Report Claims Tablet is 'iPhone on Steroids', Runs on iPhone OS Kernel

[MacRumors]

http://www.macrumors.com/images/macrumorsthreadlogo.gif (http://www.macrumors.com/2010/01/13/report-claims-tablet-is-iphone-on-steroids-runs-on-iphone-os-kernel/)

Boy Genius Report reveals (http://www.boygeniusreport.com/2010/01/13/apples-tablet-is-an-iphone-on-steroids/) that it has received information from a source regarding Apple's much-rumored tablet, noting that it is basically an "iPhone on steroids" and offering a few details about the device.- The tablet's multi-touch gestures are "out of control."
- It's powered by an incredibly fast ARM CPU
- It runs on the iPhone kernel.
- The internal model number is K48AP.
- There hasn't been an updated iPhone OS build because there's too much tablet-related code/references in the OS and Apple obviously didn't want that to leak. Oops.
- The tablet is basically an "iPhone on steroids."The report is not the first to refer to Apple's tablet as carrying an internal model number of K48AP, as a Reddit user (http://www.reddit.com/user/skankphwn) previously made the same claim (http://www.reddit.com/r/iphone/comments/akw44/the_easiest_jailbreak_application_ive_ever_used/c0i56ec), along with an assertion that the next-generation iPhone will carry internal model number N90AP. (The iPhone 3GS carries an internal model number of N88AP.) It is unknown whether the two sources are independent.

Boy Genius Report has had a mixed track record, incorrectly reporting in recent months that Apple and AT&T were looking to launch an 8 GB iPhone 3GS before Christmas (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/11/05/apple-considering-launching-8-gb-iphone-3gs-before-christmas/) and publishing a faked Apple Black Friday sale announcement (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/11/16/apple-black-friday-discounts-leaked/). The site did, however, correctly offer (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/08/08/itunes-9-to-include-blu-ray-support-and-phone-app-organization/) information on iPhone app organization and Twitter/Facebook sharing in iTunes 9, although it later published faked iTunes 9 screenshots (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/08/19/more-purported-itunes-9-screenshots-surface/).

Article Link: Report Claims Tablet is 'iPhone on Steroids', Runs on iPhone OS Kernel (http://www.macrumors.com/2010/01/13/report-claims-tablet-is-iphone-on-steroids-runs-on-iphone-os-kernel/)

[bentoms]

is this at all surprising?

[talkingfuture]

All sounds fairly plausible. Someone should keep a scorecard for all the rumour sites so we can check them after the announcement.

[kironin]

Well then it's definitely not a replacement for a basic Macbook. It's a toy. A 3rd device, not a phone, and not a computer. Not interested.

[G4R2]

Now we know what the tablet will be called.

Wait for it...


The iMcGwire

[mac jones]

The rumors are so thick and diverse that the element of suspense probably will remain intact.

Always good for the SJ show.

[splintah]

i hope they also release a more powerful version

or someone hacks it so it runs osx and osx apps
i would love to be able to at least start some pro apps and do some minor work there if i have to.

of course it will never be as powerful as a macbook pro or mac pro
but for teaching and quickly checking some stuff on the go it should be enough

also hope it comes with a pen
so i can draw

[Porco]

I'm not sure "out of control" is the best choice of phrase when trying to hype up its touch gestures... I want to be in control :p

[tiguk]

Now we know what the tablet will be called.

Wait for it...


The iMcGwire

Lol.

I got that, even if I am British and know next to nothing about Baseball.

Actually, it sounds better than iSlate!

[tigres]

Smell it Smell it.....

Now Take it.....:D

[christall109]

If Apple were to have a January Event, when can we expect press invitations to the event to be released? History here would be an excellent guide.

[Chupa Chupa]

Sounds bogus to me. It's too easy to say it's an iPhone on steroids, but also an Apple device "out of control" gestures isn't Apple-esque. SJ likes simple things, and having to learn a pile of new gestures is too much work for most consumers. The two finger scroll, the swipe, etc, all come naturally. But if the new device were to force a bunch of contrives gestures it would surely fail.

But more to the point -- or expectations -- is that supposedly Apple has been working on this tablet for some time. I think people expect something more than a 10" iPod Touch. It has to offer more if it's going to be be market leader and definer.

[rdowns]

Out of control, a good bit of sexy? How far he rumor mongers have fallen. Can someone please publish an elevator shot?

[BlizzardBomb]

I'm not sure "out of control" is the best choice of phrase when trying to hype up its touch gestures... I want to be in control :p

Ha! That's what I was thinking. Guess it explains the steep learning curve if you can't control the thing.

[rdowns]

If Apple were to have a January Event, when can we expect press invitations to the event to be released? History here would be an excellent guide.

Well. it rumored to be the 26th or 27th so invites would have to go out a week earlier.

[miketcool]

Now we know what the tablet will be called.

Wait for it...


The iMcGwire

No, no, no. That's the internal name. We all know it's going to be "Big Mac" when it goes public.

I hope Apple is active in the desktop department and not just the novelty department these days.

[Chupa Chupa]

If Apple were to have a January Event, when can we expect press invitations to the event to be released? History here would be an excellent guide.

History is a week to a week and a half in advance, so invitations should certainly have been rec'd by next Wed, but more likely by the end of this week if it's a "Big" event.

[martint84]

Well then it's definitely not a replacement for a basic Macbook. It's a toy. A 3rd device, not a phone, and not a computer. Not interested.

Nothing too surprising here. With the success of the iPhone/iPod touch and the app store, why would they abandon those ideas? I don't think that the appeal of this product is going to have anything to do with it's OS. We don't even know what the iPhone 4.0 OS can do, let alone the advanced features made specifically for the tablet. It's going to be the tablet-specific apps and the large screen that make this thing more than just a "toy."

[TheOrioles33]

Well then it's definitely not a replacement for a basic Macbook. It's a toy. A 3rd device, not a phone, and not a computer. Not interested.

I know! I thought it would at least be running Mac OSX. I dont want a giant iPhone.

[VenusianSky]

I think these tablets are going to be a replacement to Netbooks. Both basically serve the same purpose.

[paradox00]

Well then it's definitely not a replacement for a basic Macbook. It's a toy. A 3rd device, not a phone, and not a computer. Not interested.

I didn't know you had information on iPhone OS 4.0 and what apps Apple has developed for the tablet...

When I think of restrictions, the biggest factors would be the form factor and the processing power. iPhone OS would leverage both of those much more effectively. I would consider writing off a tablet based on this description just shows a lack of imagination.

[jo0]

i just hope it doesn't have phone capabilities... i would hate to have to hold a tablet to my face....

[Stella]

Sounds like tablet is going to be crap then.

Another locked-down-to-the-hilt-device, 100% controlled by Apple who decide what applications users can / cannot use.

Big giant Touch device!

[jemo07]

My bet is they are talking about the new iPhone! they don't have the take on the tablet yet!

[Evangelion]

Well then it's definitely not a replacement for a basic Macbook. It's a toy. A 3rd device, not a phone, and not a computer. Not interested.

Um, what exactly were you expecting? A device that runs Mac OS X? It has been more or less established by now that the tablet will NOT run Mac OS X.

Even if it's "just" iPhone on steroids it could still be a replacement for a laptop (although why would Apple design a product that would be more or less equivalent to their more expensive product-lines? Since this device will cost less than a MacBook, it's logical that it will also have less capabilities). Bigger screen and more powerful CPU means that it could run apps iPhone can not.

[peterdevries]

I know! I thought it would at least be running Mac OSX. I dont want a giant iPhone.

You thought, or you wished? All common sense and rumors point to a version of iPhone OS and not full OS X.

[MacFly123]

This report is actually probably dead on! Not that it reveals anything too enlightening.

I have thought for a while that it is odd that Apple has gone so long without and incremental iPhone update. I also figured it was because they were working on the iPhone OS for the iSlate! :D

Honestly, why aren't I getting paid to be an analyst? I am more accurate than the analysts most the time anyway hehe! :p

You thought, or you wished? All common sense and rumors point to a version of iPhone OS and not full OS X.

I can't even respond to these Mac OS X Tablet people anymore in the threads. They are completely delusional! :rolleyes:

[timotheezz]

This is about to be the longest fortnight in the history of fortnights. For me, that is.

[kdarling]

- The tablet's multi-touch gestures are "out of control."

Yeah, I've heard that it'll require at least three people and all their fingers to flip a page on it.

*cough*

Seriously, sounds like one reason why rumors say it's got a steep learning curve. Remember the Courier concept videos? Powerful gestures, but a lot to learn.

Meanwhile, thinking about people who say these devices would be good for classrooms...

Arizona State University just got out of a lawsuit from blind groups for requiring one class's books on a Kindle, only because Amazon added voice navigation, rendering the lawsuit moot.

Will Apple have to do something similar for people with only one hand or finger, who can't do multi-touch?

[lord patton]

All sounds fairly plausible. Someone should keep a scorecard for all the rumour sites so we can check them after the announcement.

and that someone is Arn. :)

[iDisk]

Great Post!;)

Event goes as follows:



Introduction of Steve looking healthier then ever (Remember he said he had to gain 20lbs )

iWork X & iLife X (Some talk of Mobile Me & iWork.com beta)

Notebook refresh (Maybe a return to the express card slot for high end 15" )

New Cinema displays ( New 30" Model & 36" Model)

Steve Exits the stage and then reappears coming down from above (the Apple heavens) with the Tablet.



I personally don't think I'll use the tablet. I'm a Video/Photography Pro & I also program for the Mac Platform, so unless the Tablet has iPhone SDK installed, I see no use for it. If they do a really good job re-enhancing the MacBook Air (Which I really hope they add 4GB Ram & 160GB+SSD), I'll be more compelled to get that instead of the tablet.

Either way history will be made and Steve will forever be praised for his visions and contributions to the world we live in. In Steve we Trust

iDisk


:apple:

[MatthewCobb]

It has been more or less established by now that the tablet will NOT run Mac OS X.

Um, by whom? Where? When? "more or less established" = speculated by some.

More to the point, if, as many have pointed out, it is simply a "consumption" device, with little ability to generate new material on it, it would be less attractive to me. But then, maybe that's what "steroids" would do to an iPhone. BTW, apart from the serial numbers, I could have written the original post...

[Rot'nApple]

So the name of Apple's 'iPhone on Steroids' Tablet, coming in two versions, is going to be...

"The Mark McGwire 'Out of the Park' and 'Out of the Park - Pro' Pad!

http://www.misunderestimation.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/01/GotJuice.jpg

[RyanR.]

hmmmmm.... Just and FYI Axiotron maker of the modbook had a sale of $699 a regular price of $899 before christmas. To convert your owned macbook into a authorized tablet os x. The sale has been extended until March 1, 2010.

Think they know something?;)

^ = big iPod Touch/iPhone

[azentropy]

I think these tablets are going to be a replacement to Netbooks. Both basically serve the same purpose.

I think that is what Apple is going to gear it towards, but I think they may miss the mark on how many people use a Netbook.

[cppguy]

At the minimum I need a wacom-like stylus, and a note taking app similar to MS OneNote for sketching. A tablet is only interesting to me if it completely replaces paper in my life.

Either way, I seriously doubt the Apple tablet will be able to run Photoshop. It doesn't look like I can retire my Fujitsu tablet PC anytime soon.

[WeegieMac]

I would still have preferred to see the tablet running a full version of Mac OS X, rather than the iPhone OS.

Not everyone wants "a giant iPhone", and the iPhone itself already does everything it sets out to do very well.

[derek1984]

I already own an iPhone and a Macbook. This is just going to be a gimmick.

[oldwatery]

Well it is probably correct....but it won't be on my shopping list.
Very disappointed if true.

[billystlyes]

I think 95% of this crap here is made up to drive traffic and sales. Enough said...

[Evangelion]

Um, by whom? Where? When? "more or less established" = speculated by some.

By common sense. Of course the tablet is going to run an OS and UI designed for multitouch and finger-contriol. And guess what? Mac OS X and Aqua is NOT it! Those are designed for mouse and keyboard. Do you SERIOUSLY expect Apple to release a product that uses an OS/UI that is designed for a whole different usage-paradigm? Hell no!

More to the point, if, as many have pointed out, it is simply a "consumption" device, with little ability to generate new material on it, it would be less attractive to me. But then, maybe that's what "steroids" would do to an iPhone. BTW, apart from the serial numbers, I could have written the original post...

The OS will obviously be closely related to the iPhone-OS, sine that OS is designed for multitouch. But I wouldn't be one bit surprised if the UI was different and/or if the iPhone's UI was overhauled as well. And like I said: the powerful CPU and large screen makes it possible to run apps that would not work on the iPhone.

I think that the tablet will primarily be a "consumption-device", but I think that it will be way better at creating content than iPhone is. But if you expect that it will match a MacBook when it comes to ability to create stuff, you will be disappointed. Hell, netbooks are not as good at creating stuff as regural notebooks are, why would a slate be?

