More Magnets in the Intel iBook?

[MacRumors]

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

Appleinsider reports (http://www.appleinsider.com/article.php?id=1555) that Apple will expand the use of magnets beyond its recent addition to the MacBook Pros' MagSafe power connector which is designed to safely pull away when yanked rather than drag your MacBook Pro to the floor.

According to the rumor site, the upcoming Intel-based iBook will incorporate an entirely magnet based latch technology. At present, the Mac laptops utilize a small magnet to pull a small metal latch down when laptop is closed. In the future, they claim that a stronger magnet will hold the screen shut.

The Intel iBook is also described to house a 13" display, built in iSight, Apple Remote and retain the white enclosure.

There have been a number of rumors (http://guides.macrumors.com/Intel_iBook_%28Rumored%29) surrounding the Intel iBook. At present, the latest expectations pinpoint the iBook replacements to come in March/April.

[yankeefan24]

wait, they are sure that there won't be intel ibooks on tuesday? my hopes are ruined.:(

I like magnets! The more the merrier. Magnet lids, magsafe, magnet whatever. all is good for me.

EDIT: i hope they are next week. read the article more closely and they say it might happen. they do seem sure about intel mac mini and boombox though. Their specs sound good for me with a 1.67 GHz duo.

[tangerineyum]

bah to the same white enclosure, but im looking forward to a 13''

[Anonymous Freak]

I can't seem to find it now, but someone in the forums a couple days ago linked to a review of the MacBook Pro that was by someone who apparently had no idea what he was doing. He dropped the MacBook to test if the power connector would really disconnect itself.

i.e. he did it backwards. Instead of yanking the MacBook, and made sure the MacBook didn't fall to the ground; he dropped the MacBook, and made sure that the power cord didn't yank out of the wall socket.... Ooooo-kay. I think I'd rather have the power adapter get destroyed than the notebook, but maybe that's just me...

His other "insightful" observation was that the latch was magnetic, but wouldn't accidentally open, the magnets were so strong. He didn't notice that it is actually two small magnetically-operated latches. One of his pictures even shows the latches in mid-extension.

I wonder if this rumor comes because someone read that, passed it along, and it filtered around (a la the old kids game 'Telephone',) and it came back as a 'new feature' of the iBook.

I, for one, like the 'latchless' connectors when done right; like the original clamshell iBook, and the ultra-thin Sony that looks so thin it could cut you. They should hold the notebook closed tightly enough to prevent accidental opening; hold their power for a very long time (not weaken over time,) and yet not be so hard to open that it's a struggle.

[admanimal]

Not to take anything away from Apple's awesome idea to use magnets in the plug of a laptop, but magnetic breakaway plugs are nothing new. Fondue pots (and probably other portable cooking devices like deep friers, crock pots, etc.) have had them for at least 5 years.

Maybe this is common knowledge, but I just thought I'd mention it. Appleinsider kind of makes it sound like Apple is the only company to use magnets for anything besides sticking a shopping list to the fridge.

[yankeefan24]

I can't seem to find it now, but someone in the forums a couple days ago linked to a review of the MacBook Pro that was by someone who apparently had no idea what he was doing. He dropped the MacBook to test if the power connector would really disconnect itself.

i.e. he did it backwards. Instead of yanking the MacBook, and made sure the MacBook didn't fall to the ground; he dropped the MacBook, and made sure that the power cord didn't yank out of the wall socket.... Ooooo-kay. I think I'd rather have the power adapter get destroyed than the notebook, but maybe that's just me...

His other "insightful" observation was that the latch was magnetic, but wouldn't accidentally open, the magnets were so strong. He didn't notice that it is actually two small magnetically-operated latches. One of his pictures even shows the latches in mid-extension.

I wonder if this rumor comes because someone read that, passed it along, and it filtered around (a la the old kids game 'Telephone',) and it came back as a 'new feature' of the iBook.

I, for one, like the 'latchless' connectors when done right; like the original clamshell iBook, and the ultra-thin Sony that looks so thin it could cut you. They should hold the notebook closed tightly enough to prevent accidental opening; hold their power for a very long time (not weaken over time,) and yet not be so hard to open that it's a struggle.

i saw that review, a little messed up. i agree that i would rather have the charger brreak than the laptop.

however, i don't think that the rumor was based on that. it seems likely and logical. We will all see soon:D They have used magnets in ibooks in the past, and with this latest trend towards magnets in macs, it seems very likely. maybe even a small revision to the MBPs, who knows.

[shadowmoses]

It was pretty inevitable that they would put the magsafe connector on the iBook, as far as im concerned there would be no harm having it on all mac's...

Shadow;)

[longofest]

so how are you going to open it if it is magnetically held down? at least when it had a latch, you could press the button and it would give you enough room to slide your finger under and open the lid...

Hope they have thought of that...

[direzz]

remember back in the day when if u put a magnet near a computer it would mess it up? lol.

[Elrond39]

The Intel-based iBook, which may make its debut under a new product name such as MacBook, is rumored to be the most heavily redesigned Macintosh to come out of Apple's industrial design labs in the last two years.

The notebook reportedly resembles a shrunken MacBook Pro, based around a 13-inch high-resolution display, but clad in iBook white. Like Apple's iMac Core Duo and MacBook Pro, the new iBooks are also expected to pack a built-in iSight video camera, Apple Remote, and Front Row media software.

I love this idea of magnetism, great design-decision (assuming Apple will pull it off, which they likely will).
Moreover, this quote is like music to my ears. Since I first saw the G4 Powerbook, I've been wondering what it would look like in white. Don't ask me why, but this seems to me as though we'll be seeing a white anodized aluminum case. Here's to hoping...

Oh, yeah. Apple: if you introduce it on Tuesday, my birthday will be complete!

[Dagless]

Magnets are good. Soon as I saw that Mag/power/safe thing I knew that this was the way forward. magnetic USB and all that. magnetic lid. it's all good.

I think the white casing could look better. a little more finesse and I'd have probably got an iBook over my Powerbook.

still though, if the iBook doesn't support monitor spanning without a hack and the graphics card is weak... I'll get myself a MacBook Pro.

[yankeefan24]

so how are you going to open it if it is magnetically held down? at least when it had a latch, you could press the button and it would give you enough room to slide your finger under and open the lid...

Hope they have thought of that...

i am sure they have. it could simply be a little stronger than the magsafe, that would hold it and it would be fine. It could also have a small button on the side that would cut power to it if it is an electric magnet. I don't know how many people probably got crumbs or something inside of that little slit in the case (i have only gotten some cream cheese), but it could happen alot. Also, having that tiny little clip on the top. if it got stuck open or something, it could break. The fewer moving parts and openings in a laptop the better IMO.

[cxny]

I've always liked the white form factor, my original G3 iBook 600mHz is still going strong and being used by a friend while she awaits her MacBP. Come to think of it, if this thing is as full featured as the rumors I'll tell her to save a $1000 and go for one!

[Joe2000]

Wow it sure is hard getting first post around here :o

I like the idea of a magnetically held hinge, thats very Apple...So minimalistic and clean.

Thanks, Joe.

PS: WOOOHOOO, Just realised, NOT A "NEWBIE" ANYMORE!!! :D :D :D :D

[Transic]

*

[monkeyandy]

From what i'vee been reading on the rumor sites this new MacBook sounds amazing! I've 100% faith in Apple that this laptop will be the dogs b******s! My credit card is just waiting for this!

I do have a bad feeling that they won't release this quite yet though and will probably annouce it on the 30th birthday. Lets hope its this week though!

Anyone else noticed this Microsoft Origami thing yet? Sounds just like the rumors to do with the new iPod. Again i don't think this (if it is real!) will be released until 30th b'day.

