Apple introduces compact wired keyboard with new iMacs

[AppleInsider]

Accompanying updates to Apple's line of desktops Tuesday is a new compact, wired keyboard with no numeric keypad. It's included with each new iMac by default, but can be swapped out for one that does include a numeric keypad at no additional cost when ordering online.

A rundown of Apple keyboards

Previously Apple offered just two keyboards: the wired version known as the Apple Keyboard and the Bluetooth-connected Apple Wireless Keyboard. Today's new compact keyboard adopts an appearance similar to its wireless counterpart as both lack a numeric keypad. Both wired keyboards are flanked by USB 2.0 ports on each side.

The move gives Apple customers three keyboards to choose from: a wireless model, a wired keyboard with numeric keypad or a wired "compact" keyboard sans numeric keypad.

The new iMac ships with the compact wired keyboard by default, but customers can still build to order with the numeric keypad version included for no extra charge. Meanwhile, Mac mini customers can also choose any of the three keyboards in a bundle with a Mighty Mouse. Both wired keyboards come with a Mighty Mouse for $98 while the wireless keyboard is joined by the Wireless Mighty Mouse for $129.

The full-size Apple Keyboard with Numeric Keypad comes standard with each new Mac Pro order, but the Cupertino-based Mac maker also offers the compact and wireless versions as swappable build-to-order options.

Owners of existing Macs can spring for any of the three available keyboards at the Apple Store, where the Apple Keyboard is $49, Apple Keyboard with Numeric Keypad is also $49, and the Apple Wireless Keyboard costs $79.

Apple Keyboard with Numeric Keypad ($49)







Apple Keyboard ($49)







Apple Wireless Keyboard ($79)

[ View this article at AppleInsider.com ]

[Leppo]

If they had black keys, I'd buy one. None of their hardware is white anymore (except the top of the mini), not sure why they think white and silver go together. Blech.

[mariofreak85]

no wireless with a 10 key

[luke1robb]

I think this move to get rid of the num. pad and decrease the width of the keyboard is a good sign that Apple might be prepping a multi-touch glass trackpad for their desktop line. By have it be smaller, one could attach (via usb) a trackpad to either end of the keyboard (lefty or righty).

Don't blow this off, I think its gonna happen in some manner. Multi-touch is still non-existent on their desktop line, a glaring signal to me.

Thoughts?

[jowie74]

Still no wireless with numberpad. New short keyboard exactly the same price as the longer one... huh?!

More utter randomness from the new line-up of Apple products.

[KindredMac]

Who honestly asked for this keyboard option?

No one.

While a lot of us have been asking for a wireless keyboard with full extended functions.
sheesh

[DyingSun]

Originally Posted by luke1robb

I think this move to get rid of the num. pad and decrease the width of the keyboard is a good sign that Apple might be prepping a multi-touch glass trackpad for their desktop line. By have it be smaller, one could attach (via usb) a trackpad to either end of the keyboard (lefty or righty).

Don't blow this off, I think its gonna happen in some manner. Multi-touch is still non-existent on their desktop line, a glaring signal to me.

Thoughts?

I hadn't thought of that... as much as I hate compact keyboards, that would probably be an interesting move!

[GQB]

Originally Posted by luke1robb

I think this move to get rid of the num. pad and decrease the width of the keyboard is a good sign that Apple might be prepping a multi-touch glass trackpad for their desktop line. By have it be smaller, one could attach (via usb) a trackpad to either end of the keyboard (lefty or righty).

Don't blow this off, I think its gonna happen in some manner. Multi-touch is still non-existent on their desktop line, a glaring signal to me.

Thoughts?

Not a bad point, actually. I can't see the interface between laptop and desktop staying this different, with laptops having the touch trackpad advantage to themselves.
In addition, a trackpad on the side could easily display a 9-key input on demand that would satisfy all (or most) but full-time number crunchers.