[kellen]

So how do I use it for text input? I still can't see how this will be done well. Does this mean applications from the app store only? No loading of word or other programs?

Otherwise it looks just like a glorified iphone.

[RyanR.]

Yeah, I've heard that it'll require at least three people and all their fingers to flip a page on it.

*cough*

Seriously, sounds like one reason why rumors say it's got a steep learning curve. Remember the Courier concept videos? Powerful gestures, but a lot to learn.

Meanwhile, thinking about people who say these devices would be good for classrooms...

Arizona State University just got out of a lawsuit from blind groups for requiring one class's books on a Kindle, only because Amazon added voice navigation, rendering the lawsuit moot.

Will Apple have to do something similar for people with only one hand or finger, who can't do multi-touch?

You know that slipped my mind completely.:o
I'm sure the people at apple have everything under control; until we have "juiced" up the tablet/rumors to where it will beam us to Cupertino:rolleyes:

[dmelgar]

One locked down 100% controlled by apple consumer device is enough. I sure hope the tablet runs Mac OS X. I would not look forward to the model of having to by all my PC/Mac applications through one store where everything was filtered and sanitized by Apple... to prevent competing products, to prevent "confusion", etc.

[TheOrioles33]

I would still have preferred to see the tablet running a full version of Mac OS X, rather than the iPhone OS.

Not everyone wants "a giant iPhone", and the iPhone itself already does everything it sets out to do very well.

Exactley! If the tablet runs the iPhone OS then we wont be able to put our software on it. Photoshop would be awesome on a tablet. Just doesnt make sense to me.

[Mattie Num Nums]

Internal Codename = The Big iPod Touch

:D

[ThunderSkunk]

i hope they also release a more powerful version

or someone hacks it so it runs osx and osx apps
i would love to be able to at least start some pro apps and do some minor work there if i have to.

also hope it comes with a pen
so i can draw

100%. In fact, if Apple does release one locked down with a useless iphone OS, I'll personally start the pot with a $5,000 donation to fund any hacker group that can get OS X running on it.

[Hypex]

Let's hope that isn't true.. I'm still hoping for the normal OS X with a virtual keyboard that pops up when you do a specific gesture ;).

[paradox00]

100%. In fact, if Apple does release one locked down with a useless iphone OS, I'll personally start the pot with a $5,000 donation to fund any hacker group that can get OS X running on it.

Just download one of the many screen sharing applications already on the App store and access your more powerful mac from anywhere. I wouldn't be surprised if Apple provided a more elegant solution too. I'll take my $5000 in cash thank you.

[ThunderSkunk]

I think 95% of this crap here is made up to drive traffic and sales. Enough said...

I would agree about the 95% of it being made up. ...with the exception being the intent, which I believe to be people boosting their megalomania.

[Thunderhawks]

Um, what exactly were you expecting? A device that runs Mac OS X? It has been more or less established by now that the tablet will NOT run Mac OS X.

Even if it's "just" iPhone on steroids it could still be a replacement for a laptop (although why would Apple design a product that would be more or less equivalent to their more expensive product-lines? Since this device will cost less than a MacBook, it's logical that it will also have less capabilities). Bigger screen and more powerful CPU means that it could run apps iPhone can not.

Not much one can do with the form factor, if the main part of the device is a 10 inch screen.
So basically a MacBookAir Screen upside down, edges rounded and voila a larger iphone.

This will be a niche product and just not for everybody.

Can't wait to see all the complaints about what it can't do.

It's the OS that will define it's success.

My slogan:

An Apple tablet a day will keep Microsoft away!

[tiguk]

100%. In fact, if Apple does release one locked down with a useless iphone OS, I'll personally start the pot with a $5,000 donation to fund any hacker group that can get OS X running on it.

Wouldn't it be easier to Hackintosh the HP device, if that's what you want?

Just a thought.

[jfmartin]

It sounds weird, if this guy saw the device, and says it runs on iPhone OS, this is the only point in common with what we currently know, does this mean the user interface is very different that he cannot refer to it without going to the base point of comparison ?

More thoughts on my blog:) (http://buildingiphoneapps.blogspot.com/2010/01/new-thoughts-on-apple-itablet-and.html).

[colmaclean]

Anyone hoping for OS X on this thing hasn't thought it through at all - Apple makes millions through the AppStore - why throw that revenue stream away? The average Joe on the street isn't going to care about what OS this thing has, just about the flashy things you can do with it.

If you want OS X so badly, you will probably be able to use a remote desktop app (iPhone already has plenty) to connect to your Mac.

[Mattie Num Nums]

100%. In fact, if Apple does release one locked down with a useless iphone OS, I'll personally start the pot with a $5,000 donation to fund any hacker group that can get OS X running on it.

Steve will have Bono and Al Gore dispose of you... in an environmentally friendly way of course.

[silversreen]

If the tablet is going to be running an incredibly fast arm cortex processor e.g: over 2.0ghz then that could be considered overkill. That is assuming they are talking about cortex a9.

[Povilas]

Let's hope that isn't true.. I'm still hoping for the normal OS X with a virtual keyboard that pops up when you do a specific gesture ;).

Failed hope.

[parapup]

Sounds like making of yet another Macbook Air like product to me - from a utility perspective.

It will be shiny, it will be well designed but most people will not buy it because it will lack a real keyboard, will not run regular OSX apps, will be costlier than a netbook, require a data plan etc.

I just can't seem to be able to come up with a credible use case for this device - Laptop/Netbook replacement - no as it doesn't have a keyboard and you can't put it on your lap and type, iPhone replacement - wouldn't I buy a iPod touch, why would I pay for yet another data plan etc.

OTOH if it comes with a free-for-life data plan like the Kindle people will go after it like crazy. But I am not optimistic about it - carriers won't be too happy about it and if at all it happens there would be crippling restrictions.

So. Meh. Unless Apple thought of something we can't - and that is clearly possible.

[paradox00]

It sounds weird, if this guy saw the device, and says it runs on iPhone OS, this is the only point in common with what we currently know, does this mean the user interface is very different that he cannot refer to it without going to the base point of comparison ?

More thoughts on my blog:) (http://buildingiphoneapps.blogspot.com/2010/01/new-thoughts-on-apple-itablet-and.html).

I think it is a given that the UI will be different, we don't need full screen weather apps.

[Eidorian]

I think that the tablet will primarily be a "consumption-device", but I think that it will be way better at creating content than iPhone is. But if you expect that it will match a MacBook when it comes to ability to create stuff, you will be disappointed. Hell, netbooks are not as good at creating stuff as regural notebooks are, why would a slate be?I know this is getting old but it's a Super iPod Touch with a dash of Apple TV?

[ThunderSkunk]

Just download one of the many screen sharing applications already on the App store and access your more powerful mac from anywhere. I wouldn't be surprised if Apple provided a more elegant solution too. I'll take my $5000 in cash thank you.

Hahaha, that'd be wild. I wonder how far and thin I could stretch my drawing experience...

From... Tablet -> - running VNC -> through a tethered -> Jailbroken iPhone -> all those internet protocol services -> Mac Pro back at the office -> running the Hacked (only way it works) Autodesk Inventor (2GB program) -> on a Timecode-Hacked (again only way...) XP Pro -> VMWare Fusion.

My brain hurts.

I think I'll try it on my iPhone. :)

[Prometheus2000]

At the minimum I need a wacom-like stylus, and a note taking app similar to MS OneNote for sketching. A tablet is only interesting to me if it completely replaces paper in my life.

Either way, I seriously doubt the Apple tablet will be able to run Photoshop. It doesn't look like I can retire my Fujitsu tablet PC anytime soon.

I totaly agree! Replacing pen and paper would be the main aspect of a slate tablet pc. OneNote is actually realy nice, used it for years on my HP TC1100, a comparable programm on a Apple Tablet, 5-7 hr battery live and it would be THE device.

No paper! Its the 21st century :)

[rdowns]

I would still have preferred to see the tablet running a full version of Mac OS X, rather than the iPhone OS.

Not everyone wants "a giant iPhone", and the iPhone itself already does everything it sets out to do very well.

Makes no sense for Apple at all. If the device runs Mac OS X, then most sales only serve to cannibalize a sale of an Apple laptop or desktop since it just another Mac and certainly not a mass market new MID/eReader/happy endings machine.

Running the iPhone OS or a derivative of it, now you have a mass market device that you can sell to Windows users. They already have an iPod or iPhone and wouldn't think twice about a new Apple gadget. I'd market it under the iPod brand---iPod slate.

Oh yeah, this new gadget also runs all the apps from the app store and will spur development of new apps and new developers. [/Marketing 101]


100%. In fact, if Apple does release one locked down with a useless iphone OS, I'll personally start the pot with a $5,000 donation to fund any hacker group that can get OS X running on it.

Never happen.

[ThunderSkunk]

Wouldn't it be easier to Hackintosh the HP device, if that's what you want?

Just a thought.

Could, if drivers ever became available for all the components. I tried it with a Motion Computing slate, and through any install, parts of it were always left non-functional. One guy made headlines when he did it on the very nice LE1700 a couple years ago, but it took him a ton of time coding and when he got it, he took his ball and went home and didn't share it with anyone.

A proper Apple device, running the proper Apple OS, getting to use the software we all know and love, Illustrator, Lightroom, Photoslop, Corel, CaptureOne, etc, etc... would be ideal. If Apple makes the hardware, and makes the software, but won't put them together, I'll gladly pay someone to do it. ...And not Axiotron, for gods sake. Three years of working on that friggin prototype, and still nothing to show.

[Mr Skills]

Seriously, sounds like one reason why rumors say it's got a steep learning curve. Remember the Courier concept videos? Powerful gestures, but a lot to learn.


*Goes off to watch Microsoft Courier concept videos...*

Wow... the UI looks beautiful but it is incredibly complicated. The same pinch gesture seems to be used for several unrelated tasks. It would be a serious case of having to read the manual.

I can't see Apple doing it like that. One of their most important traits is their tendency to make the UI discoverable - things work in an intuitive way that whenever possible mimics the physics of real life. So in the iPhone, for example, the pinch gesture zooms in a way that feels like you are stretching/squashing the image; swiping moves what is under your finger (with naturalistic momentum, inertia and bounce). Even the more complicated examples, such as cut-copy-paste are carefully thought out to be as self-explanatory as possible, without having to hunt through menus.

The Courier looks like they have copied all the eye-candy but missed out why it was there in the first place.

[str1f3]

Anyone hoping for OS X on this thing hasn't thought it through at all - Apple makes millions through the AppStore - why throw that revenue stream away? The average Joe on the street isn't going to care about what OS this thing has, just about the flashy things you can do with it.

If you want OS X so badly, you will probably be able to use a remote desktop app (iPhone already has plenty) to connect to your Mac.

I've thought it through a lot. The idea that Apple would lose all this revenue from being able to sideload apps is ridiculous. 95% of the customers would stay within the App Store. The other 5% , like myself, would still be using the App Store more than half the time. This about having some measure of openness and choice.

As for all the remarks about Mac OSX on a tablet, that's really not what the people were asking for. Mac OSX should have been redesigned to take adavntage of the touchscreen. Yes it would be a large undertaking but so was this tablet. This thing has been rumored for a decade.

As it is, this thing is a "toy". It replaces nothing.

[RazHyena]

Well then it's definitely not a replacement for a basic Macbook. It's a toy. A 3rd device, not a phone, and not a computer. Not interested.

I concur. All interest has been lost. :( The lack of a full fledged OS was the killer. :/

[BRLawyer]

is this at all surprising?

Wait until the "pundits" start whining that it's not OS X 10.6...:rolleyes:

[Eidorian]

Wait until the "pundits" start whining that it's not OS X 10.6...:rolleyes:You've been gone for some time but that started at least a month or two ago.

[dafranca]

apple with new device on arm cortex a8, while Qualcom is talking about arm cortex a9 @ 1.3Ghz, Nvidia released a dual core a9 and marvell is talking about a quad-core a9. That doesn't sound real for me.

PS: Only possible if they are slowly developing the ship at PA Semi, which would be a step back to give 2 spets foward... but PA Semi has never developed GPU.

[neilw]

Anyone surprised by any of this hasn't been paying attention to the rumor mill (or, perhaps, to common sense, especially with regard to the OS choice).

Anyone who thinks this is all there is to the story hasn't been paying attention to Apple for the last decade.


So. Meh. Unless Apple thought of something we can't - and that is clearly possible.

And that is the crux. What secret sauce did Apple put into the package to elevate it beyond a bathroom web-surfing machine? Given how long Jobs has held this product back, we can reasonably suspect that they have finally figured something out that we haven't. The "on steroids" comment could include an awful lot of stuff that we're not imagining right now, and wondering what this might be is the fascinating part of this whole thing. If it really is just a big iPod Touch then I agree it will likely not be a big success, but I don't expect that to be the case.

Still, I think Gruber nailed it when he said (approximately) that the tablet will do less than we expect, but what it does it will do insanely well.

