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Year in Review: Everything Apple Introduced in 2018
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It is quite sad how you are trying to justify Apple's problems.
It is NOT more reliable. It is an excuse for Apple to charge more its customers, since now they are forced to buy Apple's RAM and SSD at 3 times more expensive that market value. Furthermore, if either Ram or SSD fail, you are left with no computer at Apple's expensive repair mercy.
Your lame excuse that very small percentage of Pro users (with no supporting data) is baseless. "Pro" users actually upgrade their own computer from RAM to SSD to many other things. Pro-consumers are the ones that do not care.
That is way the the old Mac Pro tower was so succesful and the trashcan such a failure. And many other Pro users that I know preferred to upgrade their old computers since they actually donot like the new Macbooks Pro. Many of them actually tried the 2016 and returned it within a week.
Furthermore, your suggestion that any pro user actually should buy a new computer everytime they need to upgrade RAM or SSD is just pathetic. Not only it creates more trash, you just do not buy a new car everytime you need to change tires.
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While I agree that Apple is a for profit, that does not mean they have to put badly designed overpriced products.
As a long time Apple user, it is extremely sad to see Apple's design arrogance, putting out badly designed overpriced products with minimal innovation (I am referring mainly to the entire computer line up).
Mac Mini price increased over 60%. Although a different machine, it is way overpriced for an entry level. Still, it is 60%. Macbook air 20% and MacBook Pro 25% with no significant innovation and considering that electronic prices actually go down.
Look in Amazon, there are plenty of different brand PCs that come with a basic of 16GB ram and 512 SSD for $900. Do your research.
It is NOT more reliable. It is an excuse for Apple to charge more its customers, since now they are forced to buy Apple's RAM and SSD at 3 times more expensive that market value. Furthermore, if either Ram or SSD fail, you are left with no computer at Apple's expensive repair mercy.
Your lame excuse that very small percentage of Pro users (with no supporting data) is baseless. "Pro" users actually upgrade their own computer from RAM to SSD to many other things. Pro-consumers are the ones that do not care.
That is way the the old Mac Pro tower was so succesful and the trashcan such a failure. And many other Pro users that I know preferred to upgrade their old computers since they actually donot like the new Macbooks Pro. Many of them actually tried the 2016 and returned it within a week.
Furthermore, your suggestion that any pro user actually should buy a new computer everytime they need to upgrade RAM or SSD is just pathetic. Not only it creates more trash, you just do not buy a new car everytime you need to change tires.
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While I agree that Apple is a for profit, that does not mean they have to put badly designed overpriced products.
As a long time Apple user, it is extremely sad to see Apple's design arrogance, putting out badly designed overpriced products with minimal innovation (I am referring mainly to the entire computer line up).
I consider myself a pretty typical Apple customer. I replace my iPhone every 3 years and MacBook every 6 years.
I will grant you that there has been a $100 increase in the price of the MBA compared to 6 years ago. But, amortized over the next 6 years useful life, I don't think it is that big of deal for most customers committed to the Apple ecosystem.
My point is that most people's expectations about cost are tied more to what they have paid in the past and what it will cost them to update in the future. Very few typical Apple consumers stare at the spec sheet and then try to find a better value on an unfamiliar Windows platform. Not if the current Apple pricing is close to their expectations based on past purchases.
Finally, I should point out that I did not even try to get a good deal in these examples. You can buy a new MBA for $1,000 from B&H and then sell your old MBA for a good price on Craig's list if you are inclined to do so. I picked the full retail example because many typical consumers just walk into the Apple store and make their trade-in and/or purchase.
- Three Years ago - iPhone 6s 16GB: $199 on contract, $649 full retail. I trade-in my 6s for $200 for the Xr with 64GB at Apple (so full retail). $750 new Xr - $200 trade-in old = $550. Keep it for 3 years like the 6s = $180 per year cost of ownership (does not include carrier fees for data, cals, text, etc). $15 per month.
- Let's say I bought my MBA 6 yeas ago (actually mine is a 2014, but it will definitely make it another year no problem). The retail price for the 2012 MBA was ~$1,100. In a year or so, I could trade in my old MBA for a new MBA. Another full retail deal. $1200 new MBA - $200 trade-in old = $1,000. Keep it for 6 years = ~$170 per year cost of ownership. Less than $15 per month.
