No PowerBook Updates Before 2005

[Duane Martin]

Yeah, I am going to have to check out the source of this for myself. Because Apple was not building my BTO Powerbook when I ordered it just over a week ago (10 days, no activity, able to cancel), and a friend of a friend who has met someone from Apple in a previous life assured me there would be a speed bump of the Powerbook within two weeks. So, I personally will wait until next Tuesday, or maybe even Oct. 30th. If no announcement, I will place the BTO order again and hope somebody at Apple is in the mood to fill my order.

Okay, I know I am kidding myself. But I just have to believe...

 

[Stella]

It isn't much of a shock is it? What will Apple update with? There isn't anything..

G5 aren't ready for laptops. It won't be until next year until Freescale releases the next batch of faster G4s... So, what are Apple going to update the PowerBooks with?

Larger memory, bigger hard disc etc. Well.. you can buy to order.

Without faster processors for speed bumps there doesn't seem to be much of a point of releasing new machines.

One other thing.. if Apple say NO POWERBOOKS, they REALLY mean that. They said that with G5 Laptops and iPod 60 Gig devices. If Apple would loose too much creditable / trust if they suddenly did U-Turn.

 

[Poff]

Unfortunately Apple’s attention has been on the iPod, PowerMac, and iMac. We’re probably going to see an eMac update before we see a PowerBook update.

There doesn't seem to be much Apple can do about it. Add dual processors?

I totally agree with you, though.. The powerbook-line looks pathetic. Macs aren't known to be fast computers, but these powerbooks are becoming slow and overpriced.

I bet Steve is pulling his hair, though.. Because he knows better than anyone that the only thing making pro-users buy the powerbook these days, is brand loyality.

 

[GroundLoop]

We’re probably going to see an eMac update before we see a PowerBook update.

We are guaranteed to get a new eMac before a PB update. In fact, the eMac will be updated before Thanksgiving.

Hickman

 

[Stella]

@SiliconAddict - I saw your quote:
-I have a new ThinkPad T42 from my company. I also have a $3,200 interest free loan from them ready and waiting to go on a 17" G5 PowerBook. When Apple? When?


Apple will release a 17" PB G5 one day after you decide to spend your money on a G4 i/Power Book.

 

[Giantred]

This is the same as the lull of the Powermac, but unfortunatley I dont
think we will be getitng the G5 anytime soon. Our only way is to pray, and pray hard; so get into the spirit and bow your head.

There are few flaws with the releases of today. Apple should have waited for MWSF to release the new iBook (assuming the necessary update of the powerbooks.) If the were to wait people would view the iBook update as more substantial, because there would be a bigger void between the two product lines. Unlike now when I view the 14" iBook and 12" powerbook to be the same computer. Since Vram is the only noticable change.


Corey
P.S. Was I the only one who looked arround the Apple website after seeing the iBook on the homepage for a few minutes, asuming they also updated the powerbooks?

 

[yoda13]

Sorry but only an eternal Mac optimist could turn a 9 month dry spell in updates (And come on even the speedbump updates are pathetic.) into something positive. This is bad news for anyone who is looking for real performance in an Apple laptop. I was once again at Apple's store playing around with their anemic 17" Powerbook waiting for my movie to start. Rebooted to get a clean start on everything. I shouldn't have to drum my fingers four-five times on the table waiting for iTunes to open. Walk over to the iMac and its not lightening fast but way faster then the PowerBook line. No more excuses. The *book line is exactly where the PowerMac was pre G5: a sad line of products in much need of some TLC. Unfortunately Apple’s attention has been on the iPod, PowerMac, and iMac. We’re probably going to see an eMac update before we see a PowerBook update.

2 gig of RAM helps the computer to feel a lot snappeir, as does the faster hard disk option. I actually scored a 131.21 on xBench with this thing, which isn't much slower than the new iMac that guy posted w/ a month or so back, ( I do know w/ enough memory, that the iMac will kick my butt, though) I agree that it is time for a G5 or a dual core G4, but I don't think that they are as bad as you say they are, sorry just had to reply as I really like mine.

