PWNED by Apple?

[QCassidy352]

the OP has a point. Apple's line up is VERY stale at this point. The designs are fine, but in terms of significant upgrades, it's been very slow. Everyone said how much more often we'd see updates with Intel, but if anything it's gotten slower.

Now, in apple's defense, there simply aren't better chips than merom available for its macbooks and macbook pros yet. Also, they could be using octo-cores in the mac pros, but since those are lower clockspeeds, they might actually be slower for many users. So that's fine too.

But the mac minis should have gotten c2d months ago, the imacs should have gotten conroes, and the mpb and imac should have gotten graphics card updates (nvidea 7xxx series is lower power/better performance than that x1600).

 

[KingofAwesome]

Why do we put up with Apple's schedule? Because that is the trade-off we accept when chosing to use that company's products. If we were to choose a Windows machine, we'd be complaining about the five years it took to get an upgraded OS.

I have put a lot of trust into Apple's decisions about its products. Apple takes a very different approach to it than PC's - with a PC, you have very wide range of options to choose from, and it is up to the user to decide which components he or she wants to have in the system. This can lead to some very poorly designed systems, with bottlenecks, power issues, noise issues, and an unstable system.

In contrast, Apple provides a much narrower range of options, but these options are all good. An Apple customer has to make considerably fewer choices, and the final product is always going to be a good system that was well-designed.

Most people don't have the time or interest in learning what each component does. These people simply want to have a system that they know will do everything they need it to do. Apple provides this. Dell does not (try pricing out a system from Dell, and observe how many steps you have to go through to configure it).

Apple certainly could provide more options, and more frequent case redesigns, but I have seen their track record, and at this point I trust that if Apple hasn't redesigned a system, it's because the company isn't satisfied with the quality of any of the new prototypes compared to what they currently offer. And furthermore, this early in the Intel game, I think it is wise for Apple to update their machines on a less frequent basis, so that the new users will have an easier time migrating and old users will still retain some value of their PPC systems until they also migrate.

 

[sTiVo]

the OP has a point. Apple's line up is VERY stale at this point. The designs are fine, but in terms of significant upgrades, it's been very slow. Everyone said how much more often we'd see updates with Intel, but if anything it's gotten slower.

I just have a fear of the lineup getting a power upgrade just after I plunk down the $$ for the current model. I like what's out there now, but if 's going to spice things up with their Macs, I want in!

 

[Phobophobia]

We're going to see a lot of design changes very soon.

 

[dpaanlka]

Just this weekend my friend's friends came over and were in my room and commented on what an awesome computer I had and wanted to know what it was.

Yeah... the Mac Pro case is SO old ugh when will get flash and pizzaz???

 

[Lancetx]

the OP has a point. Apple's line up is VERY stale at this point. The designs are fine, but in terms of significant upgrades, it's been very slow. Everyone said how much more often we'd see updates with Intel, but if anything it's gotten slower.

I agree with you on the Mac mini and on the graphics card updates. However, the iMac has always mirrored the MBP as far as the CPU, logic board and GPU goes, and that isn't going to change due to it's form factor. The iMac has always been on par with the MBP since going to Intel, and that's as it's intended to be.

Apple is actually ahead of the curve notebook wise now that they are all using the C2D, and all but the low end MacBook are at least 2 GHz. I can't believe how many low end and even mid range PC notebooks there are out there that are sometimes one to two generations behind the current MacBooks CPU wise. Just take a look at Best Buy and see what you get for around $1,000 (a 1.7 GHz Core Duo), or at $1,699 (a 1.66 GHz C2D). And those bargain basement notebooks under $800 are still running on ancient Celeron M processors. You can get a refurbished MacBook with a Core Duo for $799 that is light years ahead of those things.

So overall, I think it's a bit harsh to call their line up stale. The only things currently stale IMO are the Mac mini and the GPUs (which has nothing to do with Intel though).

 

[JAT]

I just have a fear of the lineup getting a power upgrade just after I plunk down the $$ for the current model. I like what's out there now, but if 's going to spice things up with their Macs, I want in!