I will grant you that there has been a $100 increase in the price of the MBA compared to 6 years ago. But, amortized over the next 6 years useful life, I don't think it is that big of deal for most customers committed to the Apple ecosystem.
My point is that most people's expectations about cost are tied more to what they have paid in the past and what it will cost them to update in the future. Very few typical Apple consumers stare at the spec sheet and then try to find a better value on an unfamiliar Windows platform. Not if the current Apple pricing is close to their expectations based on past purchases.
Finally, I should point out that I did not even try to get a good deal in these examples. You can buy a new MBA for $1,000 from B&H and then sell your old MBA for a good price on Craig's list if you are inclined to do so. I picked the full retail example because many typical consumers just walk into the Apple store and make their trade-in and/or purchase.
Wow, you haven’t use any top of line razer laptop or Surface book or Dell XPS 2 in 1! the ipad pro is what but a toy? I can’t even work on this. Apple watch? ok maybe if you are into those useless gadgets.
The only thing I still like is iphone, not because they are so great just because android is such a mess. Android phone hardware are passing apple, but the OS is still in Apple favor.
I too sold my Mac, been in apple bangwagon since Mac OS 8 (not os x.8). I’m really happy with my razer blade 15”. Damn that thing is fast and punch serious power!
I wish we could have OS x.6 back intonopen source, the downfall of Mac os x is sad.
Sounds like the Mini is not for you. No worries...there are plenty of computers out there that will put a smile on your face with USB-A
For me, I need the four 40 Gbit/sec Thunderbolt-3 ports. And the 10Gb ethernet NIC.
I moved on from USB-A more than a year ago when I bought my 2017 MBP. $20 in USB-C cables and I was good to go. And have never looked back.
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And I feel Apple's products are well-priced and offer outstanding value. Seems a couple hundred million people might agree, buying Apple products year after year after year.
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No, it's not. Especially if you need the features offered. Such as four 40Gbit/sec Thunderbolt 3 ports, two USB 3 ports, the ability two drive two or three 4K/5K displays, HDMI 2.0, Bluetooth 5.0, and the ability to add a built-in 10Gbit ethernet nic.
Do these computers have the above ports? Do they run macOS (I already know the answer).
No, for me Apple products are well-priced and off outstanding value.
"As a long time Apple user, it is extremely sad to see Apple's design arrogance, putting out badly designed overpriced products with minimal innovation (I am referring mainly to the entire computer line up)."
Holy Smokes! Design arrogance, no less! That's awful! Yet you're still here. Why haven't you voted with your wallet and embraced products from another manufacturer?
I think some people around here are overly negative. I do agree, pricing has gone absolutely absurd in 2018, which makes it increasingly difficult to justify Apple products, but the products themselves are impressive and I think we are finally starting to see a return to form.
- Finally new Mac Minis! Can't believe people are complaining. I expected a soldered "Apple TV" with 2 USB-C ports, and here we got a proper performance offering with Quad/Hexa-core and SSDs all across the lineup (something which the more expensive iMac still lacks). Not only that, but you can actually access the RAM! This was probably the biggest surprise for me in 2018.
- Finally a new and appealing consumer laptop! Finally in 13"! The new MacBook Air is a fantastic offering for the general consumer. 13" Retina Display, Touch ID, and great battery life in a thin and light design.
- MacBook Pro models that are finally Quad/Hexa-core. The 13" model is now seriously appealing, if only it wasn't for the Touch Bar.
- In general, decent updates to the iPhone/iPad/Apple Watch line-ups! Well, except for bent iPad Pro's passing Apple's quality control. Unacceptable and the worst PR-statement Apple could have made.
Personally, the new MacBook Air was the 13" laptop I've been waiting for, and the Apple Watch 4's raving reviews were reason enough to give it a go. Very happy about both products so far (other than price)!
- Finally new Mac Minis! Can't believe people are complaining. I expected a soldered "Apple TV" with 2 USB-C ports, and here we got a proper performance offering with Quad/Hexa-core and SSDs all across the lineup (something which the more expensive iMac still lacks). Not only that, but you can actually access the RAM! This was probably the biggest surprise for me in 2018.