I predict Mac minis and iPod accesories. I hope for this MacBook though! Fingers crossed! :rolleyes:

[syklee26]

that pretty much does it for 12 inch macbook pro IMO. I would not be surprised, like others here, if Apple uses different name for all of their notebook lines.

the new ibook or macbook or watever will probably have core duo version as well as core solo version. but the key is that consumer laptops focus more on battery life it seems. that's why I think Apple will use that low-voltage core duo chip for core duo version (I think it was 1.67ghz but I might be wrong).

I believe $999 one will have core solo chip. or it is possible to have that notebook in cheaper price than $999. it could go to $899 possibly.

$1499 one will probably have that core duo chip I discussed about with about 60gb HD.

these price points make perfect sense IMO. however, because chips are not cheap yet, I would not be surprised if Jobs say something like "we are taking orders starting today and we will ship by end of March."

or it certainly is possible that Apple would like to milk macbook pro for one more month and then announce macbook in April with lowered chip price.

[nagromme]

Sounds believable. I'm hoping for some Core Duo in the 13" or smaller range--be it a smaller MacBook Pro or a high-end iBook/MacBook. (Core Solo will be Apple's low-end I predict, for both iBooks and Mac Mini.)

iSight and Front Row across the line would be very cool! I can still see them withholding those from the low end, but hopefully not.

If the iBook/MacBook's magnet turns out to be strong enough that it can't just be easily pulled open (like the spring-loaded latchless early iBooks) then I imagine the following release mechanism:

* Magnet hidden in the plastic of the case, which attracts a magnet or metal hidden in the lid. (Nothing visible.)

* When you push the "latch" button, the hidden magnet in the case sinks deeper, away from the surface, thus allowing the lid to spring open. A "latch" button with no visible latch.

(Also, I still see no need for Apple to limit themselves just two distinct lines of laptops as in the past. The new naming lets them have multiple categories if they wish some day, not just consumer/pro. Maybe a top-end ultrathin ultraportable, for instance, that in some ways is lower than an iBook/MacBook, but in other ways higher.)

[skwert]

i like it. my roommate has an asus laptop that has the mag. lid and it's really hot.

[direzz]

here is what i think the new 13.3" ibook will look like :



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v446/direzz/ibookrendered.jpg

[maya]

Will all these magnets affect the screen and(or) HDD curious. I know people in the past complaining that the ACD and iMac G5 has a magnet on the top of the screen to mount an iSight, and it used to cause problems. Unless I am confused in the whole matter and Apple is shielding the magnets. :confused:

So now I can stick magnets on my notebook along with "to do" notes. ;) :)

[ro2nie]

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

Appleinsider reports (http://www.appleinsider.com/article.php?id=1555) that Apple will expand the use of magnets beyond its recent addition to the MacBook Pros' MagSafe power connector which is designed to safely pull away when yanked rather than drag your MacBook Pro to the floor.

According to the rumor site, the upcoming Intel-based iBook will incorporate an entirely magnet based latch technology. At present, the Mac laptops utilize a small magnet to pull a small metal latch down when laptop is closed. In the future, they claim that a stronger magnet will hold the screen shut.

The Intel iBook is also described to house a 13" display, built in iSight, Apple Remote and retain the white enclosure.

There have been a number of a number of rumors (http://guides.macrumors.com/Intel_iBook_%28Rumored%29) surrounding the Intel iBook. At present, the latest expectations pinpoint the iBook replacements to come in March/April.


There first post has an error:

"There have been a number of a number of rumors"

:)

[yankeefan24]

here is what i think the new 13.3" ibook will look like :



edited out

nice pic! it still says ibook g4 on it btw. I do think that they will have some sort of change in design, not just sticking an isight on top and an IR port on the bottom (as they did with the MBP).

[maestro55]

I just hope they are able to keep the price good on this. If they could keep the price at like $999 or $899 they could make this a prime choice for people are are torn between a Windows machine and a Mac machine. They could get the Mac machine and it would be affordable.

Someone else pointed out a Core Solo would be better suited for this price range; however, I think in that case those people would spend the extra $400-$600 for the machine with the Core Duo that shows more performance.

[Kingsly]

I sure hope the HDD is shielded! :eek:
That would be pretty cool to have. Very Apple. C'mon, cant the 28th come any sooner!

[Mechcozmo]

Not to take anything away from Apple's awesome idea to use magnets in the plug of a laptop, but magnetic breakaway plugs are nothing new. Fondue pots (and probably other portable cooking devices like deep friers, crock pots, etc.) have had them for at least 5 years.

I think most people here have the idea that Apple didn't use magnets first. They did use them in laptops first, however, possibly after watching the food industry's experiences with them and waiting for the technology to become 'ready'.

I think the white casing could look better. a little more finesse and I'd have probably got an iBook over my Powerbook.
If Apple got you to pay for that PowerBook, then why should they change anything?

Wow it sure is hard getting first post around here :o

Linkety (http://www.bbspot.com/News/2006/02/first-post.html). Careful about trying to post first just for the sake of it.

[Esben]

From what i'vee been reading on the rumor sites this new MacBook sounds amazing! I've 100% faith in Apple that this laptop will be the dogs b******s! My credit card is just waiting for this!

I do have a bad feeling that they won't release this quite yet though and will probably annouce it on the 30th birthday. Lets hope its this week though!

Anyone else noticed this Microsoft Origami thing yet? Sounds just like the rumors to do with the new iPod. Again i don't think this (if it is real!) will be released until 30th b'day.

I predict Mac minis and iPod accesories. I hope for this MacBook though! Fingers crossed! :rolleyes:

Seems a lot of folks talk about the iBook/MacBook as the 30th anniversary computer, which it might well be - though I highly doubt it. But a lot of people think that's a reason it won't be released on tuesday - but common people Apple's birthday is on April 1st!!!

[kahos]

Correct me if im wrong, but i believe that's what the sony laptops are using.
I like this better then the latch most laptops are using.

[MacTT]

I can't seem to find it now, but someone in the forums a couple days ago linked to a review of the MacBook Pro that was by someone who apparently had no idea what he was doing. He dropped the MacBook to test if the power connector would really disconnect itself.

Smart....do you know the link? :eek:

[yankeefan24]

Linkety (http://www.bbspot.com/News/2006/02/first-post.html). Careful about trying to post first just for the sake of it.

it's also against MR rules, and it will be deleted.

[monkeyandy]

Seems a lot of folks talk about the iBook/MacBook as the 30th anniversary computer, which it might well be - though I highly doubt it. But a lot of people think that's a reason it won't be released on tuesday - but common people Apple's birthday is on April 1st!!!

All I can say is that I really, really hope you are right! :D

[ieani]

I really hope they are announced tueday. I cannot wait to put my order in. Its after many hours of research the perfect machine for me.

[amateurmacfreak]

PS: WOOOHOOO, Just realised, NOT A "NEWBIE" ANYMORE!!! :D :D :D :D
Welcome to non-newbie status, my friends. Sure, I'm not a demi-goddess welcoming you, but welcome nevertheless. :)
Can't wait until you're a regular!!

[D3LM3L]

I don't think Apple will introduce the MacBook just yet because it can steal from MacBook Pro sales. They'll probably introduce it on April 1st along with their 30th Anniversary Macs- the plasmas rumored before MacWorld '06 :rolleyes:.

Also, the magnet rumor is a bit too young... usually such rumors come a month or two before the introduction of the product.

This Tuesday is probably going to be the iPod BoomBox and the Intel Mac Mini.

[this is funah]

bah to the same white enclosure, but im looking forward to a 13''

it continues the theme of white for consumer (ipod, imac), metal for professional (macbook pro, powermac)

[yankeefan24]

I don't think Apple will introduce the MacBook just yet because it can steal from MacBook Pro sales. They'll probably introduce it on April 1st along with their 30th Anniversary Macs- the plasmas rumored before MacWorld '06 :rolleyes:.

Also, the magnet rumor is a bit too young... usually such rumors come a month or two before the introduction of the product.

This Tuesday is probably going to be the iPod BoomBox and the Intel Mac Mini.

