Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood"

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Authority
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Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood"

People keep asking me me what I think of the MacBook Air. Even non-Apple users are intrigued... something I haven't seen since the iPhone.

I think the problem with the Air is that people don't really understand what it's for. The Air is really for people who already have one or more Mac AND travel a lot AND who have relatively simple requirements (surfing and documents as opposed to editing). The problem is it's so damn sexy it appeals to people who would really be better off with something else.

The danger is if a new user buys a MacBook Air on sex appeal and is disappointed with the performance or other limitations it could sour them to the Mac.

In summary, I think the MacBook Air is a GREAT solution for a relatively small group of people with specific needs and will probably disappoint anyone else.
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permalink · 2008-02-01 00:09:49 · Print ·

RadioDoc
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Re: Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood"

said by Authority

:

The danger is if a new user buys a MacBook Air on sex appeal and is disappointed with the performance or other limitations it could sour them to the Mac.

* ding *

You nailed it.

Unfortunately, the Apple Acolytes can't contain themselves and absolutely will not listen to reason. Those limitations are going to hurt. Bad.
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permalink · 2008-02-01 00:12:05 · Print ·

bbarrera
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2 edits

Re: Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood"

said by RadioDoc

:

Unfortunately, the Apple Acolytes can't contain themselves and absolutely will not listen to reason. Those limitations are going to hurt. Bad.

I'm pretty reasonable guy and haven't come across the 'Apple Acolytes can't contain themselves' you speak of. Every review I've read is very balanced and points out the good and bad. And there isn't a lot of gushing on this forum, instead recent threads are clogged with negative comments from the 'anti MBA acolytes' hell bent on telling us how the MBA is a mistake on several fronts.

I think the Macworld review sums it up for me...

quote:
If the story of the MacBook Air is a story about compromise, the decision about whether the MacBook Air is a product worth having can be answered by one question: How much are you willing to compromise?

...
...

Judged merely on the cold technological specifications, the MacBook Air can't measure up to Apple's other laptops. For those to whom the tech specs matter above all else, the MacBook Air can't be seen as much more than an overpriced, underpowered toy.

But for those who factor size, weight, and yes, I'll admit it, style into the equation, the MacBook Air begins to make more sense. Up until now, Mac users who craved the smallest Mac laptop possible have made their own compromise, using the lower-powered MacBook (or clinging desperately to the even lower-powered 12-inch PowerBook G4).

...
...

Source: »www.macworld.com/article/131864/···air.html

So thats the deal, if you value Mac OS X and want/need a lightweight notebook then you are in the target market.

permalink · 2008-02-01 01:46:49 · Print ·

RadioDoc
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Re: Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood"

"I'm pretty reasonable guy and haven't come across the 'Apple Acolytes can't contain themselves' you speak of."

You must not be reading this site.

I would suggest you take your own advice and afford those with opposing views on the MBA the same courtesy you feel those who champion it deserve.

Apple's own website states:

"Between 0.16 to 0.76 inch thin and weighing only 3.0 pounds, MacBook Air sets new standards for ultra-portable computing — without the usual ultra-portable compromises."

There certainly seem to be quite a few of the usual ultra-portable compromises. But heaven help anyone who dares point them out.
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permalink · 2008-02-01 10:43:03 · Print ·

neuronbob
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Re: Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood"

said by RadioDoc

:

Apple's own website states:

"Between 0.16 to 0.76 inch thin and weighing only 3.0 pounds, MacBook Air sets new standards for ultra-portable computing — without the usual ultra-portable compromises."

There certainly seem to be quite a few of the usual ultra-portable compromises. But heaven help anyone who dares point them out.

This is absolutely true. As much as I feel the Air has a specific mission, the marketing is a wee bit inaccurate. I guess that would be a partial cause of some of the disappointment we read about on this board. The Reality Distortion Field can easily warp the mission of this machine beyond what it can really handle.
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permalink · 2008-02-01 11:16:56 · Print ·

Titus Pullo
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Re: Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood"

Agreed ... Marketing - meh.
Don't forget the video for Leopard where the guy talks about how simple it is to "upgrade your system - just insert the disk" and then get lambasted when people ask you whether you upgraded or A/I or clean ... blah blah yada.