 

[ijimk]

Wow this sucks i was hoping to get an idea on whether or not the update would be a big video card update. Well i guess i will have to wait and see. Damn this hurts apple big time with x-mas right around the corner.

 

[Furrybeagle]

I was once again at Apple's store playing around with their anemic 17" Powerbook waiting for my movie to start. Rebooted to get a clean start on everything. I shouldn't have to drum my fingers four-five times on the table waiting for iTunes to open. Walk over to the iMac and its not lightening fast but way faster then the PowerBook line.

Woulnd't this be due to the fact that the HD is probably 5400RPM (probably 4200RPM), while the iMac is running at 7200RPM.

Hard drives for iMac G5 are offered in 80GB, 160GB or 250GB capacities.* Options depend on the iMac G5 model you choose. All iMac G5 models include a standard Serial ATA hard drive (data transfers up to 1.5 Gigabits per second). All hard drives run at 7,200 revolutions per minute (rpm).

and

12-inch PowerBook G4 :
The 12-inch PowerBook G4 comes standard with a 60GB hard drive that operates at 4,200 revolutions per minute (rpm).* An 80GB drive option running at 5400 rpm is also available for higher speed drive access.

15-inch PowerBook G4:
Hard drives for the 15-inch PowerBook G4 are offered in 60GB or 80GB capacities and run at 4,200 revolutions per minute (rpm).* An 80GB drive option running at 5400 rpm is also available for higher speed drive access.

17-inch PowerBook G4:
The 17-inch PowerBook G4 comes with an 80GB hard drive that operates at 4,200 rpm. An 80GB hard drive operating at 5,400 rpm is also available as an upgrade option.*

When I finally upgraded the 4200RPM HD on my wintel laptop, my performance almost doubled in loading times.

I imagine your waiting on the PowerBook is due to the fact that is an old HD on a slower HD connection (whatever the Apple equivalent of ATA, Serial-ATA, etc. is, if there is one).

Either way though the PowerBook line is kind of dead right now. It will be almost 9 months before there may be an update announced, and we don't even know what this update will be even be! Thats looking at 10 to 11 months before new (which is a loose term) PB models may start shipping.

Arrrgghh, have to deal with a 2 year old Dell laptop (that weighs a ton) for 5 more months!!! At least it can play Doom III, and there are plenty of good games coming out soon...

Starts waiting for Halo 2

 

[Eastend]

Need a PowerBook

2 gig of RAM helps the computer to feel a lot snappeir, as does the faster hard disk option. I actually scored a 131.21 on xBench with this thing, which isn't much slower than the new iMac that guy posted w/ a month or so back, ( I do know w/ enough memory, that the iMac will kick my butt, though) I agree that it is time for a G5 or a dual core G4, but I don't think that they are as bad as you say they are, sorry just had to reply as I really like mine.

My Dual 2.5 G5 scored just over 248 and that's about average for this machine, the gap keeps getting wider and wider between the pro line towers and books. I need a new book also, but until Apple really makes a 15 or 20 per cent jump I'm not buying. I'll just hang onto my old 500 Ti (scored around 59). Can you believe it, I still love this old PowerBook.

Brian

 

[yoda13]

My Dual 2.5 G5 scored just over 248 and that's about average for this machine, the gap keeps getting wider and wider between the pro line towers and books. I need a new book also, but until Apple really makes a 15 or 20 per cent jump I'm not buying. I'll just hang onto my old 500 Ti (scored around 59). Can you believe it, I still love this old PowerBook.

Brian

That old TiBook is an awesome machine. I used to have one just like it, and it is now serving my nephew up at grad school in Boston. It might be the best laptop I have ever owned. Can't comment on this one yet, as I haven't had it but two weeks or so.

 

[stephenli]

comeon apple....

Comeon Apple, give us a faster Powerbook...
I dont want to purchase 1.5Ghz G4 PB in the same price as a Dual 2.0Ghz G5......