[Ultranote]

I know this is getting old but it's a Super iPod Touch with a dash of Apple TV?

All it means is that it's running the ARM/iPhone version of OS X.

It doesn't necessarily mean that it uses the iPhone shell with a black screen full of of tiny icons. Nor the full Mac OS X desktop with no adaptation.
They must have designed an interface that makes sense on that screen size.

Better have a fast ARM processor with a super low power consumption: it stays cool and runs longer. The graphics engine can also be used as an OpenCL coprocessor. Worth adapting the right apps.

[Millah]

How is it that people NEVER learn from the past....ugh

Everyone who says that this will just be "a large iPhone" remind me exactly of the same people who said that the iPhone was just going to be an iPod with an earpiece and number pad.

You guys always run through this same cycle before an Apple announcement, and just never seem to learn to just WAIT until Apple announces the thing before making complete assumptions about something VERY FEW people actually know about.

[BRLawyer]

All it means is that it's running the ARM/iPhone version of OS X.

It doesn't necessarily mean that it uses the iPhone shell with a black screen full of of tiny icons. Nor the full Mac OS X desktop with no adaptation.
They must have designed an interface that makes sense on that screen size.

Better have a fast ARM processor with a super low power consumption: it stays cool and runs longer. The graphics engine can also be used as an OpenCL coprocessor. Worth adapting the right apps.

In my opinion, Apple will ONLY release a vastly modified version of OS X if it's a totally new and breakthrough performance; otherwise it's just not wise to repeat the same mistakes of the mid-90s and launch a whole bunch of different products with their different lines of production and support needs...

The tablet will EITHER have OS X or iPhone OS with a different UI...no distinct kernel or APIs.

[RazHyena]

What secret sauce did Apple put into the package to elevate it beyond a bathroom web-surfing machine?

The ultimate question. :D

I'm still hoping there will be SOMETHING that will help change my mind when it's released. But so far, it looks like another semi-useful toy.

[cmaier]

In my opinion, Apple will ONLY release a vastly modified version of OS X if it's a totally new and breakthrough performance; otherwise it's just not wise to repeat the same mistakes of the mid-90s and launch a whole bunch of different products with their different lines of production and support needs...

The tablet will EITHER have OS X or iPhone OS with a different UI...no distinct kernel or APIs.

The tablet will definitely have distinct APIs. I promise that.

[DipDog3]

Not really impressed by that news

[Michael73]

My wife likes to watch all of her DVR'd content in our family room at night (i.e. Desperate Housewives, etc.). Increasingly, I find myself retreating to our bedroom and sitting in bed consuming content on my iPhone or playing a downloaded game for an hour or two before going to sleep.

While a slate that is essentially an iPhone on steroids would be a hard sell with my wife, I'd definitely enjoy it for sitting in bed and reading news and playing games. Even though it's possible to transfer a movie from iTunes to the iPhone and watch it, it's tough to watch a feature length film on a 3" screen but with a 10" screen it's much more feasible and something I'd start doing. Also, if it were a competent e-reader, I'd start using it for that too. Let's face it, using something like the kindle or stanza apps to read novels on the iPhone 3" screen isn't ideal.

[Sabenth]

yep were going back to having big ass phones again with touch screens like they thought they would have in the 80s.



all in all we know it will have ipod features itunes photos movies etc, and supper monkey ball will be huge on it.



guess till theres some formal invite for press we sit and wait unless some one has been taking the piss all along and sj really just dosnt want us to have a giant ipod

[BRLawyer]

The tablet will definitely have distinct APIs. I promise that.

Let me qualify what I've just said: only APIs strictly linked to the tablet's natural design/usability differences will be created.

[Evangelion]

I know this is getting old but it's a Super iPod Touch with a dash of Apple TV?

I wouldn't be surprised if they announced updated AppleTV as well (remember: AppleTV was announced at the same time they announced iPhone). Also, I wouldn't be surprised if the slate could act as an AppleTV as well. They could have a dock with HDMI-out, where you could dock the slate. When you do so, the UI moves over to the big-screen, and you can then control it with a remote (or iPhone) and maybe even with a keyboard. Streaming content to the device from a Mac would also work, just like on the AppleTV.

[Eidorian]

In my opinion, Apple will ONLY release a vastly modified version of OS X if it's a totally new and breakthrough performance; otherwise it's just not wise to repeat the same mistakes of the mid-90s and launch a whole bunch of different products with their different lines of production and support needs...

The tablet will EITHER have OS X or iPhone OS with a different UI...no distinct kernel or APIs.I'm still seeing iPhone OS given the supposed tablet simulator. Can iPhone applications scale to a display with a higher resolution?

[str1f3]

How is it that people NEVER learn from the past....ugh

Everyone who says that this will just be "a large iPhone" remind me exactly of the same people who said that the iPhone was just going to be an iPod with an earpiece and number pad.

You guys always run through this same cycle before an Apple announcement, and just never seem to learn to just WAIT until Apple announces the thing before making complete assumptions about something VERY FEW people actually know about.

If it is anything less than a computer many, including myself will be displeased. As for your referencing the iPhone, I could always jog your memory by saying that Apple TV was part of that same keynote and let's not forget the iPod Hi-Fi/ iPod socks event.

Apple has the propensity to give good and bad events.

[cmaier]

Let me qualify what I've just said: only APIs strictly linked to the tablet's natural design/usability differences will be created.

True. But that's also essentially true of iPhone OS vs. Mac OS. A few new libraries, and some other libraries pared down.

[Stella]

My prediction:

The hardware itself will be meh, as will the software it runs on ( mobile OSX ), however, it will be the content that will make the difference.

[Eidorian]

I wouldn't be surprised if they announced updated AppleTV as well (remember: AppleTV was announced at the same time they announced iPhone). Also, I wouldn't be surprised if the slate could act as an AppleTV as well. They could have a dock with HDMI-out, where you could dock the slate. When you do so, the UI moves over to the big-screen, and you can then control it with a remote (or iPhone) and maybe even with a keyboard. Streaming content to the device from a Mac would also work, just like on the AppleTV.I was joking when I said they should just give the slate a docking station...

[iMacmatician]

- It's powered by an incredibly fast ARM CPUCould be for more processor-intensive tablet-specific applications.
- It runs on the iPhone kernel.I expected something like this, that's why I've been saying "iPhone OS extended" for the longest time now.
- The tablet is basically an "iPhone on steroids."The question is…what are those steroids?

is this at all surprising?Not to me.

You thought, or you wished? All common sense and rumors point to a version of iPhone OS and not full OS X.And they have been for about 1-2.5 years now.

I can't even respond to these Mac OS X Tablet people anymore in the threads. They are completely delusional! :rolleyes:So that's why I haven't seen you around for some time! Since that big list of reasons we made as to why it is likely to run iPhone OS apparently wasn't enough, I'm not sure if this rumor will be.

[colmaclean]

I've thought it through a lot. The idea that Apple would lose all this revenue from being able to sideload apps is ridiculous. 95% of the customers would stay within the App Store. The other 5% , like myself, would still be using the App Store more than half the time. This about having some measure of openness and choice.

Wouldn't this lead to the possibility of a number of rival AppStores from other app providers (e.g. Handango) and also allow pirates an easy route in? I don't see this as being in Apple's interests.

[Evangelion]

My prediction:

The hardware itself will be meh, as will the software it runs on ( mobile OSX ), however, it will be the content that will make the difference.

My prediction: after the event, you will complain and whine how crappy the device is.

[sam10685]

Why is this getting so many negative votes?

[Evangelion]

I was joking when I said they should just give the slate a docking station...

Whats s strange about that idea? iPods have them, as do iPhones. And you can use those docking-stations to view content on television if you want to.

Slate could have something similar, where you could charge the device, as well as view it's content on big screen.

[Stella]

Wouldn't this lead to the possibility of a number of rival AppStores from other app providers (e.g. Handango) and also allow pirates an easy route in? I don't see this as being in Apple's interests.

So? Apple afraid of competition? ( Yes, evidently!)

:-)

Even so, I think the OP is correct - the vast majority of people will stick to iTunes / AppStore because thats the easiest method to load applications.

Developers will have to make their applications available to 'outside' stores. How many would really do this, due to the popularity of the AppStore? Developers would stick to where the traffic is.

My prediction: after the event, you will complain and whine how crappy the device is.

Depends on the quality of the product. Is its poor, then I will express my opinions. Likewise, if I'm impressed, then I'll post them too.

Its a forum, after all.

[OllyW]

Why is this getting so many negative votes?

Perhaps a lot of people don't want it to be an iPhone on steroids?

[str1f3]

Wouldn't this lead to the possibility of a number of rival AppStores from other app providers (e.g. Handango) and also allow pirates an easy route in? I don't see this as being in Apple's interests.

Look at the rivals to the iTunes store. Amazon even has lower prices and they haven't made any significant headway. People will always choose the easiest path & the App Store is two clicks away. Most people don't even know that the tech crowd does have a problem with the App Store.

Pirates already have an easy time getting software. It's incredibly easy to do on the iPhone.

Of course it's not in Apple's interests. It's in our interests which is why many who do appreciate openness complain. It will be part of the reason I won't get the tablet. I don't do living in captivity well.

[cmaier]

Perhaps a lot of people don't want it to be an iPhone on steroids?

Or people are tired of rumors that don't really differ from what everyone already assumed.

[Eidorian]

Whats s strange about that idea? iPods have them, as do iPhones. And you can use those docking-stations to view content on television if you want to.

Slate could have something similar, where you could charge the device, as well as view it's content on big screen.I remember what happened when the Zune HD came out. Also I don't want a trainwreck of external accessories to get it to do what I want.

[gibbz]

Why is this getting so many negative votes?

Because people are unhappy (http://www.mindfully.org/Health/One-In-Five-Depressed.htm)

[colmaclean]

I'm still seeing iPhone OS given the supposed tablet simulator. Can iPhone applications scale to a display with a higher resolution?

I've taken a screenshot of an iPhone app and viewed it on a Mac at a higher res. Looks okay, if a little bit toytown!

[Eidorian]

I've taken a screenshot of an iPhone app and viewed it on a Mac at a higher res. Looks okay, if a little bit toytown!Does this mean the application scaled up to fit the higher resolution display?

[hansolo1999]

i believe apple will mainly use this tablet as a next gen video game console, which coupled up with itunes will take over gaming in the next few years, everything else will be a plus

[The Final Cut]

Huge mistake for apple to release a non portable phone (maybe mobile device but not nearly compact enough to be considered a true cell phone) No one is going to buy a 1990's size cell phone. Apple needs to play catch up, and put a real OS on it, otherwise it's just another pointless device that will fail. No one wants a larger iphone, in fact most probably want an even smaller one.

[paradox00]

Huge mistake for apple to release a non portable phone (maybe mobile device but not nearly compact enough to be considered a true cell phone) No one is going to buy a 1990's size cell phone. Apple needs to play catch up, and put a real OS on it, otherwise it's just another pointless device that will fail. No one wants a larger iphone, in fact most probably want an even smaller one.

What are you talking about? Are my sarcasm detectors broken?

[cmaier]

Huge mistake for apple to release a non portable phone (maybe mobile device but not nearly compact enough to be considered a true cell phone) No one is going to buy a 1990's size cell phone. Apple needs to play catch up, and put a real OS on it, otherwise it's just another pointless device that will fail. No one wants a larger iphone, in fact most probably want an even smaller one.

First, lots of people want a larger iPhone. Second, this isn't "a non portable phone." The fact that it is running a variation of iPhone's OS simply means they started with that code base. iPhone OS is very similar to Mac OS, and is certainly a "real OS." It has nearly all the most common APIs, though in many cases simplified to eliminate cruft and to take less room. The main difference is in the UI layer, where iPhone OS adds UIKit. Under the hood, there's little you can do with Mac OS that you can't do with iPhone OS. The new OS is likely to be someplace in the middle. It will likely add in some things that had been stripped out (since the new devices will have the resources to cope with them) and add in new UI elements to deal with the new form factors and device capabilities.

[paradox00]

Perhaps a lot of people don't think they want it to be an iPhone on steroids?

Fixed. :cool:

[*LTD*]

First, lots of people want a larger iPhone. Second, this isn't "a non portable phone." The fact that it is running a variation of iPhone's OS simply means they started with that code base. iPhone OS is very similar to Mac OS, and is certainly a "real OS." It has nearly all the most common APIs, though in many cases simplified to eliminate cruft and to take less room. The main difference is in the UI layer, where iPhone OS adds UIKit. Under the hood, there's little you can do with Mac OS that you can't do with iPhone OS. The new OS is likely to be someplace in the middle. It will likely add in some things that had been stripped out (since the new devices will have the resources to cope with them) and add in new UI elements to deal with the new form factors and device capabilities.

So now Tablet = non-portable phone?

LOL

[Stella]

So now Tablet = non-portable phone?

