Apple to EOL Retina MacBook after one revision?

[boltjames]

I think all the changes Apple is trying to make is to prevent them from getting stale and staying ahead of the competition. They could easily make a cheaper macbook today if they wanted to...but why would they when they don't have to. Once sales start slumping, I can see them launching a budget mac.

And I'll take it one step further:

Apple can flip the switch at any moment and release a Windows 10 Mac, preinstalled at the factory, Genius service available at a mall near you.

Remember, the iPod was a piddling nothing niche footnote until Apple released iPod for Windows and then the iTunes explosion and the iPhone revolution kicked into full gear. If Apple wants to increase notebook sales 100 fold, all they have to do is promote how good their machines are running Windows.

BJ

 

[boltjames]

And just for point of clarification a 2010 MBA is not as powerful as the the rMB... just saying. Not my benchmarks.

My issue with the Air isn't the speed, it's the screen resolution and the bezel straight out of the VTech line. It's what happens with a product designed in 2007. Now, if Apple wanted to use the RMB form factor to re-ignite the Air line and came out with what looked like an RMB in a 14" or 15" screen size I'd be the first to preorder. But if it continues to resemble the current Air, no thanks.

BJ

 

[burgman]

Hence I don't have a PC with an Atom. I have a MacBook with a far more powerful Core M.

Did you even read the articles? There is no comparison between the Atom x7 in a Surface 3 and the Core M in a MacBook. The latter runs circles around the Atom and bests the A9X on most tasks.

He sounded so knowledgeable yet is so clueless about these processors.

 

[dogslobber]

My issue with the Air isn't the speed, it's the screen resolution and the bezel straight out of the VTech line. It's what happens with a product designed in 2007. Now, if Apple wanted to use the RMB form factor to re-ignite the Air line and came out with what looked like an RMB in a 14" or 15" screen size I'd be the first to preorder. But if it continues to resemble the current Air, no thanks.

BJ

The MBA form factor is just fine and doesn't need to change. All they need to do is put add a retina LCD and the MBA would sell like hotcakes. But the reality is that Apple is repositioning this line for a price increase. I doubt very much that you'll ever see a 15" retina MB with one port. That would just look silly.

 

[ctyrider]

Let's face it, the MB processor is a rebadged atom processor you find struggling to power a netbook. It's a toy processor.

Please just stop, as you obviously have no idea what you're taking about. CoreM is an ultra low voltage Core series processor, it has nothing to do with Atom / Bay Trail / Braswell micro architecture.

My 1.3Ghz rMB benchmarks at about the same level as i7 Haswell Air, both in single and multi core scores. It's had no problem handling any workload I have thrown at it, including virtualization.

 

[dogslobber]

And I'll take it one step further:

Apple can flip the switch at any moment and release a Windows 10 Mac, preinstalled at the factory, Genius service available at a mall near you.

Remember, the iPod was a piddling nothing niche footnote until Apple released iPod for Windows and then the iTunes explosion and the iPhone revolution kicked into full gear. If Apple wants to increase notebook sales 100 fold, all they have to do is promote how good their machines are running Windows.

BJ

No. You don't understand average selling price of a Mac Vs average selling price of a PC. Never the two shall meet. Remember Apple is a company that is there to maximize revenue, not to maximize unit volume. A very, very different opportunity cost, hence no Microsoft in the factory.

 

[aristobrat]

Remember Apple is a company that is there to maximize revenue, not to maximize unit volume. A very, very different opportunity cost, hence no Microsoft in the factory.

What electronics firm isn't there to maximize revenue?

They may do it different ways... Apple usually goes for it by selling devices with higher margins that are sold in lesser volumes. Other companies go for devices with lower margins that are sold in much higher volumes.

But they all shoot for maximizing revenue.

 

[boltjames]

The MBA form factor is just fine and doesn't need to change. All they need to do is put add a retina LCD and the MBA would sell like hotcakes. But the reality is that Apple is repositioning this line for a price increase. I doubt very much that you'll ever see a 15" retina MB with one port. That would just look silly.

2007 called. They want their inter-office envelope back.

BJ

 

[boltjames]

No. You don't understand average selling price of a Mac Vs average selling price of a PC. Never the two shall meet. Remember Apple is a company that is there to maximize revenue, not to maximize unit volume. A very, very different opportunity cost, hence no Microsoft in the factory.

Oh, I understand it quite well, being a 100% Windows user since 1994, my RMB doesn't see a minute a month on OSX, I'm Windows 10 all the way.

I'll disregard your fancy sentence about business practices that you clearly do not understand.