 

[Furrybeagle]

Maybe there is something in the wording. Maybe...there'll be a price drop. No...it has to maintain a higher place over the iBook. Maybe a speed bump...no, he said the current model. Or did he say line. Maybe line means that they will update the processor but keep the form factor...

OK, I am just reaching here. Just crazy speculation

 

[macnulty]

I wonder what Apple's Powerbook inventory and/or their supply pipeline looks like. They may need to clear some shelves somewhere.

 

[weezer160]

if no release until 2005, they will have to drop prices on the current line up. who'd want to buy a 8 or 9 month pb at it's original price when a revision is expected. in other words, apple has to make the current line up of pbs more attractive price wise until their next update, which should be jan. 2005.

 

[Steven1621]

Mac World San Francisco Jan. '05! Keynote....new powerbooks released...crowd cheers...next on the line-up iLife '05....60GB photo iPods...crowd cheers again...everyone in attendence receives a free ipod!

i don't think they would do just a speed bump and other minor improvements just for a macworld. that is normal stuff. ipod and ilife updates, are definitely possibilities.

 

[SiliconAddict]

There doesn't seem to be much Apple can do about it. Add dual processors?

The problem I have is why when IBM was working on the G5 for the desktop didn't Apple start thinking and working on something for their PowerBooks? We are talking years here. Don't think that by now something could have been created for the PowerBook at this point. I would love to know what the heck was Apple's thinking when it came to further progression of the PowerBook. What? Did they think Moto would continue to deliver?!? They should have been realistic and saw the writing on the wall during the development of the G5 for the PowerMac. So here we are fall of 04 with the same predicament they were in with their PowerMac line in Spring of 03. Apple is in control of their product line not Moto. There are always options and if that meant going back to IBM and asking for a revamped G3....*shrugs*

 

[utilizer]

A Good and Measured Move

I was thinking today of the enhancements made to the iBook and wondered if anyone really could come up with a solid reason to buy the Powerbook, over say an iMac or even the new iBook, given the substantial price disparities. I sensed an update to quickly follow suit to the Powerbook lineup.
Then I wondered, what in the world could they show at MWSF?? (besides the rampant rumors of a "headless" video Mac!)
NOTHING! I know the 60 GB iPod will be here next week when U2 comes out and the G5 probably won't be updated until summer 2005 at WWDC. So that leaves the dual-processor Powerbooks to look forward to. Look for a new form factor, and NOT dual core processors. We'll see if I'm right!

 

[fastred]

being the college student i am, i plan on selling my current 3 month old toshiba tablet PC and just leave the money in my bank account untill i absolutly have to buy one. i wouldnt even bother getting a differant laptop but unfortunatly Visual Communication Design absolutly requires all of their students to buy an Apple wtf. atleast i can wait and put it off as long as possible

You got into College with spelling like that? and if you object so strongly to "having" to buy an Apple... why are you posting on these boards?

Weird...

 

[Mr. Anderson]

Actually, there might be a lot more to this.

The dual core G4s offered by Freescale do not have the same pins as the current G4s. Its a different chip - only the single CPU has the same set of pins.

So, it might mean that Apple is going to wait for a rework of the mobo on the PowerMac.....

At that point, do you rework for a dual core G4 or do you wait for a G5? You have rework the mobo regardless, what's the best choice and what are they going to use in the future?

I'm thinking this might bode well for a G5 - delayed, sure, but a G5 none the less - and a CPU that will be going dual core eventually anyway.

D

 

[TWinbrook46636]

I sense a pattern here...


Macworld SF 2001
- Introduction of the Titanium PowerBook G4

Macworld SF 2002
- Meh.

Macworld SF 2003
- Introduction of the Aluminum PowerBook G4

Macworld SF 2004
- Meh.

Macworld SF 2005
- Introduction of the PowerBook G5

 

[aswitcher]

I sense a pattern here...


Macworld SF 2001
- Introduction of the Titanium PowerBook G4

Macworld SF 2002
- Meh.

Macworld SF 2003
- Introduction of the Aluminum PowerBook G4

Macworld SF 2004
- Meh.