LOL


http://i124.photobucket.com/albums/p8/knyte6426/dynatac.jpg
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/21/34178032_e8da64f243.jpg
:D

[Evangelion]

Depends on the quality of the product. Is its poor, then I will express my opinions. Likewise, if I'm impressed, then I'll post them too.

And looking at your posts, everything Apple has ever done, is more or less crap. Your comments seem to always be utterly negative.

I remember what happened when the Zune HD came out. Also I don't want a trainwreck of external accessories to get it to do what I want.

Well, if you want to display the picture on a television, how would you go about it then? Whether you need external accessories or not depends on what you want it to do. For example, if you want to use a hardware-keyboard, would would have to use an accessory. Likewise with getting video from the device to a big screen. Or do you suggest that it should magically transmit the video wirelessly to the television?

iPods already support video-output to television, why wouldn't the slate support it as well?

If it did in fact have such a dock and it had some AppleTV-functionality in it, it would be in addition to the other functionality it has. You could use the device just fine without that functionality (I have never used the video-out features of my iPod). You are not required to use every single feature of your devices.

What I could see happening is that when docked, the UI on the television would be one that is usable with a remote, instead of multitouch-UI. And I wouldn't be surprised if Apple released new AppleTV based on that UI, using the same CPU/GPU as the slate would use.

Will that happen? Probably not, but who knows.

[colmaclean]

Does this mean the application scaled up to fit the higher resolution display?

The screenshot scaled fine (with some smoothing required to get rid of any blockiness). I guess as long as the underlying engine can handle upscaled apps, this should not be a problem.

[knewsom]

Like I said, a giant iPhone. ...no thank you. I want my phone to fit in my pocket.

[fishkorp]

To everyone that wants this to run "full" OS X, you do realize that even if it did, NONE of your current applications would run, right? Things like MS Office, Photoshop, etc would all need to be rewritten for ARM. Adding emulation (like Rosetta) would just make it unbearably slow running those applications. You'd still have to wait on all the software vendors to port the applications you want. At least by running iPhone OS you get a built-in catalog of available applications.

[HaXoR7Om]

daym, I was really hoping that the tablet would run snow leopard I'm far from sold now. :apple:

[Cander]

Like I said, a giant iPhone. ...no thank you. I want my phone to fit in my pocket.

And like I have said, without knowing the context of what they mean when they say 'iPhone on steroids' your assumptions are baseless.

Do they not teach the concept of context in school any more?

[Hattig]

The screenshot scaled fine (with some smoothing required to get rid of any blockiness). I guess as long as the underlying engine can handle upscaled apps, this should not be a problem.

Apple's meant to be getting app developers to redevelop their applications to work with different screen resolutions. Considering that apps these days can run both at 320x480 and 480x320, this might not be as bad as it could be.

I imagine that many won't have any problems with this. However it could also be likely that many applications will need to be totally rejigged for tablet use, in terms of UI layout and structure.

I think Apple would rather have the application developers think over the problem rather than dump iPhone apps directly onto the iSlate where they will look awkward and out of place.

[Evangelion]

daym, I was really hoping that the tablet would run snow leopard I'm far from sold now. :apple:

Again: that is a ludicrous hope. Snow Leopard is NOT designed for multitouch-touchsreen UI, it's designed for mouse and keyboard. If you want a product that runs Snow Leopard, go right ahead and buy this (http://www.axiotron.com/index.php?id=modbook). I fail to see why you would have to wait for the Apple-tablet when the product you are hoping for is already available.

No, Apple-tablet will obviously be running an OS that is designed for touchscreens. And that means no Mac OS X. Simply shoehorning Mac OS X in to a tablet and calling it a day is NOT the solution Apple is going to be offering.

[nxent]

hmm,
my guess would be they've had two software teams working in parallel to develop an adequate interface... an iphone os team, and an os x team. maybe the iphone os team simply developed the better interface...

[Povilas]

And I'm sure Apple is just messing around with some id...

[trajen]

I already own an iPhone and a Macbook. This is just going to be a gimmick.

+1

[HobeSoundDarryl]

i just hope it doesn't have phone capabilities... i would hate to have to hold a tablet to my face....

yep were going back to having big ass phones again with touch screens like they thought they would have in the 80s.

Huge mistake for apple to release a non portable phone (maybe mobile device but not nearly compact enough to be considered a true cell phone)

Com'on guys. Use a little imagination. Imagine holding the tablet in front of you as if it wasn't a phone, but with earbuds + microphone plugged into it. Now you've got a way to listen to your media AND use it like a phone when you want to make a call. No holding it up to your ear... but it will be much easier to be on the phone and use this phone for information (like checking movie times) at the same time. If you've ever made a call with VOIP on your laptop (you didn't hold your laptop up to your ear, now did you?), this will be very similar... only even easier because the device itself should be even smaller & lighter. That's how it should work. And if does, it should be great as a combined device for those who need an iPhone plus the bigger screen and other features that come with this Tablet.

#2. No phone means no optional subsidy with contract. I can't believe people keep wanting it NOT to have optional phone capabilities. If you want to buy a Tablet, you either personally cough up all of the price that Apple wants for this new toy, OR, it has built-in 3G for those that might also want to use it as their phone (too), which then gives us a way to "buy" it at "shockingly low prices".

No one is going to buy a 1990's size cell phone. No one wants a larger iphone, in fact most probably want an even smaller one.
I guess I am "No one" then... because I do want a larger iPhone (to use as described up above), hopefully with other great features to take advantage of a larger screen. And I'll very likely buy a larger iPhone if this thing turns out to be one.

[reivilo]

Yes, but there's no "Report Claims Current iMac 27" i5 / i7 Definitively EOL-ed"

Apple :apple:, please focus on delivering the iMac 27" everyone is expecting and waiting for since mid-December :mad: .

How many failed X-mas presents :confused:

The same Ships: 2 weeks is there for more than 4 weeks :mad: .

Strange enough, the Refurb only proposes C2D 27", as if the i5 / i7 were not suitable for a refurb, despite all the fuss about the broken screen and the graphic card :(

What's the need for a new gizmo if you can't deliver :eek:

MacRumors, please investigate ;)

[Flavioparentiq]

My guess for the islate:

- 10.1" LCD screen with multitouch
- 1gb of RAM
- dual core cortex arm 9 processor
- 32 gb SSD
- an hybrid o.s beetween mac osx and iPhone gui, closer to aniPhone than a standard macs but with full integration of iTunes, an evolved app store and a cool gui+hardware idea for text imput.
- some online storage disk could be possible for the new iLife suite (10/20gb)
- Bluetooth, wifi, no 3G, no stylus, nor USB or any port at all (no minidisplay)

599/699$ for the price

[paradox00]

My guess for the islate:

- 10.1" LCD screen with multitouch
- 1gb of RAM
- dual core cortex arm 9 processor
- 32 gb SSD
- an hybrid o.s beetween mac osx and iPhone gui, closer to aniPhone than a standard macs but with full integration of iTunes, an evolved app store and a cool gui+hardware idea for text imput.
- some online storage disk could be possible for the new iLife suite (10/20gb)
- Bluetooth, wifi, no 3G, no stylus, nor USB or any port at all (no minidisplay)

599/699$ for the price

No SSD (they cost too much), they would use the same type of flash chips as the iPhone and be at least 64 GB. Considering the new chips out, 128 GB would be probable.

[Povilas]

+1

It's +1 only if you have time machine and since I'm pretty sure you don't this "+1" thing looks really silly.

[HobeSoundDarryl]

I wouldn't be surprised if they announced updated AppleTV as well (remember: AppleTV was announced at the same time they announced iPhone). Also, I wouldn't be surprised if the slate could act as an AppleTV as well. They could have a dock with HDMI-out, where you could dock the slate. When you do so, the UI moves over to the big-screen, and you can then control it with a remote (or iPhone) and maybe even with a keyboard. Streaming content to the device from a Mac would also work, just like on the AppleTV.

While I'm 110% with you on the desire for a new :apple:TV (personally I'd rather see them announce that than this Tablet), I just don't see it making any sense for this Tablet to be perceived as the next-gen :apple:TV. That only works if you are single living alone. Then, when you take this new super mobile device with you, no one back at home suffers at the loss of the :apple:TV.

Making this Tablet have options to play content on TVs makes a lot of sense. If it is going to be some kind of pseudo-laptop replacement, it is going to need a way to show media on screens other than it's own (for example, a keynote presentation via a projector). But I really can't see it working as a mobile :apple:TV for anyone other than single people living alone.

The next-gen :apple:TV should be its own device (like it is now). Build in a dock option if Apple wants the Tablet to easily link to it, but I hope Apple won't try to make this mobile device merge with a stationary device meant to always be connected to a HDTV. After all, how often do you pick up your dedicated DVD player box and take it with you?

[Eidorian]

While I'm 110% with you on the desire for a new :apple:TV (personally I'd rather see them announce that than this Tablet), I just don't see it making any sense for this Tablet to be perceived as the next-gen :apple:TV. That only works if you are single living alone. Then, when you take this new super mobile device with you, no one back at home suffers at the loss of the :apple:TV.

Making this Tablet have options to play content on TVs makes a lot of sense. If it is going to be some kind of pseudo-laptop replacement, it is going to need a way to show media on screens other than it's own (for example, a keynote presentation via a projector). But I really can't see it working as a mobile :apple:TV for anyone other than single people living alone.

The next-gen :apple:TV should be its own device (like it is now). Build in a dock option if Apple wants the Tablet to easily link to it, but I hope Apple won't try to make this mobile device merge with a stationary device meant to always be connected to a HDTV. After all, how often do you pick up your dedicated DVD player box and take it with you?I'd like to have onboard video out as well in addition to other peripheral connectors. Then again this is starting to sound like a Tablet PC instead of a dock connector only Apple device.

[mira2010]

http://www.nytimes.com/timesskimmer/

[neilw]

I already own an iPhone and a Macbook. This is just going to be a gimmick.

So, sight unseen, with only the sketchiest information, you dismiss something that Apple has been refining for *years*? I fail to understand this mentality. If you have so little regard for Apple's capabilities, why are you even here?

Skepticism regarding the form factor is warranted. Complete dismissal in the absence of concrete information is, at the least, puzzling. This product may be a gimmick, and it may go down in flames quite spectacularly, but do you really know enough right now to draw that conclusion?

I felt the same way about those who dismissed Avatar as crap before it was even released. Judge on the final product, especially when coming from someone with an exemplary track record. Then, if you don't like it, have at it.

[ShiftyPig]

I'm just going to start calling this thing iGinger.

[HobeSoundDarryl]

My guess for the islate:

- 10.1" LCD screen with multitouch
- 1gb of RAM
- dual core cortex arm 9 processor
- 32 gb SSD
- an hybrid o.s beetween mac osx and iPhone gui, closer to aniPhone than a standard macs but with full integration of iTunes, an evolved app store and a cool gui+hardware idea for text imput.
- some online storage disk could be possible for the new iLife suite (10/20gb)
- Bluetooth, wifi, no 3G, no stylus, nor USB or any port at all (no minidisplay)

599/699$ for the price

Pretty good guess except your price is too low if there's no 3G to subsidize it. Check out the price of the smaller screen, unsubsidized iphone. Then, let that be your guide for guessing the right price for this bigger/better device. No 3G means the likes of AT&T or Verizon will NOT be chipping in on helping buyers give Apple the full price that Apple will want for this thing.

My belief is that the low end of an unsubsidized iPhone is going to be $799, though I can easily imagine the rumored $999 price (much easier to imagine +$200 vs. -$200).

With a 3G contract though, I think we can see the "shockingly low" price also recently rumored, probably down in the few hundred range of the iPhone.

[HobeSoundDarryl]

I'd like to have onboard video out as well in addition to other peripheral connectors. Then again this is starting to sound like a Tablet PC instead of a dock connector only Apple device.

I think it just about MUST have video out in some form, as a mobile computer without it really won't compete with the idea of taking the laptop at all. If the laptop almost always wins this battle, then why buy a Tablet at all? Thus, some form of video out seems extraordinarily likely in my thinking.

[zacman]

Only CrapStore apps = show stopper

Though I fear Apple wants to introduce the Store concept for OS X too. They just make so much more money when every developer has to pay 100 USD a year to release an application even when it's freeware. And not to mention the 30% tax for commercial applications.

[mwstudio]

Since the entire tablet screen would be a sweetspot for 3D lenticular lens Apple should blow everyone away with a 3D enabled display. This is the future why wait?

[Eidorian]

I think it just about MUST have video out in some form, as a mobile computer without it really won't compete with the idea of taking the laptop at all. If the laptop almost always wins this battle, then why buy a Tablet at all? Thus, some form of video out seems extraordinarily likely in my thinking.I wouldn't want to carry a dock around either when you could just use a built in output.

[applefanEUPB]

If so it's just a toy and I don't need another iPhone.

