Sure enough, the new one will be announced next Tuesday with 4GB of RAM, a 10 hour battery, and weigh 2 lbs.
Also, any input on the hinges? I'm reading that there are a lot of issues with them. They seem a little loose. Can they be adjusted?
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Potential bad news on new MBA's
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Sure enough, the new one will be announced next Tuesday with 4GB of RAM, a 10 hour battery, and weigh 2 lbs.
Also, any input on the hinges? I'm reading that there are a lot of issues with them. They seem a little loose. Can they be adjusted?
Scottsdale -- Although my crystal ball is far too clouded to permit me to make a prediction about the iPad's sales numbers, I suspect that your prediction is likely closer to being right than that of the poster who said the iPad would fall on its face.
As noted in earlier posts, I am not going to be buying an iPad. That doesn't mean much, though. I am a computer nerd and have been a computer nerd for more than 25 years. Thus, I want a real computer for real work. Despite all the neat things the iPad will be able to do its lack of a real keyboard and limited ability to run applications keep me from being interested in it.
Despite being personally underwhelmed by the iPad, I see its potential. It should have great appeal for consumers who just want to play games, watch movies, read books, or check email -- or just want to own Apple's latest, greatest, piece of Gee Whiz! hardware.
Good summary, I second that completely. See the NYT review. I need the MBA (which I am still waiting for to be upgraded) to have a lightweight computer, which I can use to modify and give Keynote presentations and to write on texts (papers, grants etc.). While Keynote runs on the iPad I am not sure how I would modify it easily (and I don't mean swapping slides around) as all my other slides & data probably would not be on the device (does it have a home folder?). And typing on the keyboard...? No.
While looking for the NYT review, i found a WSJ technology blog that discusses the iPad at length. Note that it also contains links to reviews, including a PC Magazine review that the blogger describes as "in depth."
I completely agree with the OPs who say the MBA is the future form factor of all the Mac laptops, especially as consumers get used to the thinness of the iPad. More and more people will be using the iPad as it evolves for entertainment and lighter functions, but will still have a need for a "real" computer for the more pressing work, and will appreciate the lighter weight, unibody construction, and a design with no excess.
DVDs are definitely an endangered species, and the future is all about streaming and the "cloud." Apple may drop the "Air" name, but future MBPs (not the refreshed, but next gen) will certainly carry on the MBA form. Or drop the "Pro," in favor of the "Air" moniker, and offer three sizes.
Even though it seems like the Air is getting squeezed out by the 13" MBP and the iPad, there is a segment of the market (i.e. ME) that would love to see the Air positioned as a premium laptop, with a large capacity SSD and serious processor and RAM.
DVDs are definitely an endangered species, and the future is all about streaming and the "cloud." Apple may drop the "Air" name, but future MBPs (not the refreshed, but next gen) will certainly carry on the MBA form. Or drop the "Pro," in favor of the "Air" moniker, and offer three sizes.
Even though it seems like the Air is getting squeezed out by the 13" MBP and the iPad, there is a segment of the market (i.e. ME) that would love to see the Air positioned as a premium laptop, with a large capacity SSD and serious processor and RAM.
I agree. I would pay what it took to buy one if Apple significantly upgraded the MBA, particularly if the upgrade included slots for RAM modules and a large SSD drive.
I don't think a "large" SSD drive will fit in the MBA unless you mean 256 GB 1.8" SSD. A 2.5" "standard" drive will not fit without thickening up the MBA which Jobs would never approve.
I would pay "whatever it takes" to get the MBA I truly want too. $3k, $4k, $5k... sure depending on the components.
Who am I kidding, we're not going to get the MBA we truly want... it's un-Apple; Apple upgrades one or two features with every revision ensuring idiots like me will upgrade with every revision, however small. I would be ecstatic just to get 4 GB of RAM, USB 3.0, and a glass trackpad. That would do everything I need and want in all honesty.
To really be relevant for the next two years all the MBA needs is 4 GB of RAM and USB 3.0. Even the glass trackpad is a want not need. USB 3.0 will be important for fast computing with super fast backups. The RAM is critical for obvious reasons.
