Apple Releases New iBooks

[phasornc]

Apple Displays Suckass

So in order to use XCode, Eclipse or even Dreamweaver you need to spend over 2K for a 3 year old widescreen relatively low resolution 15.4 monitor.

My wife got a 13.3" Averatec for $1330 with 3 year end to end Staples warranty
13.3" 'brite' screen 1366x768
80gb SATA 5400 rpm drive
firewire and 3 usb2 ports
dvd burner
1.6 pentium M
AND
SD/Memorstick slot builtin
pc card slot

Of course this is complete useless running Windows . ..

 

[KA2357]

Apple has updated their website to reflect new iBooks that have been announced today.

- New trackpad lets you scroll horizontally, vertically or pan around the screen
- Sudden Motion sensor protects the hard drive in free-fall
- Built in Bluetooth 2.0 and Airport Extreme
- iLife '05

12" 1.33GHz G4, 512MB RAM, 40GB HD, Combo Drive - $999
14" 1.42GHz G4, 512MB RAM, 60GB HD, Super Drive - $1299

The addition of the Sudden Motion Sensor, the scrolling trackpad, the same memory (512MB PC2700 333MHz DDR), and a SuperDrive ALL AS STANDARD items now moves the iBook very close to the PowerBook. Yes, people will argue that the hard drives are only 4200rpm units compared to the 5400rpm units in the PowerBook. Yes, people will argue that the video is better in the PowerBook... and yes, people will argue that the PowerBook still has more options and expandability. All true, but as the iBook and PowerBook become more similar in the GENERAL CONSUMER'S EYES than they become less differentiated... and I (in my opinion) wonder how many people would be inspired to buy a PowerBook at this point in time.

Now, Apple is smart and I'm willing to bet that they're not going to wait until 2006 (or later) to release an Mac-tel PowerBook. I suspect that if they're willing to bring the iBook and PowerBook closer now, they must have an interim release planned for the PowerBook that will once again substantially differentiate it from the iBook. What might this include? Perhaps either a dual-core G4 or the 970FX G5? Perhaps larger hard drives? Perhaps a dual-layer SuperDrive? Other options could be brought, higher-level video, more video memory, more RAM... but these would be less likely to grab the attention (and $$$) of consumers or prosumers.

I think Apple will have to come up with an interim PowerBook release. What it'll have is pure speculation on our part. When it'll come out is also pure speculation, but I'm willing to guess that it'll be sooner rather than later. Apple isn't going to wait until just before they release a Mac-tel PowerBook to release a final PowerPPC unit. Apple also isn't going to wait too long (or they shouldn't) after releasing the new crop of iBooks to release a PowerBook that sets itself apart and unique from the consumer line.

'nuff said. What and when, we'll just to have to wait and see.

 

[JonMaker]

Does the new 12" ibook qualify? The rebate coupon disqualifies the "12-inch iBook with with CD-ROM drive". Since there is no such model, I'm wondering if the disqualification applies to the low-end model, whatever that might be.

Thanks

Yes. I just ordered the new 12" and an iPod with this offer in mind.

You could say that I'm betting my iPod on it.

 

[margotspop]

Yes. I just ordered the new 12" and an iPod with this offer in mind.

You could say that I'm betting my iPod on it.

Then I think I'll have some of that bet also!

 

[budugu]

I am thinking of buying the new iBook and use it as my desktop computer. Is it a feasible thing?

1. Can an iBook connect to a CRT monitor? Does it have the dim video problem like the mac mini?
2. Is it stable enough to be keep powered on for an extended time (e.g. I may keep the computer on for a week)?
3. Would the keyboard too hot to be used for an extended time?

Thanks for any insights/suggestions.

Just get a refurb imac (900$) or even a new imac ...they are about the same price ... All the hassle of connecting etc are just not worth it in my opinion ... Not to mention the huge performance gain!

 

[budugu]

Your "criterion" is weird. Scrolling trackpad and slot-loading optical-drive are a "must have" for you? They are nice things to have, sure. But they are not the defining features of a laptop.

Every windows laptop that i know for some time (3 years) has had a vertical scrolling bar on the touch pad! + now they have horizontal too which is far better than the 2 finger thingy!!

 

[wdlove]

Yes. I just ordered the new 12" and an iPod with this offer in mind.

You could say that I'm betting my iPod on it.

What are the specifications of your new iBook? Do you plan to add RAM and purchase AppleCare? I would recommend both.

 

[rabadash]

While I'm sure this kind of update works for some people. If apple were to keep updating there products in the same way, the difference between the speed of an apple and a pc will be night and day. I know there are people out there who can be happy buying something as long as it provides basic functionality, but mediocre update after mediocre update is a sign that apple just doesn't have enough direct competition in my eyes. It's really a shame because OS X is really great. I think apple topped out on the g4 and I didn't expect them to do much with it. It does make me wonder why apple took 9 months to release this update when this very same hardware was available 9 months ago. I think apple was originally planning on a widescreen ibook this summer, but stuttered when the intel conversion was announced. While college students ordered ibooks upon hearing this announcement, I think I'll pass at least until the mactels come out.

