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Still no LTE option for MacBook Pros

Mathias Denichi

Mathias Denichi

macrumors 6502
Original poster
Jun 21, 2013
454
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I've actually hoped for some LTE MacBook Pro options since it is supported in skylake. I know there are adapters that allow a cellular connection, but this is one of the main things keeping me from buying either a MacBook Pro or a SP4.

Now I've shared connection on my phone, data usage is not extreme like other have theorized. So I wonder what is keeping these two big computer manufacturers from adding a cellular modem to their computers?
 
JTToft said:
- And on the occasion they do, there's always Wi-Fi Hotspot on their iPhone.

Of all the features in all the towns in all the world, this is probably the one I care the least about.
Click to expand...

Exactly. I just use my phone's cellular connection as a hot spot. Don't need my computer to have cellular capability built into its hardware.
 
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NJRonbo said:
Exactly. I just use my phone's cellular connection as a hot spot. Don't need my computer to have cellular capability built into its hardware.
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Then what is the point of the iPad LTE? It can be shared the same way. Id rather not kill the battery of 2 devices.
 
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denichidesigns said:
Then what is the point of the iPad LTE? It can be shared the same way. Id rather not kill the battery of 2 devices.
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That is a good point.

While I don't have a definitive answer, I see the iPad as a more portable type device. It makes more sense to put LTE in it. Also, as people do use if for navigation/maps purposes, the cellular capability is a major plus. I am saying that because I have always been told if I want to use my iPad for navigation then it is essential to get the cellular model.
 
NJRonbo said:
That is a good point.

While I don't have a definitive answer, I see the iPad as a more portable type device. It makes more sense to put LTE in it. Also, as people do use if for navigation/maps purposes, the cellular capability is a major plus. I am saying that because I have always been told if I want to use my iPad for navigation then it is essential to get the cellular model.
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The funny thing, is that the Macbook 12" is smaller than the iPad Pro, yet it doesn't have a cellular option either. And the intel Y series also supports LTE, ie Surface 3. I just find it strange that there has never been an option.
 
data only plans from operators have never been that compelling. only recently were you able to pool your mobile data across all devices... and this is still predicated on an extra $XX / month tacked on to your bill for the extra laptop.

also, use case for laptop is still typically less mobile than iPhone or iPad. not much of a business case to add an LTE module.

denichidesigns said:
The funny thing, is that the Macbook 12" is smaller than the iPad Pro, yet it doesn't have a cellular option either. And the intel Y series also supports LTE, ie Surface 3. I just find it strange that there has never been an option.
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I would like an LTE macbook for work........but thats just because I can use as much data as I like since its the company's plan.....they issue me an iPhone but they disabled the hotspot capabulity. but to issue us a MCB with LTE would be awesome!

Now for personal use yeah i agree with the top comments.....no sense as i can use my phone or public wifi.

But nonetheless the option should be there.
 
JTToft said:
- And iPhones and iPads are made from..? :)
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I can't believe this needs extra explanation in 2016 .-.

ipad03.jpg
 
even in world of windows few laptops have cellular.

some 10" netbooks did a few years ago.

not really an option many people want.
usb dongles are cheap anyway and with the price of mifi dongles as they are then not worth it.
 
I'm sure if Apple thought there was a big demand for it they would. But apparently there just isn't. Lots of other options out there. Using a phone or iPad either tethered, Bluetooth or as a hotspot. Lots of standalone devices, USB dongles etc.
 
denichidesigns said:
Then what is the point of the iPad LTE? It can be shared the same way. Id rather not kill the battery of 2 devices.
Click to expand...

My understanding is that even LTE tablets don't sell nearly as well as the Wifi only models. Speaking for myself, given that I have reliable wifi at home, at work, and in most places where I'm likely to spending a lot of time, such as a hotel, or an airport, I've never felt the need to have mobile data on my tablet or laptop. Even on my phone I barely use more more than a 1GB of data a month. In the very rare occasions where I have needed a connection and didn't have access to wifi, my phone as a hot spot was sufficient.
 
denichidesigns said:
Then what is the point of the iPad LTE? It can be shared the same way. Id rather not kill the battery of 2 devices.
Click to expand...
Agreed. I had this issue when I had a non cellular iPad. I feel if you are marketing something as mobile it should be capable of tapping into LTE connectivity.
 
tether to a cellphone or hotspot. releasing an LTE enabled laptop just adds unnecessary cost without much (if any) return.

adding cellular connectivity means addressing more FCC requirements, additional carrier testing, separate SKUs for the Big 4 cause they refuse to allow software SIMs, additional obsolescence point (LTE, LTE-A, 5G etc)... and most consumers will prolly just say nah, i'll save an extra $15 / month to tether off my phone or find some free wifi.

AdonisSMU said:
Agreed. I had this issue when I had a non cellular iPad. I feel if you are marketing something as mobile it should be capable of tapping into LTE connectivity.
Click to expand...
 
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benzslrpee said:
tether to a cellphone or hotspot. releasing an LTE enabled laptop just adds unnecessary cost without much (if any) return.

adding cellular connectivity means addressing more FCC requirements, additional carrier testing, separate SKUs for the Big 4 cause they refuse to allow software SIMs, additional obsolescence point (LTE, LTE-A, 5G etc)... and most consumers will prolly just say nah, i'll save an extra $15 / month to tether off my phone or find some free wifi.
Click to expand...
It isn't about cost for me I have 60GB/month plan and have 100GB rollover. I agree that it does introduce a whole other level of complexity when laptops will never be as mobile as iPads are now.
 
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