[joelsalt]

Originally Posted by DyingSun

I hadn't thought of that... as much as I hate compact keyboards, that would probably be an interesting move!

Me too.

It probably doesn't make sense REALLY, but after having used a laptop for so long, when I'm on a desktop I actually miss not being able to use the trackpad.

[bigdaddyp]

Originally Posted by KindredMac

Who honestly asked for this keyboard option?

No one.

While a lot of us have been asking for a wireless keyboard with full extended functions.
sheesh

I second that one. I have been forced to go on flea bay and hunt the older white wireless keyboards for exactly that reason. Sad really.

[oneaburns]

Originally Posted by KindredMac

Who honestly asked for this keyboard option?

No one.

While a lot of us have been asking for a wireless keyboard with full extended functions.
sheesh

I'm with you there. Wireless WITH numeric keypad has been a request for sometime so they introduce the opposite. Oy. Heck, even if you don't use your Mac for business you still may want to create a spreadsheet or pay some bills online now and then. And it's not much fun to try to shop online and use the top row of numbers to enter your credit card number.

[MacShack]

I can understand having a little footprint for a keyboard is important when integrated in a laptop or used for a media center. When you want to type something whilst sitting on the couch. But a little keyboard for a desktop computer doesn't make any sense. I want nummeric keys. I want to have space to type properly and not a tiny keyboard like that.

I think Apple is making lots of mistakes with these recent updates.

[hdasmith]

I reckon this will just annoy customers. People are going to order the new iMac with shorter keyboard, and not realise that it's missing the number pad. Who on earth goes out of their way to remove the number pad?? Are there really people out there that don't type numbers longer than 3 digits?

[Galley]

Why is the keyboard without the number pad not cheaper? There's less to manufacture.

[filburt]

This sounds like a scheme to get people to order from Apple, instead of more affordable outlets such as Amazon.com. Otherwise, Apple would've bundled wired keyboard WITH numeric keypad as the default option, with keypadless as BTO.

[fraklinc]

Originally Posted by hdasmith

I reckon this will just annoy customers. People are going to order the new iMac with shorter keyboard, and not realise that it's missing the number pad. Who on earth goes out of their way to remove the number pad?? Are there really people out there that don't type numbers longer than 3 digits?

Agreed, i'll be mad as hell if i walk into a best buy and buy a iMac and it came with a keyboard with the number pad missing. This really is a bad idea, the Apple online store gives you a option when ordering a new machine but i wonder how stores like best buy are going to handle this.

[cygnusrk727]

Originally Posted by oneaburns

I'm with you there. Wireless WITH numeric keypad has been a request for sometime so they introduce the opposite. Oy. Heck, even if you don't use your Mac for business you still may want to create a spreadsheet or pay some bills online now and then. And it's not much fun to try to shop online and use the top row of numbers to enter your credit card number.

Not to mention passwords. I don't know about anyone else, but I use the num pad daily for passwords (in conjunction with some letter keys). And it is usually a pattern based on the number pad that sticks out when I try to remember my passwords.

[KindredMac]

Originally Posted by cygnusrk727

Not to mention passwords. I don't know about anyone else, but I use the num pad daily for passwords (in conjunction with some letter keys). And it is usually a pattern based on the number pad that sticks out when I try to remember my passwords.

Exactly!
I can't tell you how many times, even phone numbers, are remembered solely on pattern for me. Some one asks me for my work number I find myself using my right hand and motioning out the numbers to give it to them.

Apple is usually right on with giving us technology changes but I really think they have fumbled big time on this kind of change.

[mstone]

Originally Posted by KindredMac

Who honestly asked for this keyboard option?

No one.

I wish there was an option for no keyboard or mouse because I don't much care for any of the Apple input devices.

[dstranathan]

Originally Posted by KindredMac

Who honestly asked for this keyboard option?
No one.

I did. Buying one today. Great for servers too!

I agree with those of you who want black keys!