 

[Prelude2Tragedy]

Does the new 12" ibook qualify? The rebate coupon disqualifies the "12-inch iBook with with CD-ROM drive". Since there is no such model, I'm wondering if the disqualification applies to the low-end model, whatever that might be.

Thanks

Well it says excluding the 12-inch iBook CD. I'd bet my money that CD stands for combo drive and not CD-ROM drive. Goodluck in getting the free ipod.

 

[mactim]

I disagree with both of your CPU suggestions. Dual-core G4 isn't even *sampling* until 2006, even the 7448 is not yet widely available. Regarding availablity of low power G5's, there has simply been no news yet. I very much doubt that Apple would completely redesign the logic board for a G5 update before the mactels. The G5 Powerbook will almost certainly never happen. The most we can expect for an interim powebook update is the 7448.

I suspect that if they're willing to bring the iBook and PowerBook closer now, they must have an interim release planned for the PowerBook that will once again substantially differentiate it from the iBook. What might this include? Perhaps either a dual-core G4 or the 970FX G5? .

 

[TaKashMoney]

There was an iBook model which only contained the CD-ROM drive (as opposed to the other two with Combo and Superdrive) and sold for 899 in the education stores. This model existed when the Student Union promotion had just started. Now that the model no longer exists you have nothing to worry about. You may still redeem your mail-in rebate by purchasing the 12" Combo drive with an iPod.
Just to clear that up

 

[margotspop]

There was an iBook model which only contained the CD-ROM drive (as opposed to the other two with Combo and Superdrive) and sold for 899 in the education stores. This model existed when the Student Union promotion had just started. Now that the model no longer exists you have nothing to worry about. You may still redeem your mail-in rebate by purchasing the 12" Combo drive with an iPod.
Just to clear that up

Thanks. Consider it cleared.

 

[Prelude2Tragedy]

There was an iBook model which only contained the CD-ROM drive (as opposed to the other two with Combo and Superdrive) and sold for 899 in the education stores. This model existed when the Student Union promotion had just started. Now that the model no longer exists you have nothing to worry about. You may still redeem your mail-in rebate by purchasing the 12" Combo drive with an iPod.
Just to clear that up

Thanks. I wasnt aware of the cd-rom model. Good thing noone took me up on that bet. Crap now i have to decide if I want the 12 inch ibook now instead of 14.

 

[Chrispy]

Yeah I guess Apple did do away with the CD-ROM model with this update. The price difference between that and the combo drive was probably so minimal that most people just upgraded anyways. I finally made a decision on what I'm doing for my portable computer usage for the next year or so. Since I will be needing to dial into my employer with a VPN client that IT will only let Windows users have, I am going to get a Dell 700m and work will help me pay the expense since the laptop I have now is huge (my work machine that is). However, when the new intel portables come out hopefully next year then I am going to jump on one of those and hopefully be able to run windows more full speed. Right now, I am just so restricted with what I can do on a mac with both my work and school's networks (wired and wireless) needing VPN that only runs on windows. I used VPC for awhile when I used to have a powerbook but it just ran too slow to realy help me. When I am on the road or in class, I need full speed support for windows. It is sad to leave the mac OS but I lived with Windows for years and I am well versed in how to take care of it. This will just give me an excuse to purchase a new laptop in a year or so... maybe a new PowerBook!!!

 

[MrCommunistGen]

Riiiight...

"...The name suggests that it somewhere in between a 9500 and 9600 but it is essentially the latter but with reduced clock speeds or lower specification..."

<sarcasm> Sure. The model number is between 9500 and 9600. In fact its exactly 1/2 way between. Does that mean that performance is 1/2 way in between? If so, I'm excited because this means it'll be faster than a 9500... yes faster.</sarcasm> But just for the record the 9500 is FASTER than the 9600 because of its higher clock and the 9500 Pro is on par with the 9600XT thanks to the 9500 Pro's 8 pixel pipes. However, I know from previous experience that the 9550 IS a downclocked 9600... at least on the desktop (I got curious after seeing a 9550 @ Fry's). What it is exacly in its "Mobility" form is free game as far as I know.

-mcg

 

[TaKashMoney]

More GREAT NEWS! Just to answer another question that I've been wondering about.... Does the new iBook have the ripple effect, does it support core image?
I am happy to report that it does, absolutely, 100% certain. Apple just updated their core image webpage - Now it clearly states, on the right hand side, that the ATI Radeon 9550 supports Core Image! Straight from Apple themselves -no rumor website BS. And then there was ultimate rejoicing in the streets....
Oh yeah here's the link. I got a little carried away...
http://www.apple.com/macosx/features/coreimage/

 

[sundog73]

More GREAT NEWS! Just to answer another question that I've been wondering about.... Does the new iBook have the ripple effect, does it support core image?
I am happy to report that it does, absolutely, 100% certain. Apple just updated their core image webpage - Now it clearly states, on the right hand side, that the ATI Radeon 9550 supports Core Image! Straight from Apple themselves -no rumor website BS. And then there was ultimate rejoicing in the streets....
Oh yeah here's the link. I got a little carried away...
http://www.apple.com/macosx/features/coreimage/

That is good news! I feel the scale tipping towards the iBook...

