers will be underwhelmed by the announcements, as usual.

However, Apple does a great job of spreading out their roll-outs to continually stay topical in the press.

[~Shard~]

Who here would buy tetris for your ipod for $4.99? I know I would.

I wouldn't pay $4.99 for Tetris on my iPod when I can play it for free (http://mac.softpedia.com/get/Games/Quinn.shtml) on my Mac. Make an iPod version, also for free, then I would play it. :cool:

[ntg]

I think there may be three or four things Apple release soon:-

1. Apple notebook-sized tablet - the technology is there (a single surface that can both display an image AND recognise gestures without being a regular touch-sensitive - and delicate - surface)

2. Apple video-streaming via an Airport-Extreme style wireless unit - I love the music, and the new iTunes options to stream to multiple speakers rather than a specific set means you could then send music to one room and tv to another

3. Since Steve is now well-in with Disney, how about a fairly obvious fun item, namely all those thousands of Disney cartoons that are tailor-made for iPod-style (and sized) viewing?

4. I'd still buy an iPhone, especially if it was running OSX-lite...(please?)

Nigel.

[mhar4]

Unfortunate date.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/February_28_Incident

[lord_flash]

Lot of people here talking about the Apple PDA. It'd probably be a good time to release one too, in the midst of the BlackBerry panic. Then again, that'll be all resolved by the time Apple could ship anything, so, ho hum.

More importantly though, it's not 'fun', is it? I mean really. Move a meeting here, check a phone number there? It mgiht be a 'fun' product from the point of view of the Newton mourners, or the truely tech-obsessed, but that's not (really) where Apple need to be. To make money they need to capitalise on the iPods branding success, and quickly too. The sheen of the iPod is quickly turning from 'latest and greatest' to passe, and even 'a bad thing' (just ask you fellow commuters on the tube/subway if you still think it's cool).

So what'd be fun? A more capable iPod that could do simple games? Thinner, lighter and more welcoming than the bulky PSP? Might be a goer.

Where else could Apple take the brand into the consumer marketplace? Under the telly? Perhaps.

A tablet PC? Fun? Actually Apple could make the case - kids drawing etc. - but I'd bet against it.

Anyway, that's my advice. Don't think what's fun for computer forum users, think what's 'fun' to the broader world. If you ask me, it'll be iPod accessories or, at best, a new iPod.

Oh, and one moire point... New mouse? ROTFL. You don't get a room full of press together to show them a bluetooth mouse. Especially not if they're expecting something fun.

[PharmD]

I think there may be three or four things Apple release soon:-

3. Since Steve is now well-in with Disney, how about a fairly obvious fun item, namely all those thousands of Disney cartoons that are tailor-made for iPod-style (and sized) viewing?

Nigel.

There are a handful already available on iTMS under Short Films. They could add more however. How to Play Football is a personal favorite.

[millypede]

amazing I google Feb 28th http://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=Feb+28th&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8 and the first thing it brings up is the Apple event lol:eek:

[MacMosher]

Unfortunate date.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/February_28_Incident
Thats true... but know matter what day of the year you chose somthing bad had to happen on that day in the past... just that one was exceptionally bad...

[sartinsauce]

I doubt this will happen Tuesday, though. It seems like a huge leap to make. This time next year, perhaps.


I've seen this kind of sentiment several times over the last few weeks. I just don't understand it. What will make next year a better time? Do you think the global market for tablets will be improved by next year? Maybe you're suggesting that technology will be superior next year (which is always true)? I'd just like to know a little more about why people think Apple might do a tablet later.

I think a tablet will happen, but I expect they'll introduce it in a few years. Once they (and their operating system) has become good at multi-touch gesture display. At some point there may be a paradigm shift in the way we interface with a computer and the physical keyboard will become a virtual keyboard, and at that point all new laptops may become tablets.

[crudsponge]

I think everything needs to flow with the releases. It wouldn't make sense (to me) to release a MacBook, BoomBox, Tablet, Phone, ... etc.

To me personally... it would make more sense to go with the MacMini, iPod TRUE Video, BoomBox, and iTunes.
All centered around home entertainment, and coming back to iTunes.

BoomBox needs the iPod,.... the iPod needs iTunes.
The MacMini needs something more... possibly iTunes... possibly home entertainment? True video, which would work with the Video iPod.

Could the calender simply mean... a day to remember?
Opposed to simply various stuff available... like a MacBook, or a Phone.

just me thoughts. I guess we'll know tuesday when Steve walks out.

[Squire]

If they start shipping intel mac mini's I would like them to include free chocolate chip cookies. I think i'd be much more enticed to drop $500 on another mac if it came with a cookie... Unfortunately I think the cookie would get more attention from me when opening the box and I may break the mac getting to it...

Oh the things I think of at 8:30a.m. in the morning...

Good. Almost woke the kids with my laughter trying to visualize what you just put in words there.


All it has to be is a larger, widescreen iPod that allows you to take notes with a pen or input through a touch-screen keyboard, and it will be the hottest thing in a while, bridging the gap between the current iPod (no input) and a full laptop which may be overkill for some.

Imagine waking up so a song where iCal is reminding you of a meeting. On your way there you listen to songs, watch a video and (now) perhaps a movie. During the meeting you jot down a few notes using the included pen, input your next meeting right there in iCal, and on the way home you go back to your entertainment.

Heck, even PC users would buy it as long as there was some sort of 'sync' software for their PC's.

PDA's didn't last because they didn't do (too) much. People would use a tablet/widescreen iPod for entertainment 95% of the time, scheduling/contact for 5%.

Kind of what I was thinking, too. I'd like to see something a little bigger than a PDA but smaller than a tablet. I'd take a video iPod with input as others have mentioned.

That's been your thinking, my thinking, and a whole lot of others people's thinking for the week - mainly because of the iCal logo on the invite. I'd absolutely love to see it. It would indeed bridge the gap between laptop and iPod. Imagine college students walking to class with this (it seems 90% already have an iPod), setting it on their desk and taking notes on it or using a small keyboard, putting in their next assignment on iCal, and heading back listening to music. I'm pretty sure the demand would be incredible.

Exactly. But, really, you can already do that with the Palm Lifedrive, can't you? Let Ive work his magic, clean out a bunch of the useless features, and put an iPod name on it. It then becomes a justifiable product. [Ever notice how calculated Jobs is while backpedalling? He gives reasons for not doing the product or innovation in the past and then, somehow, justifies it with a new release.]

Key words are "fun" and "products." I would actually bet against any major (i.e. an onslaught of feature-length movies) changes to iTunes-- as the main announcement-- because I would consider it more of a "service."

While portables might be announced, I don't think they'll take center stage either. Many on these boards would disagree but a notebook (even one with FrontRow) is probably not considered a "fun" product by the masses.

iPod accessories? Yes.
"Real" video iPod? Maybe.
Media center Mac mini? Hmm...maybe. That would obviously tie into an iTunes announcement.

Damn. The more I think about it, the more I think it actually could be a sort of iPod/PDA/Tablet hybrid. Dunno. It would be a fun, new product that is definitely event-worthy.

-Squire

[corywoolf]

A iTablet and iPodPDA would be the most likely as they are totally NEW wherase the Mac Mini would kinda be an upgrade...

Any chance of Apple Plasma TV/Macs :)

No plasmas or tablets for at least another 2-3 years. Tablets are more of a novelty and are not something Apple would sell a lot of, unless they redefined tablet use with some killer app.

[osustudent]

I've seen this kind of sentiment several times over the last few weeks. I just don't understand it. What will make next year a better time? Do you think the global market for tablets will be improved by next year? Maybe you're suggesting that technology will be superior next year (which is always true)? I'd just like to know a little more about why people think Apple might do a tablet later.

I think a tablet will happen, but I expect they'll introduce it in a few years. Once they (and their operating system) has become good at multi-touch gesture display. At some point there may be a paradigm shift in the way we interface with a computer and the physical keyboard will become a virtual keyboard, and at that point all new laptops may become tablets.


I understand your point -- just to clarify, i was talking about an iPDA/iPod - not a tablet.

[iamasoundguy]

X-bit labs (http://www.xbitlabs.com/news/cpu/display/20060222135908.html) says that this processor was supposed to debut in march and bumped up for an unknown reason. I could definatley see this in the Intel MacMini. They won't put anything more expensive than this in it thats for sure.

[iHeartTheApple]

Come on Mac Mini!!! Woohoo! I agree with the assessment that they will be unveiling a new Mac Mini and I'm really excited about it...I've been wanting one for a while now, but I wanted to wait for the Intels to come out!

[dlastmango]

http://www.macrumors.com/images/macrumorsthreadlogo.gif (http://www.macrumors.com)
has generated a lot of discussion (http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=182346).

Arent forums like MacRumors GREAT!!!
What else would we be doing at work if it wasnt for MacRumors.

THANKS EVERYONE!
Chris

[lord_flash]

Arent forums like MacRumors GREAT!!!
What else would we be doing at work if it wasnt for MacRumors.

THANKS EVERYONE!
Chris

Well, you know... I've got some very important shuffling-of-paper-to-look-busy to be getting on with. In a minute. Just one more fourm.

I can give them up any time I like...

[jacobj]

If the mini gets more of a media hub type overhaul is there a chance we will see an updated version of Front Row?

Just an idea! ;)

[Seasought]

I hope to see:


iPhone
PDA
Intel Mac Mini
Slimmer, sleaker external iSight

I'm not really that enthused about additions to iTunes though I know some of you are. :D

[nagromme]

More Intel Macs are due soon I'm sure, but "Fun" tells me it's not JUST Macs.

And the calendar icon tells me it's not JUST anything... they couldn't find a theme that tied things together.

New iPod stuff and new low-end Macs fits the bill.

Trivia note: "invite" is a verb. "Invitation" is a noun. Next week: "advance" vs. "advanced" :)

[Xephian]

Fun. That's the key word here people. Think fun.

Isn't it obvious?
The iToy.

[SFVCyclone]

They should introduce the mac mini so I could finally switch BACK to the mac!

[psxndc]

The reason those of us want a tablet, we dont want to spend $3000 on a Wacom Cintiq, yeah they are great, but after using the 21" at work for a few hours


Whoa there. I'd like an Apple tablet because I like annotating my typed notes or scanned in textbooks. Not all of us are graphics professionals.

The PC Tablet market is poo, it doesnt have any were to go, its all laptops with a rotating screen, imagine, JUST a screen... drooooool...


Yeah, I mean could you imagine just a screen (http://h10010.www1.hp.com/wwpc/us/en/sm/WF05a/321957-304452-306995-304455-306995-376810.html) as a tablet (http://www.motioncomputing.com/products/tablet_pc_le.asp). I wonder what they'd (http://thetabletpc.net/gatewayarchive.htm) call it. A slate (http://mobileoffice.about.com/od/laptoptabletpcreviews/gr/fujitsu5011dc.htm) maybe?

Sorry to be so harsh, but you a) act like you're speaking for everyone that wants a tablet, which you aren't, and you're making comments about an industry you don't seem to follow. The tablet PC market is growing, and though this will get me flamed, Microsoft is leading the charge. OneNote is an AWESOME piece of software when combined with a tablet PC. It has completely changed the way I take notes and prepare for class. There probably is not a solution for graphic professionals in the tablet PC space, I'm not arguing that. But don't presume you speak for all people when you opine on why you want a tablet.

-p-

[Sam*]

If The Full movies are true... it will only be for the usa proberly....

Here in the uk i doubt we will get it..although they might give us the option of finally downloading tv shows but i still doubt that:(

[matthewHUB]

Guys, all this debating and we're not really getting anywhere. Take a look at the teaser... An iCal icon. Clearly this has something to do with some sort of life organiser such as a blackberry type PDA/iPod thingymajig. The invites in the past have always given a clue (sort of - sometimes with hindsight) as to what kind of avenue the product will be down.

I'm really hoping for a thin iPod-form-factor portable multimedia player, with decent apps for lifestyle organisation. Perhaps iLife on the go? not sure yet whether a stylus would be used or whether input would be with fingers only but i know i'd buy one in an instant.

I've been 'fannying around' with various diaries etc. for a long time. I have desperately wanted a PDA-type device but they've just been crap to be honest. I dunno... I'm a musician, and my diary is very important to me - dates and times constantly changing. With this device running iCal it would mean i would actually use the program! At the moment i don't as when somebody tells me a date it goes into my diary - i'd forget if i waited till i got home to put into my comp. Wish i could do it on the go.

Also, for all you guys who say you wouldn't use a PDA / don't see why anyone would want one... WTF? Do you use a diary?

[kawijoe]

Just a wild guess, but maybe Apple is getting ready to leap back into the PDA market with a crossover iPod + PDA type product ?

J<

[danielwsmithee]

Everyone on here is so sure that Apple will anounce full length widescreen videos! While the time is right I think the bandwidth issue is still huge. I have comcast 3MB connection and rarely see download speeds greater then 500KBs. A 480p movie encoded in H.264 would likely be 700MB, at that speed it would take almost 24 hours to download a movie! Would people be willing to do that? Many I'm sure would.

It wouldn't surprise me though if they impelmented a BitTorrent type distribution sytem inside iTunes so users can help improve Bandwidth. Who knows!

[ruud]

Everyone on here is so sure that Apple will anounce full length widescreen videos! While the time is right I think the bandwidth issue is still huge. I have comcast 3MB connection and rarely see download speeds greater then 500KBs. A 480p movie encoded in H.264 would likely be 700MB, at that speed it would take almost 24 hours to download a movie! Would people be willing to do that? Many I'm sure would.

Actually, at 3 Mbit/s, a 700 MB file will actually download in about half an hour.

It wouldn't surprise me though if they impelmented a BitTorrent type distribution sytem inside iTunes so users can help improve Bandwidth. Who knows!

Something like that inherently clashes with the DRM.
Besides, they already have a pretty good distribution system in place using Akamai servers all around the world.

[p0intblank]

I really hope it's a Mac mini... I don't know if I would buy one right away, but I would certainly be tempted. The Mac mini, in my opinion, is one of Apple's coolest products yet. Full-length movie downloads... hmm, I didn't see that coming. I don't see why that cannot happen. It was only a matter of time. I guess we'll just have to wait until Tuesday to find out. :D

[maestro55]

I agree with those who think that is some kind of PDA. I think that Apple would be wise to break out some sort of iPhone that includes a PDA and a media player on it. This is what people are wanting. With the previous rumors of the iPod going wireless, I think this iPhone will have the ability to download iTunes music on the go. Also I think this device will have wireless abilities to transfer information directly from the computer to the device or from other devices to share information. This could be a big turn in the wireless world and would put together the three things that people want. The business world and consumers would greatly benefit from this.