A 256Gb SSD was what I had in mind when I said "large." I suspect that you are right in your prediction that the next version of the MBA will come with 4Gb of hardwired RAM. That scares me because i am not certain that I could run Fusion in Unity mode and multiple Windows apps. It may well be possible but I just don't know.
I doubt there would be a price difference between a standard SSD and a SSD option. Just buy the SSD version.Standard SSD on all models? I dare to dream!
I totally disagree and it's not just the iPad - the whole Tablet idea makes no sense to me.
First, how are you going to type on that thing? You certainly cannot do it with two hands, whilst holding it - unless you have very big hands. So, you'll have lay it flat and type - no way would anyone do that! I'm willing to bet you could easily type into the iPhone much faster while holding it in your hand(s). if you buy the accessory keypad, are you going to carry that too?
As far as reading books is concerned - in addition to a non-ideal display - do you really think someone is going to hold that 2 lb+ thing for hours on end to read??? Atleast the Kindle is ultra-light and can be held in one hand for a long period of time comfortably. Your arm will go numb if your try it with the iPad. Or your eyes will go blurry, because of the back-lit LED display.
For movies, are you going to really hold the iPad in your hand for hours. Or even prop it up on your lap for that long? I'd much rather view it on a 16:9 wide-screen laptop - not that 4:3 iPad.
And, of course, we've already addressed the lacking browser. And what about protecting the display? You'll probably have to buy something and add even more weight.
A laptop has it all over a tablet computer. The whole tablet concept is flawed, except for maybe games. And, I'm not even sure of that.
You could also doodle on a tablet - but, they now make pens that actually can record doodling on your own paper and rehash it back to any personal computer.
The whole tablet concept is just a fad, imo, as we've seen in the past. The MBA is many times better. With it's SSD, boot-up is just 30 seconds away. I think anybody would gladly wait that long for a much better experience than the iPad will ever deliver.
Let's please revisit this at appropriate time intervals... say 12, 24, 36 months... we will certainly see by then who's correct. I stick by my predictions, fully.
The iPad will get innovative apps that will sell more and more apps. The point isn't about typing as I said before... people type fine with an iPhone, but that's not the focus of the iPad... it's OBSERVATION. There is no need for typing for about 90% of what the average consumer does on their home computer... observation of Internet, quick email, videos, graphic content, newspapers, books, and most importantly apps which will lead more sales. I will be shocked if Apple can keep up with demand.
I fully expect a complete revolution in what people expect from their home/personal computing device. The vast majority don't need a full-fledged computer, and the iPad will do everything people truly want it to do successfully.
I only see long-term success for the iPad. I see short-term fears blown away by innovation and a well-rounded set of observation capable tasks the iPad will dominate at. We have seen this before with Apple. The only thing that can possibly slow the iPad down is if there is a true competing product like android that also offers an app store. The innovation in apps is why the iPad will keep selling and be found to be more and more and more useful and desired by all of those who don't have one. Those that do have one will have one for themselves then one for the family, then one for each of the kids... and kids will have an instant textbook replacement costing schools less than textbooks. Add with that all of the other capabilities and it's far more portable and capable as a personal learning tool than a computer.
I just don't see the revolution ending until every family has an iPad or two. Then Apple will use its success at the adding new tech with updates that should have always been there driving more sales and more sales. We have seen it before, but with the iPhone Apple was locked down to AT&T. And some people weren't willing to switch carriers for a phone or they like simple phones and need another device. With the iPad, nobody will have an excuse not to buy. If they have the money, they will buy. Add to that the business users and innovative development... and watch the way everyone does everything changes. It will go beyond what any one of us could possibly imagine.
Let's come back right here for review... and we will do a little poll and see who was closer in predicting the future of the iPad.
I tend to agree with you...for me personally. I want the keyboard and I don't want to hold it up to a watch a movie. I see benefit for the e-book, but as you mentioned, I think the Kindle would be easier on my eyes if I really wanted that. Also, isn't the next iTunes going to offer e-books as well? I would have considered the iPad if it had a webcam. I want a webcam to Skype with my 2 year old when I'm traveling.