I highly doubt that PPC ibooks are still being purchased by anyone who doesn't absolutely NEED one. Think about it for a minute. We all know that apple will release an intel ibook by april 1. So why would you buy one now, ESPECIALLY if you are a consumer who uses mostly apple's apps which are already UBs and other UB apps. It just doesn't make sense. How many people do you think purchased the iMacs after they were intel before they lowered the price? The sooner apple gets these ibooks out the door, the sooner the amount of people purchasing them goes up. think about it for a minute.

[Esben]

I don't think Apple will introduce the MacBook just yet because it can steal from MacBook Pro sales. They'll probably introduce it on April 1st along with their 30th Anniversary Macs- the plasmas rumored before MacWorld '06 :rolleyes:.

Also, the magnet rumor is a bit too young... usually such rumors come a month or two before the introduction of the product.

This Tuesday is probably going to be the iPod BoomBox and the Intel Mac Mini.
I highly doubt that - IF - they introduce a 30th anniversary mac, that they'll introduce the new iBook on the same day as it would sort of steal it's glory.

I think that would be a 30th anniversary event only.

[D3LM3L]

I highly doubt that PPC ibooks are still being purchased by anyone who doesn't absolutely NEED one. Think about it for a minute. We all know that apple will release an intel ibook by april 1. So why would you buy one now, ESPECIALLY if you are a consumer who uses mostly apple's apps which are already UBs and other UB apps. It just doesn't make sense. How many people do you think purchased the iMacs after they were intel before they lowered the price? The sooner apple gets these ibooks out the door, the sooner the amount of people purchasing them goes up. think about it for a minute.

That's true and I did think of that, but there are also probably many people that might jsut say "oh what the heck I'll just get the cheapest MBP- I'll get a lot more bang for the buck anyway."

[amateurmacfreak]

I highly doubt that PPC ibooks are still being purchased by anyone who doesn't absolutely NEED one. Think about it for a minute. We all know that apple will release an intel ibook by april 1. So why would you buy one now, ESPECIALLY if you are a consumer who uses mostly apple's apps which are already UBs and other UB apps. It just doesn't make sense. How many people do you think purchased the iMacs after they were intel before they lowered the price? The sooner apple gets these ibooks out the door, the sooner the amount of people purchasing them goes up. think about it for a minute.
Yeah. I told this family to wait for Jan b/c I thought Intel iBooks would be then. Now it's only the iBook and the MacBook Pro they're really considering, so as of now (they haven't bought a laptop) they have a choice between the $999 iBook G4 or the $1,999 MacBook Pro. :o They only trusted me on the iPods b/c I told them they'd most likely be coming out the next day the day before they did. :o
I personally hope they spring for the MBP....:)

[ryanw]

All this talk of magnets around computers scares me. I know several computer components have heavily utilized magnets forever, but I find that "random issues" keep cropping up more and more due to components being near magnets.

FOR EXAMPLE, cheap hotel swipe keys.. those get wiped clean anytime I set them close to my magnitized money clip holder. My credit card's dont seem to be affected .... But I would imagine putting old floppys or even sensitive harddrives and any other stuff like that near those magnets might cause some issues.

[amateurmacfreak]

That's true and I did think of that, but there are also probably many people that might jsut say "oh what the heck I'll just get the cheapest MBP- I'll get a lot more bang for the buck anyway."
Yeah. My mom has no serious need for the Powerbook over the iBook (when she bought it 6months ago) but she walked into the Apple store just looking for a good laptop and walked away with a Powerbook b/c they were "so much nicer."
I mean, don't get me wrong, it's a better comp definitely, but she didn't really need it. She's about as consumer as you can get.:)

[dornoforpyros]

umm don't magnets tend to erase harddrives?

[ieani]

umm don't magnets tend to erase harddrives?

Stong magnets near unshielded drives, yes. Since information is magnetically aligned on the hard disk. But as this is commonn knowledge I dont think Apple overlooked it.

[yankeefan24]

Yeah. My mom has no serious need for the Powerbook over the iBook (when she bought it 6months ago) but she walked into the Apple store just looking for a good laptop and walked away with a Powerbook b/c they were "so much nicer."
I mean, don't get me wrong, it's a better comp definitely, but she didn't really need it. She's about as consumer as you can get.:)

i know exactly how that feels. it happened to me twice. But i am a new yorker, with new yorker patience, so i need speed. and i found with the iBook G4 Rev A that i had, it was just too slow. I figured that i need around a 1.5 duo (preferably) to have my patience settled. I like the powerbooks design alot, but i feel that if i were to buy another one so similar, i might start to regret it during the times when i don't notice all the extra power. I don't do that much which requires all of the processor power, but doing some high powered things (such as dashboard, games, and when i have alot of apps at hidden at a time) i would love to have a higher powered processor.

[w_parietti22]

Yea! This is good. A kid in my class was playing with the latch on one of our iBooks and he broke it, now the lid doesnt close all the way. On the same iBook he also some how caused it to have 2 white vertical lines going down the middle of the screen. Idiot.

[rye9]

Stong magnets near unshielded drives, yes. Since information is magnetically aligned on the hard disk. But as this is commonn knowledge I dont think Apple overlooked it.

I agree, I don't Apple would have overlooked something as obvious as the fact that magnets are a hard drives worst enemy. So you have nothing to worry about, its such common knowledge, and Apple has been working on these new products for a while, everything will be just fine. Heck, we dont even know if its true anyways, its just a rumor.

[dornoforpyros]

Stong magnets near unshielded drives, yes. Since information is magnetically aligned on the hard disk. But as this is commonn knowledge I dont think Apple overlooked it.


Yes I am sure apple knows what their doing, but I have this mental red flag about computers & magnets

[BlueRevolution]

i am sure they have. it could simply be a little stronger than the magsafe, that would hold it and it would be fine. It could also have a small button on the side that would cut power to it if it is an electric magnet. I don't know how many people probably got crumbs or something inside of that little slit in the case (i have only gotten some cream cheese), but it could happen alot. Also, having that tiny little clip on the top. if it got stuck open or something, it could break. The fewer moving parts and openings in a laptop the better IMO.

have you thought about the fact that electromagnets draw power? if they used a setup like you describe after about a day of being closed (without even being turned on) the battery would be dead and the lid wouldn't stay down anymore.

Yea! This is good. A kid in my class was playing with the latch on one of our iBooks and he broke it, now the lid doesnt close all the way. On the same iBook he also some how caused it to have 2 white vertical lines going down the middle of the screen. Idiot.

it just amuses me that the lines are automatically his fault...


also, I'd like to see the iBook in an enclosure like the new iMac, with the transparent plastic enclosing the white. or they could give it brushed aluminium sides like the Mac Mini.

or they could give us a new design already :D

[Avicdar]

I don't think Apple will introduce the MacBook just yet because it can steal from MacBook Pro sales.

I agree that it probably won't be introduced yet, but not for the reason you suggest. It is always in Apples best interest to fill in gaps in the product line as soon as they possibly can. Anyone who wants an Apple notebook computer and finds the Macbook Pro as their only option isn't going to automatically buy one. For some its simply too expensive, so they may turn to another vendor for something in their price range.

The iPod line demonstrates this point in spades. A lowball entry level iPod (shuffle) all the way up the chain to the video iPod. If Apple truly believed that one model causes cannibalization of sales of another model, they wouldn't have the others at all. If anything, the non-existence of the Macbook will cause people to wait and see if it meets their needs, and then decide on the Macbook or Macbook Pro, so getting it out ASAP should give consumers the information they need for an informed decision. How many people here are waiting to see the specs on the Macbook before deciding which line to go for?


If Apple doesn't introduce the intel iBook replacement (Macbook) next week, its simply because its not ready, or will clash with the focus of the next week announcements (the fun new products theme doesn't suggest a new notebook computer to me).

