Suppose they want to keep selling any… Haswell doesn't even have a LAUNCH date. Having THIS iMac and THIS Mac Mini during a holiday season is certainly a good idea if their master plan is to be able to go, "look, no one is buying our computers anymore; let's just not make computers at all."
If they stop updating the Mac mini I will have to look elsewhere.
I kind of feel that way too though I don't think the desktop is dead.
The desktop isn't dead but Apple is really screwing it up with this long drawn out release schedule. I bet behind the scenes Intel is trying to push Apple along. New iMacs and Minis would do wonders for Intels numbers.
As to the Mini specifically I'm kinda lean towards its dying. If Apple was smart they would produce a box capable of support a wider array of users. They still need that entry level machine but they also need a more performance rated machine. That means higher wattage processors and a GPU. A GPU with a respectable amount of RAM.
They can do this on a common chassis like today, but the upper end model needs a bigger performance delta between it and the entry level machine. A boost to a 150 watt chassis would provide for a fairly decent GPU and a CPU bump. The simple reality is that unless he iMac gets a major overhaul many of us do not even consider the machine. The Mac Pro is now a joke, so that is out of the question too.
Well where can they go from here with the iDevices? I mean the iPad can't get that much of a massive improvement can it? And iPhone 6 or whatever it will be called? So they kind of have no choice to go back to the Mac eventually.
Make just a server model. Limit quantities. I'm begging ya Apple. Give us something!
Really? You really think this? The iPad will replace laptops entirely. Then the desktop will see a huge resurgence.
I should have clarified myself. I meant that the iPad can't go much from here right now leaving them room to update the Mac mini not that the iPad is done permanently. I'm hoping they aren't putting all their resources into the iPad 4 instead of working on the next Mini and such.
The iPad will replace laptops entirely. Then the desktop will see a huge resurgence.
- if the iPad replaces laptops, it has to offer full mobile productivity, including software development, which requires filesystem access.
- if the iPad offered full productivity, it would eventually replace both desktop and laptop but quite a long way down the line.
- the desktop will never see a huge resurgence.
All of the Mac updates have been drawn out this year, possibly because of Intel urging manufacturers to keep selling Sandy Bridge. The last MBP major refresh gap was 473 days. The Mini is sitting at 429 days, the iMac 507 days. Another 2 weeks is no big deal.
- if the iPad replaces laptops, it has to offer full mobile productivity, including software development, which requires filesystem access.
It has filesystem access already. What people need to get over is their preconceptions about how to do stuff in this regard. Apple's gonna redefine (simplify) folder trees.
- if the iPad offered full productivity, it would eventually replace… …desktop…
- the desktop will never see a huge resurgence.
Oh? So the idea of having a 10-15" iPad out and about with you for mobile computing and coming home to a 21-27" desktop multitouch solution for when you need that much more power wouldn't work out?
All of the Mac updates have been drawn out this year, possibly because of Intel urging manufacturers to keep selling Sandy Bridge. The last MBP major refresh gap was 473 days. The Mini is sitting at 429 days, the iMac 507 days. Another 2 weeks is no big deal.
Never thought of the bolded part. The second bolded part I'm going to hold you to. *shakes fist*
It has filesystem access already. What people need to get over is their preconceptions about how to do stuff in this regard. Apple's gonna redefine (simplify) folder trees.
All apps are sandboxed. A developer SDK might get away with restricted access but it's not ideal. It also needs to spawn sub-processes for debugging.
Oh? So the idea of having a 10-15" iPad out and about with you for mobile computing and coming home to a 21-27" desktop multitouch solution for when you need that much more power wouldn't work out?
Sure it would work out but I still think people will buy laptops over desktops. I doubt many students want to haul a big iMac to uni with them.
The second bolded part I'm going to hold you to. *shakes fist*
I should have used the time frame analysts use: Another 2 - 147 weeks is no big deal.
The iPhone 5 is going to create a huge strain on their supply chain, especially if they aim for 8 million units this weekend but they should be able to free up resources in October sometime. There *has* to be a Mac update in October.
I should have used the time frame analysts use: Another 2 - 147 weeks is no big deal.
Haha and to be fair I am not that desperate for a machine though it's the whole secrecy thing that aggravates me. I mean the fact that not even Digitimes has anything is driving me insane.