My point, simply, is that the MacBook Air only survives in its current aging, bloated form if Apple wants an iPhone 5C in the lineup for those looking for a budget notebook or emerging third-world markets. The points of differentiation for many products in the tech age are size/weight based and Apple's laptop market is no exception. The Pro stays chunky, sturdy and powerful. The RMB stays slim, light, and resourceful. The Air goes away or goes downmarket.

BJ

 

[roxysdad]

I don't see this computer EOL'd in the future at all. I still think Apple will go back to the just the MB and MBP lines. The Air fills the lower budget minded buyer for now, but that changes to the macbook next year and the rMBP gets a huge new form factor update. Or this machine is just an engineering exercise.

 

[boltjames]

I don't see this computer EOL'd in the future at all. I still think Apple will go back to the just the MB and MBP lines. The Air fills the lower budget minded buyer for now, but that changes to the macbook next year and the rMBP gets a huge new form factor update.

+1

The 12" Retina MacBook is the greatest notebook that Apple has ever created. Therefore talk of its discontinuance is rather pointless, the stronger likelihood is that the MacBook Air is put to rest and the Retina is expanded to additional sizes and configurations. Apple has always looked forward, never back.

BJ

 

[Queen6]

And I'll take it one step further:

Apple can flip the switch at any moment and release a Windows 10 Mac, preinstalled at the factory, Genius service available at a mall near you.

Remember, the iPod was a piddling nothing niche footnote until Apple released iPod for Windows and then the iTunes explosion and the iPhone revolution kicked into full gear. If Apple wants to increase notebook sales 100 fold, all they have to do is promote how good their machines are running Windows.

BJ

I do wonder about this, seriously. Apple has always had a close business affinity with Microsoft. The iTunes model is 100% accurate, and lets face it in all practically you can do this today; the Apple Store will happily install Windows 10 on your new Mac, straight out the box, without question.

It would most definitely take an agreement between the two tech giants, equally under both companies newer management styles the opportunity has never been closer. The only technical obstacle I see it "touch" as Microsoft are now very touch screen centric with their OS & devices.

On the whole I very much agree that if Apple did launch Windows 10 only hardware, their sales would literally "balloon" as for many OS X is simply "alien" nor do they have interest in leaning a new OS, and OS X in the "Enterprise" is beyond small. I also will be very interested to see if Apple depreciate the "illuminated" Apple logo on the next revision of the MacBook Pro...

On the negative OS X would further spiral into being a "Facebook" OS as I have little doubt that Apple would rapidly be selling far more Windows systems, after all Apple`s about the $$$$.

Q-6

 

[SteveJUAE]

I do wonder about this, seriously. Apple has always had a close business affinity with Microsoft. The iTunes model is 100% accurate, and lets face it in all practically you can do this today; the Apple Store will happily install Windows 10 on your new Mac, straight out the box, without question.

It would most definitely take an agreement between the two tech giants, equally under both companies newer management styles the opportunity has never been closer. The only technical obstacle I see it "touch" as Microsoft are now very touch screen centric with their OS & devices.

On the whole I very much agree that if Apple did launch Windows 10 only hardware, their sales would literally "balloon" as for many OS X is simply "alien" nor do they have interest in leaning a new OS, and OS X in the "Enterprise" is beyond small. I also will be very interested to see if Apple depreciate the "illuminated" Apple logo on the next revision of the MacBook Pro...

On the negative OS X would further spiral into being a "Facebook" OS as I have little doubt that Apple would rapidly be selling far more Windows systems, after all Apple`s about the $$$$.

Q-6

Why not, Apple have done away with may things over the years, drives, ports etc why not OSX

Still you have to wonder why there is not the equivalent parallels for OSX in Windows, lack of demand maybe ?

It would certainly keep the diehard OSX users happy during a conversion period

 

[Queen6]

Why not, Apple have done away with may things over the years, drives, ports etc why not OSX

Still you have to wonder why there is not the equivalent parallels for OSX in Windows, lack of demand maybe ?

It would certainly keep the diehard OSX users happy during a conversion period

As Apple doesn't sell OS X as a stand alone product, therefore there is no need for the likes of Parallels for OS X under Windows.

I have little doubt that Apple have considered such an option, equally their prime purpose is to lock the user into Apple`s own ecosystem; PC, Tablet & Phone, hence why there is deliberate divergence between the three product lines, yet all can complement each other when used in parallel.

This and this alone is why you will never see Apple produce a convergent device like the SP4 or a tablet capable of regular voice calling (SIM) etc. Apple wants you to purchase more product it`s that simple, no technology barrier, no issue in designing an effective UI, simply a function of profitability...