Zappa claimed in an interview that MBAs would ruin the world. He was truly visionary.
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permalink · 2008-02-01 11:21:02 ·

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said by RadioDoc

:

I would suggest you take your own advice and afford those with opposing views on the MBA the same courtesy you feel those who champion it deserve.

I think you misunderstood my post -- what advice? I just observed there is a lot of MBA bashing on in this forum, I didn't pass judgement or tell you to stop.

said by RadioDoc

:

Apple's own website states:

"Between 0.16 to 0.76 inch thin and weighing only 3.0 pounds, MacBook Air sets new standards for ultra-portable computing - without the usual ultra-portable compromises."

Get real, that is the standard marketing BS and further it is in fact accurate. Apple did not make the usual ultra-portable compromises and that is the source of all the gnashing of teeth (where's the Ethernet? where's the optical drive? where's the replaceable battery? why can't I upgrade RAM? etc, etc). The MBA has a unique set of compromises that other notebook vendors have not taken and that is polarizing opinions about the MBA.

said by RadioDoc

:

But heaven help anyone who dares point them out.

Poor attempt at playing the victim. Bash away at the MBA but don't mistake my observation about the quantity of negative posts for dishing out advice or suppressing opinions. Re-read my post, I didn't ask you to stop nor did I invalidate your opinion. Ironically you are imploring us to agree with your opinion -- "Unfortunately, the Apple Acolytes can't contain themselves and absolutely will not listen to reason. Those limitations are going to hurt. Bad." Wow, I'm left to assume that if I find the MBA compromises acceptable for my computing needs that I "absolutely will not listen to reason" because your point of view are more important.

After rereading the negative posts I think Macworld summarized it best:

quote:
Judged merely on the cold technological specifications, the MacBook Air can't measure up to Apple's other laptops. For those to whom the tech specs matter above all else, the MacBook Air can't be seen as much more than an overpriced, underpowered toy.

permalink · 2008-02-01 17:57:48 · Print ·

RadioDoc
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2 edits

Re: Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood"

MBA bashing? Is that what you call people expressing their legitimate opinions? Bashing? Most would call it criticism.

Jobs made a big deal at Macworld about not making any compromises. Now, you can dismiss that as PR fluff too but it goes to the real issue: Apple misrepresented this right out of the box. The much-maligned (in here at least) Dell XPS M1330 has few if any of the "compromises" inherent in the MBA. And that is just one example.

My opinion is formed by reading what those in the industry say about products, not what is posted on a fan-based user forum like this. There seems to be a constant trickle of issues now that people have gotten their hands on it, and Apple has started posting some of them to its website.

There are already heat issues reported and Apple says that the MBA will shut down one CPU and drop the clock on the remaining one in those situations. Their solution: Move it to somewhere cooler and/or put it on a notebook cooler. Oddly, the knowledge base document where this was stated has been pulled (#307297).

There have been issues with WiFi throughput when the lid is closed.

Transferring files is slow via WiFi. So slow Apple recommends using an Ethernet connection via the USB adapter.

You cannot use Remote Disc to install an OS via Boot Camp. You cannot boot from it at all in fact. You also evidently can't use it for DVD video or CD audio.

Many normal 3.5mm headphone plugs do not fit the audio out jack.

The USB fiasco in general.

The "restore disc" is specific to that computer and you'll need the $99 USB DVD drive to reinstall if it comes to that, which does not come with the MBA. Apple warns not to try to restore via a retail copy of Leopard, either.

There are issues when using multiple Bluetooth devices.

And that's just from what I read today. A lot of it is at macworld.com.
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permalink · 2008-02-01 18:42:00 · Print ·

bbarrera
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Re: Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood"

Even with all the compromises I'd still buy one if traveling. As my MBP is only a bit over 1 year old and I'm not traveling much I'll avoid the early adopter growing pains.

In my office the MBP is connected to a 24" LCD via a single DVI cable and single USB cable. I only use a flash drive on the road. I carry a pocket-sized wireless router to use in hotels while on the road, so that I'm not tethered via Cat5e to the desk. I rarely use DVDs or CDs. The only hardware compromise from my point of view is the 100Mbps WiFi and Ethernet connectivity, but that isn't a big issue.

