milo
Sep 11, 10:02 AM
My Motorola set-top box already has the killer app that everyone wants to see from a IP-streaming device: HD movies on demand for $4 a pop.
Doesn't that require having cable TV?
No, but they're not playing games with my rather fragile heart =(
I don't see how announcing something but not shipping it is better than not announcing something and not shipping it. Either way, you have no computer. Threatening to buy a dell is pretty empty until Dell actually makes that possible.
Doesn't that require having cable TV?
No, but they're not playing games with my rather fragile heart =(
I don't see how announcing something but not shipping it is better than not announcing something and not shipping it. Either way, you have no computer. Threatening to buy a dell is pretty empty until Dell actually makes that possible.
Nuvi
Nov 16, 02:30 PM
Sounds like a virus in itself. A pointless piece of software which just hogs your RAM. Totally useless for Mac OS X.
Gee, there is nothing like sending files with virus to your PC using friends or clients. Hey, there is our awesome showreel, presentation and virus to boot. That should leave lasting impression. When the Mac OS X is hit with first major virus infection I rather be safe then sorry. Regarding use of RAM, what are you talking about? This software has extremely small footprint and only time you see it using cycles is when you start manual scan.
Gee, there is nothing like sending files with virus to your PC using friends or clients. Hey, there is our awesome showreel, presentation and virus to boot. That should leave lasting impression. When the Mac OS X is hit with first major virus infection I rather be safe then sorry. Regarding use of RAM, what are you talking about? This software has extremely small footprint and only time you see it using cycles is when you start manual scan.
lilo777
Mar 29, 10:42 AM
And Amazon thinks crippling ioS compatibility will be good business? FAIL.
I agree. I am absolutely convinced that Amazon's decision has nothing to do with the fact that their new cloud service gives free storage for MP3 files purchased from Amazon. Those idiots at Amazon probably still think that iOS is a close ecosystem where Apple restricts competitors in order to be able to rip off their loyal customer base.
I agree. I am absolutely convinced that Amazon's decision has nothing to do with the fact that their new cloud service gives free storage for MP3 files purchased from Amazon. Those idiots at Amazon probably still think that iOS is a close ecosystem where Apple restricts competitors in order to be able to rip off their loyal customer base.
Popeye206
Apr 20, 05:28 AM
OMG... Sources close to it says, Iphone5 coming. Faster processor.
Really? Wait. I'll close my eyes and wave my hand and say it'll have a nice screen with it. Might be bigger. But not decided yet. Oh... And it'll look nice! And not too different so to scare away people who likes things the same.... *sigh*
Seriously, I hope they release it soon. It'll need to have at least 64GB of space so I can finally get rid of my ipod.
Make it LARGER. Just a little. Give it a 4in screen. Oh and look... Now you have room for that larger battery and bigger CPU and camera.
I BET you if Apple released two TOP END models.
1) Same form factor. But with new CPU only. and 32gb memory to keep the same form factor.
and
2) Another with the same CPU but with 4in screen, larger battery, better camera,and 64gb memory. Of course a bit heavier.
I bet #2 would sell 3:1... Those who is willing to pay that high price of the 32GB model would be the same group of people willing to get the extras. If not for the screen size, then for the battery or better camera. Would I pay $150 more? Yes.
Here's the kicker. That would make it $450. That's slightly less than an unlocked Android that has most of those features NOW. Not 5 MONTHS from now. Granted, it's no iOS system. But it works.
Not that "I like things the same", but I do like the size of the iPhone. I have no desire to have a larger iPhone or any smart phone.
Also, I have to agree with the other poster, Apples not going to mess with the screen size if it requires developers to rewrite Apps to be compatible. It's just not worth it.
If you only buy products based on who has the most check marks on their feature list or hardware spec, don't buy an iPhone, and don't buy a Mac. That's not what Apple is all about. Besides... the iPhone4 has an amazing screen now. So much better than others. The way I look at it is, "screen solved" move on to other features that are more important. More RAM, more storage options, continued better battery (although the current battery life is great for me and I use my phone all day long), and things such as this.
You know, within a couple years all the smart phones will all have about the same hardware specs... only so much you can put in there, or even need to put in there. So what will differentiate them them? How well they work, the depth of the content and how well they're supported. Features often overlooked on the spec sheet.
Really? Wait. I'll close my eyes and wave my hand and say it'll have a nice screen with it. Might be bigger. But not decided yet. Oh... And it'll look nice! And not too different so to scare away people who likes things the same.... *sigh*
Seriously, I hope they release it soon. It'll need to have at least 64GB of space so I can finally get rid of my ipod.
Make it LARGER. Just a little. Give it a 4in screen. Oh and look... Now you have room for that larger battery and bigger CPU and camera.