Will we see it? Lets wait and see...

[danielwsmithee]

Actually, at 3 Mbit/s, a 700 MB file will actually download in about half an hour.


Sorry I messed up on the math there. With a 3 Mbit/s connection I rarely see download speeds quite that fast usually more like 500kbit/s. Which would make it about 3 hours. Either way I guess that is is plausible.

About the DRM that can be worked around fairly easily I would think. The actual authentication would come from the normal Apple servers. They could quite easily make it so it would be just a useless 700 MB file until the Apple servers have authenticated. I think you are right about there servers allready working well though.

[ziwi]

I would welcome the mini -dvr thingy, but it is interesting that the announcement takes place during the PMA conference next week - perhaps it has somehting to do with photo's as well or something along those lines...

[peharri]

My 2c:

It'll either be:

- Software (I'm leaning towards this only because of the lack of concrete rumours about what will be announced. That said, I can't think of any "fun", "calendar related" applications. An Apple alternative to Outlook and Notes would not be fun.
- An Apple version of the Nokia 770. Essentially a wireless (802.11) web and multimedia client with PDA functionality. This is what I want it to be, but while I can come up with some pretty good justification for it, I can't see enough concrete evidence that Apple's going to release any hardware.
- A revamped Mac mini with PVR-type functionality. Nice, but poorly timed if true - the HD standards are still in a state of flux.
- Plasma displays - yeah, right ;) Well, it'd fit the "There was some awesome stuff lined up for the MacWorld show that they had to pull at the last minute" thing.
- PowerBook G5s (Heh)

Things I'm pretty sure it'll NOT be:

- an iPod (the Nokia 770-like device mentioned above is not an iPod, even though it can act as an iTunes client.)
- a games console (regardless of my jokes on the other thread, and no, it's not a spiral-bound calendar either.)
- some speakers (right. Apple's announcing some me-too accessories for the iPod, and organizing a press conference around it. Hmmm. Sure. Right. Yeah.)
- MacBooks (well, they may be announced as part of the package, but I don't think they'll be the highlight of the show. Likewise Intel-based Mac minis sans DVR enhancements above. The key is these are "new products", and they're related in some way to calendars.)
- The first Windows-based Mac.
- Dell's new Mac OS X based Dimension Desktop
- Full-screen and/or full-length movies on iTMS. Again this might be announced as part of the package, but it certainly isn't the highlight. A little premature to announce this at a time when movies-over-broadband is still a little expensive.
- The 30th Anniversary Mac
- The 30th Anniversary Apple ][.

[milo]

The mini could do 720p and 1080i if the video card were to be used to help decode the video. Right now, you need some serious Mac horsepower to watch HDTV without dropping frames because the video cards aren't being leveraged.

The mini could do HD if it had intel chips, even if that meant core solo. One of the first benchmarks on the intel imacs and macbooks was HD playback, and it did great at that, even playing back multiple HD movies at once.

An intel mini will do HD regardless of which Core chip it gets.


Unfortunate date.

Every day is an unfortunate date. Americans aren't going to be familiar with that.

Trivia note: "invite" is a verb.

Sorry, Oxford dictionary lists it as a noun as well, "informal". Nice try. Thanks for playing.

Guys, all this debating and we're not really getting anywhere. Take a look at the teaser... An iCal icon. Clearly this has something to do with some sort of life organiser such as a blackberry type PDA/iPod thingymajig. The invites in the past have always given a clue


And for the last couple, people have figured out the new products before they were announced. If apple has something they really want to try and keep secret, wouldn't it make sense to send a generic invite (like how I did that?) instead of giving a hint?

I still think a tablet or PDA is incredibly unlikely, look at how bad the PDA market is right now. People just want basic calendar and address book in a device like a phone (or ipod), not a full on PDA.

[ELTITO]

Ok.. Guys... This is my first post and I will go a little crazy!!!

Let think about the Ical Invitation: It could mean that something related to the timeframe that apple was expecting change.. This is confirmed when they released those Imac - Intel / Macbook pro... So we shouldn't be surprised if Steve come out with a New Powermac.. There is plenty of powerfull intel processor that will fill in this category... Also is good to remark that there is no power problems on this category of machines.:confused: :confused:

I agree 100% with people expecting to see news Macbook and Macmini.. To me this fit also in the Ical invitation (Ready before expected)

I don't see anything goin on. related to the Ipod...

last thing I want to mention is that I read in some thead that intel will release a 2.6 ghz dual core on the next mont... So imagine a Powermac Intel with a Dual-Coreduo arrangemnent:eek:


Thanks

[MacMosher]

- MacBooks (well, they may be announced as part of the package, but I don't think they'll be the highlight of the show. ....)
It would be the highlight of the show for me

[grneyedjay]

Does anyone really want to watch full-length movies on their ipod? I sure dont.

Also, I'm thinking full length movie downloads may not qualify as a "fun new products"...so hopefully all that other stuff people are speculatin' will be there

[wPod]

i know i know!!!! 512MB Nano!!! and a 4GB normal iPod! you know, to be retro

[tcctre]

As in how I know but its not going to be anything iPod or iTunes related.

Unless the source is throwing me off the trail

[milo]

So we shouldn't be surprised if Steve come out with a New Powermac.. There is plenty of powerfull intel processor that will fill in this category...

Not really. No quad processors. No processors that are much of an improvement in processing power, heat, power usage.

And there aren't enough universal apps yet, tower users are the ones who need them the most.

Powermacs are the LEAST likely to get updated anytime soon, Apple won't do an upgrade until they can be a significant improvement over the current G5's.

[revjay]

Nup. It can't even do 720p video. My iBook handle 480p but anything higher than that drops frames and just looks bad.

There is absolutely no way in hell Apple would bung a Pentium D into the Mac mini, the thing would melt in just a few seconds. The Mac mini will share the iBook replacement's processor - whether that be slower Core Duo or a Core Solo processor. The Core processor is what Apple switched to Intel for, not the mess that is the Pentium D. Intel's new desktop chip is going to be out later this year based around the higher specced 64bit version of the Core Duo. Those will go into the PowerMac, xServe and possibly the iMac.

I don't think we'll see a Mac announced at this event - I get the feeling it's going to be more iPod/recreational consumer electronics for this one. Mac mini and iBook replacements I think will be out in autumn, probably around April.

I agree...mostly.

Fun = iPod stuff, some software (iCal reference), some surprise that we never saw coming...by this time all the fun seeking media will be whipped into a frenzy when Steve says the magic words:

"One More Thing..."

Mac Mini which I would suggest is the most "fun" (in a highschool, look how cool my computer looks...and it has a remote, sort of way) of all the Mac's...

Autumn?...there are times I envy our friends of the southern hemisphere...(not May - September).

[Fireburst]

If it was to be a Apple tablet pc then I will be one of the first to buy :cool:

[Hattig]

I couldn't care less about movies on an iPod, even if it looked like the recent rumoured iPod Video.

Short films, TV shows, video podcasts ... yes.

Movies ... maybe on a flight, that's about it!

I can see more Disney content being announced next week though.

[~Shard~]

So we shouldn't be surprised if Steve come out with a New Powermac.. There is plenty of powerfull intel processor that will fill in this category...

<snip>

last thing I want to mention is that I read in some thead that intel will release a 2.6 ghz dual core on the next mont... So imagine a Powermac Intel with a Dual-Coreduo arrangemnent:eek:

Nope, not going to happen.

First of all, the PowerBooks were updated because they needed to be updated. They were slow G4 machines. The PowerMacs do not need to be updated.

Second of all, Apple is not going to stick Yonah into the PowerMac - it's simply not going to happen. Apple is waiting for Conroe/Woodcrest and they won't be available until the fall.

Further to this, Apple will need to come out with Intel PowerMacs that at least match or better the existing offerings. They can't do that right now. It would look bad to release a "brand new" and "superior" Intel PowerMac which doesn't benchmark as high as the existing quad which has been out for months now. The technology simply doesn't exist right now.

Thirdly, there are not enough universal applications yet. The people who use PowerMacs are generally the power users who ned those apps the most. Until we see a release date for Adobe CS3 and until we hear when FCP, etc. are going universal, we won't see an Intel PowerMac.

In conclusion, PowerMacs, are going to be the last Macs to be switched over (with the exception of possibly the Xserve for similar reasons).

Any questions? :cool:

[crudsponge]

I think this will go in either two directions.

1. iCal icon... make your life easier. Some sort of organizer, Tablet?
2. Portable Game system. The iCal icon on the invite would repersent the change in apple from this day onward. (highly unlikely) However.. this could Really identify 'FUN'. Flat out, games are fun. Period. Also, remember apple has filed for many patents with Tablet/Game style stuff. Apple would now be in the Game industry. Maybe the Mini would become a type of video game council (Highly unlikely), But that would be 'Fun'

What's werid is that this announcment just kinda 'happened' (of course Apple was planning it).. but No on REALLY knew it was comming. Kinda like the iPod 'One more Thing' announcments.
Who knows, we can guess... but we'll find out soon.

[revjay]

Nope, not going to happen.

First of all, the PowerBooks were updated because they needed to be updated. They were slow G4 machines. The PowerMacs do not need to be updated.


Preach it!


Second of all, Apple is not going to stick Yonah into the PowerMac - it's simply not going to happen. Apple is waiting for Conroe/Woodcrest and they won't be available until the fall.


Have Mercy!


Further to this, Apple will need to come out with Intel PowerMacs that at least match or better the existing offerings. They can't do that right now. It would look bad to release a "brand new" and "superior" Intel PowerMac which doesn't benchmark as high as the existing quad which has been out for months now. The technology simply doesn't exist right now.


Yes! He is Good!


Thirdly, there are not enough universal applications yet. The people who use PowerMacs are generally the power users who ned those apps the most. Until we see a release date for Adobe CS3 and until we hear when FCP, etc. are going universal, we won't see an Intel PowerMac.


(fans himself)


In conclusion, PowerMacs, are going to be the last Macs to be switched over (with the exception of possibly the Xserve for similar reasons).

Any questions? :cool:

Glory!

[Whistleway]

Sorry I messed up on the math there. With a 3 Mbit/s connection I rarely see download speeds quite that fast usually more like 500kbit/s. Which would make it about 3 hours. Either way I guess that is is plausible.

About the DRM that can be worked around fairly easily I would think. The actual authentication would come from the normal Apple servers. They could quite easily make it so it would be just a useless 700 MB file until the Apple servers have authenticated. I think you are right about there servers allready working well though.

But, you don't have to download the whole thing to start watching. Just stream it in parts.. As long as you can download a 100 minute movie in less than 100 minutes, you might be able to watch as it download. unless i got it wrong.

[spine]

Guys, all this debating and we're not really getting anywhere. Take a look at the teaser... An iCal icon. Clearly this has something to do with some sort of life organiser such as a blackberry type PDA/iPod thingymajig. The invites in the past have always given a clue (sort of - sometimes with hindsight) as to what kind of avenue the product will be down.

I'm really hoping for a thin iPod-form-factor portable multimedia player, with decent apps for lifestyle organisation. Perhaps iLife on the go? not sure yet whether a stylus would be used or whether input would be with fingers only but i know i'd buy one in an instant.

I've been 'fannying around' with various diaries etc. for a long time. I have desperately wanted a PDA-type device but they've just been crap to be honest. I dunno... I'm a musician, and my diary is very important to me - dates and times constantly changing. With this device running iCal it would mean i would actually use the program! At the moment i don't as when somebody tells me a date it goes into my diary - i'd forget if i waited till i got home to put into my comp. Wish i could do it on the go.

Also, for all you guys who say you wouldn't use a PDA / don't see why anyone would want one... WTF? Do you use a diary?

Good post!
I REALLY want an apple PDA. I read online that apple had one that was within a few months of release when it was pulled. So, looking back, iCal, Address book, iSync, etc. were made for this PDA. I would be the first person to buy one, but I doubt it will ever happen. Just my gut feeling.
Maybe we'll both be pleasantly surprised.

[crudsponge]

Did Steve say something in January's Keynote, about this year being 'the year for the MAC'?.... since it marks 30 years?

[ELTITO]

Nope, not going to happen.

First of all, the PowerBooks were updated because they needed to be updated. They were slow G4 machines. The PowerMacs do not need to be updated.

Second of all, Apple is not going to stick Yonah into the PowerMac - it's simply not going to happen. Apple is waiting for Conroe/Woodcrest and they won't be available until the fall.

Further to this, Apple will need to come out with Intel PowerMacs that at least match or better the existing offerings. They can't do that right now. It would look bad to release a "brand new" and "superior" Intel PowerMac which doesn't benchmark as high as the existing quad which has been out for months now. The technology simply doesn't exist right now.

Thirdly, there are not enough universal applications yet. The people who use PowerMacs are generally the power users who ned those apps the most. Until we see a release date for Adobe CS3 and until we hear when FCP, etc. are going universal, we won't see an Intel PowerMac.

In conclusion, PowerMacs, are going to be the last Macs to be switched over (with the exception of possibly the Xserve for similar reasons).

Any questions? :cool:

Well you have some valid arguments.... But remember that Adobe just announce that all ther product won't be universal binaries until the end of the next year... In the other side apple is already moving all their professional software 100% Universal, even more they start swapping their application with a minimum charge to current customers...

Adding some more to this.. I think that Steve Job will mention this on this event for sure..

I don't see Apple waiting for Adobe to release a new Powermac, considering that they have plenty profesional product to sell on this area.. Even now APERTURE is available as Universal Binary application :cool: :eek:

Regarding your post that there is no QUAD Intel processor.. You need to be clear that the G5 IS NOT A QUADRUPLE PROCESSOR.. Just a Dual - Dual Core G5 Powerpc... So for Sure Apple can match that sep tup with the new Pentium 940D processor with by the way Work a 95 watt of power consumaption...:confused: :confused:

[slu]

I love how on page 2 someone asked why people want a tablet, and thus far there are two reposnses: one was an incoherant ramble about drawing or something, and one was about taking notes on the go and keeping your calander. Every other post basically says "I want a tablet!" but nobody can say why.

That is because tablets are only good for specialized uses and tech nerds like us that hang out on this board.