Then start maintaining a presence at Intel forums, since Apple's speed updates will now follow Intel. As many have said in this thread, most Mac models are actually maxed out on available CPU speed right now. Apple doesn't make CPUs, and now they have hardly anything to do with it, unlike with the AIM PowerPC silliness.

 

[shikimo]

No own is being "pwnt" by Apple. As a matter of fact, they take better care of their customers than any company, in any industry, than I have ever seen in my life.

Put down the Apple-flavored Kool-Aid and step away from the barrel...

I like Apple too--wouldn't use another computer in fact--but what are you SMOKING?? Perhaps in your own personal experience you've never encountered a genius idiot, either on the phone or in an Apple Store, and perhaps you've never received diametrically opposite information from two different representatives of our friends in Cupertino, or opened a new computer up to find that the put the wrong amount of RAM in it, etc....but even if this is the case, do you think everyone else who has ever complained about Apple customer service, on this board and others like it, was just making it up?

Inconsistent is the word for Apple CS. Or maybe unpredictable, or perhaps random...I dunno, maybe someone with more spare time than I have should start a poll and see what the average Mac user thinks about this topic, but I'd bet the farm that "they take better care of their customers than any company, in any industry, than I have ever seen in my life" doesn't get too many votes .

 

[someguy]

Put down the Apple-flavored Kool-Aid and step away from the barrel...

I like Apple too--wouldn't use another computer in fact--but what are you SMOKING?? Perhaps in your own personal experience you've never encountered a genius idiot, either on the phone or in an Apple Store, and perhaps you've never received diametrically opposite information from two different representatives of our friends in Cupertino, or opened a new computer up to find that the put the wrong amount of RAM in it, etc....but even if this is the case, do you think everyone else who has ever complained about Apple customer service, on this board and others like it, was just making it up?

Inconsistent is the word for Apple CS. Or maybe unpredictable, or perhaps random...I dunno, maybe someone with more spare time than I have should start a poll and see what the average Mac user thinks about this topic, but I'd bet the farm that "they take better care of their customers than any company, in any industry, than I have ever seen in my life" doesn't get too many votes .

I don't own a farm, but I'd bet a few bucks that it does. Or at least, it would if those who voted weren't the minority that have had troubles. Don't forget that you don't hear about the happy customers, they are too busy having fun with their Macs. The only ones you hear are the ones complaining... so I think a poll would result accordingly.

 

[shikimo]

I don't own a farm, but I'd bet a few bucks that it does. Or at least, it would if those who voted weren't the minority that have had troubles. Don't forget that you don't hear about the happy customers, they are too busy having fun with their Macs. The only ones you hear are the ones complaining... so I think a poll would result accordingly.

I totally agree with you that a vast majority of Mac users are happy Mac customers, and also that it is easy to get a skewed impression of general quality by reading forums where people post their problems. I am merely saying that, among those who have had occasion to deal with Apple CS, there are a lot of problems and inconsistencies. For example, over the years I have routinely called the AppleCare line, gotten a complete moron who knows less about my system than I do (which really isn't that much, I'm no pro), said goodbye politely, called again...and again and again, if necessary, until I get someone who knows what the F they're talking about. To be fair, when I finally do get this person they are usually quite helpful and almost always solve my problems...but this is not a good customer service model.

You've peaked my curiosity about a poll, though: maybe with 5 choices ranging from astonishingly useless to absolutely perfect? I don't own a farm either so that was an idle threat...

 

[buymeaniphone]

I think there would be even more complaints of apple if they changed the look of the different macs every year or 2, how could you ever keep up?! Its bad enough when you buy a macbook core duo and then 6 months down the road a core 2 duo comes out for the same freaking price you paid for your 5 times slower core duo .

I think when it comes to keeping their machines up to date, apple does a good job, I just wish they'd give some notice on when the newer/faster upgraded version were coming out so I dont have to kick myself after buying the replaced model. Sorry, I'm obviously just bitter of those with Core 2 duo, Apple rocks!