I BET you if Apple released two TOP END models.
1) Same form factor. But with new CPU only. and 32gb memory to keep the same form factor.
and
2) Another with the same CPU but with 4in screen, larger battery, better camera,and 64gb memory. Of course a bit heavier.
I bet #2 would sell 3:1... Those who is willing to pay that high price of the 32GB model would be the same group of people willing to get the extras. If not for the screen size, then for the battery or better camera. Would I pay $150 more? Yes.
Here's the kicker. That would make it $450. That's slightly less than an unlocked Android that has most of those features NOW. Not 5 MONTHS from now. Granted, it's no iOS system. But it works.
Not that "I like things the same", but I do like the size of the iPhone. I have no desire to have a larger iPhone or any smart phone.
Also, I have to agree with the other poster, Apples not going to mess with the screen size if it requires developers to rewrite Apps to be compatible. It's just not worth it.
If you only buy products based on who has the most check marks on their feature list or hardware spec, don't buy an iPhone, and don't buy a Mac. That's not what Apple is all about. Besides... the iPhone4 has an amazing screen now. So much better than others. The way I look at it is, "screen solved" move on to other features that are more important. More RAM, more storage options, continued better battery (although the current battery life is great for me and I use my phone all day long), and things such as this.
You know, within a couple years all the smart phones will all have about the same hardware specs... only so much you can put in there, or even need to put in there. So what will differentiate them them? How well they work, the depth of the content and how well they're supported. Features often overlooked on the spec sheet.
milo
Sep 11, 08:47 AM
You have a point there. I certainly wouldn't want to attend. But I wasn't saying I would want to. Nor was I saying that any of the eager masses should be able to attend.
The original post by Macrumors implied that this site is shut out of such events. Shutting out representatives sites such as this, which do much to promote Apple products is, I think, to some degree arrogant and perhaps spiteful. This site likes to penetrate Apple's notorious secrecy.
Even if they were invited, you don't seriously think this site has the resources to fly to London? Who cares if they are there, we'll get the news from the billion other sites that will be, and MR will mirror it.
Ever done graphics work or gaming on a laptop?
The graphics chipset makes a huge difference for gaming or 3d graphics like Shake. It doesn't matter at all for things like photoshop or final cut pro.
Has anyone ever considered that the media mac would not be a hardware upgrade to the mini but a software one via itunes 7 or is it just me?
A mini isn't really up to the task, you'd be better off with a more economical machine with some expansion, especially way more hard drive space. Pizza box or mini tower.
Why watch it on a 2.5'' when you can watch it on a 42''?
Try bringing that 42 on a plane. :cool: Apple will do both, tomorrow will bring a streaming solution and higher quality movies. A TIVO box is pointless, an airport can do the same thing cheaper and much more flexibly. I'm not sure why you're so worked up about this, ALL the rumors are saying apple will have a solution for the living room (although it will be an Airport, a new mac model would be secondary), so who exactly are you disagreeing with?
Jeez, why do people think Apple will make the movie store/movie management part of iTunes? That would be the worst decision ever, the two mediums and two markets are so vastly different they need two seperate apps!
If Apple can just release an iTunes-like app combining Delicious Library style management with playback and the movie store, they've got a winner.
Why make a new app when they can just update and improve iTunes? Seems like even you'd be OK with that, since you want "an iTunes-like app".
It's funny to see that people have completely forgotten about the Apple Expo in Paris, also tomorrow :D.
To me it is kinda strange that the expo starts 7 hours prior to the media event. Are they going to keep those black curtains (assuming there are some) during the complete 1st day of the event?
Excellent point. There's no way in hell they'll announce laptops at this event, but they could even announce them earlier the same day from Paris.
The original post by Macrumors implied that this site is shut out of such events. Shutting out representatives sites such as this, which do much to promote Apple products is, I think, to some degree arrogant and perhaps spiteful. This site likes to penetrate Apple's notorious secrecy.
Even if they were invited, you don't seriously think this site has the resources to fly to London? Who cares if they are there, we'll get the news from the billion other sites that will be, and MR will mirror it.
Ever done graphics work or gaming on a laptop?
The graphics chipset makes a huge difference for gaming or 3d graphics like Shake. It doesn't matter at all for things like photoshop or final cut pro.
Has anyone ever considered that the media mac would not be a hardware upgrade to the mini but a software one via itunes 7 or is it just me?
A mini isn't really up to the task, you'd be better off with a more economical machine with some expansion, especially way more hard drive space. Pizza box or mini tower.
Why watch it on a 2.5'' when you can watch it on a 42''?
Try bringing that 42 on a plane. :cool: Apple will do both, tomorrow will bring a streaming solution and higher quality movies. A TIVO box is pointless, an airport can do the same thing cheaper and much more flexibly. I'm not sure why you're so worked up about this, ALL the rumors are saying apple will have a solution for the living room (although it will be an Airport, a new mac model would be secondary), so who exactly are you disagreeing with?
