Agree, they absolutely should do this, just like some HP models have builtin (GSM) cell data, not to mention iPads. I've been wondering for years why they don't do it. Just put in a slot for the GSM SIM.
Got a tip for us?
Let us know
Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.
Why no cellular internet option?
- Thread starter AdonisSMU
- Start date
- Sort by reaction score
Agree, they absolutely should do this, just like some HP models have builtin (GSM) cell data, not to mention iPads. I've been wondering for years why they don't do it. Just put in a slot for the GSM SIM.
Yes, I can use my T-Mobile cell phone as a hotspot. But, why not make 3G (or 4G) an option, like this hp:
http://store.hp.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/us/en/pdp/Laptops/hp-stream-notebook---13-c030nr-%28energy-star%29
http://store.hp.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/us/en/pdp/Laptops/hp-stream-notebook---13-c030nr-%28energy-star%29
Because it adds cost. At least $150 I'm guessing. You have the extra part. But more importantly, the cost of the licensing depends on the cost of the device. Since a computer is typically more expensive than a phone, the licensing cost would be higher than a phone even.
Now that you can start your hotspot on your iPhone right from the wi fi menu on the computer you don't even have to touch the phone to start it. Nice and easy.
Now that you can start your hotspot on your iPhone right from the wi fi menu on the computer you don't even have to touch the phone to start it. Nice and easy.
Adds cost. Draws power. Reduces battery life. And Apple wants us all to embrace their whole ecosystem model, and use the rMB with an iPhone's data.
Those of us with VZW unlimited data plans (grandfathered) are up a creek - they won't allow me to add the hotspot feature to my phone plan.
It definitely helped that VZW now allows voice-over-LTE on the iPhones. Previously you had to choose between hotspot function, and taking voice calls.
It definitely helped that VZW now allows voice-over-LTE on the iPhones. Previously you had to choose between hotspot function, and taking voice calls.
That should be for the user to decide. Its an ultra portable device. Its not that portable if it cant do basic functions browse the web without needing a phone.
I don't think there are enough people who want for it to be worth the extra effort (of Apple) to add it as an option. If only 1% of the people want it is not a smart decision to design it as a BTO option.
Oh, it would be nice of course. But i don't think apple is ever going that way as long as they still sell iphones/ipads.
I agree with both. I wouldn't even consider owning an iPad without the cell radio for the same reason, but while the number must be a lot more than 1% it looks like a big majority of iPads are sold with only wifi.
What are the numbers on that? Also the vast majority of mac users arent using a number of things included with macs.... That is at best a weak argument. If Apple highlighted cellular connectivity there are those who would use it.
I personally can understand that. I have LTE on my iPad, but I could easily have gone with a WiFi-only iPad. I don't really use my iPad like that, to the point where I need on-the-go cellular access. But if there was a cellular option for the Mac, I'd definitely go with it.
Hypothetically, you wouldn't be locked down to a carrier. It would be like it is on the iPad.
I've said this for the last seven or eight years - why don't laptops have a SIM slot? Each time I'm shot down in the forums and Apple still don't have any notebooks with SIM slots.
They clearly don't consider them truly portable in the way the iPad and iPhone are.
I wouldve upvoted if I had seen your post. iPad is a different form factor but since the browser is the most used single program on a laptop or ipad...cellular internet is more than justified imo.
Last edited:
So why do they sell cellular iPads? Not like iPads make phone calls so you still need a phone. Sounds like a contradiction and people are arguing against it simply because Apple doesn't offer it.
----------
Well they did highlight the wirelessness of the MB. The lack of cellular seems like an obvious omission.
Too bad, I've got an extra sim with my Phone subscription, that sim is now in my iPad and I would put that in my MacBook right away, and wouldn't mind paying an extra 150/200 for that. Right now I usually use my iPad as hotspot device, don't want to do that on my iPhone because I don't want to drain it.
Would LTE drain so much more power than WiFi?
Would LTE drain so much more power than WiFi?