missing feature: LTE

[purplewarlock]

I really have just a single feature that I would like to see in the Macbook Pro's, and that is a built in 4g LTE wireless ability so I can directly connect with Verizon.

I have found tethering via hotspot on my phone is ok, but you lose a lot of speed via bluetooth etc. It isn't as bad via USB but that is a bit clumsy so to speak.

Any idea's on why they didn't include a 4g LTE chip in the Macbook Pro's and/or when this might be available?

 

[dagamer34]

Apps aren't bandwidth aware. Software Update can just decide to download 1GB of updates or iTunes downloads the latest episode of a TV show and boom, 1/2 your bandwidth for the month is GONE.

You'd need a new set of bandwidth aware network APIs in a new version of OS X before you can just casually add in LTE, otherwise you're going to have a lot of unintended consequences. It's not as easy as it seems.

 

[Stetrain]

Probably because laptops generally have longer lifespans than mobile devices and cellular data standards are always changing.

They would also then have to manufacture several different models with different chips, just like the iPad 4G has separate AT&T and Verizon versions because of incompatible frequencies.

I think that for laptops having an external solution is much better in the long run. Get one of the dedicated WiFi mobile hotspots, they seem to be pretty fast in my experience.

 

[takeshi74]

Don't hold your breath. Tether, get a USB modem, get a MiFi, etc.

 

[Apple...]

Don't hold your breath. Tether, get a USB modem, get a MiFi, etc.

I too, doubt Apple would ever release such a model.

 

[mbell1975]

Dude, the iPhone doesn't even have 4G yet lol. Apple is always behind on everything, you should know this.