I'm dreaming of a much improved iPad 4 right now, there is much that can be done to improve this machine. My first iPad was an iPad One, not a bad technology demonstrator, but hardly a home run. Going to iPad 3 was like a revelation it was a dramatic improvement all around.
Well where can they go from here with the iDevices? I mean the iPad can't get that much of a massive improvement can it?
Short term with iPad 4 we get an enhanced A6X SoC that is twice as fast as the current machine if we are real lucky A6X will be quad core with a new GPU and have its RAM doubled along with the various flash allotments. Everything I've seen in the new iPhone indicates that this is very possible, that is a 2x overall performance increase and possibly much more.
2014 might bring us a 64 bit iPad which would transition the machine to a software base that should be viable for years.
Along the way Apple can implement new technology like improved hardware video decodes, encryption hardware and other technologies as SoC space permits.
And iPhone 6 or whatever it will be called? So they kind of have no choice to go back to the Mac eventually.
I'm seriously thinking of going with a desktop machine in 2013 instead of another laptop. It really depends upon several things but I'd honestly prefer a desktop over a laptop for ease of use, screen options and serviceability. Notably the laptops have come a very long way since I purchased my 2008 MBP so who knows I could stick with a laptop.
The other part of the equation is the iPad, it gets better almost everyday with constant software updates that are rapidly maturing the various apps I use. It won't be long until iPad has everyone of my mobile needs covered.
Make just a server model. Limit quantities. I'm begging ya Apple. Give us something!
I run ideas through my head every once in awhile as far as a Mini replacement that could be suitable for a wider array of users including server duties. I like calling it XMac but everybody seems to think that implies a huge tower like box even though that isn't the case. XMac is about making those drives accessible so that it really can pass as a server and providing for enhanced GPU performance. Maybe I should call it VMac for Versatile Mac. A small form factor Mac that does many things well or at least good enough.
- if the iPad replaces laptops, it has to offer full mobile productivity, including software development, which requires filesystem access.
Baloney. IPad will replace laptops to the same extent laptops replaced desktops. Frankly there is a group of users that would barf at the idea of trying to do their work on a laptop because in their mind it doesn't offer full productivity. There will likewise be those that won't be able to use an iPad to get their work done. However iPad already offers fairly close to full productivity for many types of users. As noted above I can see software getting better almost everyday.
- if the iPad offered full productivity, it would eventually replace both desktop and laptop but quite a long way down the line.
Nope! For the same reasons laptops haven't replaced desktops completely. Users have different needs some of us actually see a resurgence in desktop hardware coming. The need for portability will never go away but it is a long time away that iPads can handle everybody's storage needs. In fact this is where I see Apples biggest mistake with iCloud, the general concept isn't bad but it would be great if iPad apps could select a users computer over a network, log in if you will and access data there. Apple needs to make strides in this sort of integration.
- the desktop will never see a huge resurgence.
I'm not too sure about that! Lately I've been of the mind set that an iPad along with a desktop is a far better arrangement for my needs.
All of the Mac updates have been drawn out this year, possibly because of Intel urging manufacturers to keep selling Sandy Bridge.
That seems to have backfired on them as sales of Intel hardware is far behind where they wanted it to be. Of course that doesn't discount the fact that they have to ramp up 22nm production. Between smart phones in general and iPads Intel is taking a beating. Worst is I'm really thinking they completely missed the opportunity to gain market share here.
The last MBP major refresh gap was 473 days. The Mini is sitting at 429 days, the iMac 507 days. Another 2 weeks is no big deal.
Well yes and no. It isn't a big deal for me because I'm trying to hold off until 2013. It's a money thing. However it is a big deal because I can't rationally recommend that people buy Apple desktop hardware now. Especially for general purpose use where the user might keep the machine for a very long time. The lack of USB 3 is a killer here.
All apps are sandboxed. A developer SDK might get away with restricted access but it's not ideal. It also needs to spawn sub-processes for debugging.
Right at this very minute the big problem is that XCode is a whore when it comes to memory and resource use. Admittedly my Mac is old, but starting up XCode is like putting molasses in the fridge and then expect to pour that molasses the next day. It has recently improved with respect to performance but I don't see it running on today's iOS devices anyways.
As to sub processes iOS isn't static Apple could come up with a new policy allowing them or offer up new technology. They do have a real concern here about security and performance. The performance issue will be largely gone soon.