[paradox00]

I think it just about MUST have video out in some form, as a mobile computer without it really won't compete with the idea of taking the laptop at all. If the laptop almost always wins this battle, then why buy a Tablet at all? Thus, some form of video out seems extraordinarily likely in my thinking.

The iPhone has video out...

So yes video out is very likely, one could almost say a given.

[paradox00]

Only CrapStore apps = show stopper

Though I fear Apple wants to introduce the Store concept for OS X too. They just make so much more money when every developer has to pay 100 USD a year to release an application even when it's freeware. And not to mention the 30% tax for commercial applications.

On the other hand, OSX upgrades would likely be free, maybe hardware costs could come down. It isn't all downsides. I'd never want OSX to be completely closed but an App store could be a good thing.

[HobeSoundDarryl]

I already own an iPhone and a Macbook. This is just going to be a gimmick.

I think the people who already have an iPhone won't like this Tablet because they won't get it at the advertised (subsidized) low price (without a 2nd contract).

I think people who own a good iTunes connected laptop won't like this Tablet because the Laptop will be able to do everything a mobile computer is supposed to do... in a package that is only a little heavier and a little thicker.

The segment of the former that might go anyway are the ones who desperately want the bigger screen (or who would buy anything that Apple rolls out). The segment of the latter who might buy anyway are probably those who haven't already locked into the iPhone (and iPhone contract).

There is a scenario where all this new print content turned digital is EXCLUSIVELY available to Tablet owners only... and maybe that would make it an appealing 3rd device to lug around. But I see exclusivity as highly unlikely: why would the publishers want to sell to a tiny segment when they could reach millions of iTunes connected devices already in place?

Net: if you already have a good iTunes-connected laptop, it's hard to imagine a Tablet concept that makes you want to lug a 2nd large screen around... unless you don't have an iPhone and it can double as your phone (subsidized of course). If you already have a laptop & iPhone, it gets really challenging to imagine what else this will offer you (beyond "cool") to make it worth paying up the unsubsidized price likely attached to it.

[iMacmatician]

Pretty good guess except your price is too low if there's no 3G to subsidize it. Check out the price of the smaller screen, unsubsidized iphone. Then, let that be your guide for guessing the right price for this bigger/better device. No 3G means the likes of AT&T or Verizon will NOT be chipping in on helping buyers give Apple the full price that Apple will want for this thing. I use the iPod touch's price and go from there.

[ShiftyPig]

Alright, who is the wiseguy who registered K48AP.com today???

[jontucker]

K48AP???????????

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v197/kaeli/homer_woohoo.jpg

[ShiftyPig]

On the other hand, OSX upgrades would likely be free, maybe hardware costs could come down. It isn't all downsides. I'd never want OSX to be completely closed but an App store could be a good thing.

iPhone OS updates aren't free for iPod touch users.

Apple would play the "not a subscription" card and charge for it. OSX going completely closed would kill it.

[hugo7]

iphone-on-steroids

Wasn't the same description used to describe the game-changing Nexus One? Oh dear.

[HobeSoundDarryl]

I use the iPod touch's price and go from there.

I respect the idea of thinking of it as a super "touch" vs. a super "phone", but then this super mobile device won't have always-on access to the web. That makes it a lot less usable from a mobile device point of view, as it would then be tied to wifi (hopefully wimax) sources, rather than getting what you need to know from it, whenever you need to know it.

If it is competing with devices like Kindle, it needs to match that device's ability to get content via 3G from anywhere at anytime. However, if it is going to "fit" into the Touch/Phone lineup of Apple products, it will need to be more than just a Kindle (more than just a 3G only to buy stuff function), as mobile Safari seems like a feature that will heavily differentiate it from Kindle and Kindle-like devices. How do you get mobile anywhere without 3G?

If it is competing with netbooks, it needs to do a pretty good job against all that a small laptop can do. Since we know Apple won't compete on price, it is going to need to do a bit more than what those devices can do. Again, an always connected 3G source contributes to justifying a higher (Apple) price.

And before someone pitches 3G data only at some super low monthly rate, note that any 3G option gives this full mobile phone capabilities- be that through standard voice 3G or through mobile VOIP. A lower priced- but full 3G connection would become the cheapest option for anyone who needs mobile phone communications.

For myself, I really hope it is more iPhone than Touch, as I think that's the major draw (for me)- I don't have an iPhone. If it comes with the mobile connected limitations of the Touch, why not just buy the smaller Touch?

And I still believe the 3G subsidy model is how we get the "shockingly low price." I can't imagine all this hype and "gee whiz" buildup for something Apple launches at $299-$499 or so in 2010 (without AT&T or Verizon, etc chipping in on the rest of the TOTAL amount Apple wants for this thing).

[wilycoder]

If this rumor is indeed true, then I won't be buying one.

[iMacmatician]

For myself, I really hope it is more iPhone than Touch, as I think that's the major draw (for me)- I don't have an iPhone. If it comes with the mobile connected limitations of the Touch, why not just buy the smaller Touch? For all the other features of the tablet that aren't on the iPod touch?

I don't want a contract. I would like the choice of 3G or no 3G on the tablet.

[gohanmzt]

To everyone that wants this to run "full" OS X, you do realize that even if it did, NONE of your current applications would run, right? Things like MS Office, Photoshop, etc would all need to be rewritten for ARM. Adding emulation (like Rosetta) would just make it unbearably slow running those applications. You'd still have to wait on all the software vendors to port the applications you want. At least by running iPhone OS you get a built-in catalog of available applications.

I was thinking just that, and that Apple MUST have a tablet-ready set of common use apps, you know, the apps that almost everyone uses right now and that won't run on the tablet because of the ARM processor.

That is assuming that the thing exists.

[*LTD*]

To everyone that wants this to run "full" OS X, you do realize that even if it did, NONE of your current applications would run, right? Things like MS Office, Photoshop, etc would all need to be rewritten for ARM. Adding emulation (like Rosetta) would just make it unbearably slow running those applications. You'd still have to wait on all the software vendors to port the applications you want. At least by running iPhone OS you get a built-in catalog of available applications.

Eventually, App Store applications will become as powerful as their .dmg counterparts. We'll be doing full word-processing and image editing on our tablets.

Tablets (though not the way we understand them pre-Apple's tablet) WILL replace notebooks in time. It's a ways off, but it'll happen.

;)

[HobeSoundDarryl]

I don't want a contract. I would like the choice of 3G or no 3G on the tablet.

I forecast that you get that. 3G will not be mandatory.

So, you can buy an unsubsidized one with no contract for (my guess) $799 or so. Or you can "buy" a subsidized one with contract for (my guess) $299-$399 or so.

I think Apple sells more of these Tablets if they build in the option for 3G. The option is key for those already in an iPhone contract (no 2nd contract required because they can pay up for an unsubsidized one), or for those who will be satisfied at having the "ultimate" mobile device only connected when they can find an open wifi (hopefully wimax) hotspot.

For those that don't yet own an iPhone, this could be a compelling alternative. And since it is not a phone, it may not be locked into the AT&T exclusive arrangement, so this could be a way for those on Verizon, etc to get an "iphone"-type device NOW. That is a big market hungry for iPhone-like features but stuck on non-AT&T networks (or choosing to NOT become an AT&T customer). Personally, I'm in this group, hoping the Tablet can double as an iPhone. It becomes much less appealing (conceptually) to me if it lacks 3G as an option.

[akac]

100%. In fact, if Apple does release one locked down with a useless iphone OS, I'll personally start the pot with a $5,000 donation to fund any hacker group that can get OS X running on it.

I'm not sure how that would help you. First, its a totally different processor. No OS X app would run.

[Jimmy James]

If this device is a suitable replacement for an iPhone (too big) or a laptop (probably too limited) it will have a huge market.

As it is I'm not giving up my phone and I'm not giving up my home computer (laptop) and I'm not getting a third device.

OTOH, if they can implement ebook reader type viewing while keeping the benefits of a traditional screen, well, that would be quite something.

[kdarling]

Alright, who is the wiseguy who registered K48AP.com today???

Not sure too many people would type that in :)

It's also always possible that each preliminary tablet has a different model number, in order to track down information leaks. Not likely, but possible.

[j_maddison]

I'm starting to think this iSlate will be an epic fail, G4 cube level failure! I hope the rumours are wrong, an oversized iPhone (minus the phone) with it's crash happy apps in a slate format........ I hope not! If that's the case they might as well just call it the Big touch or something, and sell it to kids

[*LTD*]

If this device is a suitable replacement for an iPhone (too big) or a laptop (probably too limited) it will have a huge market.

As it is I'm not giving up my phone and I'm not giving up my home computer (laptop) and I'm not getting a third device.

OTOH, if they can implement ebook reader type viewing while keeping the benefits of a traditional screen, well, that would be quite something.

The problem (if there is one) is that right now, it might seem like a suitable replacement for your iPhone. It shouldn't be, but at this early stage in the game it might seem like that. It's intended to eventually replace your notebook. Clearly, that's quite a ways off. Then again, we might reach the point where smartphone and tablet technologies will merge, and we'll just have varying sizes of tablets with phone capabilities.

Interesting to note that while voice commnication has its place (and a very important place it is!) I've found myself texting and e-mailing far more often than calling. I suspect others' experiences might be similar. Besdies, texting is often a better alternative to using up your daytime minutes. Food for thought . . .

[koopa35]

I havent posted in a while but this tablet seems cool. to all the people who wants full os x. think about it , its not not math class but it dont add up. why would you want to use a full blow desktop os on a 10" touch screen only?

I think if that happens those full blown os x people would be first to complain when it dont work good enough. would you play ps3 or xbox 360 on a 10" inch screen? as for the controls being "out of control" I seem to be the only one who sees this as good. meaning they are fun and havent thought of. I know when me and my buddies say something was out of control more often then not it was in a good way.

[*LTD*]

I'm starting to think this iSlate will be an epic fail, G4 cube level failure!

The G4 Cube led to the Mac Mini.

[andiwm2003]

from my very subjective personal view and for my use I would like to have:

10 inch screen
great battery life
wifi
3G
GPS
silly compass
accelerometer
webcam
iphone OSX (modified)
all iPhone apps (modified)
iwork (modified)
apple mail program
iphoto
some photo editor
some ebook reader
safari
keychain
sync to my mobileme
speakers
microphone
video out
sd card reader
more than 30GB
no real phone capabilities
$600 with $30 data plan through ATT

most of the rumored tablets fill the hardware requirements. sometimes people claim no webcam, some claim no 3G, some claim no video out.

not much is speculated about the software that runs but it some say iwork will come to the tablet.

so all in all most of my requirements seem to be met. i will check if the final product meets enough requirements and then buy or not. if there will be a tablet at all.

[MacFly123]

So that's why I haven't seen you around for some time! Since that big list of reasons we made as to why it is likely to run iPhone OS apparently wasn't enough, I'm not sure if this rumor will be.

Haha, yes. That was quite a while ago before all these recent rumors. So you can back me up. After all the info that has been coming at us for the last several months anyone who thinks iSlate will run Mac OS X needs lots of help lol!

The annoying thing is in two weeks when myself and many others on here are proven right, the Mac OS X desirers will just whine and complain, when their hopes for it happening were delusional to begin with!

[str1f3]

I'm starting to think this iSlate will be an epic fail, G4 cube level failure! I hope the rumours are wrong, an oversized iPhone (minus the phone) with it's crash happy apps in a slate format........ I hope not! If that's the case they might as well just call it the Big touch or something, and sell it to kids

I've started to feel that way since the WSJ article. I don't think it will be a total failure but it will just be a niche product. An iPhone on steroids is what it seems to be. Five years from now it may be a real computer but it may also be a heavily locked down computer. At this point I think I'll get a Kindle along with the upcoming MBP to complement my iPhone.

From Daring Fireball today:

"Everything in BGR’s brief rumor report jibes with what I’ve been hearing"

[charliehustle]

this thing deserves the same amount of hype as the macbook air.

who needs a tablet that can't do normal stuff like a macbook pro, but is too big to fit in to your pocket like your iphone.

If you can't put it in your pocket and have to lug it around, might as well have your laptop.

and when you need quick internet, iphone.

FLOP>>

[cmaier]

this thing deserves the same amount of hype as the macbook air.

who needs a tablet that can't do normal stuff like a macbook pro, but is too big to fit in to your pocket like your iphone.

If you can't put it in your pocket and have to lug it around, might as well have your laptop.

and when you need quick internet, iphone.

FLOP>>

People used to say the same thing about laptop vs. desktops.

[str1f3]

People used to say the same thing about laptop vs. desktops.

What is the point? I'm supposed to be excited for what will happen 5-10 years from now instead of two weeks from today? What will the future bring? A locked down OS with only the apps that Apple says it's ok to use?

[cmaier]

What is the point? I'm supposed to be excited for what will happen 5-10 years from now instead of two weeks from today? What will the future bring? A locked down OS with only the apps that Apple says it's ok to use?

The point is you have no idea what this thing will be, so quit griping about it as if you have a clue what will show up.