So I repeat the challange: Why does the general population need a tablet?

Calander Functions: PDA/Phone already does this for those that want it.

Note Taking: PDA/small laptop has it covered

What else is there!?!?!?! I think people just want a tablet because they think touch screen technology is cool.

And think about this: Outside of tech geeks like us, the general consumer does not even know what a tablet PC is. Ask your non-tech savy Mom or Neighbor if they even know what a tablet is. I guarantee you they won't.

If there is a Mac tablet PC EVER, I will be surprised. If there is one introduced on Tuesday, I'll eat my hat.

[baddaddy]

Just a couple of thoughts.


.Mac already has iCal syncing and integration. Given the recent speculation about the increase in .Mac bandwidth it could be that a Mac Mini Media center could sync with .Mac to automatically save tv shows in .Mac iDisc or Backup. This would eliminate the need for a huge drive in the Mac Mini. I see an intel Mac Mini, and a Media Center option. The Media Center may be an external Device. I don't see the media center being a standard feature with a TV card and staying under 500 dollars.

On the video ipod front. Expect it. I see apple releasing it first, and softening up the public for a touch screen Tablet. iPod True Video first, iSlate to follow ina few Months, maybe even April.


Probably a new shuffle. 66% probability.

Expect a front row overhaul to accompany movie Downloads from iTMS. Maybe even a seperate iTunes Video Store.


Expect unviversal crossgrades on all Pro apps except Adobe to be announced, this will pave the way for a new Power Mac. They might wait on the Power Mac until April. 70% probability.

The Boom Box will probably happen. 70% probability


We might see a new ibook, but I'm not really certain about it. 40% probability.

I expect to see OS 10.5 rolled out by late summer/early fall. I know it's early but they are on 10.4.6 in the next week or two.

[dontmatter]

I would like to know from all you guys who want tablets, what the hell would you do with them? I've been racking my brains and still can't come up with why it would be preferable to a laptop. Come to think of it, a PDA is pretty useless for most of us too.

If a big screened iPod comes out, I'd certainly like to have one but I just can't see the point in a PDA or a tablet.

My itinerary for the tuesday event:

iTunes:
- upped to 6.1, adds support for longer, widescreen downloads.

- 1 billion songs discussed, talk about market share etc.

New iPod products:
- Some sort of speaker system, sleek, nice, I want one.
- Some sort of wireless doohickey that I can't explain but I will probably want one too.

iPod nano capacity upgrades, 2GB, 4GB, 8GB

iPod shuffle replaced, smaller form factor, no screen, white/black - not much else changed. 512MB and 1GB.

One more thing.....
Why longer, widescreen content?
- Widescreen iPod pano, 80GB, same size as current iPod but a bit thicker, really, really nice touchscreen LCD screen. Limited iCal integration, more "front row-ish" user interface, US$449 - maybe less, I don't know, just guessing here.

Agreed. Well, it's a bit optimistic, but otherwise, sounds just about right. They're not going to release computers under the label "fun stuff" unless possibly it's a media center computer... which they wouldn't want to market as such, b/c media centers have failed quite largely all in all, and if it's just a computer with a bonus of front row, there's no big risk. Tablets seem to be nothing to me but a computer without the functionality of a keyboard (and who would rather write by hand than type? In math class, sure, but that's not a big market). PDA's are tricky- limited market, good competition already out there. I sure would never buy one. And not fun!

So, ipod! video, downloads, etc. or a surprise.

[revjay]

...I don't see Apple waiting for Adobe to release a new Powermac, considering that they have plenty profesional product to sell on this area.. Even now APERTURE is available as Universal Binary application...

I think this is a very interesting point.

I don't really want to argue Adobe P.S. vs Aperature, however, if Apple releases a new Pro Desktop soon and pushes Aperature, will that motivate Adobe to release a new Photo Shop with universal binary sooner or cause them to play hardball and say: "Apple is small potatoes compared to the PC market...they can have their Aperature...see ya..."?

[mackeeper]

Knowing Steve Jobs he will probably introduce the iPod Boombox first- just like everyone expects. At the very end I think we'll see the 13" Intel iBook we've been waiting for forever.

[Play Ultimate]

I think everything needs to flow with the releases. It wouldn't make sense (to me) to release a MacBook, BoomBox, Tablet, Phone, ... etc.

To me personally... it would make more sense to go with the MacMini, iPod TRUE Video, BoomBox, and iTunes.
All centered around home entertainment, and coming back to iTunes.

BoomBox needs the iPod,.... the iPod needs iTunes.
The MacMini needs something more... possibly iTunes... possibly home entertainment? True video, which would work with the Video iPod.

Exactly. Apple does not do "kitchen sink" announcements. Everything is coreographed to maximize impact and attention.
In my opinion, this is:
1) definitely consumer based (no Towers, UB Pro Apps etc.)
2) most likely not new laptops, nor tablets.
3) almost guarateed iPod/iTunes.

BTW: Think Secret & AppleInsider are amazingly quiet about what is going on in 4 days. Apple has really shut down their inside sources.

[Fireburst]

I would also point out that Aperture and Photoshop are very different beasts. Adobe Lightroom is the Aperture rival (and very nice it is too!)

[boncellis]

My bets are on an Intel Mac mini and some sort of iPod update, whether it be to the existing line or some new video thing as the rumors have been predicting...Intel iBooks are definitely due as well, but I don't know if it will be at this event or sometime in March. I guess it depends how big Jobs is planning on making this event and how much time he is planning on spending on each announcement.

I return to the information that came out shortly after MWSF last month, which was that Mr. Jobs had to hold back some new products because they were not quite ready for release. Whatever the reason, when you consider that the MBP only recently started to ship, it would seem that the timing of this event neatly coincides. That is evidence, in my estimation, that this "fun, new" product is whatever didn't make it into the keynote in January.

Ironic then, that the head-banging and squabbles within the past couple of threads have turned what was deemed "fun" into something that might not be quite so fun due to the anticipation and inherent letdown for some people. I agree with Shard, I believe it is the Mac Mini.

[milo]

Regarding your post that there is no QUAD Intel processor.. You need to be clear that the G5 IS NOT A QUADRUPLE PROCESSOR.. Just a Dual - Dual Core G5 Powerpc... So for Sure Apple can match that sep tup with the new Pentium 940D processor with by the way Work a 95 watt of power consumaption...

But are those chips set up for multiple CPU? Does intel (or anyone) have a motherboard that holds two of those CPU's? I doubt it.

We'll likely never see another dual chip configuration in a mac (or even PC) again. Intel has quads and even 8 core in their future lineup. It makes much more sense to wait for those instead of trying to create some kind of nightmare frankenstein mobo with multiple pentiums on it.

[~Shard~]

First of all, thanks revjay. ;) :cool:

Second of all...

I don't see Apple waiting for Adobe to release a new Powermac, considering that they have plenty profesional product to sell on this area

I never said that they would. I was simply stating that it is still too early or Apple to release an Intel PowerMac. Why? Because then you put your Pro users (who represent a sizeable amount of sales revenue due to the high perice of these machines) in a very awkward spot. Do they buy an Intel machine which is "new" even though it does not benchmark leaps and bounds higher than their existing dual-core PPC machines? And a machine which does not run apps natively yet, requiring the user to use Rosetta which will decrease performance? Does Apple want to do this? The simple answer is no.

For the record, yes, I agree, the Intel PowerMacs will come out before CS3 is released - I never said they wouldn't. In fact, I think it will be interesting to have Aperture universal, but not Photoshop - will this induce some pressure on Adobe, perhaps? ;) :cool:

Regarding your post that there is no QUAD Intel processor..

Please quote me where I explicitly stated there is no Intel quad processor. I never used those words. Sure, in actuality there is no Intel quad processor, so it's a moot point, but I do not like being misquoted. :cool:

You need to be clear that the G5 IS NOT A QUADRUPLE PROCESSOR.. Just a Dual - Dual Core G5 Powerpc

A dual core chip has 2 processors per chip. Therefore, in total, there are 4 processors in the quad - hence why Apple themselves have used the term "quad". Regardless, it is again a moot point as I think most everyone here realizes that is the case. If you want to start arguing semantics regarding processors, cores, processor cores, and the like, I'm not going to go down that road. The fact of the matter is, whether its dual dual-core, single quad-core, quad single-core, or 16 1/4-core, it doesn't really matter in this specific case.

... So for Sure Apple can match that sep tup with the new Pentium 940D processor with by the way Work a 95 watt of power consumaption...:confused: :confused:

Doubtful. Even if they could, you have the timing issue regarding universal apps. Even if a 940D setup exceeded the quad's basic benchmarks, I would be very curious to see how apps that run natively on PPC would stack up to the same apps running via Rosetta on the Intel box - my guess is that until the apps were universal, you would not see much of a performance increase.

But all of this is immaterial. Apple is waiting for Conroe/Woodcrest for the PowerMac. Otherwise they may as well have just slapped a Xeon in the PowerMacs in January. If I am wrong, fine, I will eat crow. But I don't think I'm wrong. :cool:

[jimN]

I love how on page 2 someone asked why people want a tablet, and thus far there are two reposnses: one was an incoherant ramble about drawing or something, and one was about taking notes on the go and keeping your calander. Every other post basically says "I want a tablet!" but nobody can say why.

That is because tablets are only good for specialized uses and tech nerds like us that hang out on this board.

So I repeat the challange: Why does the general population need a tablet?

I think a tablet would be very useful in the medical world. On rounds we go from bed to bed and have to retrieve notes for each patient. Ideally all notes would be on a computer (they won't be for years but i can dream can't I), and a wireless tablet could be used by all health professionals to enter records in a consolidated set of notes. A tablet would be preferable to a pda because the increased size would be more manageable and easier to enter data on. The size would also be of benefit for the rapid review of imaging and tables of results. The medical world badly needs central computerised records which i'm certain would lead to a better standard of care with greater consistency between departments and earlier flagging of worrying symptoms or trubled patients. Sadly it'll be years before we see a useable system in practise.

[ELTITO]

I would also point out that Aperture and Photoshop are very different beasts. Adobe Lightroom is the Aperture rival (and very nice it is too!)

I agree 100% with you on this... But remember that apple jump ahead with Aperture and Adobe reply with Lightroon... And for sure those guys have been fighting for a little while (Just remember Final Cut - Premiere).. Also Adobe must not be happy with Steve Jobs comments on the Macworld Keynote...

One more point to look at is that apple will have the 30 aniversary on april.. So imagine A big annoucement to celebrate It:eek: :eek: :eek: :eek:

[Manatee]

It's the iCarumba. Annoying, but fun!

[drduuude!]

So I repeat the challange: Why does the general population need a tablet?



Actually I don't think the general population DOES need a tablet. I do think that a sizable minority would be happy with one, though.

Specifically I want one to surf the internet from my couch/bed/deck, etc.
Laptops (even a 5lb ibook) are cumbersome. Slates let you read far more naturally (like holding a book), and apple should be able to make one that weighs less than 3 lbs. What I'm looking for is an Apple Nokia 770 knockoff with a bigger screen - for surfing, ebooks, pdf's, etc.

The only data entry i'll be doing is basic email responses. For any kind of real work I'll use a desktop. On screen keyboard would be fine, or basic handwriting/printing recognition.

Would I want to write a novel or do my taxes on it? Hell, no...

drduuude!

[Project]

Wasnt an invite sent out to iLounge? That would kind of confirm whether or not it was iPod related.

Apple has sent out an invitation to select media, including iLounge, to a special event that will be held at Apple headquarters in Cupertino, California on February 28th.

The invitation, which only features the iCal-like calendar image shown right, reads: “Come see some fun new products from Apple.” The special event begins at 9:00 a.m. at Apple Town Hall, Building 4.

iLounge has confirmed with Apple that this event will be taking place and is not a hoax like the email sent out last week purporting to be an Apple invitation to a special event on March 1st.

[Glenn Wolsey]

Ugh guys, this looks pretty real:

http://www.macshrine.com/2006/02/24/another-image-of-ipod-video/

[Project]

Ugh guys, this looks pretty real:

http://www.macshrine.com/2006/02/24/another-image-of-ipod-video/


DAMN....

[boncellis]

Ugh guys, this looks pretty real:

http://www.macshrine.com/2006/02/24/another-image-of-ipod-video/

It's certainly more convincing (to me) than the image floating around prior. I also appreciated the comment on that page referring to the possibility that it was taken in an Apple Store (because of the resemblance of the wood flooring) because that would be consistent with Mr. Jobs not introducing them last month.

If that is true, then the question is why were they deemed "not ready?" My personal conjecture is that they couldn't get the content licensing and delivery set up in time for the legalities involved. Now, though, it could be that the video content is ready to go, and the introduction of a new iPod (if that's what they call it) alongside the media rollout will make a much bigger splash than if introduced separately.

[rockblade]

IPod video with full front touch screen, FrontRow 2.0 enabled.
Full length films in iTMS.
IPod BoomBox.

Mac Mini (Media Center) and Airport express video expected on April.
ibook intel expected on April too.

No plan for iTablet anytime soon. But ipod video will be further expanded if it sells well (sure it will! I want one). I hope to see wifi and screen capture support in future ipod video models. PDA is useless, ipod rules.

[DaveGee]

Ugh guys, this looks pretty real:

http://www.macshrine.com/2006/02/24/another-image-of-ipod-video/


Looks can and ARE deceiving....

Google Translated Linky (http://translate.google.com/translate?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogeek.ch%2Findex.php%3F2006%2F02%2F24%2F32-ipod-video-photo-autre-photo-volee&langpair=fr%7Cen&hl=en&ie=UTF8)

In short that iPod on the wood floor is an (admitted) hoax.

Dave

[~Shard~]

Ugh guys, this looks pretty real:

http://www.macshrine.com/2006/02/24/another-image-of-ipod-video/

Actually it's a hoax.

Edit: Beaten to it... ;)

[mrfrosty]

what about BLUETOOTH MIGHTY MOUSE? it can't be that hard to pull the wire out of this thing...

Amen to that brother !

[ELTITO]

But are those chips set up for multiple CPU? Does intel (or anyone) have a motherboard that holds two of those CPU's? I doubt it.

We'll likely never see another dual chip configuration in a mac (or even PC) again. Intel has quads and even 8 core in their future lineup. It makes much more sense to wait for those instead of trying to create some kind of nightmare frankenstein mobo with multiple pentiums on it.