Jeez, why do people think Apple will make the movie store/movie management part of iTunes? That would be the worst decision ever, the two mediums and two markets are so vastly different they need two seperate apps!
If Apple can just release an iTunes-like app combining Delicious Library style management with playback and the movie store, they've got a winner.
Why make a new app when they can just update and improve iTunes? Seems like even you'd be OK with that, since you want "an iTunes-like app".
It's funny to see that people have completely forgotten about the Apple Expo in Paris, also tomorrow :D.
To me it is kinda strange that the expo starts 7 hours prior to the media event. Are they going to keep those black curtains (assuming there are some) during the complete 1st day of the event?
Excellent point. There's no way in hell they'll announce laptops at this event, but they could even announce them earlier the same day from Paris.
complexcommunic
May 7, 05:20 PM
This would be really awesome. I've always been intrigued by mobileme but turned away by its price tag
Jeevs bost
Jul 31, 06:12 AM
Sorry to be a killjoy but I know for a fact that if this photographer did do any work for Apple he would of had to of signed a non disclosure agreement and as such would of been 100% bound to it, (unless of course he never wanted to work again and get his ass sued off). I know because I am a digital illustrator ( http://www.anthony-robinson.com ) sorry couldn't resist! :D and if I ever do any ad work this is standard practice.
I'm not denying that Apple might be developing a phone but for sure, this guy knows nothing about it.
I'm not denying that Apple might be developing a phone but for sure, this guy knows nothing about it.
cirus
Apr 24, 09:20 AM
3200x2000 requires 6,400,000 pixels. At 32 bit per pixel, we're talking 25,600,000 bytes of data. Considering modern framebuffers are double buffered, this requires 51,200,000 bytes of memory to hold. That fits into 48.82 MB of RAM. GPUs have had that much since ... hum... 2004 ? So we're good on framebuffer RAM.
Now, bandwidth. In order to refresh the screen 60 times, we need to push out those 25,600,000 pixels. That's going to require 11718 Mbps of bandwidth. Let's see... Display port 1.1a has 10.8 Gbps so it's a no go (though it could almost do it). If only there was a DP 1.2 spec that had a 21.6 Gbps cap... Oh wait there is. :D
So we're good on RAM and bandwidth. Now, what ATI family introduces DP 1.2 so that we can use this new standard ? Oh right, the Radeon HD 6000 series, AMD's current shipping tech! Now if only Apple would release some kind of support for these GPUs, like they did back in 10.6.7 ;) :
http://appleheadlines.com/2011/03/24/10-6-7-update-brings-native-graphic-acceleration-for-amd-5000-and-6000-series-video-cards/
So let's see if I got all of this right. We're good on RAM (have been for quite a few years). We're good on bandwidth for 60 hz 3200x2000 resolution. We're good on hardware (AMD 6000 series) and we're good on OS X support (with 10.6.7).
What exactly is missing here ? Oh right, a hardware refresh with said hardware included, which is probably a formality seeing all of these news and facts :cool:
I have a question.
Is 25,600,000 bytes (25.6 MB) x 60 Hz not equal to 1,536,000,000 bytes.
Correct me if I am wrong.
http://www.amd.com/us/products/desktop/graphics/amd-radeon-hd-6000/hd-6990/Pages/amd-radeon-hd-6990-overview.aspx#3
Amd (ati) lists the desktop 6990 as having a maximum display output of 2560 x 1600 per display (with display port 1.2). Something is going to have to change on the hardware level.
My opinion: This will look amazing but 3D gaming is going to suck at that resolution and especially since an iMac will not be able to have a very good GPU since it cannot handle the heat. Of course they could design it so that the resolution could be brought down during gaming.
Now, bandwidth. In order to refresh the screen 60 times, we need to push out those 25,600,000 pixels. That's going to require 11718 Mbps of bandwidth. Let's see... Display port 1.1a has 10.8 Gbps so it's a no go (though it could almost do it). If only there was a DP 1.2 spec that had a 21.6 Gbps cap... Oh wait there is. :D
So we're good on RAM and bandwidth. Now, what ATI family introduces DP 1.2 so that we can use this new standard ? Oh right, the Radeon HD 6000 series, AMD's current shipping tech! Now if only Apple would release some kind of support for these GPUs, like they did back in 10.6.7 ;) :
http://appleheadlines.com/2011/03/24/10-6-7-update-brings-native-graphic-acceleration-for-amd-5000-and-6000-series-video-cards/
So let's see if I got all of this right. We're good on RAM (have been for quite a few years). We're good on bandwidth for 60 hz 3200x2000 resolution. We're good on hardware (AMD 6000 series) and we're good on OS X support (with 10.6.7).