- Finally a new and appealing consumer laptop! Finally in 13"! The new MacBook Air is a fantastic offering for the general consumer. 13" Retina Display, Touch ID, and great battery life in a thin and light design.
- MacBook Pro models that are finally Quad/Hexa-core. The 13" model is now seriously appealing, if only it wasn't for the Touch Bar.
- In general, decent updates to the iPhone/iPad/Apple Watch line-ups! Well, except for bent iPad Pro's passing Apple's quality control. Unacceptable and the worst PR-statement Apple could have made.
Personally, the new MacBook Air was the 13" laptop I've been waiting for, and the Apple Watch 4's raving reviews were reason enough to give it a go. Very happy about both products so far (other than price)!
So let me get this straight. Previously you were able to access the RAM without much trouble. Then they made it questionably more difficult, and you laud them for this?
https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT205041#one
"To upgrade the memory in your Mac mini (2018), go to an Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider."
Are people really being negative or cynical at these actions?
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I was hoping they upgrade the old Mini with small upgrades and keep the price comparable to its brethren. I was cross shopping to build a Plex/home server with a NUC or refurbished/new mac mini. I am still waiting to see how this plays out as I don't have any immediate rush to buy either or.
I buy Apple products year after year after year. Why can't I say that I feel the prices are high? I never mentioned anything about value in my original post btw, so not sure what your eyes are reading.
Hey, to be fair for Apple, the 2014 model had soldered in RAM. so this is a step back in the right direction. baby step. but at least a good step
By “Previously”, you are referring to 2012.
I’m referring to the previous model, where RAM was soldered on. Just like It still is in every single Apple laptop, and the more expensive 21.5” iMac.
Manage expectations. It’s great that Apple is actually reversing course here.
I probably could, yep.
But I'm satisfied either way.
Yup, I ain't complaining.
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If Microsoft moves to Linux, they'll do so to become less invested in the OS, not more. They won't care to "blow Apple out the water" because that would be a pyrrhic victory.
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Probably the Apple Watch Series 4. Big step up.
There have been some misses (no iMac revision; AirPower still MIA; iPad mini and Mac Pro both getting long in the tooth; HomePod perhaps launching prematurely but already getting solid software updates; the MacBook line-up is still baffling), but all-around quite a lot of good stuff. iOS 12 is really solid in reliability and performance, and brought some nice features as well (how did we live without grouped notifications?). The new MacBook Air is pretty good. The MacBook Pro finally offers 32 GB RAM. The Mac mini has suddenly become an excellent offering after far too many years of neglect. The 2018 low-end iPad is excellent, and the new iPad Pros are, too!
In comparison, the iPhone upgrade is almost kind of boring.
It was a pretty good year. Not without problems (iPads bending, for example), but with a lot of good stuff.
100% percent agree with you...two generations behind on the CPU, if we want to get technical, one generation behind on the PCH, frozen in time GPU-wise, needs Bluetooth 5.0, rumors of a screen upgrade still lurking around, but little else to go on.
I have to admit to being slightly baffled by Apple not addressing this and instead releasing a (sorely needed) Mac mini update that gives us a glimpse of what would be in store for those waiting on an iMac update, but feels more like a stick than a carrot when you get down to it.
My reply to the OP had more to do with my useless comment threshold being far exceeded for calendar year 2018. I am hoping for a better 2019 from Apple and for more useful discourse on these forums. Happy New Year!!
Totally agree. I first noticed the price surge in 2016 actually with the new MacBooks. Is when I stopped recomending buying MacBooks to my friends. Since last year I stopped buying Apple overall. I didn't buy iPhone XS, Watch , iPad or Mac, etc. I still can afford them big time but I feel it's not right. First time in many years that I didn't buy the new iPhone, haven't buy a Watch yet and my Mac is almost 5 years old and I'm still holding back. I must say iPad Pro & MacBook Air actually intrigued me though; for 1st one I'll hold off for the next unbent model for the second for a better CPU and unchanged price.
I don't believe they will wake up so soon. I wish, but I don't think so. They just announced to stop giving sales figures in future reports, so I'd expect they stick with that minimum for a year or two. Maybe this policy change is related to this new CFO (2014), Maestri, who knows and I feel it may well be Tim Cook's gravestone.