 

[SMM]

I hate threads like this.

I don't care if Apple doesn't change a damn thing for 10 years. No updates, nothing. I don't care if Leopard is never released.

People like you (OP) are impossible to please. Something new comes out, and you love it for a day, then come the complaints. Never satisfied.

I've had my PowerBook G4 for almost 2 years and I still love it. I wouldn't change it or trade it for a MacBook Pro, necessarily.

No own is being "pwnt" by Apple. As a matter of fact, they take better care of their customers than any company, in any industry, than I have ever seen in my life. Ironically, their customers are the most spoiled, most difficult to please group of people I have ever known (not everyone of them, you know who you are).

These threads are nothing more than a pre-planned dog-pile on Apple. I have been watching this scenario play out for months. I am convinced it is a disinformation campaign being perpetrated by Redmond. It is too organized not to be. If anyone considers this far-fetched, I refer you to the many documented cases of MS being busted for doing exactly this.

Go back and look at some of the Apple-bashing threads and you can see the pattern to them as they unfold.

1) OP Newbie usually starts one of two ways; I am a recent switcher and I love my (fill in the blank), but ....(here is where the bomb drops). They then go on to describe issues which make you wonder why they even bought the alleged Mac. They continue to have escalating problems which are impossible to help them with. Then, after the thread has run its' course, there is the contrition, "I am sorry, but I am so frustrated".

2) The second style is this type. OP Newbie makes a general derogatory attack. The OP is not alone in this. There are a chorus of coconspirators waiting to chime in. They do not have the 'newbie' tag, so they appear to just be regular Apple users agreeing with the OP and thus providing credibility to the original post.

Of course, there are many legitimate threads too. But, it is pretty easy to discern which is which. Some of the bashing threads almost use the same exact language. I am not associated Apple, or this board. But, I spend a great deal of effort trying to increase Apple's presence in corporate America. It is one of the few avenues of hope for breaking the MS chains of bondage. It is disheartening to see such low-life tactics being employed. But, MS is famous for doing exactly that.

 

[macjonny1]

These threads are nothing more than a pre-planned dog-pile on Apple. I have been watching this scenario play out for months. I am convinced it is a disinformation campaign being perpetrated by Redmond. It is too organized not to be. If anyone considers this far-fetched, I refer you to the many documented cases of MS being busted for doing exactly this.

Go back and look at some of the Apple-bashing threads and you can see the pattern to them as they unfold.

1) OP Newbie usually starts one of two ways; I am a recent switcher and I love my (fill in the blank), but ....(here is where the bomb drops). They then go on to describe issues which make you wonder why they even bought the alleged Mac. They continue to have escalating problems which are impossible to help them with. Then, after the thread has run its' course, there is the contrition, "I am sorry, but I am so frustrated".

2) The second style is this type. OP Newbie makes a general derogatory attack. The OP is not alone in this. There are a chorus of coconspirators waiting to chime in. They do not have the 'newbie' tag, so they appear to just be regular Apple users agreeing with the OP and thus providing credibility to the original post.

Of course, there are many legitimate threads too. But, it is pretty easy to discern which is which. Some of the bashing threads almost use the same exact language. I am not associated Apple, or this board. But, I spend a great deal of effort trying to increase Apple's presence in corporate America. It is one of the few avenues of hope for breaking the MS chains of bondage. It is disheartening to see such low-life tactics being employed. But, MS is famous for doing exactly that.

OMG are you kidding? You are the original fanboi! I'm not associated with MS and in fact will never buy a computer with Windows again. I am never going to the blue screen of death again after having a computer where every time I needed to add a peripheral with a driver it would crash. Apple just works....their products and software.

Actually yes....this is a covert operation from microsoft and there are posters who have been posting for months even years to get the "Macrumors 6093272" or the "Macrumors Demigod' or whatever. They are my followers and I have instructed them to talk smack about Apple and agree with what I say. Unfortunately, you have uncovered this and will have to be brought to Redmond at our headquarters and face retribution from Mr. Gates himself. He will then call your mom and make you get some sunlight instead of living all day in her basement.