[Mr. Mister]

Will all these magnets affect the screen and(or) HDD curious. I know people in the past complaining that the ACD and iMac G5 has a magnet on the top of the screen to mount an iSight, and it used to cause problems. Unless I am confused in the whole matter and Apple is shielding the magnets. :confused:

So now I can stick magnets on my notebook along with "to do" notes. ;) :)
Yeah, I've been wondering that too...

[BlueRevolution]

you wait. the fun new products are going to end up being a new line of Xserves. the whole fun thing was just an attempt to throw us off the scent. :D

[bigandy]

sounds like a plan...

[Avicdar]

you wait. the fun new products are going to end up being a new line of Xserves. the whole fun thing was just an attempt to throw us off the scent. :D

Heh. Could be, I wouldn't put it past them. Maybe a new software package or two. Hmm.

iFinance. iCheckbook. iBudget. iWatchThePaintOnTheWallsDry (the latter being a free upgrade from iWatchTrafficGoBy)

[revfife]

Magnets strong enough to do any damage to date typically need to be strong and usually powered. I highly doubt any magnet Apple uses in the new book will be strong and powered enough to even get close enough to erasing data.

[Seasought]

I suppose since the Powerbooks -> Macbooks design didn't change I shouldn't have expected the iBooks design to have changed either. The more I see the current iBooks the more I can tolerate their glossy, pearl-colored veneer. I wonder of the use of all this magnet technology will unwittingly bring various office supplies, such as paperclips home with one from the office. :D

[Joe2000]

I think we'll see Core Duo's in every Mac, If you look at software on Apple's website it says:

System Requirements

Macintosh computer with a PowerPC G4, G5 or Intel Core Duo processor; 733MHZ or faster required for iDVD
256MB of RAM; 512MB recommended
Mac OS X v10.3.9 or Mac OS X v10.4.3 or later; Mac OS X v10.4.4 recommended
iTunes 6.0.2 and QuickTime 7.0.4 (included)
DVD drive for installation
10GB of disk space to install iLife ’06 applications

If there was going to see a Core Solo wouldent it just say "Intel Core Processor" or something to that effect?

What do you think?

- Joe.

[iMeowbot]

There first post has an error:

"There have been a number of a number of rumors"

:)
It should really be "There has been a number of rumors . . ." :p

A latch without exposed moving parts would make sense for the iBook. If only they could do away with the glass in the LCD, it would be seriously kid proof.

[polythene pam]

I think what someone mentioned earlier makes sense. Maybe on Tuesday they'll announce the new iBooks but they will only ship in April. Like announcing the MBPs in January and shipping them now.

At least that's what I hope. I'm not in the market for a new computer yet -- I love my iBook -- but I am VERY curious to see what the new intel iBooks will be like!!!

[w_parietti22]

it just amuses me that the lines are automatically his fault...


My friend said that he was pressing on the back of the LCD and making weird colors and stuff and then the next time he looked up there were white lines down the middle. It happend on the same day too! :rolleyes: Maybe apple can put some reinforcement back there.

[BlueRevolution]

haha ok snide comment retracted :D

[EricNau]

Will all these magnets affect the screen and(or) HDD curious. I know people in the past complaining that the ACD and iMac G5 has a magnet on the top of the screen to mount an iSight, and it used to cause problems. Unless I am confused in the whole matter and Apple is shielding the magnets. :confused:

So now I can stick magnets on my notebook along with "to do" notes. ;) :)
The iMac G5 has a magnet on the top to mount an iSight?

[syklee26]

I just hope they are able to keep the price good on this. If they could keep the price at like $999 or $899 they could make this a prime choice for people are are torn between a Windows machine and a Mac machine. They could get the Mac machine and it would be affordable.

Someone else pointed out a Core Solo would be better suited for this price range; however, I think in that case those people would spend the extra $400-$600 for the machine with the Core Duo that shows more performance.


well that's the point. Apple always do things this way. the price difference between chips are not $500 and therefore Apple would make more money selling higherend one while promoting the idea to people that you can get a far more faster machine for $400-$500.

[funkychunkz]

How about a 6 GB nano? Call it : the brick. Go to eight BG and use it in gravitational experiments... It's been a while since apple did something completely new like the ipod, or the imac. I'm hoping for something new, and not just improved.

How long do we wait for 8x MBP burning? How fast is the CD burning already. Speaking of discs... Blu-Ray? HD-DVD support? Nobody seems to know what's this event is for.

[Joe2000]

Welcome to non-newbie status, my friends. Sure, I'm not a demi-goddess welcoming you, but welcome nevertheless. :)
Can't wait until you're a regular!!

Hey thanks! :p :) :D

[gauchogolfer]

have you thought about the fact that electromagnets draw power? if they used a setup like you describe after about a day of being closed (without even being turned on) the battery would be dead and the lid wouldn't stay down anymore.

The most common magnets can be aligned in one direction with an applied electric field that maintains that alignment even after the field is removed. This is called a ferromagnet. To reverse the alignment, an opposite field must be applied. So, I could see an entirely magnetic latch based on this, which would not require continous applied power, just a small pulse of power when the latch requires opening. Seems pretty straightforward to me.

[LethalWolfe]

Will all these magnets affect the screen and(or) HDD curious. I know people in the past complaining that the ACD and iMac G5 has a magnet on the top of the screen to mount an iSight, and it used to cause problems. Unless I am confused in the whole matter and Apple is shielding the magnets. :confused:

So now I can stick magnets on my notebook along with "to do" notes. ;) :)

They've shielded the magnets in the speakers since day one so I don't see any reason they can't shield the other magnets as well.


Lethal

[yankeefan24]

How about a 6 GB nano? Call it : the brick. Go to eight BG and use it in gravitational experiments... It's been a while since apple did something completely new like the ipod, or the imac. I'm hoping for something new, and not just improved.

How long do we wait for 8x MBP burning? How fast is the CD burning already. Speaking of discs... Blu-Ray? HD-DVD support? Nobody seems to know what's this event is for.

i want both, something new (innovated, not like, intel ibooks/mini )and something improved (like intel ibooks/mini).

current MBP burning is 4x. No blu-ray or anything.

We only have a couple more days to go.

[funkychunkz]

I think we'll see Core Duo's in every Mac, If you look at software on Apple's website it says:

System Requirements

Macintosh computer with a PowerPC G4, G5 or Intel Core Duo processor; 733MHZ or faster required for iDVD
256MB of RAM; 512MB recommended
Mac OS X v10.3.9 or Mac OS X v10.4.3 or later; Mac OS X v10.4.4 recommended
iTunes 6.0.2 and QuickTime 7.0.4 (included)
DVD drive for installation
10GB of disk space to install iLife ’06 applications

If there was going to see a Core Solo wouldent it just say "Intel Core Processor" or something to that effect?

What do you think?

- Joe.

I think they are trying to psyche people like you out.:p

[syklee26]

How long do we wait for 8x MBP burning? How fast is the CD burning already. Speaking of discs... Blu-Ray? HD-DVD support? Nobody seems to know what's this event is for.[/QUOTE]



Blu-Ray and HD-DVD are far from now. the way laptops are so thin, it's too expensive to put those drives in them yet.

I would not be surprised if top-of-the-line powermacs get an optional blu-ray or HD-DVD drive (most likely Blu-Ray). that's a computer big enough to have one and the timing would be more feasible then (assuming it comes out around June).

[jer446]

i dont get the purpose of having the remote for the laptop except for presentations.. no one is going to watch a movie on a laptop so far away from them that they cant use the keyboard.. theres a few exceptions like if you have it hooked up to a monitor, but it just seems like something to loose..

[funkychunkz]

i want both, something new (innovated, not like, intel ibooks/mini )and something improved (like intel ibooks/mini).

current MBP burning is 4x. No blu-ray or anything.



4x CD burning???!!! I do not believe that.