[j_maddison]

The G4 Cube led to the Mac Mini.

I'm aware, it was still a failed product though. Overpriced, over heated, and under powered. Looked great mind!

[Padraig]

The point is you have no idea what this thing will be, so quit griping about it as if you have a clue what will show up.

The point is that this is MacRUMORS. The site's lifeblood comes from people either bitching or celebrating the latest rumor.

[bristleworm]

Concerning the "Out-of-control-gestures": I remember that a few months ago (could also be a few years) apple had a patent application for gestures that could be read on the back of the device, thus making it possible to gesture with both the hand that holds the device and the other one that directly interacts with it. I had totally forgotten about this but now I think this might be a possibility of how the gestures could be dramatically different to those we already know.
Using both hands and both the front and back of the device would allow for seriously complex (3D) gestures that still could be quite easy to learn…

Can't wait for the 26th/27th :)

[str1f3]

The point is you have no idea what this thing will be, so quit griping about it as if you have a clue what will show up.

LOL, griping? That's amusing.

First, if your point is that no one knows what it will be then your original point makes no sense. We all knew what laptops were going to be. It wasn't a question of the OS the laptop was running but the lack of power in hardware compared to a desktop.

Secondly, we are getting a pretty good idea of what this thing is. Anything less than an actual computer will be a disappointment. Everybody likes to point to the iPhone announcement as an example of the unexpected. That was the first truly unexpected product announcement that Apple's ever had. Virtually every event we've had a pretty good idea of what was coming. Virtually every respected Mac writer from John Gruber to Daniel Eran Dilger have said it's an oversized iPhone. The WSJ, who's rarely wrong about any Apple rumor, supports this idea.

You try to insult me, which is always easy to do through a keyboard, but you really aren't getting it. Myself, and many others, are on the cusp of not giving a damn. It is the reason why this story has more negatives than positives.

[cmaier]

You try to insult me, which is always easy to do through a keyboard, but you really aren't getting it. Myself, and many others, are on the cusp of not giving a damn. It is the reason why this story has more negatives than positives.

I don't think I tried to insult you, and if I did, I apologize - I don't think accusing someone of griping is insulting.

[str1f3]

I don't think I tried to insult you, and if I did, I apologize - I don't think accusing someone of griping is insulting.

I just want to have a gentlemanly argument between two Mac fans. It's ok to disagree. ;)

[Mattie Num Nums]

The G4 Cube led to the Mac Mini.

... and we are still waiting to see where that will lead to.

[rstansby]

:D:D:DInternal Codename = The Big iPod Touch

:D

[rstansby]

I'm aware, it was still a failed product though. Overpriced, over heated, and under powered. Looked great mind!

Nobody will argue that the G4 cube sold well. However, at the time it came out, it was the cheapest G4 mac available. My son still uses the one I bought new.

[oban14]

I'm not sure why everyone is surprised unless you're all sucked into the Steve Jobs reality distortion field. I've been saying for months, this is just going to be a big iPhone. Nothing revolutionary, nothing mindblowing, etc. Just a really big iPhone.

[BVeritas]

I'm not sure why everyone is surprised unless you're all sucked into the Steve Jobs reality distortion field. I've been saying for months, this is just going to be a big iPhone. Nothing revolutionary, nothing mindblowing, etc. Just a really big iPhone.

Okay, if you don't read, if you don't like browsing on something with a decent screen from the couch or anywhere you want, if you don't like running a bunch of iPhone and new apps that you can actually see, this is probably not for you. But, as for me, these things are important. Actually I do expect it to have other functions I'm not aware of, but these are more than sufficient to interest me.

I'm expecting to have lots of books and magazines, have some sort of typed and cursive input, perhaps iWorks so I can create some documents, and apps for things like taxes. I can curl up in front of the fireplace and do all of these things just like I would with paper, but without all of the clutter.

And best of all, I'll be able to take it with me while I sit on the toilet.

[pooryou]

Still don't see the point of a 'tablet'...seems like a product without any real application.

[BVeritas]

Still don't see the point of a 'tablet'...seems like a product without any real application.

Wrong, see my post above.

[pooryou]

Wrong, see my post above.

Sorry but I don't see anything compelling in your post. We already have these things called 'laptops'.

[twoodcc]

looking forward to this device. i don't mind that it runs the iphone os, as long as all my apps work with it!

[BVeritas]

Sorry but I don't see anything compelling in your post. We already have these things called 'laptops'.

Suspect you've closed your mind. But, you can't curl up with a laptop, perhaps you can, I can't. Which laptop do you have that has touch and can run all of those apps? Which laptop do you have that has the Pixel Qi screen for eReading? I'm really ready to follow you, I'm not a leader, perhaps you are.

[MikhailT]

People, if the tablet doesn't seem like it's going to be useful for you, you are not the intended market for it. You don't have to buy it. You can get the macbook instead. It's not going to replace it.

There are people with desktops only (or even if they have iPhones) who'll want the tablet to carry with them around the house to do stuff. Imagine eating breakfast and you want to read the news or a book, you can take the tablet down to the kitchen and eat there. Or if you're cooking and you want to check emails or whatever social networking you want to do. What about staying outside or in the balcony to enjoy the sunny weather? How about working on the car in the garage and you need to figure out how to fix something, you can just use the tablet instead of going up to your room to check on the internet.

Now, you can say that iphone can do all of those, yes on a 3" screen. But not everybody have an iphone and yes while they can get iPod Touch, they might not want the 3" screen as it might be too small for them. 10" might be perfect size for all people including elderly.

[BVeritas]

People, if the tablet doesn't seem like it's going to be useful for you, you are not the intended market for it. You don't have to buy it. You can get the macbook instead. It's not going to replace it.

There are people with desktops only (or even if they have iPhones) who'll want the tablet to carry with them around the house to do stuff. Imagine eating breakfast and you want to read the news or a book, you can take the tablet down to the kitchen and eat there. Or if you're cooking and you want to check emails or whatever social networking you want to do. What about staying outside or in the balcony to enjoy the sunny weather? How about working on the car in the garage and you need to figure out how to fix something, you can just use the tablet instead of going up to your room to check on the internet.

Now, you can say that iphone can do all of those, yes on a 3" screen. But not everybody have an iphone and yes while they can get iPod Touch, they might not want the 3" screen as it might be too small for them. 10" might be perfect size for all people including elderly.

Think you've stated it appropriately. We, including me, tend to be too technical. This is a device for the masses whom are captured in your post. Thanks ...

[oban14]

Suspect you've closed your mind. But, you can't curl up with a laptop, perhaps you can, I can't. Which laptop do you have that has touch and can run all of those apps? Which laptop do you have that has the Pixel Qi screen for eReading? I'm really ready to follow you, I'm not a leader, perhaps you are.

I don't need a laptop that can have a touch screen. I type 84 words per minute. How many can you write?

Look, this product will appeal to some people. I have a macbook, it suits all these needs just find. This is going to be a color kindle with a really nice screen or a big iphone. If you like it, go buy it.

I'm just surprised that people are SHOCKED that it's just a big iphone. That's all it was ever meant to be.

[BVeritas]

I'm just surprised that people are SHOCKED that it's just a big iphone. That's all it was ever meant to be.

I'm SHOCKED that you know what the product actually is, you impress me.

Let me be fair. I want to be able to annotate, it's not speed it's convenience. I hold the device with one hand and write with the other, it's really meant for thoughts, not speed. I do agree you can type faster, but I just want to take notes while concentrating on the speaker or reading, whatever. There are multiple ways of providing input, I want them all.

[MikhailT]

I don't need a laptop that can have a touch screen. I type 84 words per minute. How many can you write?

Look, this product will appeal to some people. I have a macbook, it suits all these needs just find. This is going to be a color kindle with a really nice screen or a big iphone. If you like it, go buy it.

I'm just surprised that people are SHOCKED that it's just a big iphone. That's all it was ever meant to be.

What I'm slightly annoyed about is that people are making so many different opinions, ideas, decisions, and assumptions on a product that they haven't seen.

Just...wait....till...it...is...out, that's all people have to do.

[cmaier]

I don't need a laptop that can have a touch screen. I type 84 words per minute. How many can you write?

Look, this product will appeal to some people. I have a macbook, it suits all these needs just find. This is going to be a color kindle with a really nice screen or a big iphone. If you like it, go buy it.

I'm just surprised that people are SHOCKED that it's just a big iphone. That's all it was ever meant to be.

The other point is that even though a laptop can do everything the tablet can (assuming that's true), eventually people get to the point where it's time to consider buying a new laptop, and if the tablet does everything they need - but cheaper and in a more intuitive and user-friendly way - they'll likely buy the tablet.

[oban14]

I'm SHOCKED that you know what the product actually is, you impress me.

Let me be fair. I want to be able to annotate, it's not speed it's convenience. I hold the device with one hand and write with the other, it's really meant for thoughts, not speed. I do agree you can type faster, but I just want to take notes while concentrating on the speaker or reading, whatever. There are multiple ways of providing input, I want them all.

What I'm slightly annoyed about is that people are making so many different opinions, ideas, decisions, and assumptions on a product that they haven't seen.

Just...wait....till...it...is...out, that's all people have to do.

Don't worry, I won't be here to rain on your parade while you guys are gushing and crying about how Jobs is the second coming of Jesus and the iSlate is the most amazing device, how he's the only one who could have possibly thought of it and how Apple is the most amazing company known to man, my god it's like they're a part of you, and all you can do is try to keep your trembling hands steady enough for a few line drawings in iPaint and musings in iScrawl.

Well, maybe I will. :p

The other point is that even though a laptop can do everything the tablet can (assuming that's true), eventually people get to the point where it's time to consider buying a new laptop, and if the tablet does everything they need - but cheaper and in a more intuitive and user-friendly way - they'll likely buy the tablet.

Except it's running the iPhone version of OSX. When Logic gets ported to it I'll think about it. Here are some things that it would take to impress me:

1) Completely waterproof.
2) You can turn the power off, and the next 50 or so pages are stored in a capacitor and can be read.
3) Battery life of over 20 hours with full usage.

[BVeritas]

Don't worry, I won't be here to rain on your parade while you guys are gushing and crying about how Jobs is the second coming of Jesus and the iSlate is the most amazing device, how he's the only one who could have possibly thought of it and how Apple is the most amazing company known to man, my god it's like they're a part of you, and all you can do is try to keep your trembling hands steady enough for a few line drawings in iPaint and musings in iScrawl.

Well, maybe I will. :p



Except it's running the iPhone version of OSX. When Logic gets ported to it I'll think about it. Here are some things that it would take to impress me:

1) Completely waterproof.
2) You can turn the power off, and the next 50 or so pages are stored in a capacitor and can be read.
3) Battery life of over 20 hours with full usage.

Okay, you no longer impress me. You seem to be too impressed with the mirror. I, I, I, me, me, me.

[str1f3]

The other point is that even though a laptop can do everything the tablet can (assuming that's true), eventually people get to the point where it's time to consider buying a new laptop, and if the tablet does everything they need - but cheaper and in a more intuitive and user-friendly way - they'll likely buy the tablet.

That's if the tablet is a laptop competitor. As of right now, most believe that it can't even connect to a USB drive. How can you backup your tablet if that's the case?

In order for it to replace a laptop, it has to replace its most basic duties. Right now a $300 netbook can do all of this and more. Multitouch may be more fun and intuitive but you're asking them to spend extra in a slowly recovering economy.

We don't know what's coming and I hope that Apple introduces something truly revolutionary.

[cmaier]

That's if the tablet is a laptop competitor. As of right now, most believe that it can't even connect to a USB drive. How can you backup your tablet if that's the case?

In order for it to replace a laptop, it has to replace its most basic duties. Right now a $300 netbook can do all of this and more. Multitouch may be more fun and intuitive but you're asking them to spend extra in a slowly recovering economy.

We don't know what's coming and I hope that Apple introduces something truly revolutionary.

Like it or not there are a tremendous number of people who don't back up their stuff and don't want to. If a tablet stores data in the cloud or "syncs" like an ipod, they're thrilled with that. The tablet may not be for you, but it's for a lot of other people. It doesn't have to do all the things a netbook can - it only has to do all the things a large number of people need it to do. As a business traveller I can tell you that even a simple tablet with Apple's attention to detail is incredibly relevant - the ability to view and lightly annotate business docs (office formats and pdf), send and receive email, maybe show powerpoint/keynote presentations, maybe video conference, surf the web, with ipod media functions, all in a package that's no bigger and no heavier than it needs to be, is incredibly compelling to someone who spends a lot of time on planes and in hotel rooms. Yeah, I can do that with a laptop, but why carry weight to support things I don't need (keyboard, optical drive, fans, bigger batteries to support x86, etc.)

