In a theoretical world.. (GPU in MB)

[Quad 2.5 G5 =)]

Why didn't Apple include a discrete GPU in the MacBook line back when there was a black MB available? (2006-2008) Unless there is something I'm missing, such as a space issue, they could have put in a Radeon HD 2400XT, just like in the iMac, which was their consumer-grade desktop, maybe as a BTO option. This is not future speculation, just a question on what could have been. If the MacBook had this graphics processor, would it have boosted sales by Apple being able to boast that it's entry-level portable had discrete graphics?

 

[Intell]

Heat and power consumption. Two things that the Blackbooks had/have a hard time keeping under control. Adding a better GPU would have pushed it too far.

 

[Quad 2.5 G5 =)]

Heat and power consumption. Two things that the Blackbooks had/have a hard time keeping under control. Adding a better GPU would have pushed it too far.

Was this specific to BlackBooks, or any version of MBs in general?

 

[Intell]

It was for all plastic Macbooks pre-unibody.

 

[iThinkergoiMac]

While I can't speak for the battery life, my MacBook doesn't get very hot at all, at least compared to my PowerBook. It stays much cooler by comparison, even when I push it.

I've noticed that plenty of my friends with MacBooks also get considerably better battery life than the PowerBook/iBook lines.