Here is a Sample of a Intel Chipset From the intel page

Intel® E7520 and E7320 Chipset Features


Features Benefits
Supports two Intel® Xeon® processors over an 800 MHz system bus for dual-processing workstation and server platforms Optimized performance for multiple DP market segments and price points, supporting a larger number of users/transactions with faster response times.
800 MHz system bus capability Increased platform bus bandwidth (50% more than 533 MHz) delivers increased system performance.
PCI Express*1 Serial I/O technology that provides a direct connection between the MCH and PCI Express* devices with bandwidth up to 4 GB/s on each PCI Express* x8 interface; PCI Express offers higher bandwidth, lower latency and less I/O bottlenecks than PCI-X.
DDR2-400 memory interface
Offers a maximum memory bandwidth of 6.4 GB/s.
Decreased power consumption—especially important on dense rack, HPC and blade configurations.
Increased DIMMs per system providing enhanced memory scalability for memory-intensive applications.
Intel® 6700PXH 64-bit PCI hub
Optional component introduces next-generation PCI/PCI-X performance and significant
enhancements to platform flexibility.
Supports two independent 64-bit, 133 MHz
PCI-X segments and two hot-plug controllers (one per segment).
Intel® Hub Interface 1.5 connection to the Memory Controller Hub (MCH) Point-to-point connection between the MCH and the Intel® 82801ER I/O controller hub or Intel® 6300ESB I/O controller hub provides 266 MB/s of bandwidth.
Advanced platform RAS
Features such as memory Error Correction Code (ECC), Intel® x4 Single Device Data Correction2 (x4 SDDC), DIMM sparring, DIMM scrubbingand memory mirroring can improve system reliability.
32-bit CRC on PCI Express*.
SMBus port hooks into Intel® E7520 and Intel® E7320 chipsets for remote management operation and support for variety of third-party Base Management Controller (BMC) and BIOS solutions.

[supergod]

If Apple is indeed getting ready to release a touchscreen iPod device, it looks like they've been beaten to it.

http://www.ehomeupgrade.com/entry/2166/acer_mp-500_pmp

I think the touch screen player is coming. I'm unsure if it will be the replacement for the current iPod however. The price for a device with such a large touchscreen and HD doesn't work in the range of the current iPod: it will have to be much higher.

I think Apple will stop sales of the 60gb iPod 5G but continue making the 30gb model for the rest of the year. The price will stay the same. Then, a touch screen iPod will replace the 60gb model as the highest end iPod model.

What I'm most interested in now is the iPod boombox. Seems like a very interesting product. It's strange that Apple would get back into the speaker business, after all, they've stopped making their G4/iMac speakers years ago. What the Boombox, with it's integrated HD reminds me of, is the Airport Express: a multifunciton device.

[maestro55]

Ugh guys, this looks pretty real:

http://www.macshrine.com/2006/02/24/another-image-of-ipod-video/

It doesn't look like it would be easy to carry around. The nice thing about the iPod is that it fits in your pocket. Something with a touch screen would be so hard to carry around anyhow without getting very dirty/scratched up.

I don't think the release will be a new iPod anyhow, the 5th generation ipods haven't been on the market very long.

[Glenn Wolsey]

Amen to that brother !

That would be awesome! I want scrolling, but wirelessly!

[excalibur313]

I love how on page 2 someone asked why people want a tablet, and thus far there are two reposnses: one was an incoherant ramble about drawing or something, and one was about taking notes on the go and keeping your calander. Every other post basically says "I want a tablet!" but nobody can say why.

That is because tablets are only good for specialized uses and tech nerds like us that hang out on this board.

So I repeat the challange: Why does the general population need a tablet?

Calander Functions: PDA/Phone already does this for those that want it.

Note Taking: PDA/small laptop has it covered

What else is there!?!?!?! I think people just want a tablet because they think touch screen technology is cool.

And think about this: Outside of tech geeks like us, the general consumer does not even know what a tablet PC is. Ask your non-tech savy Mom or Neighbor if they even know what a tablet is. I guarantee you they won't.

If there is a Mac tablet PC EVER, I will be surprised. If there is one introduced on Tuesday, I'll eat my hat.

The only way a tablet would fly is if it also had a keyboard on it. A tablet is very useful during lectures, meetings, giving lectures or studying because currently a keyboard isn't very effective in those situations. It is difficult to put in diagrams and it is easier to remember something when you are physically writing it out than when you simply type it on the computer. I don't want a pda, small laptop, and regular laptop to do my computing needs, I want one computer that can do it all. For those who use photoshop, dreamweaver, flash and countless other applications (heck even mathematica!) it is waay easier to draw something on a screen than to try and remember where the command is or to go into some character pallet to find the integral sign. As a chemistry undergrad I could save hours of wasted time trying to format my lab reports, keynote files, or excel graphs just having a stylus. Even surfing the web would be really nice with a stylus for many people. (The keyboard would be needed for typing up a paper still) So I throw a question right back at you: why would you not want to have a tablet, especially if it is done right, which you know apple will do?

[Glenn Wolsey]

Here is another NEW image I found:

http://img158.imageshack.us/img158/6413/ipodvideo7bb.jpg

[croasmun]

Remember how Jobs gave hints at new revised iMacs in Paris a few years back at a WWDC where he demonstrated Spotlight? His search terms were "iMac" and "Paris" and, sure enough, that summer Apple discontinued the iMac G4 (and for a while wasn't selling iMacs at all) and then, at the Paris Expo anounced the iMac G5.

Fast forward: Remember Jobs' joke when he made his sample podcast in Garageband at Macworld in January? He suggested that he had "inside information" on the next iPod from Apple being 8 pounds with a 10" screen. It was key that he did the joke in that order--a 10" screen might not have been so ridiculous if he hadn't already speculated that it would be 8 pounds. The associated image also made it seem that much funnier, as it showed a huge enlarged iPod of the usual proportions (a 10" screen, but a 14" click-wheel). Clearly, 8 pounds is not where this is headed, but is it possible that Jobs dropped us a hint aobut the screen size of the upcoming "iPod"? Maybe something staking some middle ground between a tablet, iPod, and PDA?

Just wondering

[boncellis]

Looks can and ARE deceiving....

Google Translated Linky (http://translate.google.com/translate?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogeek.ch%2Findex.php%3F2006%2F02%2F24%2F32-ipod-video-photo-autre-photo-volee&langpair=fr%7Cen&hl=en&ie=UTF8)

In short that iPod on the wood floor is an (admitted) hoax.

Dave

Well done, both of you. Yet I'm not convinced that something like this won't be introduced.

Has anyone else noticed that there hasn't been quite as much chatter about the potential fingerprints/smudges as there was back when the images were mockups rather than alleged to exist? Interesting.

[Hattig]

Ugh guys, this looks pretty real:

http://www.macshrine.com/2006/02/24/another-image-of-ipod-video/

I'd like to show that picture to that guy who made a webpage dissing the previous pictures because of what looked like JPEG artifacts.

Edit: I mean, look how easy it is to make convincing iPod Video G6s....

[rasterbator]

I would like to see Apple release a new type of wireless handheld device. Features for the OS X handheld: Mail, iPhone, iTunes, iLife apps (which could be like widget sized versions), Bluetooth, touchscreen technology, etc.

There is no doubt something like this will eventually happen. Especially since they are buying up space in Cupertino, hopefully for customer service for this device. iSync all of your Apple apps and access your .Mac account from this device. Awesome!

This will give the Blackberry competition and get RIM and NTP to settle their case out of court just in time for Apple to clean their clocks and take a large percentage of the market like they did with iPod.

We can only hope…

[rasterbator]

http://66.134.41.67/~ron/Apple/index.html
Aluminum iMac 30" Intel Core Duo

http://66.134.41.67/~ron/Apple/index2.html
Desktop mini, featuring Core Duo

http://66.134.41.67/~ron/Apple/index3.html
Desktop mini, featuring Core Duo with optional wireless tablet

http://66.134.41.67/~ron/Apple/index4.html
MES - Macintosh Entertainment System with Core Duo
(xServe mini)

[kugino]

while it would be cool (mostly because it would be a new product from apple), i agree that a tablet would be a tough sell...apple would really have to show us why we need a tablet (and if anyone could do that, it would be steve)...

i still think the announcements will be far less significant than what's been discussed - ipod boom box, speakers, etc. no new ipods and no new computers. maybe an online movie service of some kind...that's all

[rockandrule]

I'm still having a hard time with those 'iPod' pictures. Both of them look as if the screen is not in the center of the 'hardware'. Both seem to be fake to me from that point. Just look at it really close and you'll see what I'm saying.

[kalisphoenix]

Ugh guys, this looks pretty real:

http://www.macshrine.com/2006/02/24/another-image-of-ipod-video/

*blinks* Well, I don't think *that* is a fake. It's a real something. I guess I'm about 90% sure it's the new iPod.

[obeygiant]

If they start shipping intel mac mini's I would like them to include free chocolate chip cookies. I think i'd be much more enticed to drop $500 on another mac if it came with a cookie... Unfortunately I think the cookie would get more attention from me when opening the box and I may break the mac getting to it...

Oh the things I think of at 8:30a.m. in the morning...

best idea EVAR!

[milo]

Supports two Intel® Xeon® processors over an 800 MHz system bus for dual-processing workstation and server platforms

Dual XEON? Yeesh, I can't imagine what a furnace that beast would be. Not to mention that it would probably cost a lot more than the current quad.

[sartinsauce]

Not really. No quad processors. No processors that are much of an improvement in processing power, heat, power usage.

And there aren't enough universal apps yet, tower users are the ones who need them the most.

Powermacs are the LEAST likely to get updated anytime soon, Apple won't do an upgrade until they can be a significant improvement over the current G5's.


I have to agree with this statement. I expect Intel Powermacs (or Tower Macs or Mac Pros or whatever) at next years MWSF Conference. It makes the most sense. Yes, it may seem a little late to some people, but if the machine comes at the same time or after Professional Universal Apps, we'll be able to use the damn things to it's full potential right out of the box. Plus, that's a nice hardy announcement for MWSF, which is a premier (or the premier) Apple Conference.

[milo]

why would you not want to have a tablet, especially if it is done right, which you know apple will do?

It wouldn't provide me with anything I don't already have. Handwriting recognition sucks, and writing by hand is WAY slower than typing.

Sure, here is a video. You have to first reset the iPod then boot into the diagnostics menu by holding rewind and the center button as son as it reboots. Then hit menu for manual test, select IO, Display, Color. Then you just press the center button to change the color. Can you all read .mpg files? It's on a quick iWeb site that I made. It might take a little while to load. Let me know if this works:

iPod Color Diagnnostics (http://web.mac.com/applefan90/iWeb/iPod%20Color%20Diagnostics/Video.html)

Thanks for the video. But I didn't see color bars in there, are they included or not?

[obeygiant]

possible ibook specifications

Apple iBook Computer specifications
Interface Software: LCARS 2.3
Bio-Neural Gel Circuitry
Access Time: 48,000,000,000 kiloquads/nanosecond
Number of dedicated modules: 2,048
Capacity/Module: 636,960,000,000,000 pedaquads
Simultaneous access to 47 million data channels
Transluminal processing at over 575 trillion calculations per nanosecond
Operational temperature margins from 10 kelvins to 1,790 kelvins
Negative Polarity Hydrogen-based Ionized Liquid Plasma Coolant System

[bu113t]

what about BLUETOOTH MIGHTY MOUSE? it can't be that hard to pull the wire out of this thing...

Amen to that brother !

I think that would make the MacBook Pro about 100x better yet... Im going to have a hard time going back to one mouse button when I use my MBP.

[BritinNC]

I love how on page 2 someone asked why people want a tablet, and thus far there are two reposnses: one was an incoherant ramble about drawing or something, and one was about taking notes on the go and keeping your calander. Every other post basically says "I want a tablet!" but nobody can say why.

That is because tablets are only good for specialized uses and tech nerds like us that hang out on this board.

So I repeat the challange: Why does the general population need a tablet?

Calander Functions: PDA/Phone already does this for those that want it.

Note Taking: PDA/small laptop has it covered

What else is there!?!?!?! I think people just want a tablet because they think touch screen technology is cool.

And think about this: Outside of tech geeks like us, the general consumer does not even know what a tablet PC is. Ask your non-tech savy Mom or Neighbor if they even know what a tablet is. I guarantee you they won't.

If there is a Mac tablet PC EVER, I will be surprised. If there is one introduced on Tuesday, I'll eat my hat.

I have asked myself the same thing in the past and so I started to use one at work (together with a laptop that just stays docked now) to see why people either love or hate these things.

The first this to remember about a keyboardless device is that it is obviously no good for anything that requires intensive input, even responding to email is a pain to be honest and I don't use it for that other than quick, blackberry/sms like responses, so you have to simply get over the fact that such a device is NOT a computer. The best way I can describe the way I use the tablet is that it is a companion to the desktop/laptop. It is far easier to pick up and take with me to meetings where I can look up something on the internet, view email or take notes without that annoying typing sound. But that is the work setting. At home I'd like to use such a device to run iTunes wirelessly to my hi-fi, and preferably a video to my tv. I'd like to keep my Powerbook plugged in and open but sync up with it so I can access documents or anything else from it from the companion device, and of course I'd like to surf the internet on the device which is very pleasurable in tablet format because scrolling can be much easier with a pen than a mouse.

What I hate about the Tablet PC I have is

a) It's too big for a companion device, I'd like something more the size of the OQO Model 1
b) It too slow to boot up from sleep, not like just opening up my PB. I used it at home for a few days but soon found that it was quicker to go to my PB.
c) Windows simply asks too many questions, has too many popups, etc, its just annoying and is oriented towards a mouse and keyboard.

So - I don't know if this is what is next Tuesday or not - but I would like to see a cross between a mac (application richness), a pda (form factor but I'd go a bit bigger than the standard in order to get the screen real estate needed to surf the web), a tablet (pen input and basic gestures), a remote control (for videos and music) that is an add-on to my mac. As some people have termed a MacPod. When the iPod first came out I suspected that was why Apple called it an iPod rather than iMusic or such because they expected it to be the glue between the mac and the digital entertainment. Now iPod is synonomous with music player and with Apple's new naming system MacPod seems like a great name for something that has some of the power and flexibility of a Mac but the convienience of an iPod.

There is a place for tablets in the market, and it not really with techies 'cos they like high input, but Windows Tablet doesn't cut it because they haven't reoriented the OS around the types of things a tablet owner would do.