[str1f3]

Like it or not there are a tremendous number of people who don't back up their stuff and don't want to. If a tablet stores data in the cloud or "syncs" like an ipod, they're thrilled with that. The tablet may not be for you, but it's for a lot of other people. It doesn't have to do all the things a netbook can - it only has to do all the things a large number of people need it to do. As a business traveller I can tell you that even a simple tablet with Apple's attention to detail is incredibly relevant - the ability to view and lightly annotate business docs (office formats and pdf), send and receive email, maybe show powerpoint/keynote presentations, maybe video conference, surf the web, with ipod media functions, all in a package that's no bigger and no heavier than it needs to be, is incredibly compelling to someone who spends a lot of time on planes and in hotel rooms. Yeah, I can do that with a laptop, but why carry weight to support things I don't need (keyboard, optical drive, fans, bigger batteries to support x86, etc.)

But where's is it syncing to in the cloud? Apple has just started hiring to move iWork into the cloud. They currently have no music, TV and movie subscriptions in place. The latter two will take years just for a US deal. If it still syncs to your computer, then on the road you have nothing if you have to restore. Apple currently stores no info of the app you have to easily restore. You either have to guess, take a screenshot or keep all the receipts of all the apps you purchased. You are asking Apple to think of all of this on a 1.0 product that is based on the iPhone OS.

Let's say that the tablet weighs around 2 lbs.. Is it really going to break your back to carry 3 extra lbs.for a MBP? You've been getting along so far and if weight was that much of an issue you could get an MBA which would be 1lbs. more. Chances are very likely that both machines will give you far more power and the full potential of OSX.

This product is compelling and I believe it is the future of Apple hardware. As of 1.0, there will be many questions about this product and the future of a locked-in platform model . At the very least many need it to be able to restore on the road for not only tablet but potentially the iPhone as well. While iWork is nice I can assure you a third party like Dataviz would take its place if Apple didn't make iWork "Touch".

[MattInOz]

People, if the tablet doesn't seem like it's going to be useful for you, you are not the intended market for it. You don't have to buy it. You can get the macbook instead. It's not going to replace it.


I think your dead on...
a Slate is for two kinds of people, those who needs don't need the power that even a basic laptop has these days and those for who the most powerful laptop doesn't have enough grunt but would still like something portable for the things they do out side of that (image/video/sound) rendering engine that always wants more power.

[cmaier]

But where's is it syncing to in the cloud?

iDisk. Google Apps. Etc.


Apple has just started hiring to move iWork into the cloud. They currently have no music, TV and movie subscriptions in place. The latter two will take years just for a US deal. If it still syncs to your computer, then on the road you have nothing if you have to restore.


See above, at least re: data. For music we have simplifymedia, and possibly even lala support since the web browser might be much more functional. And if I lose my music/movies on the road, oh well.


Apple currently stores no info of the app you have to easily restore. You either have to guess, take a screenshot or keep all the receipts of all the apps you purchased. You are asking Apple to think of all of this on a 1.0 product that is based on the iPhone OS.


I don't understand what you are trying to say. Apple knows all the apps you've bought. If you try to buy them again from the phone, it tells you you already have bought it and asks if you want to re-download. Are you trying to say something different?


Let's say that the tablet weighs around 2 lbs.. Is it really going to break your back to carry 3 extra lbs.for a MBP? You've been getting along so far and if weight was that much of an issue you could get an MBA which would be 1lbs. more. Chances are very likely that both machines will give you far more power and the full potential of OSX.


Yes. When I was a boy I didn't have to wear seatbelts, and somehow I got by. My grandparents didn't have computers, and they got by. Just because things work doesn't mean you stop trying to get things to work better.

Heck, when I carry my laptop on the road I *never* bother to pull it out of its bag while sitting on a plane. I keep my bag up in the bin. A nice light tablet that fits in the seatback pocket and easily on my tray would be plenty sweet.

[MikhailT]

That's if the tablet is a laptop competitor. As of right now, most believe that it can't even connect to a USB drive. How can you backup your tablet if that's the case?

In order for it to replace a laptop, it has to replace its most basic duties. Right now a $300 netbook can do all of this and more. Multitouch may be more fun and intuitive but you're asking them to spend extra in a slowly recovering economy.

We don't know what's coming and I hope that Apple introduces something truly revolutionary.

It'll just sync via iTunes. The software is there, all Apple has to do is update iTunes and it'll be just like iPhone sync.

Tablets or more specifically slates are not laptop replacements. It's a third form of computing. Desktops, laptops and slates can co-exist just like tablets has been co-existing for the past few decades. People with desktops can get slates instead of laptops if they choose.

People please fix this wrong idea in your heads, tablets/slates are not laptop or netbook replacements.

[oban14]

Okay, you no longer impress me. You seem to be too impressed with the mirror. I, I, I, me, me, me.

That isn't fair. C'mon, tell us what features would impress you. Is there any potentially missing feature that would disappoint you?

[MattBaker]

People, if the tablet doesn't seem like it's going to be useful for you, you are not the intended market for it. You don't have to buy it. You can get the macbook instead. It's not going to replace it.

There are people with desktops only (or even if they have iPhones) who'll want the tablet to carry with them around the house to do stuff. Imagine eating breakfast and you want to read the news or a book, you can take the tablet down to the kitchen and eat there. Or if you're cooking and you want to check emails or whatever social networking you want to do. What about staying outside or in the balcony to enjoy the sunny weather? How about working on the car in the garage and you need to figure out how to fix something, you can just use the tablet instead of going up to your room to check on the internet.

Now, you can say that iphone can do all of those, yes on a 3" screen. But not everybody have an iphone and yes while they can get iPod Touch, they might not want the 3" screen as it might be too small for them. 10" might be perfect size for all people including elderly.

But if you can do all those things, and more, for a laptop or netbook that costs hundreds less, why would you buy a tablet?

[Solinus]

Exactley! If the tablet runs the iPhone OS then we wont be able to put our software on it. Photoshop would be awesome on a tablet. Just doesnt make sense to me.

Who says that you won't be able to get Photoshop for the iSlate?

The iPhone OS and the Mac OS are both OS-X, just with different User interfaces on top. It is the (lack of) power of the CPU and GPU that will limit what you can realistically do with the iSlate, not the OS.

[MattBaker]

It'll just sync via iTunes. The software is there, all Apple has to do is update iTunes and it'll be just like iPhone sync.

Tablets or more specifically slates are not laptop replacements. It's a third form of computing. Desktops, laptops and slates can co-exist just like tablets has been co-existing for the past few decades. People with desktops can get slates instead of laptops if they choose.

People please fix this wrong idea in your heads, tablets/slates are not laptop or netbook replacements.

What can you do with this "third form of computing" that you can't do with the devices you already have?

That's the mystery. We all agree that it doesn't replace a notebook or a desktop or a phone or a netbook. What things does it do better than all those other devices.... so much better that millions of people will step up to buy?

[MikhailT]

But if you can do all those things, and more, for a laptop or netbook that costs hundreds less, why would you buy a tablet?

Why buy 1500$ laptop when people can do the same thing on a netbook for 300$?

Hell, why buy Macbook Air when you can get macbook 500$ cheaper? Why buy 13" MBP when you can get plastic white macbook for 300-400$ cheaper?

They all have pros and cons.

Slates are more comfortable than laptop or netbooks if people just want to consume data in living room watching tv, reading book on the tablet in bed or any other situation where laptops are too heavy and netbook is just too small/keyboard not needed/whatever.

[cmaier]

Who says that you won't be able to get Photoshop for the iSlate?

The iPhone OS and the Mac OS are both OS-X, just with different User interfaces on top. It is the (lack of) power of the CPU and GPU that will limit what you can realistically do with the iSlate, not the OS.

No chance this thing supports carbon, and it certainly won't be x86. At a minimum a recompile, and more likely a complete re-write of apps like photoshop.

[cmaier]

Why buy 1500$ laptop when people can do the same thing on a netbook for 300$?

Hell, why buy Macbook Air when you can get macbook 500$ cheaper? Why buy 13" MBP when you can get plastic white macbook for 300-400$ cheaper?

They all have pros and cons.

Slates are more comfortable than laptop or netbooks if people just want to consume data in living room watching tv, reading book on the tablet in bed or any other situation where laptops are too heavy and netbook is just too small/keyboard not needed/whatever.

Instant on. Silent/no fan. No hot laps. Sign me up.

[MikhailT]

What can you do with this "third form of computing" that you can't do with the devices you already have?

That's the mystery. We all agree that it doesn't replace a notebook or a desktop or a phone or a netbook. What things does it do better than all those other devices.... so much better that millions of people will step up to buy?

Absolutely nothing that can be done on slates that can't be done on any other forms. It's how you use the computer that differs.

1) Why have a desktop when your laptop can do the same thing? Expandability and upgradability. People want to game and only desktop can offer upgradable GPUs that's much faster. More Ram, pop it in. More hard drive, pop it in. More anything, pop it in.
2) Why buy laptops when you can do everything on desktops for cheaper too? People want mobility, to bring their computer to work or other places.
3) Why buy netbooks when laptops can do the same thing? People want simple, cheap and very light computers that they can carry around and do basic stuff with and not have to worry about paying more if the netbook breaks.

4) Why buy tablets when netbooks can do the same thing for much cheaper price? Good question and that all depends on how the slate is designed. We have to wait till the thing is out first before i can tell you. If it is just iPod touch that's big, then pretty much the following..

A)How about taking notes or drawing diagrams which is hard to do on laptops or netbooks?

B)Some people want full screen applications that's optimized to the fullest with multi-touch technology that can be bought and downloaded from a single source. For example, web browsers in full screen mode still takes up too much room that waste estate and require more mouse movement due to limited resolution. There are no central source of applications on Mac/Windows. (Linux have repos but dependences is the main issue). As for multitouch, the ability to use your hand to move stuff, interact can be much more natural than with a mouse with optimized softwares.

C) With no keyboard, it might be easier to read books, especially magazine with full colors on a slate than it is with netbook/laptop. People can get e-ink reader but why when this can be much more functional if it is less than 1000$. 9" Kindle goes for 500$ and people still buy those.

D) How about the ability to get Push notifications on the tablet via Wifi?

E) How about no messing with antivirus/firewall/drivers (yea i had to install drivers for netbooks, w7 isn't perfect) or any of that sort since the Apple slate will just work straight out of the box?

[Solinus]

What can you do with this "third form of computing" that you can't do with the devices you already have?

That's the mystery. We all agree that it doesn't replace a notebook or a desktop or a phone or a netbook. What things does it do better than all those other devices.... so much better that millions of people will step up to buy?

Touch will not replace the keyboard especially for writing anything longer than a quick email. However, some people might be better off with an iMac at home and an iSlate to carry around, instead of a laptop.

The iSlate is going to be more portable than a laptop; smaller, lighter and much easier to slip into a bag to take with you. It really depends how much typing you do whilst away from your desk. Some people absolutely need a full laptop, whilst others don't and could easily get away with a tablet.

[Solinus]

No chance this thing supports carbon, and it certainly won't be x86. At a minimum a recompile, and more likely a complete re-write of apps like photoshop.

Yes, Photoshop is probably the worse example to use as it is Carbon not Cocoa. Adobe are porting Photoshop to Cocoa for the 64 bit support but it is not yet ready.

It is not especially difficult to port apps written in Cocoa for the Mac to Cocoa Touch for the iPhone (and presumably the iSlate as well). The problem with the iPhone is the screen is so small that you need to rework the entire UI of your apps. A single screen on the Mac might need to be multiple screens on the iPhone. That is much more time consuming. However, if the iSlate has a 10" this is much less of a problem.

At the end of the day, I think we will see some quite advanced apps written for the iSlate. Using an OS similar to the iPhone rather than the Mac will not limit the iSlate.

[cvaldes]

Boy Genius Report is a waste of time.

Anyone who parrots high-tech rumors is bound to score on a few, but BGR shows zero intelligence or aptitude.

Many of their failed assumptions were crushingly moronic and/or naive. There is no reason to believe that there is actual thought behind the site's posts.

[Evangelion]

While I'm 110% with you on the desire for a new :apple:TV (personally I'd rather see them announce that than this Tablet), I just don't see it making any sense for this Tablet to be perceived as the next-gen :apple:TV.

No, it would not be perceived as an "next-gen AppleTV". It could be a device that could do all the things your current AppleTV does if needed. There would still be a standalone AppleTV as well.

That only works if you are single living alone. Then, when you take this new super mobile device with you, no one back at home suffers at the loss of the :apple:TV.

And by that same logic, laptops are a failure because if you take the laptop with you, no-one else can use that computer....

AppleTV-functionality (if any) would be a bonus. If you feel the need to have a "stationary" AppleTV, Apple would be more than happy to sell you one. But the slate could also serve the purpose.

Making this Tablet have options to play content on TVs makes a lot of sense. If it is going to be some kind of pseudo-laptop replacement, it is going to need a way to show media on screens other than it's own

Since iPhone and iPods can do that at this very moment, why couldn't the iSlate be able to do it as well?

(for example, a keynote presentation via a projector). But I really can't see it working as a mobile :apple:TV for anyone other than single people living alone.