[minderbinder]

Originally Posted by hdasmith

I reckon this will just annoy customers. People are going to order the new iMac with shorter keyboard, and not realise that it's missing the number pad. Who on earth goes out of their way to remove the number pad?? Are there really people out there that don't type numbers longer than 3 digits?

Yeah, I wonder how many irate customers ending up with the shorties without expecting it, it will take to get apple to change the default on this one.

[checo]

In a related note what i missed is the numeric pad on the laptops, apple removed them several revisions back but for xcell is necesary maybe they removed for a problem when swtching between the keyad and nueric overlay on the same keys but really nesesary

[johnqh]

I have to say I asked for this one.

The keyboard with num pad is just not ergonomical.

For the best typing position, the keyboard should be centered with the monitor. However, with the extended portion (about 7 inches), that pushes my mouse pad way to the right. Basically, I needed about 15 inches more space to the right of my typing position. On a small desk, that is impossible.

That's why I much prefer the MB and MBP keyboard. Some PC laptops comes with the built-in keypad, that would force the user to be tilted while working.

I even looked for third party USB keyboards without the num pad. Bought a ViewSonic one but it is crap. I have to say this new keyboard is ideal for me. Just wished it is cheaper.

[webhead]

Originally Posted by luke1robb

I think this move to get rid of the num. pad and decrease the width of the keyboard is a good sign that Apple might be prepping a multi-touch glass trackpad for their desktop line. By have it be smaller, one could attach (via usb) a trackpad to either end of the keyboard (lefty or righty).

Don't blow this off, I think its gonna happen in some manner. Multi-touch is still non-existent on their desktop line, a glaring signal to me.

Thoughts?

I would love that. I am so jealous of the mutitouch features that macbooks have, I really want it in a bluetooth track pad! I already use the bluetooth keyboard and love it, can’t wait for a wireless trackpad!. The wireless keyboard allows for more room on the desktop for mouse and other stuff.

[hillstones]

Originally Posted by mstone

I wish there was an option for no keyboard or mouse because I don't much care for any of the Apple input devices.

Those were the old days...the Mac shipped with the mouse, but you had the option of buying the keyboard you desired. Most purchased the still amazing Apple Extended Keyboard II, which I still have on my classic LC 575.

[hillstones]

They are missing the 4th keyboard option: The wireless keyboard with numeric keypad. I would love the new keyboard, but I don't want one that is wired, nor do I want a wireless one that is cut in half. C'mon Apple, give people the keyboard that they have been asking for!

[jontallon]

Instead of giving us a new keyboard that nobody really wanted, why not give us a mighty mouse with a track ball that doesn't gum up and actually allows for a consistent right click ?

Naah - that would be too useful !

[hillstones]

Originally Posted by dstranathan

I did. Buying one today. Great for servers too!

I agree with those of you who want black keys!

Apple had a keyboard with black keys. The problem with that keyboard was that the letters wore off the keys making it useless. Of course I am sure they could improve the manufacturing process so the letters don't wear off with use.

[Foo2]

IBM/Lenovo Traveling USB keyboard with Trackpoint and UltraNAV FTW

[gnaegi]

Originally Posted by luke1robb

I think this move to get rid of the num. pad and decrease the width of the keyboard is a good sign that Apple might be prepping a multi-touch glass trackpad for their desktop line. By have it be smaller, one could attach (via usb) a trackpad to either end of the keyboard (lefty or righty).

Don't blow this off, I think its gonna happen in some manner. Multi-touch is still non-existent on their desktop line, a glaring signal to me.

Thoughts?

Yes, this exactly what I thought as well and I really hope the bring this out fast! I just bought the standard keyboard, I actually exptected this to happen at MacWorld. What a bummer ...

Just check out the asus keyboard: http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/03/h...-eee-keyboard/

Really too bad Apple did not have enough speed to bring this out first!

[dstranathan]

Originally Posted by hillstones

Apple had a keyboard with black keys. The problem with that keyboard was that the letters wore off the keys making it useless. Of course I am sure they could improve the manufacturing process so the letters don't wear off with use.