 

[someguy]

These threads are nothing more than a pre-planned dog-pile on Apple...
<snip>
...It is disheartening to see such low-life tactics being employed. But, MS is famous for doing exactly that.

OMG are you kidding? You are the original fanboi!

SMM - You forgot that they will undoubtedly call you a fanboy when you disagree with their rant.

I totally agree with you that a vast majority of Mac users are happy Mac customers, and also that it is easy to get a skewed impression of general quality by reading forums where people post their problems.

You've peaked my curiosity about a poll, though: maybe with 5 choices ranging from astonishingly useless to absolutely perfect? I don't own a farm either so that was an idle threat...

What good is a poll if you understand how the results will be skewed? I think even after the fact, the results will still show that most are happy with their machines and with Apple's CS.

 

[macjonny1]

SMM - You forgot that they will undoubtedly call you a fanboy when you disagree with their rant.

No, there is a specific meaning for fanboi/fanboys. When you become irrational and aren't able to tell that there may be other viewpoints than yours, that is when you become a fanboy. Check out the link for a definition that you fit.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fanboy

I am rather new to the forums, and I really hope that you two don't represent the majority here.

 

[someguy]

No, there is a specific meaning for fanboi/fanboys.

You don't say?

What term would you use to describe someone that was happy with a particular company's actions despite the dissatisfaction expressed by others? Are we not allowed to be content without being labelled "fanboy" by people like you?

There is also a specific meaning for whiner.

I am rather new to the forums, and I really hope that you two don't represent the majority here.

Again, I think most Mac users are happy with Apple as a company in general and can wrap their minds around the concept that the world, or even just the world of Apple, does not revolve around them.

You don't like it, switch back.

 

[macjonny1]

You don't say?

What term would you use to describe someone that was happy with a particular company's actions despite the dissatisfaction expressed by others? Are we not allowed to be content without being labelled "fanboy" by people like you?

There is also a specific meaning for whiner.

Let me spell it for you: Saying that someone is a plant or conspiring for Microsoft because they post something under the topic that I originally posted is absurd. That does not follow your description. It is an example of utter irrational thought that represents fanboyism, and that is what I was saying. Are you saying you agree with that? Read his post (SMM's)....say it right here if you agree: anyone who posts a topic like I did is a covert op from Microsoft. Keep the conspiracy going!

 

[decksnap]

The OP is not alone in this. There are a chorus of coconspirators waiting to chime in. They do not have the 'newbie' tag, so they appear to just be regular Apple users agreeing with the OP and thus providing credibility to the original post.

Whomever could you be talking about?

 

[macjonny1]

You don't like it, switch back.

Oh....I see it now where before I didn't!

YOU and "SMM" are the Microsoft conspirator! Trying to pretend to be the ever-supporting apple lover, one that believes in irrational conspiracy theories. Then, you attack the average-joe apple user when he makes a comment that you don't like because it is anti-apple even though this person supports and uses apple products. Then, you follow it up with a comment like the one quoted, secretly hoping that the average-joe apple user will actually follow your advice and switch back for real! This is genious! I never knew Mr. Bill would go to such depths to hide your secret plan! Did I blow your cover?

You shouldn't have given yourself away so easily. Next time, I would pretend to be a Microsoft fan who is pretending to be a fanboy, who is actually switching to linux, and then pretending to be an apple fanboy who wants to switch to microsoft. Follow that? Neither did I. But at least we all know you are a conspirator now.

 

[benpatient]

Porsche redesigns the 911 from scratch, from a technological standpoint, about every 5 years. Just because they keep the same mentality about it doesn't mean that it is the same. Spend some time in a 1974 911S and then hop into a 1987 version of the "same" car. Completely different experience. Some people actually prefer the 1974 version because it's "wilder." Then hop into a 1994 twin turbo version and forget about the '74. Then get into a 1999 model and discover that even though it looks very similar, and it is faster and better in every possible stat, it's not as much fun. The new 997 models seem to have pushed the 911 past "that awkward phase" of the 996.