That said, my wife wants an iPad like nobody's business. I told see the reaction over the next few weeks, and I'm sure she'll end up with a 3G.
i use MBA as my primary laptop and its the best laptop i have ever owned. Its fast and everything works just fine. I Bought a 15" macbook pro, but sold it because it was too big and heavy for me. I carry my macbook air all the time, and i dont even feel that im carrying a laptop with a charger on me.
I don't think i'm gonna upgrade to next revision, unless apple introduce something magical LOL.
Well the main things iam looking for are:
1) Glass trackpad
2) Better placement of the heat vent. That's the only problem i have with my macbook air. If i put the air on bed and watch youtube videos, it will get really hot, which will slow the laptop down.
3) Faster processor. It's not that big of a deal, but if i wanna upgrade i would definitely like a little bit faster processor.
4) Maybe 4gb of ram.
5) A little bit better battery life, perhaps?
Now, that the ipad is coming out, im not sure if i should buy it or not. It definitely can NOT replace my macbook air, but i would love to use all those apps on it, like iwork and other third party apps. Like i said, i have no problem with my macbook air, and i carry it on me everyday, so im not sure what good ipad is going to do lol.
So here's a question for those, who use MBA as their primary machine. Im pretty sure 99.9% of you won't be getting rid of this awesome computer to replace with the ipad, but are you going to buy an ipad as an additional device? and what are you planning to do with it, and think it will be better or funner on the ipad.
I mean browsing on the couch and all that stuff sounds fun on the ipad, but i do the samething on my macbook air with no problems lol. I kinda want the ipad, bc it looks cool and because of all the apps and such, but still can't justify spending $500 for something that i dont need at all...
Decisions..decisions.. decisions....
I don't think i'm gonna upgrade to next revision, unless apple introduce something magical LOL.
Well the main things iam looking for are:
1) Glass trackpad
2) Better placement of the heat vent. That's the only problem i have with my macbook air. If i put the air on bed and watch youtube videos, it will get really hot, which will slow the laptop down.
3) Faster processor. It's not that big of a deal, but if i wanna upgrade i would definitely like a little bit faster processor.
4) Maybe 4gb of ram.
5) A little bit better battery life, perhaps?
Now, that the ipad is coming out, im not sure if i should buy it or not. It definitely can NOT replace my macbook air, but i would love to use all those apps on it, like iwork and other third party apps. Like i said, i have no problem with my macbook air, and i carry it on me everyday, so im not sure what good ipad is going to do lol.
So here's a question for those, who use MBA as their primary machine. Im pretty sure 99.9% of you won't be getting rid of this awesome computer to replace with the ipad, but are you going to buy an ipad as an additional device? and what are you planning to do with it, and think it will be better or funner on the ipad.
I mean browsing on the couch and all that stuff sounds fun on the ipad, but i do the samething on my macbook air with no problems lol. I kinda want the ipad, bc it looks cool and because of all the apps and such, but still can't justify spending $500 for something that i dont need at all...
Decisions..decisions.. decisions....
So here's a question for those, who use MBA as their primary machine. Im pretty sure 99.9% of you won't be getting rid of this awesome computer to replace with the ipad, but are you going to buy an ipad as an additional device? and what are you planning to do with it, and think it will be better or funner on the ipad.
I am a writer. My MBA is my only machine. I love it. The iPad won't replace it for people who put words into their computer more than they take words and images out. For those who live electronically, it is designed to be a computer/electronic accessory/appendage. You can't print from it, at least not out of the box, or use a mouse.
I think it will be a huge success, but not (yet, at least) for writers. Few are going to want to type all day on either the keyboard or an external keyboard without a mouse.
I would love the weight, but for now three pounds will have to do. As for the future of the MBA I have my hopes but can't really say. Those who suggest that a MBP without the optical drive might be the new AIR could well be on to something.
I am a writer. My MBA is my only machine. I love it. The iPad won't replace it for people who put words into their computer more than they take words and images out. For those who live electronically, it is designed to be a computer/electronic accessory/appendage. You can't print from it, at least not out of the box, or use a mouse.
I think it will be a huge success, but not (yet, at least) for writers. Few are going to want to type all day on either the keyboard or an external keyboard without a mouse.
