Lack of Modems in new MBPs

[aorr]

Rumors indicate there could be a slight possibility of modems in the new MacBook Pros. Obviously that didn’t happen. I’m curious if anyone is disappointed by this?

Some thoughts:
- While it would distract from iPad sales to have 5G in MacBook Pros, I can see the obvious advantages of not having to find a WiFi connection or tether with a phone.
- Including a modem could have helped push iCloud Document storage having all apple devices include an option for cellular connectivity
- Find My would be significantly more useful for lost laptops or stollen laptops having an always-pinging service even when the device is off (or through Bluetooth like iPhones use right now. Actually, I guess it wouldn’t need a cellular connectivity for this to work (ex. AirTags and iPhones).

Does anyone miss apple including modems? While I’m not one to keep adding services to my already-expensive cellular bill, it would be nice to have the option of getting a cellular modem for $100 more or such.

 

[Juraj22]

I expect modems in Macs just in time when Apple has its own modems, and does't rely on Qualcomm. Ans yes, I would like to have one.

 

[elvisimprsntr]

Already in the works

Apple Starts Work on Its Own Cellular Modem, Chip Chief Says

Apple Inc. has started building its own cellular modem for future devices, a move that would replace components from Qualcomm Inc., Apple’s top chip executive told staff on Thursday.

www.bloomberg.com

 

[kd5jos]

That would be a pretty solid use of, “…and another thing.” I don’t think it would gut iPad/iPhone sales as much as everyone thinks. I use an iPad as a daily driver because modem, but also because portability, and time of function. The perfect setup for me would be Desktop, iPad, Apple Watch. The iPhone really doesn’t DO anything for me except:
Health
CarPlay

Move those to the iPad with the Apple Watch app, and I’d have no reason for a phone. The iPad gives me more screen real estate, and for anything that doesn’t need a screen, my watch does it.

Anything that I’d need a laptop for is better done on a desktop, or is more portable being done on an iPad.

If Apple REALLY wanted to move the needle, they’d allow people to work without the iPhone (which is no longer necessary). I could see some people that would prefer the Laptop/Phone combo instead of the desktop/iPad/watch combo. I just wish the iPhone was optional instead of demanded by Apple…

 

[littlepud]

I expect modems in Macs just in time when Apple has its own modems, and does't rely on Qualcomm. Ans yes, I would like to have one.

THIS. The lack of 4G and 5G connectivity is likely more a commercial limitation than a technological one. Qualcomm generally wants a ridiculous royalty based on the selling price per machine, rather than a flat fee per unit.

 

[justinf77]

When this eventually happens, I shudder to think what the carriers are going to charge for the data plans...

 

[aorr]

Good stuff. Thanks for the feedback. More time will tell.

 

[Lobwedgephil]

Not disappointed as I didn't expect one, but I will be a buyer if they ever add them.