Can a the mythical Mac Tablet succeed?

[sushi]

I believe the last great handwriting/stylus based system, Palm OS, showed that the public could really care less about handwriting recognition. Perhaps learning the strokes of Graffiti was too much, but even those that did (like me) didn't clamor for it's return when provided a keyboard.

The Newton 2000/2100 was very good with handwriting recognition. The earlier models were slow and used a different recognition system.

I would venture to say that if the Newton 2100 was the first Newton model released, the Newton would have been a big success. Unfortunately, the Newton platform could not eliminate the stigma associated with the handwriting recognition, or lack thereof, that the earlier models were capable of doing.

Graffiti is not normal. It required the user to learn a new writing language via the Graffiti pen strokes. Sure character recognition improved as long as you followed the Graffiti rules.

The beauty of the Newton is that it recognized "your" handwriting. With the 2100 I was able to input text rather quickly -- almost as fast as typing. And if you were in a big hurry, you could tell it to wait to interpret your input until after you wrote everything down.

If Apple introduced an improved version of the handwriting recognition that the 2100 used over 10 years ago, it would be awesome -- especially on a 10.4 inch screen. IMHO, the iPhone and touch are too small for pen input. But on a 10.4 inch screen, there is so much that you could do with a pen.

 

[MTI]

But on a 10.4 inch screen, there is so much that you could do with a pen.

You could be right, but I have to wonder if "handwriting" is too old school to be considered a feature, while a touch screen enhanced OS might be the modern way to go.

Graphic recognition input could potentially open broader markets in Asia and the Middle East, though.

 

[MisterMe]

You could be right, but I have to wonder if "handwriting" is too old school to be considered a feature, while a touch screen enhanced OS might be the modern way to go.

Graphic recognition input could potentially open broader markets in Asia and the Middle East, though.

I tend to agree. Much of the speculation presupposes that Apple learned nothing from the Newton, the Palm Pilot, and the other various and sundry digital pads, slates, and whatnot. I think that Apple learned a lot. One of the problems with the Newton was the stylus. It was a separate piece of equipment that was easy to lose. Another problem is handwriting. It has its uses to be sure. However, it is incredibly inefficient as a data entry method. And writing on a glass panel? Fuhgedabowdit!

 

[sushi]

You could be right, but I have to wonder if "handwriting" is too old school to be considered a feature, while a touch screen enhanced OS might be the modern way to go.

You make a good point about old school.

Here's an example of pen input that might be useful. Say you are at a coffee shop reviewing some documents. In the middle of this activity, you need to do a calculation. So you go to a blank spot on the tablet and quickly scribble down say "35.67 / 5 =" and the tablet recognizes the text as an equation and creates a little dialog with the equation and answer with the option to clear or copy the result.

I must admit that I do like the way Apple has implemented the touch interface but I do see where input via a stylus would be a handy option. Note I say option. One thing that I didn't like about the Newton is that you had to use the stylus for everything. Your options were your fingernail (which many times would lead to screen scratching), a finger stylus (which you had to take the time to put on your finger) or a regular pen that had a selectable stylus head (which required that you select the stylus instead of the pen or pencil) to preclude scratching the screen.

The touch interface is very convenient since you always have your input device (finger) with you.

Graphic recognition input could potentially open broader markets in Asia and the Middle East, though.

Definitely easier for Kanji input.

It was a separate piece of equipment that was easy to lose. Another problem is handwriting. It has its uses to be sure. However, it is incredibly inefficient as a data entry method.

I think that it depends on what type of data that you are entering.

I would not want to write a Thesis paper with a stylus. A keyboard would serve that purpose much better. However, short notes, comments on documents, etc., stylus input would be wonderful.

I would see stylus input as a viable option.

 

[PracticalMac]

For a moment, lets assume that this tablet runs a modified version of iPhone OS and that the rumors of using a semi-pa chip is also true. Can such a device succeed?

<snip>

So can a mac tablet be a success with a price tag of $700-800?

No.

A netbook for $199 is much more attractive.

In todays economy, lower price wins.

Make the tables $400, it has a much better chance.