They should come out with a hydrogen powered (or something else crazy) batery, and stop using 'i' in front of ever gosh darn product name. The batery would come in various sizes, and banner the name 'Tcell' followed by a number that would be the product of it's size (2,4,8) and batery use time (ie. 30h)... or maybe just longer batery life on ipods.


Oh, new idea, give the shuffle awesome controls (like a bop-it, or a rotating dial on the end that you can spin, and the song it stops spinning on plays), and a screen that covers all the sufaces (or a halographic visual system). Why aren't there better visuals for itunes, anyhow?

[yankeefan24]

4x CD burning???!!! I do not believe that.

thats DVD. sorry. 24x CD-R and 10x CD-RW. I assumed he was talking about DVD burning when you said "how long until we get it to 8x, how fast is CD burning already?" i assumed it was a typo or something because you go back to talking about dvds.

[Joe2000]

it's also against MR rules, and it will be deleted.

I wasnt hanging around to get first post at all :(

All i meant by my comment was really "At the begining of a thread the posts build up pretty quick - and when i'm typing the 5th post by the time its on the thread there's 16!! :eek:

Anyway i'm not such a loser that one of my goals is to achieve first post :mad:

- Joe.

[jsw]

The most common magnets can be aligned in one direction with an applied electric field that maintains that alignment even after the field is removed. This is called a ferromagnet. To reverse the alignment, an opposite field must be applied. So, I could see an entirely magnetic latch based on this, which would not require continous applied power, just a small pulse of power when the latch requires opening. Seems pretty straightforward to me.
Well, yes, but that's overly complex. Just have a latch button or slider that rotates the base magnet 90º (or more - 180º would be perfect). That'll loosen the grip and allow the lid to pop. Zero electricity required.

And to all those worried about magnets and drives: as mentioned numerous times, both the magnet and the drive are shielded, so there's no issue to worry about.

[virus1]

i am cracking up with joy! i recently gave my ibook to my sister, with an deal with my parents to buy me an intel ibook when they arrived. i did this last week, so i am living on an old quicksilver untill this arrives. is rumored to be the most heavily redesigned Macintosh to come out of Apple's industrial design labs in the last two years.
I CAN'T WAIT!

[BlueRevolution]

The most common magnets can be aligned in one direction with an applied electric field that maintains that alignment even after the field is removed. This is called a ferromagnet. To reverse the alignment, an opposite field must be applied. So, I could see an entirely magnetic latch based on this, which would not require continous applied power, just a small pulse of power when the latch requires opening. Seems pretty straightforward to me.

my impression of ferromagnets (which I now know the word for :p ) was that it would take a lot of power to make them strong enough to be useful. you could be right though.

i want both, something new (innovated, not like, intel ibooks/mini )and something improved (like intel ibooks/mini).

I'd imagine they're saving the "innovated" product(s) for April 1st.

i dont get the purpose of having the remote for the laptop except for presentations.. no one is going to watch a movie on a laptop so far away from them that they cant use the keyboard.. theres a few exceptions like if you have it hooked up to a monitor, but it just seems like something to loose..

that's the problem with infrared... it compels them to bundle the remote to explain the black spot on the front. if they used bluetooth they wouldn't have to worry about it. sigh.

[jsw]

i am cracking up with joy! i recently gave my ibook to my sister, with an deal with my parents to buy me an intel ibook when they arrived. i did this last week, so i am living on an old quicksilver untill this arrives.
I CAN'T WAIT!
The article wasn't proof-read enough. It was supposed to say:The Intel-based iBook, which may make its debut under a new product name such as MacBook, is rumored to be the heaviest redesigned Macintosh to come out of Apple's industrial design labs in the last two years.
They don't want the MB Pro people to be jealous, so they've made the MacBook (non Pro) weigh 15 pounds. Actually, it's just an iMac with a lid.

[yankeefan24]

I'd imagine they're saving the "innovated" product(s) for April 1st.

unfortunately, i think you're right. But updated products would be cool too (especially if it was an iBook:D )

[tjwett]

glad to see they are moving away from those flimsy latches. the one on my new 12" PowerBook doesn't even work. less moving parts is always better i say.

[ChrisWB]

I just hope that Apple doesn't give the new iBook pretty crappy specs so as to make the MacBook Pro appear more appealing.

[yankeefan24]

I just hope that Apple doesn't give the new iBook pretty crappy specs so as to make the MacBook Pro appear more appealing.

i couldn't agree more. Even though, by the end, the processor power seemed at a good comparison point. Everything else wasn't though:(

[virus1]

The article wasn't proof-read enough. It was supposed to say:They don't want the MB Pro people to be jealous, so they've made the MacBook (non Pro) weigh 15 pounds. Actually, it's just an iMac with a lid.
haha.. bungie corded to a car battery..

[DeSnousa]

I have not read the entire thread, but what kind of resolution would a 13.3 inch screen have? Also any word if DVI out will be supported and possibly in closed mode?

Sounds like the next iBooks will be major :)

[monkeyandy]

Was just checking out AppleInsider. They report that Intel Mac Minis will be what Apple reveal on Tuesday and no new iBooks till later. John Lewis stores in UK report Mac Minis out of stock. Check it out, coincidence?

http://www.johnlewis.com/Computing/Computers/Computers/Desktop+Computers/2/0/ProductType.aspx

:eek:

[jsw]

Was just checking out AppleInsider. They report that Intel Mac Minis will be what Apple reveal on Tuesday and no new iBooks till later. John Lewis stores in UK report Mac Minis out of stock. Check it out, coincidence?

http://www.johnlewis.com/Computing/Computers/Computers/Desktop+Computers/2/0/ProductType.aspx

:eek:
It would certainly make sense that they wouldn't intro the MacBook until they had more to offer in the MacBook Pro lineup (different sizes, etc.).

[moesker007]

Ok, so the new ibook or "MacBook" by reading this thread will seem to be something like..

13 Inch screen (Same brightness as the MacBook Pro?)
Mag-Safe Power Connector (Seems obvious apple will unclude this)
Possible Core Solo and Duo Models (Makes lower $$ for consumers and extends battery life)
Front Row w/ Remote (Would also make sense for apple to include)
Built-in iSight (Makes sense for Apple)
Magnetic Latch (Does MacBook Pro use this? If it does it makes sense to include.)
Same Firewire and USB ports (hopefully that old rumor about firewire going just dosen't make sense if you are going to use iMovie)

I would really love them to incude a backlit keyboard, but then the iBooks "MacBooks" will be getting too close to the MacBook Pro's. I interested to see what Apple will do to keep the price of this laptop cheap, and what it's meant for, consumers who need to do simple things and have lots of battery. I surrently have an IBook and love it. It can handle most things i throw at it, but after i stop using my main PC computer and go complety mac, i will want a nicer laptop for college, and if they make the new iBook's nice enough maybe i will be able to get away with one of them because i think the 15" MacBook Pro wil be a little too big, for college I want an ultra compact that goes with me everywhere. The 13" for factor of the iBook would be perfect. I had the 12" PowerBook for a while, and it's still the best laptop i've ever owned. I hope the new iBooks are nice, or them come out with a smaller MacBook Pro. I guess first we'll see what next Tuesday will bring us, hopefully the Mac Mini and Ibook updates and some cool accessories!

Was just checking out AppleInsider. They report that Intel Mac Minis will be what Apple reveal on Tuesday and no new iBooks till later. John Lewis stores in UK report Mac Minis out of stock. Check it out, coincidence?

http://www.johnlewis.com/Computing/Computers/Computers/Desktop+Computers/2/0/ProductType.aspx

:eek:
Ok maybe next week won't bring iBooks but a new intel Mac Mini sounds pretty awesome still!

[yankeefan24]

Was just checking out AppleInsider. They report that Intel Mac Minis will be what Apple reveal on Tuesday and no new iBooks till later. John Lewis stores in UK report Mac Minis out of stock. Check it out, coincidence?

http://www.johnlewis.com/Computing/Computers/Computers/Desktop+Computers/2/0/ProductType.aspx

:eek:

1GB ipod shuffles were out of stock before MWSF. they didn't receive an update.