When the day comes that I need it I'm glad that Apple finally released a lightweight notebook.

permalink · 2008-02-01 19:31:02 · Print ·

Titus Pullo I came, I saw, I slept join:2004-06-26 ·Embarq	Attention ______________ You post has been flagged for blatant use of objectivity, common sense and sourcing beyond the confines of the DSLR Steve0dome. We implore you to get with, and stick with, the program. If you require re-programming, please proceed to your nearest Apple store and breathe deeply for a minimum of five minutes. Thank you. ______________
	permalink · 2008-02-02 13:30:16 ·

bbarrera Premium,MVM join:2000-10-23 Sacramento, CA clubs: 1 edit	Re: Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood" I'll be sure and consult with you and RadioDoc on my next computer because you guys are like totally the computer gods with more common sense than anyone I know.
	permalink · 2008-02-02 20:31:39 ·

Titus Pullo
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Re: Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood"

said by bbarrera

:

I'll be sure and consult with you and RadioDoc on my next computer because you guys are like totally the computer gods with more common sense than anyone I know.

I get your drift ... but his post was simply pointing out what other sites were saying, and anyone is free to research it on their own. If you think I really care whether anyone buys air-anything then you're sadly mistaken. Big time. I simply enjoy a parade

I'm no Authority, IOW.
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permalink · 2008-02-03 10:35:59 · Print ·

RadioDoc
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said by bbarrera

:

I'll be sure and consult with you and RadioDoc on my next computer because you guys are like totally the computer gods with more common sense than anyone I know.

Considering some of the blind defense of this thing in here, by comparison I may be.

Look, I posted what a lot of "experts" have said, some of which are long-time Apple cheerleaders, and are less than thrilled with the Air. Some are downright depressed about it. Things like wireless connectivity problems & Bluetooth issues go straight to the usability of this thing since it does not have 'normal' ports as backup. You can buy whatever you want, but I certainly would not want to be stuck at a client site with one of these, no matter how sexy, light or thin it is.
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permalink · 2008-02-03 15:03:10 · Print ·

bbarrera
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Re: Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood"

said by RadioDoc

:

Considering some of the blind defense of this thing in here, by comparison I may be.

Compared to other topics I'm surprised by the almost complete lack of blind defense of the MBA, therefore I'm a bit bewildered by this comment you've repeated in several posts.

Yesterday my 8 year old had a Build a Bear birthday party at the mall. I briefly snuck out and went upstairs to the Apple store. I spent about a few minutes with the MBA and a few minutes watching others. Half the folks wanted more ports and weren't interested, and the other half planned on buying (myself included). I found it quite snappy compared to my Mac mini with 4200rpm drive. The size and weight are perfect in my opinion. I've traveled for business since 1988 and only briefly carried an extra battery before realizing I didn't need it. As mentioned earlier I only use a single USB and DVI cable to connect my MBP to a Dell 24" LCD so the limited ports aren't an issue for me. For several years now I travel with a pocket sized wireless router for use in hotels with Ethernet in the room, so the lack of an Ethernet port is not an issue for me. However it would be nice to have GigE port for use in the office when dealing with large files (>8GB because I have an 8GB usb flash drive). Firewire is not usually an issue as I hook up our Camcorder to an iMac, but if I did want to use FW it should be possible using my miniStack v3 (USB to MBA, then FW400, FW800 and eSATA devices are available to MBA).

I'll definitely buy a MBA at some point. My short-term plan is to sell the MBP and buy a Mac Pro for use as a serious engineering workstation and server.

permalink · 2008-02-03 17:56:01 · Print ·

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Re: Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood"

said by bbarrera

:

I found it quite snappy compared to my Mac mini with 4200rpm drive. .

Snappy, but quite a bit slower....

»www.macworld.com/article/131864/···ml?t=201

said by Authority

said by NOCMan

:

I have not misunderstood it.

It's a toy.

I think you have. The people who would buy this don't want to "open it up" or know/care what a PATA hard drive is. They do on he other hand thing an extra $500 is a small price to pay for something that looks cool and saves them a few ounces in their travel bag.

You've really proven my point, people who don't "get" what it's for will hate it.

