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kultschar

macrumors 6502a
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Mar 26, 2010
812
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I read this morning that Apple likely to charge for software updates like the ipod touch.

Cant remember the source but they were analyzing the small print from Apple
 
Are you a Consultant Mod or something?

You can always tell the wannabe mods… they act like one but don't actually have any power. :p


Anyway, on topic, I think we will soon need to start getting into the frame of mind of paying for OS updates to iPads, iPod touches, and even iPhones in the future. We are all very used to paying for upgrades to OS X; Tiger, Leopard, Snow Leopard… And, as frustrating and irritating as it is, I don't see why it should be different on the iPad.
 
I don't mind paying per se, but what I do mind is Apple not making this clear prior to the pre-order date. I think it would've been simply "the right thing to do" regardless of what the specific policy or pricing will be going forward.
 
I don't mind paying per se, but what I do mind is Apple not making this clear prior to the pre-order date. I think it would've been simply "the right thing to do" regardless of what the specific policy or pricing will be going forward.

I'm torn. As a consumer, I agree. But from a business standpoint - Apple doesn't owe you anything other that the latest OS available at the time of purchase. That's what you're buying.

ETA: I'm not sure I see the difference in stating it now or before purchase as if THAT'S something that's going to determine if you're going to buy the device - then maybe whoever that person is shouldn't be buying it or doesn't really want it either. I buy technology, as I've said, on what it can do for me in the present - not what it MIGHT do...

And it seems like they are giving you that plus the next big upgrade (4.0).

Beyond that they MAY charge (it sounds like they aren't certain). But even if they do - a) what are the odds you'll still have the same iPad vs a new one - we could be talking 2 years from now. b) how is this any different than any other OS upgrade (snow leopard).

Remember - the iPad is NOT an iPhone or a big iPod Touch. So you can't really base the upgrade pattern on those devices. (said with tongue in cheek a bit). But sincerely - it's a new breed of device and new OS challenges. I don't behoove Apple for having to pass on some of the cost of overhauling their OS beyond one full version after I buy something
 
I'm torn. As a consumer, I agree. But from a business standpoint - Apple doesn't owe you anything other that the latest OS available at the time of purchase. That's what you're buying.

And it seems like they are giving you that plus the next big upgrade (4.0).

Beyond that they MAY charge (it sounds like they aren't certain). But even if they do - a) what are the odds you'll still have the same iPad vs a new one - we could be talking 2 years from now. b) how is this any different than any other OS upgrade (snow leopard).

Remember - the iPad is NOT an iPhone or a big iPod Touch. So you can't really base the upgrade pattern on those devices. (said with tongue in cheek a bit). But sincerely - it's a new breed of device and new OS challenges. I don't behoove Apple for having to pass on some of the cost of overhauling their OS beyond one full version after I buy something


Oh I agree with everything you've said (miraculous!) I simply meant that the exact comment they ultimately made, that they may charge, should ideally have been made prior to people ordering, just to make it clear that it was a possibility.

I doubt it would've changed enough purchase decisions to matter at the margin, if at all. Just would've sat better from a consumer standpoint.
 
i think the main reason for the free iphone updates is that although they are giving away free os updates for it, they also use the updates to close security holes which may be detrimental to their business i.e. jail-breaking to allow unlocks etc..

my 2c
 
i think the main reason for the free iphone updates is that although they are giving away free os updates for it, they also use the updates to close security holes which may be detrimental to their business i.e. jail-breaking to allow unlocks etc..

my 2c

And you don't see the same issue for the iPad?
 
Security issues will continue to be addressed with free incremental upgrades.
Apple is offering the 4.0 upgrade for free and that really addresses the only legitimate consumer concern. E.G. can I buy now or should I wait till 4.0 is out.
Anybody trying to argue they should have major upgrades for life is just being unrealistic and probably lives in their parents home.
 
I agree with WLS...

security issues should be addressed for free, patches.

Differest OS is completely different. If we are getting 1 free upgrade that is nice of them.
 
Another thing to consider is that OS upgrades always are designed for the most current hardware. After a couple years, while its possible to upgrade the OS, even at minimal cost, the functionality won't be the same compared with current hardware using the same OS -- take the 2G iPhone vs. the 3GS iPhone as example. So I think the reality is, given the low price of the iPad, most people will upgrade hardware at least every two years for some time to come so paid OSes will really be irrelevant, especially if the first upgrade is free.
 
I'd be pissed if I had to turn around and pay for 4.0 just months away.

Since that's not going to happen, I have no idea why people should expect major upgrades forever. That's strange. The iPhone gets free updates for the life of the contract.

I assume the original iPhone got 3.0 because it was released in under two years, so Apple was obligated. I really doubt it will see OS 4 free or even at all, which could also see the 3G cut loose. If you want to keep current boys, you're going to have to pay to upgrade.

BTW, that scenario would mean a release after July 11. Something to think about.
 
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