Sure it would work out but I still think people will buy laptops over desktops. I doubt many students want to haul a big iMac to uni with them.
This is a good example of a class of users that would most likely hang onto laptops the longest. On the other hand it isn't really that big of a thing to haul around when you think about a student dorm with a stereo, speakers, TV and whatnot laying around.
I should have used the time frame analysts use: Another 2 - 147 weeks is no big deal.
????????????????????????????
That was a good one!
The iPhone 5 is going to create a huge strain on their supply chain, especially if they aim for 8 million units this weekend but they should be able to free up resources in October sometime. There *has* to be a Mac update in October.
For the most part it is a completely different supply chain. Yes Foxconn is at the heart but it is a different plant, different chips board and components. Especially at the low volumes desktops sell, I don't think supply chain is a problem. Except for one possibility, which might be Intel having Apple on allocation due to 22nm production constraints. This is even more so with the Mini as there is no potential screen issue.
An October update would put them in a good position for Christmas shopping.
The iPhone 5 is going to create a huge strain on their supply chain, especially if they aim for 8 million units this weekend but they should be able to free up resources in October sometime. There *has* to be a Mac update in October.
I can't recall the name of the outfit that supposedly has taken on a lot of Apple production which should improve the assembly situation. I am still not sure about the capacity of the parts suppliers.
October is getting pretty close now. If Apple does not soon release some updates, one has to wonder how the delay will affect the next few rounds of updates.
[Edit] P.S. I think very few university students are using anything other than laptops these days. In fact, a number of professional schools require the students to have a laptop. I suppose a few graphics arts types may be using a larger display for some of their work, but I just don't think that they are likely to have both a desktop and a laptop. I don't see tablets replacing the laptops either.
Comments
Originally Posted by Winter
Which would mean...?
I think he means it as "put your back into it", as in "pushes hard to get something really extraordinary".
Not what I expect from them, but you know, a valid perspective.
Originally Posted by Winter
When this finally does come out, when can we start the 2013 Mac Mini Wish List?
Three minutes after.
If they stop updating the Mac mini I will have to look elsewhere.
I kind of feel that way too though I don't think the desktop is dead.
The desktop isn't dead but Apple is really screwing it up with this long drawn out release schedule. I bet behind the scenes Intel is trying to push Apple along. New iMacs and Minis would do wonders for Intels numbers.
As to the Mini specifically I'm kinda lean towards its dying. If Apple was smart they would produce a box capable of support a wider array of users. They still need that entry level machine but they also need a more performance rated machine. That means higher wattage processors and a GPU. A GPU with a respectable amount of RAM.
They can do this on a common chassis like today, but the upper end model needs a bigger performance delta between it and the entry level machine. A boost to a 150 watt chassis would provide for a fairly decent GPU and a CPU bump. The simple reality is that unless he iMac gets a major overhaul many of us do not even consider the machine. The Mac Pro is now a joke, so that is out of the question too.
Make just a server model. Limit quantities. I'm begging ya Apple. Give us something!
Originally Posted by Winter
Well where can they go from here with the iDevices? I mean the iPad can't get that much of a massive improvement can it?
Really? You really think this? The iPad will replace laptops entirely. Then the desktop will see a huge resurgence.
I should have clarified myself. I meant that the iPad can't go much from here right now leaving them room to update the Mac mini not that the iPad is done permanently. I'm hoping they aren't putting all their resources into the iPad 4 instead of working on the next Mini and such.
- if the iPad replaces laptops, it has to offer full mobile productivity, including software development, which requires filesystem access.
- if the iPad offered full productivity, it would eventually replace both desktop and laptop but quite a long way down the line.
- the desktop will never see a huge resurgence.
All of the Mac updates have been drawn out this year, possibly because of Intel urging manufacturers to keep selling Sandy Bridge. The last MBP major refresh gap was 473 days. The Mini is sitting at 429 days, the iMac 507 days. Another 2 weeks is no big deal.
Originally Posted by Marvin
- if the iPad replaces laptops, it has to offer full mobile productivity, including software development, which requires filesystem access.
It has filesystem access already. What people need to get over is their preconceptions about how to do stuff in this regard. Apple's gonna redefine (simplify) folder trees.
- if the iPad offered full productivity, it would eventually replace… …desktop…
- the desktop will never see a huge resurgence.