What exactly is missing here ? Oh right, a hardware refresh with said hardware included, which is probably a formality seeing all of these news and facts :cool:
I have a question.
Is 25,600,000 bytes (25.6 MB) x 60 Hz not equal to 1,536,000,000 bytes.
Correct me if I am wrong.
http://www.amd.com/us/products/desktop/graphics/amd-radeon-hd-6000/hd-6990/Pages/amd-radeon-hd-6990-overview.aspx#3
Amd (ati) lists the desktop 6990 as having a maximum display output of 2560 x 1600 per display (with display port 1.2). Something is going to have to change on the hardware level.
My opinion: This will look amazing but 3D gaming is going to suck at that resolution and especially since an iMac will not be able to have a very good GPU since it cannot handle the heat. Of course they could design it so that the resolution could be brought down during gaming.
twoodcc
Jul 29, 09:23 PM
I'd buy in a second, even if I had a Razr.
i think i'll buy a Macbook instead
i think i'll buy a Macbook instead
Torrijos
May 6, 02:56 AM
BS to the power of FUD ^^
The thing is although ARM chips are pretty good in the low power range right now, nothing says that they will perfectly scale in power for a higher performance range.
Every major player in the chips industry started seeing more and more problems when they started reaching the manufacturing processes ARM will only reach in a couple of years (currently A15 -> 45nm).
High performance is where Intel is very good at, and their announcement of 3D transistor in Ivy Bridge already will only make them way better in performance and power consumption, and all that as soon as the end of this year (first machines probably next year).
Now transition from a software standpoint would be painful, but maybe not horrible...
Apple's compiler already manages ARM architecture, and part of the interest in LLVM is the possibility of JIT compilation.
But a switch of architecture right now would need Apple to ask devs to re-compile their software, and maybe a change from some libraries, all that for an uncertain gain right now and improbable gain in the future (Intel will remain the master in high performance computing).
The thing is although ARM chips are pretty good in the low power range right now, nothing says that they will perfectly scale in power for a higher performance range.
Every major player in the chips industry started seeing more and more problems when they started reaching the manufacturing processes ARM will only reach in a couple of years (currently A15 -> 45nm).
High performance is where Intel is very good at, and their announcement of 3D transistor in Ivy Bridge already will only make them way better in performance and power consumption, and all that as soon as the end of this year (first machines probably next year).
Now transition from a software standpoint would be painful, but maybe not horrible...
Apple's compiler already manages ARM architecture, and part of the interest in LLVM is the possibility of JIT compilation.
But a switch of architecture right now would need Apple to ask devs to re-compile their software, and maybe a change from some libraries, all that for an uncertain gain right now and improbable gain in the future (Intel will remain the master in high performance computing).
Multimedia
Jul 30, 01:26 AM
Perfect. Just extended my two years with Veriaon in June for a new Moto 815e. :(
Brometheus
Apr 25, 10:26 AM
yes there is a problem. because it's unencrypted and everyone with access to your phone can read the information. the software tool they published showed my travel of the last 6 month quite accurately.
I don't want someone picking up my phone from my desk at work and find out what trips to what company I did. (it works internationally btw)
also I don't think the IRS or other tax collection agencies need to know when I was where.:D
Fair enough, but hardly the same as Apple acting as big brother (not that you made that claim).
I don't want someone picking up my phone from my desk at work and find out what trips to what company I did. (it works internationally btw)
also I don't think the IRS or other tax collection agencies need to know when I was where.:D
Fair enough, but hardly the same as Apple acting as big brother (not that you made that claim).
reubs
Mar 27, 02:21 PM
I'm not too concerned with a fall release of iOS 5, but I worry about the idea of it being "cloud based". I want my data with me locally, and I don't want to have to stream it because I don't want to pay data rates for it.
I wonder, though, if it will introduce some kind of cloud-based syncing that means downloading of apps and music and other kinds of media show up instantly on another system logged in to the same account. That would eliminate a need for syncing and would mean that connecting to a computer would only be for purposes of a local back-up. I could handle that.
I'm really hoping, though, that the release of the phone is not pushed back to fall. I'm all prepared to take the iPhone plunge this summer, and I don't want that to get held back at all. I watch my wife with her iPhone, and it kills me that she uses it for only facebook and browsing!
I wonder, though, if it will introduce some kind of cloud-based syncing that means downloading of apps and music and other kinds of media show up instantly on another system logged in to the same account. That would eliminate a need for syncing and would mean that connecting to a computer would only be for purposes of a local back-up. I could handle that.