 

[Acorn]

its a new gadget and its apple. they would sell boatloads.

personally id much rather have a apple tablet then a kindle. maybe when you can web surf on a kindle with a color screen for 299 i will change my mind.

 

[MTI]

its a new gadget and its apple. they would sell boatloads.

personally id much rather have a apple tablet then a kindle. maybe when you can web surf on a kindle with a color screen for 299 i will change my mind.

$299? That would cut into sales of the iPod Touch, so very little chance of that price point.

Also, keep in mind the pronouncements at Apple early this year . . . basically saying: We don't make cheap crap. Which what they really mean is: We won't sell anything cheap, even crap.

 

[pilotError]

I would think that it would take the iPhone App store to the next level. All those "Premium" apps that you keep hearing about, but rarely see.

Think about all those Medical App's in the App store. Picture a tablet in a hospital setting where you could replay EcoCardiogram (sp?) files, get a decent (larger) view of x-rays, MRI's, etc., in the Hospital, or in the Porche

How about other industries, Stock Market, charts, news, trading, etc., the iPhone is good in a pinch, but bigger displays are nice and easier to use. Maybe you'll see the resurgence of the Man-Bag with Gucci iTablet bags or D&G if you prefer

Home Automation. Maybe control you home / tv / alarm system / lighting. It's a nice sized display, maybe Apple doesn't do Tivo-like DVR's for ATV3, but manages a Sonos system, Tivo or whatever Media extender that comes along. A partnership with Apple to tie into their service and iTunes perhaps.

Carputer, have your 4G GPS / iTunes integration in you car, grab it and take it with you to avoid theft. I could see a whole 3rd party market for in-dash holders / car kits to integrate into the audio system. It would be nice to have the power of a Mac Mini in a much smaller package that doesn't have to be hard mounted and shock proofed. Plus you don't have to buy yet another head unit (screen).

In the context of the current market, I have to admit, it's kind of limited, but there's potential there if you think outside the box.

 

[*LTD*]

Yes, it can succeed.

Reason: Apple

 

[xIGmanIx]

Yes, it can succeed.

Reason: Apple

is that because apple can market the product or that it will have a need in its current space? i am not sure what the tablet is aimed at. until we have it in our hands and can touch it and see it, i wouldn't speculate on something that doesn't exist to the consumer yet

 

[*LTD*]

is that because apple can market the product or that it will have a need in its current space? i am not sure what the tablet is aimed at. until we have it in our hands and can touch it and see it, i wouldn't speculate on something that doesn't exist to the consumer yet

Just going by track records. These days I'd rather bet on Apple, rather than against them.

 

[codenamecueball]

Unless it runs OS X, it cant sucseed.
Look at the Apple TV. It failed. Apple cant do everything.

 

[MisterMe]

Unless it runs OS X, it cant sucseed.
Look at the Apple TV. It failed. Apple cant do everything.

The iPhone, iPod Touch, and Apple TV all run versions of OS X. The Apple TV has not failed. If you have real concrete evidence to the contrary and not just an uninformed opinion, then share by all means.

 

[MTI]

If you have real concrete evidence to the contrary and not just an uninformed opinion, then share by all means.

Purportedly left for dead and mocked by pundits, Apple TV has actually turned into a productive hobby for Apple that will see continued development in the future, with sales rising threefold over the past year, according to acting chief executive Tim Cook.


Steve and Tim say it's still a "hobby" for Apple . . . so wait for the gaming piece and see what happens.

 

[FoxyKaye]

I'm not even sure what it's for but I'll keep an open mind until the full details and prices are announced.

I tend to agree with this - at this point rumors, speculation and leaked facts about this mythical tablet are all becoming one.

I know I'd like it to run real OS X, have a few more ports than the Air, and have decent battery life (5 hours or more). Is this realistic or even on Apple's radar screen for the device, who knows? Apple's probably developed and focus-grouped the hell out of it, so I'm just waiting to see.

 

[MisterMe]

... Steve and Tim say it's still a "hobby" for Apple . . . so wait for the gaming piece and see what happens.

...