Oh? So the idea of having a 10-15" iPad out and about with you for mobile computing and coming home to a 21-27" desktop multitouch solution for when you need that much more power wouldn't work out?
Never thought of the bolded part. The second bolded part I'm going to hold you to. *shakes fist*
All apps are sandboxed. A developer SDK might get away with restricted access but it's not ideal. It also needs to spawn sub-processes for debugging.
Sure it would work out but I still think people will buy laptops over desktops. I doubt many students want to haul a big iMac to uni with them.
I should have used the time frame analysts use: Another 2 - 147 weeks is no big deal.
The iPhone 5 is going to create a huge strain on their supply chain, especially if they aim for 8 million units this weekend but they should be able to free up resources in October sometime. There *has* to be a Mac update in October.
Haha and to be fair I am not that desperate for a machine though it's the whole secrecy thing that aggravates me. I mean the fact that not even Digitimes has anything is driving me insane.
Short term with iPad 4 we get an enhanced A6X SoC that is twice as fast as the current machine if we are real lucky A6X will be quad core with a new GPU and have its RAM doubled along with the various flash allotments. Everything I've seen in the new iPhone indicates that this is very possible, that is a 2x overall performance increase and possibly much more.
2014 might bring us a 64 bit iPad which would transition the machine to a software base that should be viable for years.
Along the way Apple can implement new technology like improved hardware video decodes, encryption hardware and other technologies as SoC space permits. I'm seriously thinking of going with a desktop machine in 2013 instead of another laptop. It really depends upon several things but I'd honestly prefer a desktop over a laptop for ease of use, screen options and serviceability. Notably the laptops have come a very long way since I purchased my 2008 MBP so who knows I could stick with a laptop.
The other part of the equation is the iPad, it gets better almost everyday with constant software updates that are rapidly maturing the various apps I use. It won't be long until iPad has everyone of my mobile needs covered. I run ideas through my head every once in awhile as far as a Mini replacement that could be suitable for a wider array of users including server duties. I like calling it XMac but everybody seems to think that implies a huge tower like box even though that isn't the case. XMac is about making those drives accessible so that it really can pass as a server and providing for enhanced GPU performance. Maybe I should call it VMac for Versatile Mac. A small form factor Mac that does many things well or at least good enough.
Well yes and no. It isn't a big deal for me because I'm trying to hold off until 2013. It's a money thing. However it is a big deal because I can't rationally recommend that people buy Apple desktop hardware now. Especially for general purpose use where the user might keep the machine for a very long time. The lack of USB 3 is a killer here.
As to sub processes iOS isn't static Apple could come up with a new policy allowing them or offer up new technology. They do have a real concern here about security and performance. The performance issue will be largely gone soon. This is a good example of a class of users that would most likely hang onto laptops the longest. On the other hand it isn't really that big of a thing to haul around when you think about a student dorm with a stereo, speakers, TV and whatnot laying around. ????????????????????????????
That was a good one!
For the most part it is a completely different supply chain. Yes Foxconn is at the heart but it is a different plant, different chips board and components. Especially at the low volumes desktops sell, I don't think supply chain is a problem. Except for one possibility, which might be Intel having Apple on allocation due to 22nm production constraints. This is even more so with the Mini as there is no potential screen issue.
An October update would put them in a good position for Christmas shopping.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Marvin
The iPhone 5 is going to create a huge strain on their supply chain, especially if they aim for 8 million units this weekend but they should be able to free up resources in October sometime. There *has* to be a Mac update in October.
I can't recall the name of the outfit that supposedly has taken on a lot of Apple production which should improve the assembly situation. I am still not sure about the capacity of the parts suppliers.
October is getting pretty close now. If Apple does not soon release some updates, one has to wonder how the delay will affect the next few rounds of updates.
[Edit] P.S. I think very few university students are using anything other than laptops these days. In fact, a number of professional schools require the students to have a laptop. I suppose a few graphics arts types may be using a larger display for some of their work, but I just don't think that they are likely to have both a desktop and a laptop. I don't see tablets replacing the laptops either.
I just hope this kind of thing isn't affecting release dates: http://www.cultofmac.com/192350/how-apples-obsession-with-google-is-hurting-apple/
Originally Posted by Winter
I just hope this kind of thing isn't affecting release dates: http://www.cultofmac.com/192350/how-apples-obsession-with-google-is-hurting-apple/
No, but that kind of article (lies) is affecting Apple.