I'm really hoping, though, that the release of the phone is not pushed back to fall. I'm all prepared to take the iPhone plunge this summer, and I don't want that to get held back at all. I watch my wife with her iPhone, and it kills me that she uses it for only facebook and browsing!
chowmein
May 6, 12:21 AM
switching to ARM means no more boot camp :mad:
Tommyg117
Jul 29, 11:45 PM
If this had Verizon support, I'd be really pumped. My plan is up in 2 months!
hobo.hopkins
Mar 29, 02:20 PM
Can I just say I am amazed at some of the responses on this thread. Typical American and often I must admit British protectionism coming straight out like a bad smell. Without these so called "3rd world" workers Apple would be a lowly player. Firstly Japan is not "3rd world". It is one of the most developed countries in the world, and has some of the most adept and intelligent people on this planet. Secondly, the term "3rd world" and "1st world" is offensive. The proper term is developing and developed world. Thirdly, I am sure that we will all be fine if we dont get a few iPod batteries or glue. People have died over there and continue to die because of this tragedy. This is surely more important than a load of old microchips. Sorry. Rant over.
:cool::apple::(
I agree that we will "all be fine" if the world faces iPod touch shortages. It doesn't mean that we shouldn't be upset about it - can I not care about the people who lost their lives or had their lives turned upside down AND a company that will face problems? The two are not mutually exclusive.
:cool::apple::(
I agree that we will "all be fine" if the world faces iPod touch shortages. It doesn't mean that we shouldn't be upset about it - can I not care about the people who lost their lives or had their lives turned upside down AND a company that will face problems? The two are not mutually exclusive.
shurcooL
Apr 24, 12:03 AM
You could argue that when they pump all consumer Mac resolutions up to the limit of human perception, resolution independence becomes sort of moot.
Almost, but not quite. Full resolution independence would allow you to change the scale/size of UI elements. Even if you can't see the pixels, some people may prefer smaller or larger "virtual" resolutions.
Almost, but not quite. Full resolution independence would allow you to change the scale/size of UI elements. Even if you can't see the pixels, some people may prefer smaller or larger "virtual" resolutions.
Unspeaked
Aug 11, 11:11 AM
Everyone waiting on the Core 2 Duo MacBook needs to get a clue.
It's the same folks who were falling over waiting to WWDC to come so they could order their Core 2 Duo MacBooks after the keynote!
Apple IS NOT going to move the MacBook to a Core 2 Duo until they've updated:
1) MacBook Pro
2) iMac
3) Maybe even Mac Mini, since it's been out forever!
The MacBook is barely three months old. It may get a speed bump and/or price cut soon, but won't get a new chip.
All of you saying Apple has to upgrade it to a Core 2 Duo to complete with Dell, HP, etc - why? Why do they HAVE to? Will they explode if they don't? Will the sun stop shining? Will all the world's puppies die?
Of course they'll upgrade it eventually. That doesn't mean it needs to be upgraded as soon as the chips are available. If you look at other PC maker's sites, most of their machines don't even have the Core Duo chips yet; there's no rush.
You can't claim Apple will inevitable act a certain way now that they're on Intel chips; you don't know that. They have no history of using Intel chips. Just because your bright minds think it would be a good idea to move the MB line to the latest and greatest chip whenever a new one is released by Intel because "that's what the other guys are doing," it doesn't mean Apple agrees with you.
What we DO know for a fact is Apple like to differentiate between consumer and pro lines, and Apple has never been one to put the latest chips into the iMac or Mac Mini level machines - and I don't see either of that changing.
It's the same folks who were falling over waiting to WWDC to come so they could order their Core 2 Duo MacBooks after the keynote!
Apple IS NOT going to move the MacBook to a Core 2 Duo until they've updated:
1) MacBook Pro
2) iMac
3) Maybe even Mac Mini, since it's been out forever!
The MacBook is barely three months old. It may get a speed bump and/or price cut soon, but won't get a new chip.
All of you saying Apple has to upgrade it to a Core 2 Duo to complete with Dell, HP, etc - why? Why do they HAVE to? Will they explode if they don't? Will the sun stop shining? Will all the world's puppies die?
Of course they'll upgrade it eventually. That doesn't mean it needs to be upgraded as soon as the chips are available. If you look at other PC maker's sites, most of their machines don't even have the Core Duo chips yet; there's no rush.
You can't claim Apple will inevitable act a certain way now that they're on Intel chips; you don't know that. They have no history of using Intel chips. Just because your bright minds think it would be a good idea to move the MB line to the latest and greatest chip whenever a new one is released by Intel because "that's what the other guys are doing," it doesn't mean Apple agrees with you.
What we DO know for a fact is Apple like to differentiate between consumer and pro lines, and Apple has never been one to put the latest chips into the iMac or Mac Mini level machines - and I don't see either of that changing.