Of all of Apple's products, the Apple TV is probably the most discretionary of purchases. That said, I will probably buy an Apple TV before I buy my next Mac. For all of the caterwauling over the lack of Blu-ray on the Mac, I am not sure that Blu-ray has a long-term future. Digital downloads and media aggregation solutions like the Apple TV will play an increasing role in home entertainment.

 

[clevin]

The iPhone, iPod Touch, and Apple TV all run versions of OS X. The Apple TV has not failed. If you have real concrete evidence to the contrary and not just an uninformed opinion, then share by all means.

clearly what he meant is a fully functioned, multi-tasking, desktop level OS, your argument change no fact and does not diminish the validity of his statement.

 

[Darth.Titan]

As to the OP, I will reserve judgment on whether I think "the tablet" will succeed until we find out what it actually does and what niche it is really intended for. Vague rumors are insufficient to draw any conclusions at this point. That being said, after reading several posts in this thread and others speculating about features, I have this to say:

If this tablet ever actually surfaces and it uses any type of pen/stylus whatsoever...

I will eat my retired Bondi-blue iMac in its entirety.

Those of you expecting any type of pen input for this device are simply out of your minds.

That's my position and I'm sticking to it.

 

[iMacmatician]

If this tablet ever actually surfaces and it uses any type of pen/stylus whatsoever...

I will eat my retired Bondi-blue iMac in its entirety.

If you do this, post it on YouTube.

 

[MisterMe]

clearly what he meant is a fully functioned, multi-tasking, desktop level OS, your argument change no fact and does not diminish the validity of his statement.

It is a subjective assessment based on a false premise. It is completely understandable that you would agree with it.

 

[liketearsinrain]

Unless it runs OS X, it cant sucseed.
Look at the Apple TV. It failed. Apple cant do everything.

Everyone I know who owns one sings its praises. People who don't own one but compare it to 'generic-media-tank' are the ones who usually say it has failed; but it's not a 'generic-media-tank'.

 

[clevin]

It is a subjective assessment based on a false premise. It is completely understandable that you would agree with it.

lets make it clear, what you mean is :

a tablet from apple with iphone version of OSX, which is not fully functional like a desktop OS, and don't do full multi-tasking expect 3 or 4 apple apps, in your opinion, will succeed.

I do disagree with that. and we will see how it goes eventually. unless it can generate significant marketshare, lets say, 10% of mac share, or 1% of computer share, I don't consider it a success.

I have to put out a standard for this, otherwise, as some people argued, he thinks anything making money is a good enough success. That seems too low a standard, and probably make no impact on anything from a competition stand point.

 

[pilotError]

lets make it clear, what you mean is :


I do disagree with that. and we will see how it goes eventually. unless it can generate significant marketshare, lets say, 10% of mac share, or 1% of computer share, I don't consider it a success.

I have to put out a standard for this, otherwise, as some people argued, he thinks anything making money is a good enough success. That seems too low a standard, and probably make no impact on anything from a competition stand point.

Is there a tablet with any significant market share today? I thought they were all niche markets at this point. You would be pretty hard pressed to see a tablet listed on any of the major shopping sites when shopping for a computer.

 

[clevin]

Is there a tablet with any significant market share today? I thought they were all niche markets at this point. You would be pretty hard pressed to see a tablet listed on any of the major shopping sites when shopping for a computer.

thats what I was saying, tablet as a category is just not gonna succeed in any significant fashion. They are no more competitive than laptop in size, they are not cheaper than laptop, they are no more functional than netbooks. they are no more difference in functions than either netbook or laptop, not to mention somebody is saying apple pad might be even less functional.

 

[codenamecueball]

I think i know whats its killer feature may be.

MacBook Touch. The worlds thinnest tablet PC.
All-new handwriting recognition.
Airport Extreme and Bluetooth.
harmon/kardon virtual surround makes this a portable movie player from heaven.
11" LED-backlit glossy 1280x800 LCD display.
Unibody enclosure.
160GB HDD
All-glass display for 'rich vivid colors'. Doubles as a vanity mirror.
Support for MacBook Air superdrive.