I have not read the entire thread, but what kind of resolution would a 13.3 inch screen have? Also any word if DVI out will be supported and possibly in closed mode?

Sounds like the next iBooks will be major :)

i remember hearing somewhere that it would have 1280x760 or something like that (i think, ill go check). I doubt it will work in closed mode. Also, DVI may be supported, but i am not sure. haven't read anything about it yet.

(Does MacBook Pro use this? If it does it makes sense to include.)

The MacBook Pro does not use a magnetic latch. It does use magnets to get the hook down as the ibook and old powerbook do currently. That does not mean that it will not have it. I believe (and so do others) that it will be released as a redesigned computer. not slightly like the MBP but major. the ibook design has been around longer, and needs a redesign more desperately.

[Willeisen88]

They could still have the button and just have it move the magnet off to the side/forward so that the "latch" releases...I don't know, just thinking...

Great feature though...

[jsw]

They could still have the button and just have it move the magnet off to the side/forward so that the "latch" releases...I don't know, just thinking...

Great feature though...
I thought so too (http://forums.macrumors.com/showpost.php?p=2176224&postcount=74).

[IndyGopher]

Think about it for a minute. We all know that apple will release an intel ibook by april 1.

Just how does this mythical "we" work? I know no such thing. In fact, I don't really even expect it. I won't go so far as to say I would be surprised by new consumer notebook from Apple before/around then... but I certainly don't understand this sense that it is a fait accompli.

[ieani]

How many people here are waiting to see the specs on the Macbook before deciding which line to go for?


I am.

How about a 6 GB nano? Call it : the brick. Go to eight BG and use it in gravitational experiments... It's been a while since apple did something completely new like the ipod, or the imac. I'm hoping for something new, and not just improved.

How long do we wait for 8x MBP burning? How fast is the CD burning already. Speaking of discs... Blu-Ray? HD-DVD support? Nobody seems to know what's this event is for.

The 30th anniversary will bring something completely new. Tuesday will just be imrovements.


i dont get the purpose of having the remote for the laptop except for presentations.. no one is going to watch a movie on a laptop so far away from them that they cant use the keyboard.. theres a few exceptions like if you have it hooked up to a monitor, but it just seems like something to loose..

Its so useful for presentations though and it is a "pro" notebook, which is meant for presentations.

[Play Ultimate]

(Also, I still see no need for Apple to limit themselves just two distinct lines of laptops as in the past. The new naming lets them have multiple categories if they wish some day, not just consumer/pro. Maybe a top-end ultrathin ultraportable, for instance, that in some ways is lower than an iBook/MacBook, but in other ways higher.)

Moving to 4 computer lines saved Apple. No reason to confuse things again as it was in the early '90s.

BTW, looking forward to the new iBook. We have two currently (900MHz G3 and 1 GHz G4, both 12") My daughters (9 & 10) are biting at the bit to get their hands on these "hand me downs."

[Val-kyrie]

All this talk of magnets around computers scares me. I know several computer components have heavily utilized magnets forever, but I find that "random issues" keep cropping up more and more due to components being near magnets.

FOR EXAMPLE, cheap hotel swipe keys.. those get wiped clean anytime I set them close to my magnitized money clip holder. My credit card's dont seem to be affected .... But I would imagine putting old floppys or even sensitive harddrives and any other stuff like that near those magnets might cause some issues.

I agree. I am intrigued by the idea of the Mag Safe power adaptor connector and by the idea of a latchless lid, but I can't help but wonder what the inherent risks are, especially when Apple Insider reports, "Apple has reportedly asked some of its service partners to warn customers about placing magnetized items near the power port of the MacBook Pro."

Does anyone here have any specific knowledge about magnets and how they affect hard drives, lcds, floppies, etc.?

[MacMosher]

Not to take anything away from Apple's awesome idea to use magnets in the plug of a laptop, but magnetic breakaway plugs are nothing new. Fondue pots (and probably other portable cooking devices like deep friers, crock pots, etc.) have had them for at least 5 years.

Maybe this is common knowledge, but I just thought I'd mention it. Appleinsider kind of makes it sound like Apple is the only company to use magnets for anything besides sticking a shopping list to the fridge.

ok, some of you may not know how much magnets can frig up electronics... so it can be a little more complicated then a deepfrier...

The magnets can induce different current patterns through the circuit and could cause some damage, thuse apple took all these things into consideration to ensure that it would not occur it takes alot of time to make sure of these things Im sure.

[jsw]

Does anyone here have any specific knowledge about magnets and how they affect hard drives, lcds, floppies, etc.?
Floppies? Floppies?!? They could turn them into cheese and it wouldn't matter. Who uses them?

LCDs: magnets are not a problem for LCDs, at least magnets of the strength Apple could possibly put in a laptop.

Hard drives: magnets are bad for hard drives*. Fortunately, both magnets and hard drives can be shielded, so this isn't an issue.

The most likely victim of the magnets? Things like old credit cards and their magnetic strips. Those are actually pretty hardy too, but interaction with a magnet could adversely affect them.

Light is bad for unexposed film... and yet film cameras managed to work fairly well. Shielding, people. Shielding.

* But also essential - without magnetism, hard drives wouldn't store any info.

[MacMosher]

Floppies? Floppies?!? They could turn them into cheese and it wouldn't matter. Who uses them?

LCDs: magnets are not a problem for LCDs, at least magnets of the strength Apple could possibly put in a laptop.

Hard drives: magnets are bad for hard drives*. Fortunately, both magnets and hard drives can be shielded, so this isn't an issue.

The most likely victim of the magnets? Things like old credit cards and their magnetic strips. Those are actually pretty hardy too, but interaction with a magnet could adversely affect them.

Light is bad for unexposed film... and yet film cameras managed to work fairly well. Shielding, people. Shielding.

* But also essential - without magnetism, hard drives wouldn't store any info.

You got it my friend, but thats why I was saying it took longer for them to put things like magsafe into a laptop then a deepfryer cause it requires alot more shielding

[rockthecasbah]

this could be Apple's chance to venture in the not-so-developed realm of ultra portables, aka screen of like 9 or 10 inches. A 9/10'' and 13'' model is a very diverse but fitting model lineup for the iBooks, or i guess "MacBooks." :)

[BRLawyer]

I don't know about you guys, but I think these new iBooks will be THE most attractive machines out there in the market...

They will represent Apple at its best, with a complete redesign and the same beautiful/resistant white enclosure...think of them as a white MacBook, thinner and smaller, with almost all features of a MBP, including a 13" widescreen, Core Duo et al...simply irresistible!

My G3 500 is still doing great at work, but I would love to get some money and spend on a new snowwhite...GO APPLE! ;)

[Mechcozmo]

glad to see they are moving away from those flimsy latches. the one on my new 12" PowerBook doesn't even work. less moving parts is always better i say.

I agree, less moving parts the better. My latch sometimes sticks a bit... perhaps when I want to sell my PowerBook I'll use that as an excuse to send it to Apple and have it cleaned up, checked out, etc. :)

Although it is quite fun to play with... people wonder how the lid stays closed more often than you'd think.

Floppies? Floppies?!? They could turn them into cheese and it wouldn't matter. Who uses them?
I use 'em. Wonderful drink coasters.

Actually I do have a few around... PCs love the things when all else fails. I still think that a floppy drive is a must for a PC. Optical drives sometimes refuse to work, hard drives die... but floppies live forever. Although that is mostly true with older hardware. Newer boxes tend to be pretty good about starting up from USB devices. (Still haven't been able to get my USB flash drive to work as a boot disk, nor an old ZIP-100 drive, but USB floppy drives seem to be O.K.)