I would love the weight, but for now three pounds will have to do. As for the future of the MBA I have my hopes but can't really say. Those who suggest that a MBP without the optical drive might be the new AIR could well be on to something.
No, I will not be getting rid of my MBA for an iPad. I will be adding an iPad to my tools. I write a lot too, and I wouldn't ever want to give up an MBA for an iPad - that's not what an iPad is for anyways.
When I say the iPad will be successful it's not any indication that I believe the MBA will not be more successful than it has been in the past, as 4 GB of RAM and sales of the MBA should improve greatly. Like I said before, the common consumer who buys a MacBook might buy an iPad instead eventually... but an MBA buyer isn't going to replace it with an iPad, they're going to add the iPad to their collection of Apple products they use - probably MBA, iPhone, iPod, and iPad.
Agreed.
Agreed. That's not what an iPad is for--and IT IS most certainly what the MBA for. For me it remains the best available. For writers, there is really nothing comparable. The Thinkpad has a better keyboard (though I admit that keyboard ratings are wholly subjective, better for me, I should say) but it isn't better enough that makes the terrible sacrifice of living with Windows.
Long live a three pound or lighter MB with a full size keyboard and screen.
Absolutely, the MBA is incredibly PERFECT for us writers. I cannot even imagine writing at a desk anymore... I write (type) everywhere from the bed to desk to couch to park. Writing on the MBA is sure JOY. I will keep my MBA for writing even if I move on to a different computer one day for alternative tasks. But if Apple plays its cards right, there is no reason to leave the MBA for computing... it just needs some damned RAM, if nothing else.
I used to work at the Apple Store. Nobody at the retail level knows anything about anything until Cupertino deems they are privileged to know, which is right before a release or they find out when everybody else finds out. Many times, I found out there were new products by reading apple.com. The only people in the retail sector that know anything are the regional managers. Stop thinking your $15/hr genius knows anything. He or she knows jack squat.
Also a writer, and I tend to agree with you on all your points. But to offer a counter-point -- a blogger associate of mine (runs three professional blogs, full time business for him) is about as jazzed about the iPad as you can get. He sees it as a 1.5-pound replacement for his 15-inch MacBook Pro when he's on the road covering conferences, which we both do a lot. Sure, the MacBook will still come with him, but it'll stay in the hotel room to do video editing and the like after the day is done. He's planning on getting the keyboard dock to take notes.
I'm interested in seeing how it'll work for him. I'm somewhat dubious.
There are clear pluses: weight, size, battery life.
But I can't see the iPad, precariously balanced atop a keyboard dock, sitting in my lap and allowing me to take full notes during a session or an interview. And I definitely can't see the touch-screen doing the job when I'm wanting to take verbatim notes.
And there are other major tradeoffs -- the lack of any semblance of real multitasking means I have to constantly switch apps from Notes/Pages to a Twitter client or browser when I want to livetweet? No way of keeping an eye on part of my screen watching crowd reaction via Twitter while taking notes in a word processor on the other part of the screen?
I don't doubt there are a lot of workflows for which the iPad will be truly revolutionary -- I know a lot of medical facility IT types are giving it a long look, for example -- but I'm not yet convinced it fits in my workflow the way a full-size laptop, ultraportable or even a netbook does.
Absolutely. The pound and a half difference between the MBA and the MBP is tremendous, at least for my 54 year old back walking several miles a day. And I know: I carried the latter until last summer when I got smart and bought the Air.
Very thoughtful. And somewhat unusual for a Mac Forum enthusiast in that you realize that what might not work for one person might be exactly what another person needs. When I was younger (my first laptop was a Tandy 102, then a Toshiba 3100 (gas plasma display, ten or fifteen pounds, AC only, anyone old enough to remember those machines) I myself was much more partisan; I would have said: Give me my Thinkpad keyboard or my Powerbook or my AIR, or my life. But today I just want whatever works for me, whatever works best for me. And if it turns out that I am wrong, or that emerging iPad hardware or simply new apps render me wrong, and the iPad and an on screen keyboard or even external keyboard together weighing two pounds make a great typing and word processing experience, I'll buy one in a day. Why not? Until then I wait and listen and watch, and do my work on my AIR. Thanks for your thoughts, everyone.