Tunster
Mar 28, 11:58 AM
I don't understand people's expectation for an iPhone 5 in 2011. I bet Apple didn't make as much profit fitting in the retina display, 5MP camera and putting together that design compared to the 3G. Why dump a year old design? It would be uncharacteristic for Apple to kill it. I love the design and I'm sure it will stand the test of time.
Maybe an announcement of a 4S maybe with A5 chip etc on the side as a surprise? That'll cover the iPhone 4 White rumors and give Apple a chance to improve the antenna.
Maybe an announcement of a 4S maybe with A5 chip etc on the side as a surprise? That'll cover the iPhone 4 White rumors and give Apple a chance to improve the antenna.
MikeTheC
Nov 25, 10:46 PM
All this talk about Palm needing to modernize their OS, or it is outdated, or needing to re-write is absolutely hilarious.
On a phone, I want to use its features quickly and easily. When I have to schedule an appointment, I want to enter that appointment as easily as possible. When I want to add something to my to-do list, I want to do it easily and quickly. And first and foremost, I want to be able to look up a contact and dial it as quickly as possible.
A phone is not a personal computer. I couldn't care less about multitasking, rewriting, "modern" OSes (whatever "modern" means). "Modern" features and look is just eye candy and/or toys. A mobile phone is a gadget of convenience, and it should be convenient to use. Even PalmOS 1.0 was convenient. It was just as easy to use its contact and calendar features as any so-called "modern" OS is today.
I would really like to know how "modernizing" the OS on my phone would help me look up contacts, dial contacts, enter to-do list entries, and entering calendar entries any better that I could today.
Again, I repeat: a phone is not a personal computer. There's no point in treating it as such.
The same point could largely be made about cars, but I don't think either of us would want to be driving a Model T or Model A Ford these days, would we?
The term "Modern" as applied to operating systems has little to do with the interface per se. It primarily concerns the underpinnings of the OS and how forward-looking and/or open-ended it is. Older operating systems, if you want to look at it in this way, were very geared to the hardware of their times, and every time you added a new hardware feature or some new kind of technology came out, you wound up making this big patchwork of an OS, in which you had either an out-dated or obsolete "core" around which was stuck, somewhat unglamorously, lots of crap to allow it to do stuff it wasn't really designed for. Then, you wound up having to write patches for the patches, etc., ad infinitum.
Apple tried to go the internal development route, but that didn't work because their departmental infrastructure was eating them from the inside out at the time and basically poisoned all of their new projects. They considered BeOS because it was an incredibly modern OS at the time that was very capable, unbelievably good at multitasking, memory protection, multimedia tasks, etc. However, that company was so shaky that when Apple decided not to go with them, they collapsed. One of the products which was introduced and sold and almost immediately recalled that used a version of BeOS was Sony's eVilla (you just have to love that name -- try pronouncing it out loud to get the full effect).
Ultimately, they went with NeXT's BSD- and Mach-Kernel-based NeXTStep (which after a bunch of time and effort and -- since lots of it is based on Open Source software, there were a healthy amount of community contributions to) and hence we now have Mac OS X.
I'll leave it to actual developers and/or coders here to better explain and refine (and/or correct) what I've said here, should you wish greater detail beyond what I am able to -- and therefore have -- provided above.
The whole point of going with a modern OS implemented for an imbedded market (i.e. "Mac OS X Mobile") is it gives you much more direct (and probably better implemented and/or better-grounded) access to modern technologies. Everything from basic I/O tasks that reside in the Kernel to audio processing to doing H.264 decoding to having access to IPv4 or IPv6, are all examples of things which a modern OS could do a better job of providing and/or backing.
From what I understand, PalmOS is something that was designed to first and foremost give you basic notepad and daily organizer functionality. When they wrote, as you say, PalmOS 1.0, they happened to implement a way for third parties to write software that could run on it. This has been both a benefit and a bane of PalmOS's existence. First off, they now have the same issues of backwards-compatibility and storage space and memory use/abuse that a regular computer OS has. I said it was both a benefit and a bane; but there's actually two parts to the "bane" side. The first I've already mentioned, but the second is the fact that since apps have been written which can do darn near any conceivable task, people keep wanting more and more and more. And this then goes back to the "patchwork" I described earlier in talking about "older" computer OSs.
Then people want multimedia, and color screens, and apps to take advantage of it, and they want Palm to incorporate DSPs so they can play music, and of course that brings along with it all of the extra patching to then allow for the existence of, and permit the use of, an on-board DSP. And now you want WiFi? Well, shoot, now we gotta have IPv4 as well, and support for TCP/IP, none of which was ever a part of the original concept of PalmOS.
And even if you don't want or need any of those features in your own PDA, I'm sorry but that's really just too bad. Go live in a cave if you like, but if you buy a new PDA, guess what: you're gonna get all that stuff.