It is 60% more expensive regardless the ports. Again you missed my point, the new Mac Mini is way too expensive for an entry level machine (what it used to be).
I was talking about the MAcboooks and Yes, the Macbook Air has barely 2 ports. The Macbook Pro 3 (since one is used for charging). Furthermore, the PC come with USB-A and PCI card reader.
YES it is quite Awfull. Apple have been ignoring user requests putting design over function, specially in Pro computers.
ANd by the way, I have been voting with my wallet for many years as well as many of my friends. In 2016, When I had to buy a laptop for my kid, and instead of buying the brand new Macbook Pro, I ended buying the previous model. Furthermore, many Pro user friends that bought it ended up returning them. I was waiting to upgrade mine as well, but I am still waiting. I am not buying a computer where both the RAM and SSD cannot be upgraded. It is just a joke of bad taste especially for the amount of money they are charging and because I do not support these diposable non-upgradable computer. Many Pro users that got tired of waiting for Apple to come out with a pro machine, they either built a hackintosh or switch to PC.
Sadly that is how much Apple care about their product development. That is why computer unit sales dropped quarter over quarter. WHere is Apple stock now? that should give you a hint.
Please tell me what android hardware has surpassed Apple’s iPhones. Face ID? Nope. Processors? Not even close. Cameras? Nope. Screen? The XS screens are amongst the very best. Software? Preference, but iOS is much more stable. App market? Android apps can’t compete on the whole. Forget about security. As far as the computers go, there are really nice PCs out there, I never said there weren’t. There is no other tablet on the market close to an iPad Pro. Apple Watch is a fantastic smart watch.
Again... If you do not need the high performance ports or if the Mini's price is too expensive for you that's fine. There are plenty of other lower-cost options out there that don't have the features you don't need. Simply pick one that meets your needs and move on rather than whine.
Some people need the ports/performance of the Mini. Try not to project your needs/feelings/requirements on others who have different requirements.
Whining about the price is frankly embarrassing.
What was the pencil that looked like a pencil? had a yellow body and pink rubber end or something
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Are you being serious. All the cameras from the top makes and even some not so top are good for phone cameras and even give DSLRs a run for their money for the average user.
I bet in a blind test you wouldn't be able to pick the iPhone photos
[doublepost=1546077364][/doublepost]My new year resolution was to give up my itunes discount of 15% when used to pay for netflix and sign up with netflix direct so they get all of my subscription money.
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Quite serious. iPhone cameras aren’t behind any Android flagship. In fact, other than the night sight feature and some low light photos, the Pixel 3 doesn’t do as well overall, particularly when we are talking about video.
That wasn't at question.
The original assertion was: "Android phone hardware are passing apple, but the OS is still in Apple favor."
Which does bring up the question which Android phone has passed Apple, and in which way. It can't be cameras. iPhone cameras continue to be highly-rated; they haven't been surpassed.
They made an assertion that only Apple make great cameras which is not true
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The top phones out there all have good cameras
They made no such assertion.
“Please tell me what android hardware has surpassed Apple’s iPhones. Face ID? Nope. Processors? Not even close. Cameras? Nope.”
I have been saying this for a while: competitors have caught up, and nowadays they can indeed give Apple a run for their money in terms of innovation, build-quality and performance.
I used to be a huge Apple customer (MBP, iPhone, iPad, iMac, etc. I used to have it all), but in the last 12 months I have migrated away to other products: Samsung Galaxy Note 9 is an amazing phone, the Microsoft Surface laptop line is flawless, Android 9 is rock solid, etc.
Now a days, Apple is not the only premium manufacturer anymore, and they are not the innovative powerhouse they used to be neither.
I honestly believe Apple needs to step up their game and, more importantly, get out of their comfort zone.
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There isn't a whole lot of innovation this cycle to do aside from Apple making their silicon better along with major iOS development after the cruise control iOS 12 release.
Hiding the notch isn't likely in 2019, the technology isn't exactly where we want it to have cameras under the glass without going backwards in quality. We are still awhile away from top-end foldable smartphones, even though Apple glass screen manufacturer, Corning has made some real good bend glass lately. 5G is likely by 2020, probably by the time Apple dumps intel for their own modem.