[Maclvrforevr]

it would be annoying if apple released something on the 28 and then improved it on the 1st of april like they did on the imac

[carve]

isnt this gonna mess up the computer!!!:D

[Mechcozmo]

isnt this gonna mess up the computer!!!:D

Suggestion: Read this thread, and then make a comment.

It helps. Quite a bit.

[MacMosher]

isnt this gonna mess up the computer!!!:D

Mech is right... read before writing.

Suggestion: Read this thread, and then make a comment.

It helps. Quite a bit

but to help you out a bit, its all to deal with how things that would be affected i.e. hardrive... etc. are proctected from the inducutance of the magnets. Any moving magnet can induce a current in a circut so it is important that things are sheilded and Im sure that a company such as apple would not release anything that would not meet this standard

[sintaxi]

so how are you going to open it if it is magnetically held down? at least when it had a latch, you could press the button and it would give you enough room to slide your finger under and open the lid...

Hope they have thought of that...

you make the button flip one of the magnets so that it has it actually resists the other magnet causing the lid to pop open.
Thats the way I see it working anyways.

[HiRez]

Well I hope they use magnet tech to snap batteries into place too, because the battery latch on my Titanium PowerBook broke and it's basically unfixable. A tiny cheap plastic part that costs less than a penny which makes the whole thing inoperable away from a power outlet...brilliant.

[jsw]

you make the button flip one of the magnets so that it has it actually resists the other magnet causing the lid to pop open.
Thats the way I see it working anyways.
Again, I thought so too (http://forums.macrumors.com/showpost.php?p=2176224&postcount=74).

[nagromme]

There are plenty of magnets already in an Apple laptop: the speakers, the fan motors, the optical drive motor, the HD motor, the MagSafe connector, and (I believe) a magnet that all recent Apple laptops use to detect whether the lid is closed or not. And probably plenty of other devices with magnetic fields, like maybe the lamp, trackpad, and battery. What's one more magnet? :)

[kahos]

you make the button flip one of the magnets so that it has it actually resists the other magnet causing the lid to pop open.
Thats the way I see it working anyways.

I thought the purpose of installing magnets is getting rid of that
button / mechanism :confused:

I know Sony solved that problem using a stiff hinge to keep the lid closed.
It loosen as you pry the lid open. Maybe it involves magnets in some ways, i dont know how the system works in details.

[sam10685]

i think the whole screen should magnetically attach to the computer with a wireless connection so you can take the screen off.

[Super Dave]

The 30th anniversary will bring something completely new. Tuesday will just be imrovements.

Apple does not call press conferences for "improvements." Not in the sense of speed bumps or hard drive bumps. They only call press conferences when they have a brand new product to introduce, or one that is dramatically different from previous models. Such as the various generations of iMacs.

David:cool:

[Super Dave]

i think the whole screen should magnetically attach to the computer with a wireless connection so you can take the screen off.

And the power would come from?

Batteries suck. The fewer, the better.

David:cool:

[MacMosher]

you make the button flip one of the magnets so that it has it actually resists the other magnet causing the lid to pop open.
Thats the way I see it working anyways.

you think so simply :p what I actually picture them doing, is having the button reverse a current, all currents induce a magnetic feild and so by reversing a current it will reverse the polarity of your magnet (pretty simple stuff). Thats how I picture it working:D

[sam10685]

And the power would come from?

Batteries suck. The fewer, the better.

David:cool:

simple... power would come from electrons floating in the air.

[MacMosher]

simple... power would come from electrons floating in the air.
? is that sarcassum or suppose to be funny. I found it funny however Im not sure if your being serious ahah

[sam10685]

? is that sarcassum or suppose to be funny. I found it funny however Im not sure if your being serious ahah

it's me being very tired.

[gauchogolfer]

Well, yes, but that's overly complex. Just have a latch button or slider that rotates the base magnet 90º (or more - 180º would be perfect). That'll loosen the grip and allow the lid to pop. Zero electricity required.

And to all those worried about magnets and drives: as mentioned numerous times, both the magnet and the drive are shielded, so there's no issue to worry about.
I agree that that's too complex. I was just trying to correct the impression that magnets like this would draw a lot of power.

[gopher]

Bad enough the power cord uses a magnet. But the latch that closes the computer is much more likely to be where some silly goof may still try to put floppies near the machine (if they have a USB floppy drive), and suddenly zap the contents off their disk. I might add, I've seen latches on Powerbooks become magnetic before for other reasons. Still I think it is a bad idea. I much prefer the iBook G3 (original) latchless design.

[Aglio]

I don't think having more magnets in notebooks a good idea. Your ROLEX (or PATEK or whatsoever) might be affected.

[thejadedmonkey]

4x CD burning???!!! I do not believe that.

They should come out with a hydrogen powered (or something else crazy) batery, and stop using 'i' in front of ever gosh darn product name. The batery would come in various sizes, and banner the name 'Tcell' followed by a number that would be the product of it's size (2,4,8) and batery use time (ie. 30h)... or maybe just longer batery life on ipods.


Oh, new idea, give the shuffle awesome controls (like a bop-it, or a rotating dial on the end that you can spin, and the song it stops spinning on plays), and a screen that covers all the sufaces (or a halographic visual system). Why aren't there better visuals for itunes, anyhow?

Haha...Are you implyin that we are all zombies funkychunkz?

I have not read the entire thread, but what kind of resolution would a 13.3 inch screen have? Also any word if DVI out will be supported and possibly in closed mode?

Sounds like the next iBooks will be major :)
Well, my Dell laptop from '96 (Latitude CPi for all interested) had a 13.3" screen, with a 1024 by 786 resolution.
Oh course, that was 10 years ago though, so I would assume by now technology can give us a 1024 by 786 resolution screen. :D

[MacMosher]

I don't think having more magnets in notebooks a good idea. Your ROLEX (or PATEK or whatsoever) might be affected.

I honeslty don't believe that you will run into any troubles with these magnets.
Apple has more then likly looked into all the situations that we have mentioned above and figured out a way to sheild the problem.

or I hope at least. Im sure that there will be some freak problems here an there but for the mostpart I think your alright

[iMeowbot]

I don't think having more magnets in notebooks a good idea. Your ROLEX (or PATEK or whatsoever) might be affected.
Good mechanical watches are antimagnetic, and the electronic ones won't care. There have been magnets there for a while now, not that much would be changing anyway.

[gnasher729]

Someone else pointed out a Core Solo would be better suited for this price range; however, I think in that case those people would spend the extra $400-$600 for the machine with the Core Duo that shows more performance.

And someone else is pointing out right now that a look at the Intel processor price list shows clearly that only a company run by complete morons or a company building computers for complete morons (Dell, are you hearing me? ) would put a Core Solo chip into _any_ computer.

Core Solo: 10 percent cheaper at half the performance of Core Duo.
Core Solo: 10 percent more performance at more than twice the price of Celeron M.

Given a choice between a powerful and a cheap chip, Core Solo manages to get the worst of both worlds by being slow and expensive.

[gnasher729]

umm don't magnets tend to erase harddrives?

Harddrives tend to be utterly unimpressed by any magnet that you would find in the average household. Should you have evidence on a harddisk that you want destroyed, don't even think about using a harddisk. Use an angle grinder.

[carve]

wont all these magnets mess up the computer???:eek:

thx for the info

[MacMosher]

Harddrives tend to be utterly unimpressed by any magnet that you would find in the average household. Should you have evidence on a harddisk that you want destroyed, don't even think about using a harddisk. Use an angle grinder.

Yeah, generally there are not any magnets you can find that will take ou the shields provided by the hardrive however if they were in direct contact (no shield which I cant ever see happening) it would take nothing. You have to remeber that the ironic thing is that things are stored in your hardrive by magnets.:eek:

[gnasher729]

Yeah, generally there are not any magnets you can find that will take ou the shields provided by the hardrive however if they were in direct contact (no shield which I cant ever see happening) it would take nothing. You have to remeber that the ironic thing is that things are stored in your hardrive by magnets.:eek:

You can place any ordinary magnet you can find directly on a platter, it won't make any difference. They cannot produce a magnetic field that is concentrated enough. To produce any effect, you actually have to switch a magnet on the harddisk surface; they are extremely small, and you need an extremely strong magnetic field concentrated on a tiny space to switch them. Anything you have at home would be able to produce a small percentage of the required force over a relatively large area, and it would have no effect on the data whatsoever.