I believe Apple will define this market when they bring a product in, just like the iPod defined the music player market. I think all the pieces are ready to go and the products on tuesday could be this MacPod device and the Video Airport Express, now that would be fun!

[ThomJensen]

Will macrumors be blogging next Tuesday's event?

[~Shard~]

Here is a Sample of a Intel Chipset From the intel page

Intel® E7520 and E7320 Chipset Features

Yikes! Dual Xeons would run extremely hot and it is doubtful that would benchmark any faster than the quad.

Plus, this transition is about the future. Apple is switching to Intel for their future chips, not Xeons, P4s and the like. Once again, it will be Conroe/Woodcrest in the Intel PowerMacs, not Xeons. :cool:

[scarletbiro]

[...] Take a look at the teaser... An iCal icon. Clearly this has something to do with some sort of life organiser such as a blackberry type PDA/iPod thingymajig. The invites in the past have always given a clue (sort of - sometimes with hindsight) as to what kind of avenue the product will be down.

I'm really hoping for a thin iPod-form-factor portable multimedia player, with decent apps for lifestyle organisation. Perhaps iLife on the go? not sure yet whether a stylus would be used or whether input would be with fingers only but i know i'd buy one in an instant.


Please let this be the case ... I really want this. I have been thinking the same thing -- why use iCal icon if not? I don't quite want a Treo (too much per month), but I am sick of carrying around phone, Palm (which I love), camera, iPod, PowerBook on occasion, etc. Two devices would be okay.

The only thing that could be better is the previously mentioned mini-OS X device on a PDA. I would fire up the credit card immediately for such a device.

[ickies]

I love how on page 2 someone asked why people want a tablet, and thus far there are two reposnses: one was an incoherant ramble about drawing or something, and one was about taking notes on the go and keeping your calander. Every other post basically says "I want a tablet!" but nobody can say why.

That is because tablets are only good for specialized uses and tech nerds like us that hang out on this board.

So I repeat the challange: Why does the general population need a tablet?

Calander Functions: PDA/Phone already does this for those that want it.

Note Taking: PDA/small laptop has it covered

What else is there!?!?!?! I think people just want a tablet because they think touch screen technology is cool.

And think about this: Outside of tech geeks like us, the general consumer does not even know what a tablet PC is. Ask your non-tech savy Mom or Neighbor if they even know what a tablet is. I guarantee you they won't.

If there is a Mac tablet PC EVER, I will be surprised. If there is one introduced on Tuesday, I'll eat my hat.

I'll tell you why. I don't work in computers or medecine, I'm a musician. And pretty much all my information I keep in my mac - contacts, correspondence (email), calendars, etc. This keeps it nice and organized and easy to access (shout out to spotlight here!) - but only when I'm home.

iPods can store your contacts and calendars but you can't edit them or input any info. Laptops can do everything but they are obtrusive - you can't just whip it out of your pocket to look up someone's email address.

This is what I think people mean when they say 'in between a pda and a laptop'. A hundred times a day I look up phone numbers, emails, refer to my calendar, refer to prior emails. My ipod is OK for that (except the email). And you know what? A hundred times a day I would like to ADD a contact, change an appointment, and send off a quick email. But instead I have to keep notes and keep them organized until I get home, which is a lot harder than it sounds - I have to use a system of pockets like Lenny in Memento.

So a tablet would be PERFECT for me. It gives me not just a window, but an interface for my organizational needs while I'm out. Most of my emails are very short, too, like: "3/24 - gig @ Northsix. Are you available?" and "no, thanks for offering". I could get by with a pen interface, I don't need a keyboard. I mean, I'm not writing my life story. A 10-digit phone number + name, change a 7 pm rehearsal to 8 - simple stuff.

A laptop would suffice if I worked sitting down all the time and was stationary. But I'm not - a lot of my 'transactions' and 'business' are done face to face. 'But hey', you say, 'why don't you just get a PDA?'. That's a good question, and my answer is because they all suck big donkey balls. I tried them - I hate the interface, I hate the limitations, I hate the learning curve.

I want a tablet specifically because I'm not a "tech nerd" (no offense guys, his term!) and my life doesn't revolve around computers. But like a lot of people, I keep virtually all my information on my computer and this type of device would be a perfect interface for how I use my digital office. If you think about us 'regular' folks, and how we spend our days, and how we interact with our information and our computers, then you see why tablets make a lot of sense. Then, I think, you also start thinking like Jobs and Ive.

All that out of the way, I think we will not see a tablet on Tuesday, but 4/1 is a strong possibility. Just like Apple defined personal computing 30 years ago, a tablet interface, properly executed, could revolutionize how we interact with computers all over again and redefine how we use computers in our daily life. And that's definitely a 30th anniversary kind of announcement.
Long time reader, first time poster - thanks y'all!

[Zatko]

what about BLUETOOTH MIGHTY MOUSE? it can't be that hard to pull the wire out of this thing...


Mighty mouse kind of sucks. So don't bother. I've had mine for a few months, and besides sucking from the get-go, now the sensors are starting to go flaky, the "mouse ball" doesn't work half the time, and the squeeze button sometimes goes off with no effort at all.

It's really a bad mouse. Maybe apple can come out with a totally new mouse thats main selling point is that its incredibly utilitarian rather than just being cute.

I remember there was an article last summer saying that Apple was working on a multi-button mouse and that we'd be 'blown away' by it. I sure was blown away.

Edit => Question... why does the new MacBook Pro not have a second mouse button? Doesn't the mighty mouse tell the users that Apple has acknowleged the superiority of multi button mice?

[uae]

Ok - here are my predictions

- Mac Mini with Front Row 2.0, HDMI out and NO DVR.

Why no DVR? Because it would cut into Apple's iTunes sales. Why buy an episode if you can just record it for free.

- Front Row 2.0

My predictions for Front Row 2.0 would be that it includes an iTunes Music Store interface in Front Row so one can now buy music and tv shows and yes FULL LENGTH movies from Front Row itself.

That's it. I don't know about a PDA people - come on they're dead. Perhaps an iPod with PDA-like functionality but definitely not a PDA or tablet by itself.

[LastLine]

a) It's too big for a companion device, I'd like something more the size of the OQO Model 1
b) It too slow to boot up from sleep, not like just opening up my PB. I used it at home for a few days but soon found that it was quicker to go to my PB.
c) Windows simply asks too many questions, has too many popups, etc, its just annoying and is oriented towards a mouse and keyboard.

I'mm agreed. If a tablet came out, as soon as MS Office went Universal I'd be buying I love my 10" Acer tablet already, but a 10 or 12 inch mac tablet would be mine straight off. The only argument that I can see is that I don't see how a wide screen tablet would work. Hmm...I'll buy if it happens anyway. I love using it to teach my class through our interactive whiteboard. Such a joy.

[eVolcre]

Please let this be the case ... I really want this. I have been thinking the same thing -- why use iCal icon if not? I don't quite want a Treo (too much per month), but I am sick of carrying around phone, Palm (which I love), camera, iPod, PowerBook on occasion, etc. Two devices would be okay.

The only thing that could be better is the previously mentioned mini-OS X device on a PDA. I would fire up the credit card immediately for such a device.

I agree. BUT, I want a phone in it too. With all the other features, why not add a phone to make it a smartphone.

I paid 990 for a HTC Universal and hate it because it uses WINDOWS> But, I need the features as a mini laptop on the go.

I am about to plonk down 700 for the Sony p990 when it comes out and man oh man --- I know APPLE can make a much better smartphone.

All the discussion has been on tablets and PDAs. Why not a smartphone???

[BoyBach]

As in how I know but its not going to be anything iPod or iTunes related.

Unless the source is throwing me off the trail

I think the event is iPod and iTunes related and probably not a Mac announcement since invites were sent to iPod dedicated sites, much like the iTunes/Motorola phone + Nano special event.

But I'm probably completely wrong!

[papagrande]

Think secret is now confirming there will be a boombox.

[uae]

Think secret is now confirming there will be a boombox.

It's just me - but I don't get the point of a boombox iPod. I guess it would be cool - but it definitely can't be the main element of the event.

[eVolcre]

Think secret is now confirming there will be a boombox.


They haven't had much of a track record lately. Look at MWSF and how wrong they were.

Personally, I think APPLE has isolated the Think Secret source and is either feeding them wrong info or spreading disinformation ...

[ScubaDuc]

I think a tablet would be very useful in the medical world. On rounds we go from bed to bed and have to retrieve notes for each patient. Ideally all notes would be on a computer (they won't be for years but i can dream can't I), and a wireless tablet could be used by all health professionals to enter records in a consolidated set of notes. A tablet would be preferable to a pda because the increased size would be more manageable and easier to enter data on. The size would also be of benefit for the rapid review of imaging and tables of results. The medical world badly needs central computerised records which i'm certain would lead to a better standard of care with greater consistency between departments and earlier flagging of worrying symptoms or trubled patients. Sadly it'll be years before we see a useable system in practise.

Oh Really? In my health care world, I see that almost 80% of ICU nurses hands have tested positive to candida parapsilosis...:eek: Can you please consider the risk of having all professionals touching the same screens? What about immunocompromised patients like HSCT and aspergillosis? MRSA resistant strains? We are having problems with just the door handles, how are you going to sterilize your apple tablet?

[bigandy]

i'm drooling already.

does MR have any possibility of a feed from anyone?

[Carl Spackler]

It's just me - but I don't get the point of a boombox iPod. I guess it would be cool - but it definitely can't be the main element of the event.

It'd be cool it it would not only house an ipod, but basically had an AirPort Express built in. It would pretty much rock for going to the beach, working outside, picnics, etc. I wish Apple would also release something similar to the Griffin TuneCenter as I'd like the iPod interface on my TV.

I totally agree with your no DVR post. Doesn't make sense to me either. I would like to see an Apple branded media hub with a blu-ray dvd player, front row and the ability to stream content via iTunes to a home system.

[sartinsauce]

It's just me - but I don't get the point of a boombox iPod. I guess it would be cool -


Amen. iBoombox = iLame-O

And I'm not one of those people who were anti-iPod. As soon as it was released I saw the usefullness/value of it.

HOWEVER, if the iBoombox offers 5.1 surround wirelessly and connects to my Airport express, I might want one.

Can anyone breakdown the datarate of 5.1 audio and wireless connectivity? Is wireless (a la Bluetooth or 802.11) a feasible transmission system for surround sound?

[uae]

I totally agree with your no DVR post. Doesn't make sense to me either. I would like to see an Apple branded media hub with a blu-ray dvd player, front row and the ability to stream content via iTunes to a home system.


Hmmm.... The whole Blu Ray / HD-DVD thing is another complete nightmare. Along with the rumors that the discs will lock to a particular player so that they can't be rented or resold.

Who knows how legit that rumor is though. Scary though. Wouldn't surprise with with Blu-Ray and Sony and that whole rootkit fiasco.

[puckhead193]

what confuses me is that its at apples HQ. Normally when they introduce something new they often to a mini keynote presentation.... like when they did the U2 ipod

Also its very close to the 1 billion songs download mark...maybe something to do with itunes/ipod....

[ijimk]

i wonder how these full length movies will be priced? Walmart's average price for a new DVD is $15. If theses are just the movies and no special features i think $9.99 is a fair competitive price. :cool:

[papagrande]

I wish Apple would also release something similar to the Griffin TuneCenter as I'd like the iPod interface on my TV.

Maybe Apple can up the ante a bit and wow us with something to add to it. Like frontrow and also tie in the music store. That would be useful.
If the Ipod boombox did that I would buy one.

[tjwett]

...Question... why does the new MacBook Pro not have a second mouse button? Doesn't the mighty mouse tell the users that Apple has acknowleged the superiority of multi button mice?

i don't they'll ever add an actual visible second button but i was convinced they were going to have a similar feature on the new portables just by having independent pressure on the left and right side of the single button.

[~Shard~]

Will macrumors be blogging next Tuesday's event?

I highly doubt they will be blogging it - usually live updates and the low bandwidth site only make their appearance at MWSF and WWDC. Of course, as news happens, MacRumors will be reporting it.

[jdtatum]

I don't think this has been thought of here, but feel free to shoot me down.

An iTablet would be perfect to bridge the gap between entertainment and pc, between portable and stationary.

When you're out and about, it acts as a glorified iPod/PDA. You can watch movies, listen to music, e-mail and all the like.

When you're at home, you combine it with the Airport Express with video capabilites that's hooked up to your home entertainment system. The iTablet (using FrontRow probably) acts as a glorified remote control.

It would bridge the gap between portable media and home entertainment. That's where I think it's heading.

[Carl Spackler]

Hmmm.... The whole Blu Ray / HD-DVD thing is another complete nightmare. Along with the rumors that the discs will lock to a particular player so that they can't be rented or resold.

Who knows how legit that rumor is though. Scary though. Wouldn't surprise with with Blu-Ray and Sony and that whole rootkit fiasco.

I think the PS3 will seal the deal that Blu-Ray is going to be the winner, but the real determining agent will be who the porn industry goes with. Boobs and Bombs will always push our technology.

[age234]

I'll tell you why. I don't work in computers or medecine, I'm a musician. And pretty much all my information I keep in my mac - contacts, correspondence (email), calendars, etc. This keeps it nice and organized and easy to access (shout out to spotlight here!) - but only when I'm home.
<snip>
Great post, ickies. I agree with your sentiments.

I'm a student. About 1/3 of my class brings laptops to take notes. My problem with that is, 1, they're unwieldy, and 2, I hate typing. I'd much rather take notes by hand. But I'd like to be able to search the notes and other stuff like that.

The class gave out Acer tablet/laptops, and while you could write notes with them, the recognition sucked, and the UI (i.e., Windows) sucked.

What I want is an iPod-PDA hybrid. All the media finesse of iPod, but all the practicalities of a PDA, Apple-ized to be awesome. I want to write with a pen or my finger, not typing on a cramped minikeyboard or, worse, using a phone keypad.

If this thing is what it's rumored to be, I want one yesterday.

[Diatribe]

The Apple Insider post says updates to iTunes... me likey. :D

[adamb100]

I dont want Mac Mini to be outdated when I only had it for 2 months. :( Please , Apple wait a little bit longer till June. :)

[jimN]

Oh Really? In my health care world, I see that almost 80% of ICU nurses hands have tested positive to candida parapsilosis...:eek: Can you please consider the risk of having all professionals touching the same screens? What about immunocompromised patients like HSCT and aspergillosis? MRSA resistant strains? We are having problems with just the door handles, how are you going to sterilize your apple tablet?