Q-6

 

[Dwayne82]

I don't see this computer EOL'd in the future at all. I still think Apple will go back to the just the MB and MBP lines. The Air fills the lower budget minded buyer for now, but that changes to the macbook next year and the rMBP gets a huge new form factor update. Or this machine is just an engineering exercise.

1+
I would take this one step further:
Apple had most of the time two laptop lines: PB1xx/PBDuo; iBook/PiBGx; MB/MBP; MBA/MBP; MBA/rMPB. the next logic line would be: rMB/rMBP. Like the rumors last year about the new 12" MBA, which turned out to be the new rMB, this rumor could turn out to be the new rMBP. In my opinion, a rMBA would be a complete redundant product because it would catch up too close to the rMBP, specially if they decide to redesign the pro using the new TB3/USB-C Standard. So the only conclusion: This rumor (if true) is the redesign of the rMBP.

 

[SteveJUAE]

As Apple doesn't sell OS X as a stand alone product, therefore there is no need for the likes of Parallels for OS X under Windows.

I have little doubt that Apple have considered such an option, equally their prime purpose is to lock the user into Apple`s own ecosystem; PC, Tablet & Phone, hence why there is deliberate divergence between the three product lines, yet all can complement each other when used in parallel.

This and this alone is why you will never see Apple produce a convergent device like the SP4 or a tablet capable of regular voice calling (SIM) etc. Apple wants you to purchase more product it`s that simple, no technology barrier, no issue in designing an effective UI, simply a function of profitability...

Q-6

I agree I was just playing with a scenario using BJ suggestion of how Apple could flip to windows tomorrow

If Apple did produce their equivalent of Parallels all be it a slightly reduced version it could be used as a teaser for Windows users to try OSX without major commitment to hardware initially

 

[boltjames]

I do wonder about this, seriously. Apple has always had a close business affinity with Microsoft. The iTunes model is 100% accurate, and lets face it in all practically you can do this today; the Apple Store will happily install Windows 10 on your new Mac, straight out the box, without question.

It would most definitely take an agreement between the two tech giants, equally under both companies newer management styles the opportunity has never been closer. The only technical obstacle I see it "touch" as Microsoft are now very touch screen centric with their OS & devices.

On the whole I very much agree that if Apple did launch Windows 10 only hardware, their sales would literally "balloon" as for many OS X is simply "alien" nor do they have interest in leaning a new OS, and OS X in the "Enterprise" is beyond small. I also will be very interested to see if Apple depreciate the "illuminated" Apple logo on the next revision of the MacBook Pro...

On the negative OS X would further spiral into being a "Facebook" OS as I have little doubt that Apple would rapidly be selling far more Windows systems, after all Apple`s about the $$$$.

Great post (naturally) and you bring up an angle that's important here: Apple is not in the operating system business, never has been. OSX and it's predecessors were built merely to sell hardware, to enable the shipment of Apple computers in corrugated boxes to retailers. Unlike Windows, OSX is not available as a standalone product to be happily installed into the hardware of one's choosing. If you want an Apple computer, well, you better want OSX because that's all you're getting.

If Apple wants to sell, literally, 100x the amount of notebooks it sells today, all it has to do is throw the switch, have a Windows installed and supported MacBook, and that's that. Easiest incremental Apple will ever have in its history. Methinks they are sitting on this layup for the day in the future when iPad and iPhone sales start to weaken and they have concerned shareholders to answer to. Apple could get a decade of strong growth on a "MacBook for Windows" initiative, no questions asked.

For the typical consumer, buying a new Windows computer is more challenging and confusing than buying a new car. Apple could make that problem go away with their simplified lineup and in-store Genius experience, it's an enormous market just there for the taking.

BJ

 

[boltjames]

Why not, Apple have done away with may things over the years, drives, ports etc why not OSX

There was a time when an operating system was a revolution. When IBM PC users went from green DOS print and keyboards to full color windowed multitasking and a mouse it was like the Wright brothers at Kitty Hawk, like Alexander Graham Bell and the telephone, like Neil Armstrong on the moon. The Earth shattered, the heavens opened, it was like winning the lottery.

Today, an operating system is just sheetrock, it's just a foundation, it's just there to get out of the way and let our world of apps and browsers do their thing. Apple may call things like "Airplay" and "Airdrop" and "iMessage" and "Time Machine" features of their operating system, but we know better. These are just apps. What makes an operating system an operating system these days are the mundane things like booting, settings, installing, updating, power managing, and the other (yawn) no brainers than Windows, Linux, Android, iOS, and all the others do routinely, no different or more remarkable than the plumbing in your house or watching the grass grow.

In that context, Apple could let go of OSX in a heartbeat, release a suite of iOS connectivity apps for Windows, and crush the PC world.