Haven't driven a 997 yet, but I hear good things...especially of the GT3 version.

Anyway, I guess that's off-topic. But just wanted to address the idea that "you don't mess with perfection" and use the 911 as an example. Rear engine rear wheel 2-2 with big hips and the best line in the automotive industry? Don't mess this that stuff. But unchanged? Hardly.

 

[SteveG4Cube]

Anyway, I guess that's off-topic. But just wanted to address the idea that "you don't mess with perfection" and use the 911 as an example. Rear engine rear wheel 2-2 with big hips and the best line in the automotive industry? Don't mess this that stuff. But unchanged? Hardly.

You're making my point for me. Apple's been more about keeping the asthetic changes to a minimum and focusing on updating what's under the hood lately, and it's been working for them.

 

[jayb2000]

Your experience is in the minority

Not that it does not suck, but it is hardly typical. See below, especially in red.

Apple was rated among 25 "Customer Service Champions" by Business Week in a survey conducted for the magazine by J.D. Power. Apple was ranked 18th out of 25, and was noted for its Genius Bars in more than 170 stores, which BusinessWeek said set Apple apart from its peers.

The company was dinged for the bruises it gets when problems arise right after a product warranty expires, but such bruises were far outweighed by other aspect of its customer service.

"Despite frustration about iPod battery replacements," BusinessWeek wrote, "Apple's customer service phone support ranks tops among electronics providers. In particular, customers rate its automated phone system as easy to navigate and good at resolving questions."

The survey was conducted among retail customers, and J.D. Power was asked to find the service champions, as well as more information about those company's tools and strategies. According to the article, technology is leveling the battle ground for today's high tech companies. What differentiates them is their customer service.

"It takes coordination from the top, bringing together people, management, technology, and processes to put customers' needs first. That's true today more than ever," said the article. Companies that don't get to a certain level of excellence become also-rans. There are many new ways in which companies can approach customers, and customers increasingly want a painless experience.

Apple was in good company. Nordstrom ranked #4, Lexus #7, and Porsche #17. No other consumer electronics or computer company was on the list of 25 companies.

 

[nateDEEZY]

Porsche redesigns the 911 from scratch, from a technological standpoint, about every 5 years. Just because they keep the same mentality about it doesn't mean that it is the same. Spend some time in a 1974 911S and then hop into a 1987 version of the "same" car. Completely different experience. Some people actually prefer the 1974 version because it's "wilder." Then hop into a 1994 twin turbo version and forget about the '74. Then get into a 1999 model and discover that even though it looks very similar, and it is faster and better in every possible stat, it's not as much fun. The new 997 models seem to have pushed the 911 past "that awkward phase" of the 996.

Haven't driven a 997 yet, but I hear good things...especially of the GT3 version.

Anyway, I guess that's off-topic. But just wanted to address the idea that "you don't mess with perfection" and use the 911 as an example. Rear engine rear wheel 2-2 with big hips and the best line in the automotive industry? Don't mess this that stuff. But unchanged? Hardly.

Nice analogy.

 

[someguy]

Let me spell it for you: Saying that someone is a plant or conspiring for Microsoft because they post something under the topic that I originally posted is absurd. That does not follow your description. It is an example of utter irrational thought that represents fanboyism, and that is what I was saying. Are you saying you agree with that? Read his post (SMM's)....say it right here if you agree: anyone who posts a topic like I did is a covert op from Microsoft. Keep the conspiracy going!

Oh....I see it now where before I didn't!

YOU and "SMM" are the Microsoft conspirator! Trying to pretend to be the ever-supporting apple lover, one that believes in irrational conspiracy theories. Then, you attack the average-joe apple user when he makes a comment that you don't like because it is anti-apple even though this person supports and uses apple products. Then, you follow it up with a comment like the one quoted, secretly hoping that the average-joe apple user will actually follow your advice and switch back for real! This is genious! I never knew Mr. Bill would go to such depths to hide your secret plan! Did I blow your cover?