Why not use it as a mobile AppleTV? That functionality would be useful to many, and not so useful to some other people. Just like features in all devices are. I'm not using all the features of my iPod or my MacBook pro.

If you find the "mobile AppleTV" valuable, great! If you feel that it doesn't serve your needs, then don't use it, buy something else instead (like "stationary" AppleTV)

The next-gen :apple:TV should be its own device (like it is now).

And it would be. But fact is that the functionality AppleTV offers could be replicated with the iSlate as well. The two devices would be separate, but it just happens that one of them (the more expensive one) would include the functionality of the cheaper device.

After all, how often do you pick up your dedicated DVD player box and take it with you?

I think you are misunderstanding what I'm suggesting here.... I'm not suggesting that iSlate will replace AppleTV. What I'm saying is that it could function as one if needed.

Of course I think that what I just described is NOT what's going to happen. But it would be nifty.

[str1f3]

iDisk. Google Apps. Etc.

iDisk, Dropbox & Google apps but there may be some apps in which you have information inside these apps and can't be synced to these services.



See above, at least re: data. For music we have simplifymedia, and possibly even lala support since the web browser might be much more functional. And if I lose my music/movies on the road, oh well.

It's funny you mention SimplifyMedia considering I haven't had it work for days. It's another situation where you're reliant on a host machine to store your info when a laptop can serve the purpose of portability and power.



I don't understand what you are trying to say. Apple knows all the apps you've bought. If you try to buy them again from the phone, it tells you you already have bought it and asks if you want to re-download. Are you trying to say something different?

I have an iPhone filled with apps. Apple may remember which apps you've downloaded but they do not provide an easy way for you to know all that information unless you have continously kept the receipts of the apps you purchased.

If you have information that exists within an app you will need a Mac to restore the info you have on the tablet. Even the restore process will need a Mac. With the Macbook all you need is a portable hard drive for Time Machine backup or create a bootable external drive in case something goes wrong. The Mac will always have more options available.


Heck, when I carry my laptop on the road I *never* bother to pull it out of its bag while sitting on a plane. I keep my bag up in the bin. A nice light tablet that fits in the seatback pocket and easily on my tray would be plenty sweet.

I don't see how a tablet would be any easier to use on a plane than a MBA which will be less than a 1lb. difference. As of right now we don't even know if it will have a stand and, knowing Apple, there is a good chance it won't unless it's a dock. You would have to hold that tablet for hours on end during a flight.

[iMacmatician]

I've been saying for months, this is just going to be a big iPhone. Nothing revolutionary, nothing mindblowing, etc. Just a really big iPhone.I've been saying for months (actually over a year I think), this is going to be more than a big iPhone. New features, significant improvements (that relate to the larger display and higher processing power). More than a really big iPhone.

[MattBaker]

this thing deserves the same amount of hype as the macbook air.

FLOP>>

The Air was sexy as hell. And almost nobody actually bought one.

This thing seems like it'll go down the same path.

[cmaier]

I have an iPhone filled with apps. Apple may remember which apps you've downloaded but they do not provide an easy way for you to know all that information unless you have continously kept the receipts of the apps you purchased.




Sorry. Still don't get it. Let's say I have a thousand app installed, and some fluke happens and I need to restore my phone. (I'll accept you're probably untrue implied hypothesis that this sort of failure happens more frequently with a tablet than with a notebook).

You're saying I won't remember all 1000 apps, so I'll miss some.

But if I'm on the road, I'll surely remember the ones I need!! And if i forget the ones I don't need right then, I'll still be able to download them when I remember or when I get home and sync.

If my laptop hard drive fails on the road I can't automatically solve the problem either. And there isn't a guaranteed restoration at home, either since most people don't back up.

I just don't see how a laptop is any better in this regard. An iphoneish tablet is like a notebook with enforced backup via synch, and with built in ability to access things over the air, reinstall apps over the air without having ronhave your product keys written down, etc.

[Evangelion]

The Air was sexy as hell. And almost nobody actually bought one.

This thing seems like it'll go down the same path.

I REALLY don't understand what makes you say that. Because it does not run Mac OS X? Like I said, there's already a tablet that runs Mac OS X, and it hasn't really set the world on fire, or has it?

Wishing that the tablet runs Mac OS is absurd. Of course it's going to run an OS that is designed for touch-input and multitouch, and Mac OS is neither of those.

It's funny looking at all those armchair-analysts proclaiming that the tablet is going to fail, even when we know practically nothing of it :). I bet those very same people predicted that iPod is going to flop.

[wolfpackfan]

I want to throw my 2 cents worth in here, for what it's worth. I am very excited about the Tablet and if it is just an iPhone on steroids, that is fine with me. I love my iPhone, but there has been many times when I wished I had a device that does what the iPhone does (without the phone part) but had a bigger screen. I am always watching videos, reading eBooks (I use both the Kindle and B&N apps), accessing DocsToGo, reading email and browsing the web and just wish I had a larger screen to work with. It is sounding like the Tablet will give me exactly what I want. BUT if it does this at a $1000, I won't be buying one. I just can't justify spending that much money on a device like this. If $1000, I'd just go ahead and buy an MB. Now, if it has 3G data capability and they have a subsidized cost, I might consider doing that and paying for a data plan. If I did this, I would probably get rid of my iPhone and just get a regular old small cell phone for my phone. My contract is coming up for renewal so this would not be a problem to do. We'll see. I can't wait for the announcement.

[MattBaker]

I REALLY don't understand what makes you say that. Because it does not run Mac OS X? Like I said, there's already a tablet that runs Mac OS X, and it hasn't really set the world on fire, or has it?

Wishing that the tablet runs Mac OS is absurd. Of course it's going to run an OS that is designed for touch-input and multitouch, and Mac OS is neither of those.

It's funny looking at all those armchair-analysts proclaiming that the tablet is going to fail, even when we know practically nothing of it :). I bet those very same people predicted that iPod is going to flop.

I'm not saying it'll fail because it doesn't run Mac OS. I'm saying it'll fail because it isn't a complete replacement for a regular computer, and it's not a complete replacement for a phone.

That means it has to be a 3rd device. In order to succeed as a 3rd device, it has to do $800-$1000 worth of stuff that people can't already do, and probably do better, with the first two devices.

[cmaier]

I'm not saying it'll fail because it doesn't run Mac OS. I'm saying it'll fail because it isn't a complete replacement for a regular computer, and it's not a complete replacement for a phone.

That means it has to be a 3rd device. In order to succeed as a 3rd device, it has to do $800-$1000 worth of stuff that people can't already do, and probably do better, with the first two devices.

The problem with that logic is, among other things, you assume that A has to be a complete replacement for B in order for people to choose A over B. That's simply not true. B has lots of features, many of which are not used by a large percentage of the people who purchase B. If A does everything that x% of the population needs, at a cost less than B, people will choose A over B. If A does everything that x% population needs at the same or higher cost than B, people will still choose A over B if it does what they with less effort and more fun.

[oban14]

I've been saying for months (actually over a year I think), this is going to be more than a big iPhone. New features, significant improvements (that relate to the larger display and higher processing power). More than a really big iPhone.

Right, an iphone with a larger display and higher processing power. A big iPhone.

[Evangelion]

I'm not saying it'll fail because it doesn't run Mac OS. I'm saying it'll fail because it isn't a complete replacement for a regular computer, and it's not a complete replacement for a phone.

It can replace either of those in many ways. Hell, my iPod touch as more or less replaced my laptop as my websurfing-device at home!

And you can't really make arbitary decisions like "it needs to be able to replace device X in order to succeed!". No, it doesn't have to replace anything, it could add to them them. And still, it COULD replace a laptop in many ways.

Netbooks haven't really replaced normal laptops. Often, they are a second (or third) computer for the user that is used in some situations. iSlate could be like that. Many of the things you do with a notebook you could do with the iSlate as well. And what's important, many of those things could be done better on the iSlate than on a regular laptop.

[iMacmatician]

Right, an iphone with a larger display and higher processing power. A big iPhone.Did you miss the possible software improvements?

[koopa35]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0USn7eufXps&feature=player_embedded

this has nothing to do with apple tablet. but its microsoft vision of the future. i choose to use the parody video instead of real m$ video because it have a narrative. do you guys see apple getting this far before microsoft?

sorry if this dont belong here

[Phobophobia]

I really don't think that Apple is going to release something that is just an oversized iPhone. Steve Jobs is possibly one of the most meticulous presenters out there, and he needs to have some big new features to talk about at the event.

[Jimmy James]

Netbooks haven't really replaced normal laptops. Often, they are a second (or third) computer for the user that is used in some situations. iSlate could be like that. Many of the things you do with a notebook you could do with the iSlate as well. And what's important, many of those things could be done better on the iSlate than on a regular laptop.

I agree with your logic if, like netbooks, Apple prices the tablet in the $300 range. Or even in the $500 range (which is zoning in on double the street price of a netbook). I wouldn't pay, say, $800 for a netbook even if it had substantially more processing power. Neither would [hardly] anyone else.

Then again Apple has a lot of broad consumer clout with the iPod and iPhone, and now, finally, with their computers. I wouldn't bet against them. I'm just really interested is seeing how this plays out.

[Scooterman1]

My Compaq TC1000 Tablet COMPUTER is a little slow (1GHz) but runs it all!!!!
I hope Apple don't come out with some LAME toy.

[Carniphage]

I really don't think that Apple is going to release something that is just an oversized iPhone.

If you ever see teenagers using computers, you might notice something.

They don't run many applications. They don't use Photoshop, or FTP clients. Or even MS Office. They don't even, (brace yourself for this), use Finder and the file system.

Most of the the time, they watch movies, or go on Facebook.

There's a class of computer user who just use personal computers for ... well.. personal stuff. And the computers they use are not particularly well set up for that. Modern PCs and Macs are full of stuff that goes back to the PCs origin as a piece of office equipment. They were built as word processors or as productivity tools. And that legacy continues in every part of the design.

My guess is that Jobs is going to announce a personal computer that dumps all that stuff. It won't run Photoshop. It won't have an exposed file system. It not for doing spreadsheets or writing business correspondence.

Every geek and techie is going to cry foul. "What No Finder?" - "How can I edit a Word document?" , but here's the thing. If you *need* to edit a word document, this is not really the device for you. Apple already makes computers called Macs for all that productivity-content-creator stuff. They sell quite well.

Apple will announce a new class of device for doing this other stuff. For un-productivity. For entertainment. Media browsing. Facebook, Social networking. And although technically it does less than a netbook. I don't think the intended audience will give half a damn. Smartphone experts were horrified the iPhone could not edit Word documents too. But this omission did not seem to harm sales.

So I think the disappointed mass of united geekdom will describe it as just a big iPhone. But if Apple have done a good job, the users will discover a re-invented personal computer. One designed to do the stuff they use computers for. And one that does not suck.

We will see.

C.

[Eidorian]

If you ever see teenagers using computers, you might notice something.

They don't run many applications. They don't use Photoshop, or FTP clients. Or even MS Office. They don't even, (brace yourself for this), use Finder and the file system.

Most of the the time, they watch movies, or go on Facebook.

There's a class of computer user who just use personal computers for ... well.. personal stuff. And the computers they use are not particularly well set up for that. Modern PCs and Macs are full of stuff that goes back to the PCs origin as a piece office equipment. They were built as word processors or as productivity tools. And that legacy continues in every part of the design.

My guess is that Jobs is going to announce a personal computer that dumps all that stuff. It won't run Photoshop. It won't have an exposed file system. It not for doing spreadsheets or writing business correspondence.

Every geek and techie is going to cry foul. "What No Finder?" - "How can I edit a Word document?" , but here's the thing. If you *need* to edit a word document, this is not really the device for you. Apple already makes computers called Macs for all that productivity-content-creator stuff. They sell quite well.

Apple will announce a new class of device for doing this other stuff. For un-productivity. For entertainment. Media browsing. Facebook, Social networking. And although technically it does less than a netbook. I don't think the intended audience will give half a damn. Smartphone experts were horrified the iPhone could not edit Word documents too. But this omission did not seem to harm sales.

So I think the disappointed mass of united geekdom will describe it as just a big iPhone. But if Apple have done a good job, the users will discover a re-invented personal computer. One designed to do the stuff they use computers for. And one that does not suck.

We will see.

C.Brace for the unwashed masses.

[oban14]

I've been saying for months (actually over a year I think), this is going to be more than a big iPhone. New features, significant improvements (that relate to the larger display and higher processing power). More than a really big iPhone.

Just thought I'd bump this since I was proven right. Also, you might want to change your signature:

paradox00: "Big/oversized iPhone touch" is also short for "I heard the OS was going be based on iPhone OS but I lack any imagination so it must just be a big iPod touch".

That's embarrassing to both you and paradox00. :D

[megadon]

The point is you have no idea what this thing will be, so quit griping about it as if you have a clue what will show up.

what else do you want to know about a giant ipod touch?