BJ

 

[toddzrx]

I think the general design of the current rMB will become the lower-cost mainstream line. The current MBA design, as we know it, will be gone soon. Whether the newer design is called "Air" or not is irrelevant. Meanwhile, the Pro line will continue to be the more expensive, thicker, and more powerful alternative.

Agreed. I'm actually hoping they get rid of the "Air" moniker all together and just refer to them as MacBooks and MacBook Pros.

 

[ucfgrad93]

Apple has changed names on a computer line before without any real design change. Remember the aluminum 13" Macbook?

I think the general design of the current rMB will become the lower-cost mainstream line. The current MBA design, as we know it, will be gone soon. Whether the newer design is called "Air" or not is irrelevant. Meanwhile, the Pro line will continue to be the more expensive, thicker, and more powerful alternative.

Agreed. I think the MacBook Air is headed the way of the dodo.

 

[Queen6]

Great post (naturally) and you bring up an angle that's important here: Apple is not in the operating system business, never has been. OSX and it's predecessors were built merely to sell hardware, to enable the shipment of Apple computers in corrugated boxes to retailers. Unlike Windows, OSX is not available as a standalone product to be happily installed into the hardware of one's choosing. If you want an Apple computer, well, you better want OSX because that's all you're getting.

First and foremost Apple obviously wants to remain in control of it`s ecosystem; Mac, iPad & iPhone etc. locking the user in, albeit in a vary smart way. In many respect`s it`s their way or the highway, more so these days now with OS X`s short development cycle. Diverging product lines, that are intrinsically interlocked equals more sales, who is to say Apple is wrong.

If Apple wants to sell, literally, 100x the amount of notebooks it sells today, all it has to do is throw the switch, have a Windows installed and supported MacBook, and that's that. Easiest incremental Apple will ever have in its history. Methinks they are sitting on this layup for the day in the future when iPad and iPhone sales start to weaken and they have concerned shareholders to answer to. Apple could get a decade of strong growth on a "MacBook for Windows" initiative, no questions asked.

I doubt Apple hardware running solely Windows natively will come to market, equally I am sure it has been discussed as the IOS "gravy train" is ever closer to saturation point in many western markets. Personally I think Apple may move to a subscription model for some products/markets, ensuring it`s users always have the latest iToy`s, naturally bolstering Apple`s profitability ever more.

Apple also has a very large cross to bear, with the continuous need to delver stratospheric revenues to the shareholders, and it has to be said that Windows on a Mac provided by Apple would be a lucrative move, with little to no overhead. I think it`s unlikely, equally stranger things have occurred in business.

For the typical consumer, buying a new Windows computer is more challenging and confusing than buying a new car. Apple could make that problem go away with their simplified lineup and in-store Genius experience, it's an enormous market just there for the taking.

BJ

Well put, you can see this is now Microsoft`s tactic to some extents. The Apple Store is literally a stroke of "genius" I have never seen one deserted, in general by far the opposite, and for the average consumer the whole process is engineered to be pleasant and easy going, if not a little hard on the wallet for some


Q-6

 

[dogslobber]

What electronics firm isn't there to maximize revenue?

They may do it different ways... Apple usually goes for it by selling devices with higher margins that are sold in lesser volumes. Other companies go for devices with lower margins that are sold in much higher volumes.

But they all shoot for maximizing revenue.

Okay, I threw that out there to see if you'd understand it but maybe not. It's not about maximizing revenues, it's about maximizing PROFIT. That's why Apple stays away from shipping volumes. The majority of CEOs don't understand this concept and if they don't then they should fail ECON 101.

 

[dogslobber]

2007 called. They want their inter-office envelope back.

BJ

The MBA is a classic design and so it's TIMELESS. That's why you're probably attracted to the MB as it's incredibly thin. It's an evolution of the MBA but the MB just looks like a 2002 TiBook, but a bit thinner. So being a fan of a 2002 form factor while saying a 2007 form factor is a faus pax is a bit contradictory. Yes?

 

[toddzrx]

The MBA is a classic design and so it's TIMELESS.

Purely your opinion, and I bet most folks around here would disagree; I do.

It's an evolution of the MBA but the MB just looks like a 2002 TiBook, but a bit thinner.

In no way does that make sense. If anything, the Air is more similar to the TiBook, but really, neither the Air nor the new Macbook are remotely similar in looks or in the internals they use.

 

[thewap]

The MBA is a classic design and so it's TIMELESS. That's why you're probably attracted to the MB as it's incredibly thin. It's an evolution of the MBA but the MB just looks like a 2002 TiBook, but a bit thinner. So being a fan of a 2002 form factor while saying a 2007 form factor is a faus pax is a bit contradictory. Yes?

I agree