If 80% are contaminated then the only real issue is washing your hands before patient contact, as you should anyway. This can be no worse than always using the same pens or handling all sets of notes anyways. What's an MRSA resistant strain anyway - doesn't the R stand for resistant! The tablet addresses so many issues with regards to lost notes, illegible notes, entries without times, dates or signatures that any infection risks would be worth it.

[~Shard~]

I dont want Mac Mini to be outdated when I only had it for 2 months. :(

Welcome to the wonderful world of technology. Suck it up. :p :cool:

[kugino]

Boobs and Bombs will always push our technology.
:D one of the funnier posts i've seen in a while! and it's true!

[Bonte]

The iToy.


Games for Frontrow and the iPod, thats what i'm missing. Maybe be able to buy some extra games and software via the iTunes store, iTunes is perfect for cheap digital content so where are the low cost apps and games?

[kugino]

i wonder how these full length movies will be priced? Walmart's average price for a new DVD is $15. If theses are just the movies and no special features i think $9.99 is a fair competitive price. :cool:
it will depend on what resolution the movies are. if it's the 320x240 res of the ipods, ain't no way i'd spend $10 for that. if the rumoured video ipods also bring better resolutions, who knows what sorts of video content will become available. i think apple's also competing with netflix and blockbuster rentals, so $10 is quite a bit for a drastically handicapped video file.

[Diatribe]

I dont want Mac Mini to be outdated when I only had it for 2 months. :( Please , Apple wait a little bit longer till June. :)
Please don't. :p A Front Row enabled iMac mini would be pretty awesome, as I know a bunch of people who would order such a thing right away.

[kugino]

Please don't. :p A Front Row enabled iMac mini would be pretty awesome, as I know a bunch of people who would order such a thing right away.
after the initial eye-candy intrigue of front row, it's not a very good app. if that alone is the reason to buy a mac mini, you're better off just installing front row on a current mini. front row as it is right now is pretty limited...

[iHeartTheApple]

Please don't. :p A Front Row enabled iMac mini would be pretty awesome, as I know a bunch of people who would order such a thing right away.

Agreed completely! Front Row+Mac Mini would be a great combo and lots of fun too! ;)

[Diatribe]

after the initial eye-candy intrigue of front row, it's not a very good app. if that alone is the reason to buy a mac mini, you're better off just installing front row on a current mini. front row as it is right now is pretty limited...

At almost the same price as the 60GB iPod I'd say it's a great deal for people that want an easy way to have a home theater/stereo setup that doesn't cost a whole lot.

[applemax]

Remember how Jobs gave hints at new revised iMacs in Paris a few years back at a WWDC where he demonstrated Spotlight? His search terms were "iMac" and "Paris" and, sure enough, that summer Apple discontinued the iMac G4 (and for a while wasn't selling iMacs at all) and then, at the Paris Expo anounced the iMac G5.

Fast forward: Remember Jobs' joke when he made his sample podcast in Garageband at Macworld in January? He suggested that he had "inside information" on the next iPod from Apple being 8 pounds with a 10" screen. It was key that he did the joke in that order--a 10" screen might not have been so ridiculous if he hadn't already speculated that it would be 8 pounds. The associated image also made it seem that much funnier, as it showed a huge enlarged iPod of the usual proportions (a 10" screen, but a 14" click-wheel). Clearly, 8 pounds is not where this is headed, but is it possible that Jobs dropped us a hint aobut the screen size of the upcoming "iPod"? Maybe something staking some middle ground between a tablet, iPod, and PDA?

Just wondering

Also remember the other thing Steve said in the podcast that was quickly forgotten.

"Also, Apple is working with other companies to get iPods everywhere."

Now if that ain't a hint, nothin' is. :confused:


--------------------------

Anyway, this is what I think:

--------------------------

Firstly, "Fun products?" We have iLife, we have iWork and the next logical step is obviously iPlay. You know, solitaire, other stuff. Maybe iPod games full screen on Macs!

Secondly, If a Mac mini media centre comes out, there is no question, Apple is going to use ViiV. Why wouldn't they? It's perfect!

Thirdly, Remember that patent? You know the one! The racing game on the tablet and turning the actual system to steer. Fun = games = this. I believe a tablet or a PDA running something other than Windows Mobile, preferably OSX mini! Think about it. It all fits together!

Leaked iPod images = New PDA
PDA Rotation Patent = New PDA
"Fun products" = New PDA
Mobile me??? = New PDA

Maybe this mobile me is some sort of mini iChat for the PDA?

Fourthly, It's nearly March. So they are definately gonna update the pro apps to Intel at this event.

Fifthly, MacBook - sure release.

Also, why-o-why, didn't Apple just drop the AirPort Cards and put a Centrino in it? More people will know about that. Just makes it seem more integrated. They should've done that. Anyway, my opinion. Comments welcome.

==EDIT==

Also, didn't Apple use the iCal icon at the end of Macworld to show their transition dates? hehehe...

[Evan_11]

This has zero chance of being produced but it is form following function as far as I'm concerned.

[MauiMac]

If Steve introduces a Mac Mini with Tivo-like capabilities (built into Front Row), I'll have to get rid of my Tivo and get one of these!...

[swingerofbirch]

ThinkSecret just posted a story stating quite confidently that Apple will introduce on Tuesday the Hi-Fi boombox with capabilities exceeding that of current docking/speaker solutions (like those of Bose).

http://thinksecret.com/news/0602ipodhifi.html


I for one hope that the new HiFi boombox will rest comfortably on my shoulder as I sashay around my college campus pumping my tunes. It will let me use my iPod more again; I had started minimizing usage due to worries of hearing loss.

But, I hope that's not all that's released. I am in the market for a Macbook! Come on Macbook!

[~Shard~]

If Steve introduces a Mac Mini/Tivo killer, I'll have to get rid of my Tivo and get one of these!...

If Apple does release a Mac mini DVR, what effect does that have on the video content on iTMS? Why would someone pay money to download a low res TV show when they could just record it in (presumably) higher quality for free? I could see it being useful for old shows that someone may have missed, but that's what the Internet is for... :eek: ;) :cool:

[amateurmacfreak]

Secondly, If a Mac mini media centre comes out, there is no question, Apple is going to use ViiV. Why wouldn't they? It's perfect!

They aren't able to use in unless Apple makes the bold decision to start using Windows XP Media Edition(or whatever the heck it's called... the XP media thing...).:rolleyes:

[applemax]

They aren't able to use in unless Apple makes the bold decision to start using Windows XP Media Edition(or whatever the heck it's called... the XP media thing...).:rolleyes:

So, there's no chance of a , sorta, I dunno


Intel ViiV: Front Row Edition?

[milo]

If Apple does release a Mac mini DVR, what effect does that have on the video content on iTMS? Why would someone pay money to download a low res TV show when they could just record it in (presumably) higher quality for free?

People can tape it for free now, yet the videos still sell. Some videos are on cable channels, so not everyone has them. And you can buy shows that you've missed the broadcast of.

I'm sure Apple has resistance to making a DVR. But such technology is inevitiable, if they don't make it someone else will. Apple will eventually do it for the same reason they make minis and ibooks (which each have the potential of cannibalizing sales of more expensive units).

They aren't able to use in unless Apple makes the bold decision to start using Windows XP Media Edition(or whatever the heck it's called... the XP media thing...).

We've been through this already. Intel says XP because XP supports it. If Apple wants it, Apple will support it and Intel will add it. You honestly think if Apple asks for access to the hardware security, Intel would say no? My guess is they will use the VIIV hardware but won't mention the VIIV brand name. Whether it's *called* VIIV or not is really just semantics.

If it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck...

[~Shard~]

Intel ViiV: Front Row Edition?

VIIV is Windows only so this will not happen in the Mac world. :cool:

[ScubaDuc]

If 80% are contaminated then the only real issue is washing your hands before patient contact, as you should anyway. This can be no worse than always using the same pens or handling all sets of notes anyways. What's an MRSA resistant strain anyway - doesn't the R stand for resistant! The tablet addresses so many issues with regards to lost notes, illegible notes, entries without times, dates or signatures that any infection risks would be worth it.

If you work in an orthopedic unit, it would be no problem to use a tablet . As for the wi-fi, I am not so sure as that may interfere with some equipment. You are right about washing hands, and we all do, but are you telling me that you would visit a patient, enter the data, and then wash your hands before the next patient, enter a second room, touch the screen to bring up the new data, and then visit the other patient? What good would that do? Sure, no worse then using pens…In fact, have you seen the rates of hospital (I belive you call it "community") acquired infections lately or have I been dreaming at IDSA?

As for MSRA, I edited the sentence and forgot to take the resistant out but english is not my native tongue. Nurses and MDs are spot checked and we have to report all cases of acquired infections to the gov.

[Joe2000]

At all of Apple's announcements Steve always says "so we've got some great new products here today, and i think you're gonna love them"

Note the "Great New Products"

If it were going to be new MacBooks or MacMinis dont you think the invitation would have said "Come See Some Great New Products From Apple"

I dont know what were going too see on Tuesday - i really want it to be a MacBook but I cant see it happening :(

Thanks, Joe.

[kugino]

ThinkSecret just posted a story stating quite confidently that Apple will introduce on Tuesday the Hi-Fi boombox with capabilities exceeding that of current docking/speaker solutions (like those of Bose).

http://thinksecret.com/news/0602ipodhifi.html

I for one hope that the new HiFi boombox will rest comfortably on my shoulder as I sashay around my college campus pumping my tunes. It will let me use my iPod more again; I had started minimizing usage due to worries of hearing loss.

But, I hope that's not all that's released. I am in the market for a Macbook! Come on Macbook!
i think that's going to be the major announcement...all you folks waiting for that new macbook or tablet or dvr, ain't gonna happen.

[maya]

Whom ever posted that this event has to do with iTunes and the iPod will be spot on, and this is why I say this. Apple has made a hugh deal about the 1 Billion Song Download mark, and along with this news they will want to focus on Video in general which includes animation shorts, television shows, and movies. Yeah it sounds crazy enough to be true. Would Apple really make a big deal about 1 Billion Downloaded songs via iTunes and do nothing about it.

Somehow I do see Steve's ego written all over this. ;) :)

[brisully]

ThinkSecret just posted a story stating quite confidently that Apple will introduce on Tuesday the Hi-Fi boombox with capabilities exceeding that of current docking/speaker solutions (like those of Bose).

http://thinksecret.com/news/0602ipodhifi.html


I for one hope that the new HiFi boombox will rest comfortably on my shoulder as I sashay around my college campus pumping my tunes. It will let me use my iPod more again; I had started minimizing usage due to worries of hearing loss.

But, I hope that's not all that's released. I am in the market for a Macbook! Come on Macbook!

Maybe a "Wi-Fi" "Hi-Fi"?

[Evan_11]

Maybe a "Wi-Fi" "Hi-Fi"?


That's the only way they could diversify it from the vast number of other iPod 'boomboxes'

I own a Squeezebox which has a nifty flourescent display that is easy to read. Apple will need to include something similiar as the iPod 2.5" screen is too small to be read from across the room.

So basically an airport express with display, power amp and speakers. I guess you need the ipod dock as well.

[ppnkg]

I read somewhere that Intel are going to lower their processor prices by 20-30% sometime in spring. If that is true, does it make any sense for apple to announce new computers this tuesday, especially since it's the mini and ibook we're talking about?

[TaKashMoney]

I have been thinking long and hard about this noticeable DVR - iTMS video sales conflict and I think there remain to be some perfectly viable options.

1) iTMS remains almost unchanged : Presently all video downloads are intended for almost exclusive use on an iPod. Current resolution really doesnt support many more pleasurable viewing options. Even with a DVR, 2 bucks is a small price to pay for commercial free, effortless, reasonably sized iPod viewing files.
2) iTMS changes a bit: Apple decides to give customers two options. For those who have decided to purchase the MediaMacMini, a subscription service is available enabling all DVR features with unlimited downloads from the iTMS (excluding exclusive content not available on tv). Lets say the subscription service is about $100 a year. For those who dont want the MediaMacMini and subscription, iTMS remains unchanged.

The second option I feel would be the perfect blend. After all, does the average customer purchase over 50 videos a year? I, personally have not purchased a single one (excluding the free ones), but would certainly pay around $10 a month for DVR subscription. In this way, Apple can still add exclusive content (such as the rumored full length feature films) and attract an entirely new source of revenue from the average consumer not downloading 50 videos a year.
What do you guys think?

[BritinNC]

First let me say that I am a huge fan of DVRs, I couldn't live without one. But Apple is all about the Apple Economy and how their products connect together. iPod and iTunes, iLife and dot mac, etc. So I would have to see an upside for Apple before I really buy into the DVR concept. First of all I would expect them to go subscription for video content, let's face it we like to buy music but we tend to rent videos (sorry to all the DVD buyers out there, but I rarely buy a DVD I have netflix). That would be one way to connect to a DVR concept. Second, I suspect that this concept will be connected to dot mac to get the program information (a la Tivo subscription) since i think they are trying to push this service harder with iLife '06.

Anyway, I think they like to have connectivity between hardware and software or service so I'd expect to see that trait in any new product category.

You know, we're all so proud of buying our music off iTunes rather than wasting our time with a subscription service like Napster that gets turned off as soon as we stop paying, but the fact is there are now a billion songs out there that can only be played on an iPod, so we're gonna have to keep buying the iPod if we want to listen to them. Sound like a subscription service? Just not the music but the player, you have to keep buying iPods to listen to the music, brilliant!

[boncellis]

You know, we're all so proud of buying our music off iTunes rather than wasting our time with a subscription service like Napster that gets turned off as soon as we stop paying, but the fact is there are now a billion songs out there that can only be played on an iPod, so we're gonna have to keep buying the iPod if we want to listen to them. Sound like a subscription service? Just not the music but the player, you have to keep buying iPods to listen to the music, brilliant!

As much as I agree with the sentiment, I must point out that it is not categorically true. iTunes is as prolific as the iPod, and I know some iTMS customers who are content to confine their experience to the computers they use everyday.

The iPod's success is not so directly linked to the iTMS. In my experience, the beauty and style it reflects on those who own it has outshined even its functionality in terms of market success. That is Apple's greatest advantage over its competition. Any new product, I believe, will at least attempt to incorporate such a captivating feeling within the public as the innate desire we all share to be cool.