That was a totally different keyboard with different materials. We are talking circa early 2000's (G4s)

The new MacBooks have black keys.

[Isidore]

This new keyboard range is almost as lame as the alu macbook with no firewire. Doesn't anyone in Apple realise that not all of their customers are graphic designers, or just use their Macs to surf? The real world is based on numbers. Please can we have a wireless keyboard with a numeric keypad!!

[lilgto64]

Looks like the compact keyboard is just a repackaged notebook keyboard. I primarily use notebooks all day every day - and sometimes miss the 10 key - I have tried a couple of USB 10 keys - but they have some issues and are not heavy enough to stay put.

What would be kinda cool would be a compact keyboard with a 10 key and a large glass-pad as options that "dock" directly to either side of the compact keyboard that would be cool. So you could put the glass pad or the 10 key on either side - or maybe even both on the same side - by plugging the add on directly into the side of the keyboard in a way that makes the entire thing appear to be a single seamless unit.

[Virgil-TB2]

Originally Posted by hdasmith

I reckon this will just annoy customers. People are going to order the new iMac with shorter keyboard, and not realise that it's missing the number pad. Who on earth goes out of their way to remove the number pad?? Are there really people out there that don't type numbers longer than 3 digits?

The market for Apple products are consumers and education, but the main use of the number pad is in business which they don't sell to as much. In an education setting, it's also important to have more desk space so the smaller keyboard makes sense that way also.

The average consumer "doesn't do numbers" and doesn't even track their finances in any appreciable way by using financial software or doing spreadsheets. Hopefully the longer keyboard will remain an option, but there are many good reasons for leaving it out from Apple's point of view.

[gas_pig70]

Originally Posted by Isidore

This new keyboard range is almost as lame as the alu macbook with no firewire. Doesn't anyone in Apple realise that not all of their customers are graphic designers, or just use their Macs to surf? The real world is based on numbers. Please can we have a wireless keyboard with a numeric keypad!!

I so agree on both counts.

[LemCen]

does anyone know if you'll be able to charge and sync your iphone with the new wired compact keyboard's usb?? i cant do it with my current keyboard?!?

[floccus]

This can actually be an amazingly smart move on Apple's part to reduce the # of units kept in retail channels and move more towards Dell's highly efficient build then ship business model. Since most customers are so ingrained to having the number pad with a desktop, they'll invariably "custom build" their new Mac. Then it gets boxed up and shipped direct from China. This allows Apple to keep inventory levels lower than before, thus reducing the number of units that need to get marked down when they do eventual upgrades. Apple stores then have more room to stock MacBooks and MacBook Pros which cary a higher margin and are more popular anyways.

Still... wtf???

[teckstud]

Originally Posted by KindredMac

Who honestly asked for this keyboard option?

No one.

While a lot of us have been asking for a wireless keyboard with full extended functions.
sheesh

They have been making some wack announcements as of late.

[teckstud]

Originally Posted by Virgil-TB2

The market for Apple products are consumers and education, but the main use of the number pad is in business which they don't sell to as much. In an education setting, it's also important to have more desk space so the smaller keyboard makes sense that way also.

The average consumer "doesn't do numbers" and doesn't even track their finances in any appreciable way by using financial software or doing spreadsheets. Hopefully the longer keyboard will remain an option, but there are many good reasons for leaving it out from Apple's point of view.

That's ridiculous- where do you get your facts from? Most everybody does their taxes these days and most people will/should be keeping budgets.
That's bull sh*t.

[teckstud]

Originally Posted by Isidore

This new keyboard range is almost as lame as the alu macbook with no firewire. Doesn't anyone in Apple realise that not all of their customers are graphic designers, or just use their Macs to surf? The real world is based on numbers. Please can we have a wireless keyboard with a numeric keypad!!

This looks like a point for Microsoft to mock Apple with, if ever there was one.