And at some point, all of this stretches an "older" OS just a bit too far, or it becomes a bit absurd with all the hoops and turns and wiggling that PalmOne's coders have to go through, so then they say, "Aw **** it, let's just re-write the thing."
Apple comes to this without any of *that* sort of legacy. Doubtless there will be no Newton code on this thing anywhere, but what Apple's got is Mac OS X, which means they also have the power (albeit somewhat indirectly) of an Open Source OS -- Linux. And in case you weren't aware, there are already numerous "imbedded" implementations of Linux -- phones, PDAs, game systems, kiosks, etc. -- all of which are data points and collective experience opportunities which ALREADY EXIST that Apple can exploit.
So no, having a "modern" OS is not a bad thing. It's actually a supremely awesome thing. What you're concerned about is having something that is intuitive AND efficient AND appropriate to the world of telephone interfaces for the user interface on the device you'd go and buy yourself.
All I can say, based on past performance, is give Apple a chance.
Now, here's a larger picture thought to ponder...
If Apple goes to market with the iPhone, then this is going to open up (to some extent) the viability of a F/OSS community cell phone. And this is a really good thing as well because it represents a non-commercial, enthusiast entrance into what up until now has been a totally proprietary, locked-down OS-based product world. It has the potential to do to cell phones what Linux has inspired in Mac OS X.
On a phone, I want to use its features quickly and easily. When I have to schedule an appointment, I want to enter that appointment as easily as possible. When I want to add something to my to-do list, I want to do it easily and quickly. And first and foremost, I want to be able to look up a contact and dial it as quickly as possible.
A phone is not a personal computer. I couldn't care less about multitasking, rewriting, "modern" OSes (whatever "modern" means). "Modern" features and look is just eye candy and/or toys. A mobile phone is a gadget of convenience, and it should be convenient to use. Even PalmOS 1.0 was convenient. It was just as easy to use its contact and calendar features as any so-called "modern" OS is today.
I would really like to know how "modernizing" the OS on my phone would help me look up contacts, dial contacts, enter to-do list entries, and entering calendar entries any better that I could today.
Again, I repeat: a phone is not a personal computer. There's no point in treating it as such.
The same point could largely be made about cars, but I don't think either of us would want to be driving a Model T or Model A Ford these days, would we?
The term "Modern" as applied to operating systems has little to do with the interface per se. It primarily concerns the underpinnings of the OS and how forward-looking and/or open-ended it is. Older operating systems, if you want to look at it in this way, were very geared to the hardware of their times, and every time you added a new hardware feature or some new kind of technology came out, you wound up making this big patchwork of an OS, in which you had either an out-dated or obsolete "core" around which was stuck, somewhat unglamorously, lots of crap to allow it to do stuff it wasn't really designed for. Then, you wound up having to write patches for the patches, etc., ad infinitum.
Apple tried to go the internal development route, but that didn't work because their departmental infrastructure was eating them from the inside out at the time and basically poisoned all of their new projects. They considered BeOS because it was an incredibly modern OS at the time that was very capable, unbelievably good at multitasking, memory protection, multimedia tasks, etc. However, that company was so shaky that when Apple decided not to go with them, they collapsed. One of the products which was introduced and sold and almost immediately recalled that used a version of BeOS was Sony's eVilla (you just have to love that name -- try pronouncing it out loud to get the full effect).
Ultimately, they went with NeXT's BSD- and Mach-Kernel-based NeXTStep (which after a bunch of time and effort and -- since lots of it is based on Open Source software, there were a healthy amount of community contributions to) and hence we now have Mac OS X.
I'll leave it to actual developers and/or coders here to better explain and refine (and/or correct) what I've said here, should you wish greater detail beyond what I am able to -- and therefore have -- provided above.
The whole point of going with a modern OS implemented for an imbedded market (i.e. "Mac OS X Mobile") is it gives you much more direct (and probably better implemented and/or better-grounded) access to modern technologies. Everything from basic I/O tasks that reside in the Kernel to audio processing to doing H.264 decoding to having access to IPv4 or IPv6, are all examples of things which a modern OS could do a better job of providing and/or backing.
From what I understand, PalmOS is something that was designed to first and foremost give you basic notepad and daily organizer functionality. When they wrote, as you say, PalmOS 1.0, they happened to implement a way for third parties to write software that could run on it. This has been both a benefit and a bane of PalmOS's existence. First off, they now have the same issues of backwards-compatibility and storage space and memory use/abuse that a regular computer OS has. I said it was both a benefit and a bane; but there's actually two parts to the "bane" side. The first I've already mentioned, but the second is the fact that since apps have been written which can do darn near any conceivable task, people keep wanting more and more and more. And this then goes back to the "patchwork" I described earlier in talking about "older" computer OSs.