[blackfox]

I only read to page 3, so sorry if I am being redundant...

In terms of the rumor of Apple offering full-length feature film downloads:

- what would one imagine the price point to be? $2.99? (rental) or $9.99 (purchase)

- would Apple go the rental route? How might that system work?

- how are downloading speeds now for TV shows? What are the file sizes? What could one expect in this area?

- Also, I remember reading an article linked at LowEndMac, about an Apple/Blockbuster partnership - where Apple would take advantage of Blockbuster's locations/convenience and add kiosks where you could upload movies to your iPod in store - drawing in more customers than those who might purchase on-line. Any possibility of this? I think it is a pretty good idea...

[iHeartTheApple]

In my experience, the beauty and style it reflects on those who own it has outshined even its functionality in terms of market success. That is Apple's greatest advantage over its competition. Any new product, I believe, will at least attempt to incorporate such a captivating feeling within the public as the innate desire we all share to be cool.

Boncellis, this is more profound a statement than one might think...I too, feel the same regarding my experience with friends, family, etc. purchasing the iPod in its many forms. It's a top-notch media player from a top-notch company that carries an equally top-notch price, but when it comes down to it, it's all about being dead sexy!

[BritinNC]

As much as I agree with the sentiment, I must point out that it is not categorically true. iTunes is as prolific as the iPod, and I know some iTMS customers who are content to confine their experience to the computers they use everyday.

The iPod's success is not so directly linked to the iTMS. In my experience, the beauty and style it reflects on those who own it has outshined even its functionality in terms of market success. That is Apple's greatest advantage over its competition. Any new product, I believe, will at least attempt to incorporate such a captivating feeling within the public as the innate desire we all share to be cool.

I agree, but Apple doesn't really make money on iTunes, they make it on the iPod, that's what they want to lock you into (which they have done 'cos we've all been buying music on iTunes!). It's a great business strategy and I expect they'll repeat it. Nobody is going to worry as long as the iPod is the best thing out there, and really don't know what you could do to beat it, but if they run out of things to do to innovate the iPod they don't need to worry because we all have to keep buying them to listen to the music we've bought! (Since you can't replace the battery!)

Don't worry, we're all happy, I'm just telling you how Apple thinks in my opinion that's all! ;)

[gekko513]

Town Hall Auditorium, located at 4 Infinite Loop on the company's Cupertino, Calif.-based campus
http://lavacat.com/diverse/gekkoWasHere.jpg

I was snooping around Infinite Loop with a friend when we visited California a couple of summers ago and we were invited in to a sys-admin conference that was being held in that auditorium.

[JGowan]

Apple's 5G iPod with Video playback was released on October 12 2005, we're approaching the average number of days before an update (average =145 [according to macrumors])... by the 2/28, we're almost right on top of it.

It makes sense for something iPod-related. I don't think it'll be a brand-new 6G iPod with much bigger screen like the rumors have been saying. I do, however, think we'll be getting bigger drives for the money. I'm thinking 40GB for $299 and 80Gb for $399. Also, I think we'll be getting an all-new Disney Movie store for downloads of Classic Disney, or at the very least: Pixar movies for download.

My2¢,
JGowan

PS... Another thought about the iPod, its success and its competition... think about the 3rd party business that is out there. I believe I read recently that it is now a billion dollar industry. I could be wrong, I tried to find the story but ultimately, it's irrelevant... the amount of money being made in designing incredible gadgets to be used solely for the iPod simply puts the competition further and further behind. Knowing that you're not only getting the best player out there, but also one that will work with thousands of great 3rd party product, people will continue to buy IPOD.

[Bubbasteve]

All I know is that I will be ready for whatever Apple throws at the world... I'm betting on an iPod accessory and/or iBook (not too sure on Mac Mini)

[supergod]

Apple's 5G iPod with Video playback was released on October 12 2005, we're approaching the average number of days before an update (average =145 [according to macrumors])... by the 2/28, we're almost right on top of it.

Yeah, that's not true though. As they say in the guide, it doesn't really take account of the multiple products in the iPod line, so that average includes updates to minis/nanos and also includes price updates and name changes (like when the photo became the iPod with colour screen). The actual hardware update is fairly different.

[nagromme]

OK, I am betting 1.5 Pop Tarts on:

* An updated iPod model (be it a Shuffle, Red iPod, or new video-centric high-end model)

* iPod accessory hardware (Boombox?)

* Core Solo Mac Mini (and maybe Core Duo on a top model)

* Core Solo MacBook/iBook (ditto on Core Solo vs. Duo)

AppleInsider now reports rumors of a new magnet-only latch on the iBook replacement:
http://www.appleinsider.com/article.php?id=1555

[nagromme]

- how are downloading speeds now for TV shows? What are the file sizes? What could one expect in this area?
For movies? One could expect BRUTAL downloads, and/or brutal quality compromises (OK for a CHEAP rental maybe).

But the ball has to start rolling somewhere. Movies wouldn't take off like music due to download times perhaps, but if Apple positioned it intelligently, it would be seen as a "good start" rather than "failed hype."

Like they did with the 5G iPod: it's known for video now, but had Apple hyped it the wrong way, with video at the focus rather than music, it would been seen as a flop, or at least gleefully spoken of in the press that way.

I think when Apple dips their toe into online movie distribution, they'll be smart about it.

[Super Dave]

Fun. That's the key word here people. Think fun.

Isn't it obvious?

I thought the key word was New.

David:cool:

[NewbieNerd]

I thought the key word was New.

David:cool:

Yeah, as long as it is the latest greatest from Apple, I think we'll all be (a) happy and (b) poorer.

[berkleeboy210]

I thought the key word was New.

David:cool:

The Key WORDS are BOTH fun and new :)

[Squire]

OK, I am betting 1.5 Pop Tarts on:

* An updated iPod model (be it a Shuffle, Red iPod, or new video-centric high-end model)

* iPod accessory hardware (Boombox?)

* Core Solo Mac Mini (and maybe Core Duo on a top model)

* Core Solo MacBook/iBook (ditto on Core Solo vs. Duo)

AppleInsider now reports rumors of a new magnet-only latch on the iBook replacement:
http://www.appleinsider.com/article.php?id=1555


Sure. I'd agree with that. You have all the possible bases covered. The big(ger) question is this: Will there be any additional functionality to the iPod or will it simply be 5G with a larger screen?

Oh, someone mentioned the Asteroid somewhere in this thread (or maybe another one). Both listening to and making music are fun

-Squire

[themacman]

appleinsider just posted a very intersting article on the magnetic capabilites of hte macbook. THe article says they would use it instead of the clasts like hte macbook to connect the display to the computer when its closed.

[Super Dave]

I agree, but Apple doesn't really make money on iTunes,

Margins wise, maybe not, but even at 1% a billion songs a year* is still $10 million dollars. Assuming a not unreasonably high rate of 15% profit margin that is $150 Million Dollars, which is not chump change in any business. I think people say that "Apple doesn't make money off of iTunes" because Steve Jobs said that like 2.75 years ago when it first started. It was not long at all before he said they were clearing a small profit. I cannot believe that that has not increased since.

David:cool:

*Apple's current going rate, and yes I know this doesn't take into effect albums vs singles

[Super Dave]

appleinsider just posted a very intersting article on the magnetic capabilites of hte macbook. THe article says they would use it instead of the clasts like hte macbook to connect the display to the computer when its closed.

Apple's having a lot of fun with magnets these days. I can still remember the day when a magnet anywhere near a computer would freak everyone in the room out.

David:cool:

[Analog Kid]

New Mac Mini needs to either come with the software to outshine a standard DVR, or boot Windows-- otherwise I see it as a waste of time. DVR capability will get everyone to buy it. Booting Windows might get people to switch. If it's just a Macintel Mini I don't see much benefit in it's product slot.

[d_and_n5000]

AppleInsider now reports rumors of a new magnet-only latch on the iBook replacement:
http://www.appleinsider.com/article.php?id=1555

Sounds a bit like the Clamshells, except those were spring loaded. Cool, now if my school gets some, we won't have to fumble with the latch to try to open it. Yay, simplicity!

[Analog Kid]

First let me say that I am a huge fan of DVRs, I couldn't live without one. But Apple is all about the Apple Economy and how their products connect together. iPod and iTunes, iLife and dot mac, etc. So I would have to see an upside for Apple before I really buy into the DVR concept. First of all I would expect them to go subscription for video content, let's face it we like to buy music but we tend to rent videos (sorry to all the DVD buyers out there, but I rarely buy a DVD I have netflix). That would be one way to connect to a DVR concept. Second, I suspect that this concept will be connected to dot mac to get the program information (a la Tivo subscription) since i think they are trying to push this service harder with iLife '06.

Anyway, I think they like to have connectivity between hardware and software or service so I'd expect to see that trait in any new product category.

You know, we're all so proud of buying our music off iTunes rather than wasting our time with a subscription service like Napster that gets turned off as soon as we stop paying, but the fact is there are now a billion songs out there that can only be played on an iPod, so we're gonna have to keep buying the iPod if we want to listen to them. Sound like a subscription service? Just not the music but the player, you have to keep buying iPods to listen to the music, brilliant!
Interesting perspective, thanks.

Let me suggest this as a possible upside: how did iTMS get started? First Apple released a gadget that was a must have-- giving a large number of people storage for more music than they had. Then they went to the labels and said, "Look guys, they're going to fill that hard drive one way or another...".

If Apple can do the same with a media Mac/ iPod combination, they can probably arm twist the movie industry into the same deal. I don't the the Mac will be enough on it's own-- MPIAA won't see it any differently than DVD player software. I don't think the iPod will do it alone because portable movie viewing is a pretty limited market. Mix the at home viewing of the Mac with the incredible-growing-marketshare of the iPod and you might get the right combination to strike a nerve.

But, as even as a .Mac sucker, I really hope they don't tie this in with .Mac. That'll kill sales of the hardware. Maybe they can offer a second tier premium service through .Mac, but it can't be a requirement for basic use (or for the kinds of features people expect out of the box).

On the iPod lock in, there's one big difference-- you can strip the DRM off the music pretty easily. For most people, they're stripping the DRM off when they back up their purchase.

[Analog Kid]

For movies? One could expect BRUTAL downloads, and/or brutal quality compromises (OK for a CHEAP rental maybe).

But the ball has to start rolling somewhere. Movies wouldn't take off like music due to download times perhaps, but if Apple positioned it intelligently, it would be seen as a "good start" rather than "failed hype."

Yeah, it probably took me a couple hours to download the Best of Bellushi which is an hour long and marginal quality.

Even with higher quality encoding over basic broadband though, it should turn out faster than Netflix. Not quite to the level of "impulse" viewing or "on demand", but you could start a download before work and watch it when you get home.

If you download to the same place you watch it from, you can probably start viewing before the download is complete too-- which would buy a little bit of time.

[winterdude010]

An iPod PDA? That would be pretty cool!

[age234]

Yeah, that's not true though. As they say in the guide, it doesn't really take account of the multiple products in the iPod line, so that average includes updates to minis/nanos and also includes price updates and name changes (like when the photo became the iPod with colour screen). The actual hardware update is fairly different.
Here's something I threw together a few days ago. It's a timeline of all the major generational updates, according MacTracker:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/tylerdykstra/iPods0206.gif

For what it's worth. A million people probably have already made a graphic like that, but I couldn't find any at the time, so there it is.

[osustudent]

Assuming that the iCal logo in the invitation has something to do with the fun, new products that are going to be released, can anyone think of anything besides some sort of iPDA/iPod combo? I've spent some time thinking about it, and am coming up blank.

[ELTITO]

Ok:

My predictions:

When nobody was expecting to see any reemplacement for the Ipod Mini... Steve came out with a new one sparkling IPOD NANO...:)

When nobody was expecting to see any reemplacement for the recent upgraded Imac G5... Steve pull out from his pocket a new one sparkling IMAC CORE DUO MACHINE...:)

SOOOOOOO:

Now, we will see:

News Macbook reemplacement for sure (OLD IBOOK)

All pro application from apple become Universal Binaries and them A SORT OF NEW POWERMAC WITH INTEL PROCESSOR. I am sure Apple can no wait for Adobe or Microsoft.. It is sure that those Powermac G5 sales are freeze right now and apple still need to Sell Pro computers.:eek: :cool:

Mac Mini: To me this is a 100% go-go.. It has been long time without any improvement on this product.

Bluetooh MigthyMouse have a big chance to appear on this event.

New Ipod Shuffle, I am expecting to see something related to it... Apple want to keep the dominance on the MP3 market. NO QUESTION.

May be a last thing that could be announce on this event will be the POWERBOOK 17" CoreDuo 2.16 Ghz.:confused:

You can see some of those predictions are really FUNNNNNNN:)

[aswitcher]

Here's something I threw together a few days ago. It's a timeline of all the major generational updates, according MacTracker:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/tylerdykstra/iPods0206.gif

For what it's worth. A million people probably have already made a graphic like that, but I couldn't find any at the time, so there it is.


Nice chart. Please keep it going and post whenever things change.

I agree with others. Mini aint new. Also Apple have their channels pretty full at the moment trying to get iMacs and MacBook Pros out.

As for new...

A MacMini revamp with mulimedia capabiltiies would be new...

Boombox seems right.

Alarmclock/Dock seems right - could be the boombox. Apple already have the new iPod radio remote so whynot put it in a home device...

Airport Express that does video would be new.

Full screen video ipod would be new...

[corywoolf]

I was skeptical of this guy's blog, but he really has a couple good ideas and explanations.

http://web.mac.com/brdunton/iWeb/My%20Place%20in%20the%20Web/Fathomless%20Whorl/ECD5A09A-A6D4-425C-BD3F-43DEC818C777.html

The iCal icon really makes sense after reading the blog above.

[KindredMAC]

All pro application from apple become Universal Binaries and them A SORT OF NEW POWERMAC WITH INTEL PROCESSOR. I am sure Apple can no wait for Adobe or Microsoft.. It is sure that those Powermac G5 sales are freeze right now and apple still need to Sell Pro computers.:eek: :cool:

Not too frozen my friend...I'm typing this on my BRAND NEW DUAL 2.0GHz PowerMac G5 right now!!!! Granted my PowerMac showed up yesterday with a busted SuperDrive, but hey! I'm doing my part to keep the Pro's going baby!!!