[Moses:SonOfGod]

I can't seem to find it now, but someone in the forums a couple days ago linked to a review of the MacBook Pro that was by someone who apparently had no idea what he was doing. He dropped the MacBook to test if the power connector would really disconnect itself.

i.e. he did it backwards. Instead of yanking the MacBook, and made sure the MacBook didn't fall to the ground; he dropped the MacBook, and made sure that the power cord didn't yank out of the wall socket.... Ooooo-kay. I think I'd rather have the power adapter get destroyed than the notebook, but maybe that's just me...

ouch:eek: .... did the laptop survive?

[Spies]

ouch:eek: .... did the laptop survive?
It was stood on its end with the power connector pointing up, he tried to hold it there with the power cable, but as designed it released and it just flopped on the carpet.

[thebrain74]

Um, I was thinking, the guy that tested the magsafe power cord, ya, I don't think he gets a Macbook Pro. I don't think he has the cranial capacity to be worthy of that powerbook. I humbly suggest that he should give it a better home, like with me.
(Please, please let it be me:)

[Detektiv-Pinky]

Yeah, generally there are not any magnets you can find that will take ou the shields provided by the hardrive however if they were in direct contact (no shield which I cant ever see happening) it would take nothing. You have to remeber that the ironic thing is that things are stored in your hardrive by magnets.:eek:

There have been several documented cases in Germany where harddisks in notebooks got erased by magnets build in foldable tables in trains.
The German train company had build nice new railway cars that had foldable tables in the back of the chairs, so that people could use them to put their notebooks on. However, these tables were fastened by magnets which they had put in the table (not in the back of the seat). So when people put their laptop on these tables the strong magnet caused data loss on the spinning harddisk. They had to change all the seats of the cars.

http://www.heise.de/ct/98/08/016/
(The link is in German only)
They had measured a magnetic field intensity of 58 Milli-Tesla for the surface of the magnets and 17 Milli-Tesla in 10mm distance. When they asked harddisk producers these claimed that their products can stand between 0.5 and 1 mT (Milli-Tesla) under operation.


As long as the magnet are not so close to the harddisk this should not be a problem. I hope Apple puts the magnets for the power connector in the MacBook and not in the cord, this would prevent it to accidentially come to close to the harddisk.
However, from the supplied warning I guess they did it the other way arround.

:eek:

[Spies]

Hard drives contain the strongest magnets known to man, I fail to see how a tiny magnet can cause dataloss. The cable will need magnets as well as the socket, so they can attract eachother.

[ScottB]

Getting rid off the latches would be nice. As long as it dosn't abruptly slam shut when it's closed slowly, and they don't loose their charge after being near other magnetic equipment or after time. Obviously it would be safe for the laptop to have these magnets, but it does seem kinda strange having them near a computer.

[beachboy89]

I hate the latch on my powerbook, it never closes on the first try, and some times it takes me 4 or 5 times just to get it to stay shut, so I think that the magnent idea is awesome and I cant wait to see what apple does with it:D

[legacyb4]

Just wondering how much even a single-core iBook would wipe the floor with my 12"/1Ghz Powerbook...? This is assuming looking forward to getting universal binaried within the next year or so for most daily use apps; if the numbers on a single-core are significantly better than the G4, I'd definitely consider it.

[milo]

Just wondering how much even a single-core iBook would wipe the floor with my 12"/1Ghz Powerbook...? This is assuming looking forward to getting universal binaried within the next year or so for most daily use apps; if the numbers on a single-core are significantly better than the G4, I'd definitely consider it.

Don't get your hopes up. There have been a few single core benchmarks, and they're nothing impressive. The big speed boost in the intel macs comes from having two cores.

[kntgsp]

Is it CRT or LCD screens that magnets mess with so much? And isn't having magnets so near electronics a bad idea? I'm just wondering, because I have no idea which components magnets affect.

[Spies]

Is it CRT or LCD screens that magnets mess with so much? And isn't having magnets so near electronics a bad idea? I'm just wondering, because I have no idea which components magnets affect.
LCD is unaffected by magnetic forces, it's CRT that uses magnets to aim onto the phospher.

[wannabeconvert]

I always had PCs and would like to consider an iBook/powerbook etc as an alternative for the new laptop that I'll need in the fall. I am not sure if it will do the things I need it to do, but I am sure it could be done and after a transition period probably better than a PC. So far so good.

What really turns me off though, is this whole magnet insanity. Magnets destroy things. I've seen it. I had my expensive mechanical watch in repair once because it came to close to a strong magnet in a document holder. Another magnet in a phone holder destroyed my keyless entry to my building not once but twice. So why would I want to have (probably strong) magnets in a laptop latch and powerchord that I will carry around in a backpack etc together with credit cards, keyless entry cards, storage devices - and my watch again right there where I want to rest my palm while working?

Weren't Macs originally machines for productive people and not fashion statements? Does anyone here know where to find data on how strong the magnets are and where they are located (not that it would make much of a difference probably)? I am disappointed. I think this is goign to turn out like the iPod that I really really wanted and didn't buy because it sounded so bad (like any MP3 device...)....

[gopher]

I always had PCs and would like to consider an iBook/powerbook etc as an alternative for the new laptop that I'll need in the fall. I am not sure if it will do the things I need it to do, but I am sure it could be done and after a transition period probably better than a PC. So far so good.

What really turns me off though, is this whole magnet insanity. Magnets destroy things. I've seen it. I had my expensive mechanical watch in repair once because it came to close to a strong magnet in a document holder. Another magnet in a phone holder destroyed my keyless entry to my building not once but twice. So why would I want to have (probably strong) magnets in a laptop latch and powerchord that I will carry around in a backpack etc together with credit cards, keyless entry cards, storage devices - and my watch again right there where I want to rest my palm while working?

Weren't Macs originally machines for productive people and not fashion statements? Does anyone here know where to find data on how strong the magnets are and where they are located (not that it would make much of a difference probably)? I am disappointed. I think this is goign to turn out like the iPod that I really really wanted and didn't buy because it sounded so bad (like any MP3 device...)....

Powerbooks and iBooks don't have the Magsafe connector. If you buy an older Powerbook or iBook, you'll be fine. Just the Macbook Pro uses the Magsafe.

And mind you, I haven't heard of anyone zapping their Macbook Pro's with the Magsafe connector.

[cherfizzle]

i was looking forward to seeing a brushed metal enclosure like the powerbooks and macbookpros its so much better i think, but yay to the 13 inch screen, cant wait to see the prices for this baby

[wannabeconvert]

Powerbooks and iBooks don't have the Magsafe connector. If you buy an older Powerbook or iBook, you'll be fine. Just the Macbook Pro uses the Magsafe.

And mind you, I haven't heard of anyone zapping their Macbook Pro's with the Magsafe connector.

Hello gopher,

thanks for the input. The thing is that I would wait a few months. I don't want buy a "straight" mac, only one of the newer ones that can also run XP. And I would prefer a small one with a regular non-wide screen. So basically, from what I understand so far, I am waiting for a new iBook with an intel chip. You are allowed to call me crazy or ignorant - remember, I currently live on planet Windows, so what do you expect ;-)
And from what I read here and actually heard in an Apple store yesterday, the new ones will have all this magnet mania.
I am sure it would not do anything to the iBook itself, but I would certainly be concerned about my watches. The powercord would probably be out of the way for the most part or it may be relatively easy to get rid of the thing and build in a real plug. But the closing mechanism? That does not sound good to me.