Does anyone know if the iBooks can drive external resolutions higher than 1024x768 via the video out?

 

[Tahko]

Oh yes! I was correct when I replied without any knowledge to someone that "yea the 9550 radeon will suppor coreimage, why else would apple boast ibook with just another 32mbit gfx?"

Now now, with info verified officially, I can just sit back and enjoy the infamous "ripple" effect once my ibook arrives. just that I don't really give a ***** about whole ripple.

 

[Jschultz]

Oh yes! I was correct when I replied without any knowledge to someone that "yea the 9550 radeon will suppor coreimage, why else would apple boast ibook with just another 32mbit gfx?"

Now now, with info verified officially, I can just sit back and enjoy the infamous "ripple" effect once my ibook arrives. just that I don't really give a ***** about whole ripple.

It was cool the first time I did it. Now I just stare blankly at the screen while it does it's thing. You will too in time.

 

[Legacy]

New Post!!

Hello everyone, Im posting for the first time on any computer forum...whatsmore im currently a Windows user, have been using Windows since my childbirth..although had a little contact with Macs...never was given the chance to embrace Apple technology...

Now I will unconditionally be buying the Ibook 12"...this update is a very sound one if you asked me...


1. The Ati Radeon 9550, despite having 32 megs of RAM FULLY SUPPORTS Core Image, for those who havent seen the official declaration please visit the link below:

http://www.apple.com/macosx/features/coreimage/

2. 512 RAM standard, meaning cheaper upgrade to 1GB, thanks to 512MB onboard on 12" (still 256 only on powerbook)

3. Bluetooth is now standard - saved me £30-35 addition costs

Whatsmore, I believe Apple are very, very clever. Many users have acknowledged the future adoption of Intel based processors, meaning Apple must play their cards right and cautiously with the PPC update...which explains a mediocre cap of 1.42Ghz for the 14" model. Theyve acheived Core Image support with this GPU (you only need 32Megs you know not 64), and the card is a 9550, not 9600. Therefore maintaining the powerbook market, and the memory gap between the two laptops (forcing gamers to go for powerbook).

The Ibook continues to remain the consumer laptop, only with more bucks for your money..lets face it guys, bluetooth, airport, 512ram and fancy graphics support for only £700 is a bargain (not to mention portability and if anyone suggests 1024*768 is inadequate for a 12" screen then wow i respect their eyesight..)

Apple have achived an all rounder system, yet retaining the gap they need between both laptops to ensure a parity of sales between the two models.

(Lets face it, many of the Laptops today in the PC market at £700 wil NOT be able to support Vista (rofl) fancy features, while Apple now has a potential glamour book to sell)...they should have yelled out that Ibook supports Core Image...oh well

Anyway...thanks for reading my post..

Regards

 

[~Shard~]

<snip>

Thanks for the well thought-out post and objective comments - and welcome to the Mac community! I'm certain you'll be happy with your iBook, but if you ever have any questions or issues never hesitate to post them here - there are a ton of people always around for discussion, opinions, and assistance.

As a head's up, since you'll be a new Mac user, you may want to check out this thread compiled by my good friend Diatribe. There's a wealth of other great information on MacRumors too, so browse around and have fun!

 

[tikibangout]

Apple upgraded me to a new model, yay.

 

[4thWall]

upgrading ibook RAM

Does anyone know if it's possible to upgrade the RAM on the new ibooks? I want to purchase an ibook and add 1 GIG to the 14". It costs $500 more bucks to add that upgrade at the apple site. Can't i just get the RAM from Kensington or MacMall for less than $200 and do it myself?

Any thoughts? Is this possible? Also by opening up my system and messing with it does that null and void the AppleCare that i will be purchasing as well?

 

[bodeh6]

Does anyone know if it's possible to upgrade the RAM on the new ibooks? I want to purchase an ibook and add 1 GIG to the 14". It costs $500 more bucks to add that upgrade at the apple site. Can't i just get the RAM from Kensington or MacMall for less than $200 and do it myself?

Any thoughts? Is this possible? Also by opening up my system and messing with it does that null and void the AppleCare that i will be purchasing as well?

It doesn't void the warrenty. Follow these instructions

http://www.pbfixit.com/Guide/50.4.0.html

http://www.info.apple.com/usen/cip/pdf/ibkg4/ibg4-mem-cip1.pdf

 

[4thWall]

final cut studio

Does anyone know if you can run Final Cut Studio on the new ibook 14" with 1.5 RAM and 100 GIG Hard Drive?