BTW- AppleCare sending a new SuperDrive in the mail for the "Fix-It-Yourself" program... no worries.... just really pisses me off that I spend over $2000 (upgrades) and the ********** thing can't even work right out of the box.

[iAlan]

Here's something I threw together a few days ago...(see post 3 posts up)

Thanks age234, good visual...

Now, we have heard many comments and ideas about what Apple is about to let loose - and many are going to be wrong.

I just hope that I want to buy whatever is annonced!:) Or maybe two?

Or better still one of everyrthing Apple announces!

BUT I HOPE THAT IT IS A GLOBAL LAUNCH AND NOT JUST THE USA. The iPod nano was available here in Japan the same day it was available in the US, but many product are not available for several weeks after US availability - and I am not talking about after the announcement but actual availability. Also, it has to work in all countries - you could not announce a DVR download service based on iCal if you can't get it in all markets - and lets remember that movie release schedules vary country to country (Japan gets 'Narnia' March 3rd, while the DVD will probably not be long off in the USA) and not all countries have some of the major TV shows airing at the same time, or airing at all...

Anyway, something Apple this way comes...

[macfan881]

Nup. It can't even do 720p video. My iBook handle 480p but anything higher than that drops frames and just looks bad.

There is absolutely no way in hell Apple would bung a Pentium D into the Mac mini, the thing would melt in just a few seconds. The Mac mini will share the iBook replacement's processor - whether that be slower Core Duo or a Core Solo processor. The Core processor is what Apple switched to Intel for, not the mess that is the Pentium D. Intel's new desktop chip is going to be out later this year based around the higher specced 64bit version of the Core Duo. Those will go into the PowerMac, xServe and possibly the iMac.

I don't think we'll see a Mac announced at this event - I get the feeling it's going to be more iPod/recreational consumer electronics for this one. Mac mini and iBook replacements I think will be out in autumn, probably around April.
wat bout apple using the viiv chip wasnt that the orignal rumors for the mac minis???

[corywoolf]

Not too frozen my friend...I'm typing this on my BRAND NEW DUAL 2.0GHz PowerMac G5 right now!!!! Granted my PowerMac showed up yesterday with a busted SuperDrive, but hey! I'm doing my part to keep the Pro's going baby!!!

BTW- AppleCare sending a new SuperDrive in the mail for the "Fix-It-Yourself" program... no worries.... just really pisses me off that I spend over $2000 (upgrades) and the ********** thing can't even work right out of the box.

That would piss me off too. They really should give you a 512 MB shuffle as a complimentary gift for that, it costs them hardly anything and a lot less then losing a potential lifetime customer.

[aswitcher]

I was skeptical of this guy's blog, but he really has a couple good ideas and explanations.

http://web.mac.com/brdunton/iWeb/My%20Place%20in%20the%20Web/Fathomless%20Whorl/ECD5A09A-A6D4-425C-BD3F-43DEC818C777.html

The iCal icon really makes sense after reading the blog above.

Its a good theory but not really new new. The 802.11n is pretty new but everything else has been discussed here, epesiclaly the video ipod as a universal remote. Nice blog.

[corywoolf]

Its a good theory but not really new new. The 802.11n is pretty new but everything else has been discussed here, epesiclaly the video ipod as a universal remote. Nice blog.

Yeah, the main thing I found interesting in it was the iCal being used as a Tivo like scheduler (much like yahoo is to Tivo). I could see that happening and that would leave out the Newton/Tablet theory which makes it even more plausible.

[osustudent]

Asked this a few minutes ago but is buried on page 9:
Assuming that the iCal logo in the invitation has something to do with the fun, new products that are going to be released, can anyone think of anything besides some sort of iPDA/iPod combo? I've spent some time thinking about it, and am coming up blank.

And one answer seems to be this:

http://web.mac.com/brdunton/iWeb/My%...EC818C777.html

Anyone have any other ideas linking the iCal icon in the invitation? :)

[~Shard~]

News Macbook reemplacement for sure (OLD IBOOK)

Not sure if we'll see them at this specific event or not (depends what else Steve has up his sleeve) but they will be coming in the next few weeks, that's for sure.

A SORT OF NEW POWERMAC WITH INTEL PROCESSOR. I am sure Apple can no wait for Adobe or Microsoft.. It is sure that those Powermac G5 sales are freeze right now and apple still need to Sell Pro computers.:eek: :cool:

<Sigh>

Kay, let's go through this again since you evidently didn't catch on the first time... :p

First of all, the PowerBooks were updated because they needed to be updated. They were slow G4 machines. The PowerMacs do not need to be updated. I appreciate your points regarding the nano and Intel iMac, but when it comes to the PowerMac, not this time. :cool:

Second of all, Apple is not going to stick Yonah into the PowerMac - it's simply not going to happen. Apple is waiting for Conroe/Woodcrest and they won't be available until the fall. Therefore, no Intel PowerMac for several more months. :cool:

Further to this, Apple will need to come out with Intel PowerMacs that at least match or better the existing offerings. They can't do that right now. It would look bad to release a "brand new" and "superior" Intel PowerMac which doesn't benchmark as high as the existing quad which has been out for months now. The technology simply doesn't exist right now. :cool:

Thirdly, there are not enough universal applications yet, even if APple moves all of its apps to universal.

Mac Mini: To me this is a 100% go-go.. It has been long time without any improvement on this product.

I agree. I think the only question is what will the new Intel Mac mini be comprised of. Just a processor swap? Other upgraded specs? DVR capabilities built in? It will be interesting to learn the specifics.

Bluetooh MigthyMouse have a big chance to appear on this event.

It all depends what else Steve has up his sleeve. If there's room, yeah, he might announce it, but I think Steve is going to have bigger and better things to announce, and this will be the least of his worries. He may mention it as an after thought, but otherwise expect to see it "silently" updated in the near future instead, most likely on a Tuesday or Wednesday. ;) :cool:

[Analog Kid]

First of all I would expect them to go subscription for video content, let's face it we like to buy music but we tend to rent videos (sorry to all the DVD buyers out there, but I rarely buy a DVD I have netflix). That would be one way to connect to a DVR concept.
Oh, and one more thing... ;)

I really hope they don't go with subscription for this. I don't want spend a day downloading and then have a 2 day viewing window.

If they pitch it to the MPIAA right, they should understand that a Blockbuster (or worse, Netflix) buys a couple copies of a movie and a large number of people view it. Download to own would encourage more people to buy the movie and, even at lower prices, would probably result in a net increase in profit.

[ezekielrage_99]

Apple Branded Alcohol, now that would be FUN??

I can see the ads now, a "iPodish" Apple styled ad with an "Aphex Twin - Windowlicker" or "Prodigy Smack My Bitch Up" spin to it.


Drink Different

[Chundles]

wat bout apple using the viiv chip wasnt that the orignal rumors for the mac minis???

V//V isn't a chip. It's a chipset. It combines a processor, transport and access protocols all sorts of other fancy stuff and is intrinsically linked with Windows Media Centre so it is unlikely that it will come to the Mac platform.

[~Shard~]

Apple Branded Alcohol, now that would be FUN??

I can see the ads now, a "iPodish" Apple styled ad with an "Aphex Twin - Windowlicker" or "Prodigy Smack My Bitch Up" spin to it.


Drink Different

Maybe Apple can resurrect Zima! :eek: :cool:

http://img97.imageshack.us/img97/1270/297zimabottle4if.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[~Shard~]

wat bout apple using the viiv chip wasnt that the orignal rumors for the mac minis???

VIIV is Windows only. It's not going to happen wrt Macs. End of story. :cool:

[wpwj40e]

A friend of mine just rang me up - okay this is not a friend of a friend story:)...Anyways she wanted to know what I thought of Apple 'cause she knew I had just switched. Was asking me about the mini and started reading specs - when I asked where this was coming from she told me that they were in the costco system but "not yet" on the floor.

Be still those beating hearts - we're talking G4 mini's here!!

Actually from what she read looks like Costco is getting the superdrive model with a wireless KB/mouse and 3 yr warranty. She said they were $699.

Might add to the discussion that Mini's will be introduced Tuesday if Costco is getting the Apple "discontinued" stock.

[ezekielrage_99]

Maybe Apple can resurrect Zima! :eek: :cool:


Or Jelly Shooters, Alcoholic Slurppies, XLR8 Colas (They rocked) or those totally cool Alcoholic Ice Blocks before some dumb ass gave it to their kids and got it taken off the market.

[Multimedia]

You would think Apple would just rename the iTunes Music Store to iMedia.
Brand is too embedded in public mind. Best bet is "iTunes Media Store" :)

[ezekielrage_99]

So Apple says "FUN" new products....


Nothing says fun like Porno, Alcohol, and Intel iBook and some sort of a new iPod thingy;)

[Axeon]

Since they used the iCal icon in the advertisement, it's probably the new version of iCal we've all been tentatively awaiting.

Either that or the iFun, as someone previously mentioned.

Also, does anyone know what those Japanese characters mean on the side of the leaked iPod picture?

[Will_reed]

ibooks and mac minis I say. maybe with front row

[Multimedia]

Ok:
My predictions:
All pro application from apple become Universal Binaries and them A SORT OF NEW POWERMAC WITH INTEL PROCESSOR. I am sure Apple can not wait for Adobe or Microsoft.. It is sure that those Powermac G5 sales are freeze right now and apple still need to Sell Pro computers.:eek: :cool:

May be a last thing that could be announce on this event will be the POWERBOOK 17" CoreDuo 2.16 Ghz.:confused:

You can see some of those predictions are really FUNNNNNNN:)Well your perception of PowerMac sales is probably out of touch with a significant part of the charter Mac community. I just bought a Quad and I know several otehrs who just bought Dual PPC PowerMacs. There is nothing about the transition to Intel that makes professionals who need power now wait for something in future. Apple is waiting for Conroe/Woodcrest preocessor that Apple wants to use in the ProMac isn't even being manufactured yet. As ~Shard~ mentioned above, they are scheduled to begin manufacturing in the Fall. This means significant supplies for Apple by December or January at the soonest. I suppose they could beta test ProMacs with a pair of Yonahs. But I doubt they will do so. As ~Shard~ mentioned above, what we have right now is more powerful than anything Intel currently makes. I don't see the PowerMac replacement happening before almost the end of the year BEST CASE SCENARIO. So it will likely ship with Leopard for an extra added Power Boost into SuperMac Fame.

Apple and developers have a lot of OS & application revising to take advantage of 4 and 8 processors in Leopard on one Mac. The Quad is great for multitasking. But almost nothing, except hopefully Universal FCP coming up, uses all four at once.

I think the Core Duo 17" MacBook Pro is likely for April NAB or the WWDC show.

I'll wait for the Dual Quad Core ProMac next Spring 2007 myself. Intel starts making Quad Core Processors in early 2007. A pair of those inside the second generation Intel ProMac will be when the base of Quad owners will begin to make the shift. Then Quads will be the minimum weakest desktop Mac in the lineup. Even iMacs will be Quad by Fall 2007 at the latest.

[Glenn Wolsey]

I'll wait for the Dual Quad Core ProMac next Spring 2007 myself.

Ditto. It should be a killer of a machine. :D ;)

[ELTITO]

Well your perception of PowerMac sales is probably out of touch with a significant part of the charter Mac community. I just bought a Quad and I know several otehrs who just bought Dual PPC PowerMacs. There is nothing about the transition to Intel that makes professionals who need power now wait for something in future. The processor that Apple wants to use in the ProMac isn't even being manufactured yet. I suppose they could beta test ProMacs with a pair of Yonahs. But I doubt they will do so.

Apple and developers have a lot of OS & application revising to take advantage of 4 and 8 processors in Leopard on one Mac. The Quad is great for multitasking. But almost nothing, except hopefully Universal FCP coming up, uses all four at once. I think the Core Duo 17" MacBook Pro is likely for April NAB or the WWDC show. I don't see the PowerMac replacement happening before almost the end of the year. And it will likely ship with Leopard for an extra added Power Boost into SuperMac Fame.

I'll wait for the Dual Quad Core ProMac next Spring 2007 myself.

However I must disagree with you regarding to the professionals buying PowerPc computers right now... I don't see that happening, because, IT WON'T MAKE SENSE to companies invest money on equipment that will be reemplaced in a short period of time.. I have been holding myself to buy a Powermac DualCore 2.0 G5 because of all of this transition stuff..

Again apple in the other side NEED TO SELL COMPUTERS.. Yo can see the latest interview to Woz and he make clear that apple still a computer company and SHOULD NO LIVE from the Ipod halo effect.

THIS IS A QUOTE FROM MACWORLD AND REMEMBER TODAY "WALLSTREET RULE THE BUSSINESS"

I’ve got a PowerPC-based Mac that I might be looking to upgrade in the next six months or so. Most of the apps that I use every day— BBEdit, Safari, OmniOutliner, and the like—have already added Universal compatibility. But Photoshop has not, and I use that program just enough to where I don’t want to take a performance hit if I upgrade to a machine that’s supposed to be an improvement over what I have. I’ll wager that people who use Photoshop a whole lot more than I do probably feel the same.

Sure, Apple eventually gets my money once I buy that new Intel system after the Universal version of Photoshop ships. But when it comes to taking in revenue, the Wall Street boys tend to favor “sooner” rather than “later,” if you follow my drift.

"Now I want to acknowledge a caveat or two that could make all this hand-wringing seem as quaint as a pronouncement from the 1950s that rock ’n roll music will doubtlessly turn the nation’s youth into soulless communists. We’re talking about how Photoshop performs on a Core Duo chip when it’s entirely possible that a completely different Intel processor will find its way into whatever Apple has in store for the Power Mac’s successor. And that chip, in turn, could put more of a premium on performance, making the gap between a native application and one running via Rosetta less noticeable. Also, note that we’re talking about when Adobe is coming out with Universal versions of its software, which is a lot more re-assuring than the if side of the discussion. So long as we can expect Universal versions of major applications in a timely manner, this Intel transition should go just fine."

http://www.macworld.com/weblogs/editors/2006/02/universalcomment/index.php

COMPUTERS:

IMAC G4 FLAT PANEL 800 MHZ / 768 MB RAM
ALUMINIUM POWERBOOK G4 1 GHZ / 768 MB RAM
IPOD MINI 4 GB FIRST GEN.
BLACK 5TH GEN. IPOD VIDEO
APPLE ALUMINIUM CINEMA DYSPLAY 20" BRAND NEW

PROBABLY A NEW POWERFULL POWERMAC MACHINE ????????