You shouldn't have given yourself away so easily. Next time, I would pretend to be a Microsoft fan who is pretending to be a fanboy, who is actually switching to linux, and then pretending to be an apple fanboy who wants to switch to microsoft. Follow that? Neither did I. But at least we all know you are a conspirator now.

Wow. Just wow.

Put words in other people's mouths much?

It is apparent to me that you are a troll, so I'll stop feeding you.

Have fun complaining about never getting what you want from Apple, I hope it's satisfying.

 

[shikimo]

These threads are nothing more than a pre-planned dog-pile on Apple. I have been watching this scenario play out for months. I am convinced it is a disinformation campaign being perpetrated by Redmond. It is too organized not to be. If anyone considers this far-fetched, I refer you to the many documented cases of MS being busted for doing exactly this.

Go back and look at some of the Apple-bashing threads and you can see the pattern to them as they unfold.

1) OP Newbie usually starts one of two ways; I am a recent switcher and I love my (fill in the blank), but ....(here is where the bomb drops). They then go on to describe issues which make you wonder why they even bought the alleged Mac. They continue to have escalating problems which are impossible to help them with. Then, after the thread has run its' course, there is the contrition, "I am sorry, but I am so frustrated".

2) The second style is this type. OP Newbie makes a general derogatory attack. The OP is not alone in this. There are a chorus of coconspirators waiting to chime in. They do not have the 'newbie' tag, so they appear to just be regular Apple users agreeing with the OP and thus providing credibility to the original post.

Of course, there are many legitimate threads too. But, it is pretty easy to discern which is which. Some of the bashing threads almost use the same exact language. I am not associated Apple, or this board. But, I spend a great deal of effort trying to increase Apple's presence in corporate America. It is one of the few avenues of hope for breaking the MS chains of bondage. It is disheartening to see such low-life tactics being employed. But, MS is famous for doing exactly that.

Yeah, I think macjonny1 killed Kennedy too.

You really do need to get some sun if you think macrumors.com is a venue worthy of this sort of tactic.

OMG are you kidding? You are the original fanboi! I'm not associated with MS and in fact will never buy a computer with Windows again. I am never going to the blue screen of death again after having a computer where every time I needed to add a peripheral with a driver it would crash. Apple just works....their products and software.

Actually yes....this is a covert operation from microsoft and there are posters who have been posting for months even years to get the "Macrumors 6093272" or the "Macrumors Demigod' or whatever. They are my followers and I have instructed them to talk smack about Apple and agree with what I say. Unfortunately, you have uncovered this and will have to be brought to Redmond at our headquarters and face retribution from Mr. Gates himself. He will then call your mom and make you get some sunlight instead of living all day in her basement.

. Don't worry, macjonny1, you just encountered a couple of people who think Steve Jobs should buy land in Guyana so they can move there and live in eternal peace.

Seriously, it's so alarming every time I read posts by people who aren't even willing to discuss potential defaults of our favorite computer company. WTF?

SMMWhat good is a poll if you understand how the results will be skewed? I think even after the fact, the results will still show that most are happy with their machines and with Apple's CS.

Pay attention: I clearly wrote that one might get a skewed idea by simply reading the forums, which was in complete agreement with you. Thus the idea for a poll. An impartial, factual poll instead of abusive posts as if you are the Red Guard of Apple smiting the infidels who dare criticize. And you may also notice that I AGREED with you once again that most people are happy with their machines. None of this makes the nightmare CS experiences of myself and others less postworthy, does it?

And thank you jayb2000 for posting some meaningful information in lieu of a Zabruder film of the Illuminati infiltrating Cupertino. It's both heartening and disturbing to see Apple CS so far ahead of the computer industry. Heartening because it's my favorite and only computer company, yet disturbing to think of how awful the others must be considering what falls through the cracks with Apple CS. Absolutely the bad experiences are in the minority; however that doesn't mean it is good enough.