The XS is doing okay, the XR is just a big stink bomb at the moment almost like the 5C. People are seeing it's too expensive for what you get, when you can buy the latest iPad Pro at that same price, which actually is a better deal.
It is pretty obvious Apple is struggling to sell the iPhone XR with the cutback in production and the extra big boost to marketing by order of Tim Cook. Not until now has Apple ever advertised on the home page or even in their stores about the trade-in cost to upgrade to one.
After the battery debacle they will probably feel like they did their part with the $30 replacements and iOS 12 performance boosts. As much as the pie graph looks good to have as many devices on latest iOS, money will ultimate talk because of market saturation and supporting too many generations. They will have to get people off of the 5S and 6 series.
Hiding the notch isn't likely in 2019, the technology isn't exactly where we want it to have cameras under the glass without going backwards in quality. We are still awhile away from top-end foldable smartphones, even though Apple glass screen manufacturer, Corning has made some real good bend glass lately. 5G is likely by 2020, probably by the time Apple dumps intel for their own modem.
The XS is doing okay, the XR is just a big stink bomb at the moment almost like the 5C. People are seeing it's too expensive for what you get, when you can buy the latest iPad Pro at that same price, which actually is a better deal.
It is pretty obvious Apple is struggling to sell the iPhone XR with the cutback in production and the extra big boost to marketing by order of Tim Cook. Not until now has Apple ever advertised on the home page or even in their stores about the trade-in cost to upgrade to one.
After the battery debacle they will probably feel like they did their part with the $30 replacements and iOS 12 performance boosts. As much as the pie graph looks good to have as many devices on latest iOS, money will ultimate talk because of market saturation and supporting too many generations. They will have to get people off of the 5S and 6 series.
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The camera for one. -
Are you willing to put skin in the game on a blind test of iPhone vs other phone cameras?
How much skin before you say no?
Also if you think about it, most phones are good enough with a price performance point that people want otherwise we would all be using iPhones.
Also iPhones do worse percentage wise compared to other brands. It sells well in the US but less well in a lot of other countries and that is in countries that can afford it, like UK, Australia etc.
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Very dissapointed in apples product releases this year.
I’ve been a long time Apple fan but think they are being totally out flanked by both Amazon and Google.
They are also raising their prices beyond what I’m prepared to pay.
For such a supposedly innovative company they seem to be re hashing tired old product lines and not keeping up with the latest trends.
I’ve resisted getting a google or Alexa smart speaker as I am an Apple supporter ( thinking they offer the best tech) but my wife was given a google home mini this Christmas.
And what a revelation- I love this thing - it was only $49 but it’s amaxing. What is really clever is we have paired a better {KEF } Bluetooth speaker to it. This is a genius move as I know the HomePod has great sound but you can use your own speaker or multiple speakers on a $49 device:
Where is Apple in this ? The HomePod is all they have and from reviews Siri is not up to it and it costs $400. Shame as they announced it years ago had Siri before the others but just squandered the lead.
Apple need a sub $100 smart speaker and fast- this is the new battle ground now.
Never thought I’d say this but seriously thinking of switching to google eco system as Apple is just not keeping up
I’ve been a long time Apple fan but think they are being totally out flanked by both Amazon and Google.
They are also raising their prices beyond what I’m prepared to pay.
For such a supposedly innovative company they seem to be re hashing tired old product lines and not keeping up with the latest trends.
I’ve resisted getting a google or Alexa smart speaker as I am an Apple supporter ( thinking they offer the best tech) but my wife was given a google home mini this Christmas.
And what a revelation- I love this thing - it was only $49 but it’s amaxing. What is really clever is we have paired a better {KEF } Bluetooth speaker to it. This is a genius move as I know the HomePod has great sound but you can use your own speaker or multiple speakers on a $49 device:
Where is Apple in this ? The HomePod is all they have and from reviews Siri is not up to it and it costs $400. Shame as they announced it years ago had Siri before the others but just squandered the lead.
Apple need a sub $100 smart speaker and fast- this is the new battle ground now.
Never thought I’d say this but seriously thinking of switching to google eco system as Apple is just not keeping up
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Well that's fine, but the whole data harvesting thing keeps me from embracing the Amazon or Google ecosystems and makes me leery of smart speakers in general.