Macworld SF 2005
- Introduction of the PowerBook G5

Maybe...I just keep thinking about the new iMac and all the cooling etc it needs to squeeze the G5 into 2" thick...Fans drain power...G4s are already a bit hot on the lap...

Then we also have a G5 chip supply problem. Would new PB with G5 at 1.5 GHz only really cut it...I would expect people will want to see at least 1.8 and preferably 2 GHz.

So I think its and outside chance at best even with an entirely new case design for maximuim cooling etc

 

[Squire]

I was actually quite interested in Apple's iBook revision because:

1) Consumers have realised that current cpus are fast enough for almost all applications. So, the new iBook is actually a cheaper alternative to the Centrino notebooks (now that it has built in wi-fi). Centrino laptops are all about battery life and connectivity. Same market, lower price, better software.

2) The iBook gfx chip is nothing special, but good enough to play games and better than integrated PC video which is a bit naff.

3) The Centrino portables that are faster than iBooks tend to be ugly and more expensive.

I think as a philosophy, the iBook really works - it's your ultra portable computer and it's actually better than any PC laptop in the same category, but if you want a portable desktop replacement, Apple can't currently match many laptop PCs with their Powerbook range.

The iBook is actually the most compelling product!

Hmmm...good points. I wonder if I would have purchased an Apple portable had I known about either (a) the iBook revision, or (b) the lack of Powerbook revision. Probably. Instead, Sony got my 2 grand for their little 13.3" beauty. I keep reminding my wife, though, that it's her computer and that mine will be introduced some time next year.

Unfortunately Apple’s attention has been on the iPod, PowerMac, and iMac. We’re probably going to see an eMac update before we see a PowerBook update.

SiliconAddict, I can understand your frustration but it's not like they aren't motivated. The Powerbook line is very profitable (the most?) so I bet they're trying to overcome the pitfalls as fast as they can. It's probably a little more complicated than simply throwing a few more engineers at the problem.

Squire

<edit> SiliconAddict, your other post (#67) clarified your position and made a really good point. I agree.

 

[Furrybeagle]

if no release until 2005, they will have to drop prices on the current line up. who'd want to buy a 8 or 9 month pb at it's original price when a revision is expected. in other words, apple has to make the current line up of pbs more attractive price wise until their next update, which should be jan. 2005.

they can't. it would kill prices of the ibook. which i would say is more likely to be purcashed as a holiday present. the ibook is a more casual thing, and its not like if you want one, you need it that second. On the other hand, the PB is the kind of the thing that is nearing expensive for a holiday present, definately used by professionals, and when they need a computer, they just get it, rather than getting it for some special occaison, like christmas or whatever you may celebrate

I was thinking today of the enhancements made to the iBook and wondered if anyone really could come up with a solid reason to buy the Powerbook, over say an iMac or even the new iBook, given the substantial price disparities.

Comparing a notebook to desktop is kind of hard, since they are meant for two different things. but the whole thing with the ibook is kinda strange, since they ibook 14" is almost equivalent to the 12" PB, except for maybe another different display output port on the pb, and the aluminum case. they are otherwise the same. still if you want the best mac that you can carry around at this moment, you would get the pb. its just in a place right now where you get it if you need it, since it does have advantages over the ibook (specifically from the 15" and 17"), just not enough to compensate for the price gap, which is the unsolvable problem.

this period of no-buy for the pb can't last long. and TWinbrook46636 found a good pattern. we're certain to see something pb related at macworld sf 2005 (cant do imac or powermac, still too new, emac updated soon from now, ibook just updated and too new for major overhaul, ipod revision not big enough, so its either major software/os releases, or pb overhaul). i'm guessing and hoping for a pb overhaul, as everyone probably is.

 

[NEENAHBOY]

Personally, I don't think there'll be any PB updates until holiday season 2005. I think everyone in this thread is underestimating just how difficult it must be to cram a G5 processor in an enclosure that small and still manage to keep the temperature reasonable. I just hope they don't rush it out the door, otherwise we might have some explosions on our hands.