Then people want multimedia, and color screens, and apps to take advantage of it, and they want Palm to incorporate DSPs so they can play music, and of course that brings along with it all of the extra patching to then allow for the existence of, and permit the use of, an on-board DSP. And now you want WiFi? Well, shoot, now we gotta have IPv4 as well, and support for TCP/IP, none of which was ever a part of the original concept of PalmOS.
And even if you don't want or need any of those features in your own PDA, I'm sorry but that's really just too bad. Go live in a cave if you like, but if you buy a new PDA, guess what: you're gonna get all that stuff.
And at some point, all of this stretches an "older" OS just a bit too far, or it becomes a bit absurd with all the hoops and turns and wiggling that PalmOne's coders have to go through, so then they say, "Aw **** it, let's just re-write the thing."
Apple comes to this without any of *that* sort of legacy. Doubtless there will be no Newton code on this thing anywhere, but what Apple's got is Mac OS X, which means they also have the power (albeit somewhat indirectly) of an Open Source OS -- Linux. And in case you weren't aware, there are already numerous "imbedded" implementations of Linux -- phones, PDAs, game systems, kiosks, etc. -- all of which are data points and collective experience opportunities which ALREADY EXIST that Apple can exploit.
So no, having a "modern" OS is not a bad thing. It's actually a supremely awesome thing. What you're concerned about is having something that is intuitive AND efficient AND appropriate to the world of telephone interfaces for the user interface on the device you'd go and buy yourself.
All I can say, based on past performance, is give Apple a chance.
Now, here's a larger picture thought to ponder...
If Apple goes to market with the iPhone, then this is going to open up (to some extent) the viability of a F/OSS community cell phone. And this is a really good thing as well because it represents a non-commercial, enthusiast entrance into what up until now has been a totally proprietary, locked-down OS-based product world. It has the potential to do to cell phones what Linux has inspired in Mac OS X.
ehoui
May 5, 07:41 PM
Which is why, of course, US News reports that 6 out of the top 10 universities for engineering and IT are not in the US? Once upon a time the US owned that list.
Fine, but prove to me it's because of the metric system.
Fine, but prove to me it's because of the metric system.
thelookingglass
Mar 30, 09:15 AM
I like the competition, and the cloud concept is definitely promising, but I don't think this is a solution I want. Call me pessimistic, but I don't want to rely on another entity for access to my own information. I don't want to store all my music and movies "in the cloud" and hope there is no complications. Rather, what I want is to be able to access my home computer via the cloud, but if all else fails, it's still saved on my home computer, not some remote server I can't access
The ironic thing is your data is probably safer in the cloud (where there is adequate redundancy in multiple geographic locations) than just simply sitting on your home computer.
The ironic thing is your data is probably safer in the cloud (where there is adequate redundancy in multiple geographic locations) than just simply sitting on your home computer.
Full of Win
May 8, 02:45 AM
If apple is looking for a way to fend off android then this may be part of the strategy. Mac.com is what makes my iThings work. If it was not for the sync OTA, then I very well may have been on another phone by now. Can't tell you how many times that it has saved me ass.
ssk2
Mar 30, 06:55 AM
I'm not going to give a full critique to Amazon's UI and UX design, but when you look at Apple's UIs and Apple's apps next to these Amazon one's do you not notice a major difference in simplicity, fit and finish, and polish???
I'm not saying you can't use the Amazon stuff, but Apple has powerfully demonstrated many times over now for years, that user experience and beautiful design ABSOLUTELY DOES make a big impact!
Take a look at the UI of iBooks, or the new iMovie and Garage Band, or Contacts, or all of the iWork apps on iPad, etc. etc. BEAUTIFUL UIs and very creative, cultural, simplistic and elegant! Also WebOS has some beautiful UI design.
I don't see how Amazon's Cloud UI could be much better. It does follow Apple's UI, but hey, guess what? They're not Apple. Their UI IS very simple, I'd argue elegant and looks functional. As for a UI being 'cultural', you'll have to explain that one...
I'm not saying you can't use the Amazon stuff, but Apple has powerfully demonstrated many times over now for years, that user experience and beautiful design ABSOLUTELY DOES make a big impact!
Take a look at the UI of iBooks, or the new iMovie and Garage Band, or Contacts, or all of the iWork apps on iPad, etc. etc. BEAUTIFUL UIs and very creative, cultural, simplistic and elegant! Also WebOS has some beautiful UI design.
I don't see how Amazon's Cloud UI could be much better. It does follow Apple's UI, but hey, guess what? They're not Apple. Their UI IS very simple, I'd argue elegant and looks functional. As for a UI being 'cultural', you'll have to explain that one...