I agree that some people will actually find the Air useful and that it does have a place, but you can't deny that a good many are going to buy this just because they think it's cool.

permalink · 2008-02-03 22:42:05 · Print ·

Mauricio9 Premium join:2001-12-04 Vancouver, BC 1 edit	Re: Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood" said by Maranello : but you can't deny that a good many are going to buy this just because they think it's cool. And that is a problem because...? -- My photo galleries My Flickr page
	permalink · 2008-02-03 22:46:02 ·

Maranello ChannelFlip Premium,MVM join:2000-12-08 Butler, PA ·Armstrong Zoom In..	Re: Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood" said by Mauricio9 : said by Maranello : but you can't deny that a good many are going to buy this just because they think it's cool. And that is a problem because...? It isn't. It's just every time someone has referred to it as a toy a great chorus of voices rises from the valley and simultaneously shouts "you don't get it".
	permalink · 2008-02-03 23:04:50 · Print ·

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3 edits

said by Maranello

said by bbarrera

:

I found it quite snappy compared to my Mac mini with 4200rpm drive. .

Snappy, but quite a bit slower....

»www.macworld.com/article/131864/···ml?t=201

I read that review before going to the mall and expected the MBA to be slow compared to my MBP. But after launching a few apps it seemed fine. Just re-read the Macworld review and noticed this:

quote:
"But for general uses, I rarely noticed that the system was slower than my MacBook."

Source: Macworld review of MBA
»www.macworld.com/article/131864/···air.html

There is no doubt the compromises made on the MBA will limit the appeal and market.

For the stuff I do on a daily basis every notebook is 'a toy' which is why I'm selling my MBP and buying a Mac Pro. And the MBA will be the perfect traveling computer for my needs as I'm not attempting to make it a desktop replacement.

permalink · 2008-02-03 23:37:23 · Print ·

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Don't worry. The kool-aid drinkers will say things like, "it's just first generation, apple will fix it in the next revision."

It's a POS product that the only redeeming quality is it looks cool. That's it.

I own Macs. I'm not some windows person coming in here trying to bash Macs. This will not go anywhere. I like how people say it's for the mobile business person to do "presentation."

Are you f-ing kidding me? Mobile professionals are not using Macs. Let that go people. Business is a Windows world.

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permalink · 2008-02-03 13:09:48 · Print ·

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	permalink · 2008-02-01 00:17:04 ·

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I think you raise a valid point about the disappointment. I also think the price of the MBA is a bit steep for a simple road machine for e-mail, web and presentations.

This is a machine for someone with an expense account or more money than sense, in my opinion.

Yah, my MBP may weigh a ton with it, my camera, my 500GB G drive and 160 GB external drive, but when I'm on the road, I have all the tools I need to complete my photographic assignments.

permalink · 2008-02-01 00:23:29 ·

jmirabella
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I am buying it as a 'work toy' - a computer and my trusty usb to serial dongle that I can bring into a colo and console servers / routers with.

the size / weight are a huge plus for me - this laptop is good for my frequent travel both air and train.. I connect via bluetooth through a second phone instead of aircard now.. so the ports are not an issue.

my bag will contain the macbook air, usb to serial dongle + assorted console cables, my old airport express, external 320gb WD passport drive ( very optional ), ethernet dongle, install DVD ( ugh ), power brick + extension cable .
edit: add noise cancelation headphones to the bag, hope the plug fits! =)

I am also paying for this, not the company..
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permalink · 2008-02-01 00:34:41 · Print ·

bobrk You kids get offa my lawn Premium join:2000-02-02 San Jose, CA ·SONIC.NET	Re: Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood" said by jmirabella : I am buying it as a 'work toy' - a computer and my trusty usb to serial dongle that I can bring into a colo and console servers / routers with. Do you use ZTerm with the dongle? -- STFU & RTFM \| Iraq Coalition Deaths \| bobrk
	permalink · 2008-02-01 13:06:32 · Print ·

jmirabella Joe Mirabella Premium,VIP join:2003-10-20 Lanham, MD clubs:	Re: Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood" yea I still use zterm =)
	permalink · 2008-02-01 14:44:17 ·

bobrk You kids get offa my lawn Premium join:2000-02-02 San Jose, CA ·SONIC.NET	Re: Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood" I can't think of anything else that would work on a serial port. Is there anything else? I used it all the time back in my modem days, and was pretty impressed when it got ported to OS X a while ago. -- STFU & RTFM \| Iraq Coalition Deaths \| bobrk
	permalink · 2008-02-01 15:27:33 ·

WALL_E Premium join:2003-05-28 USA	Agreed 100% on all counts.
	permalink · 2008-02-01 00:56:43 ·

neuronbob
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Now wait a minute. People in this very forum have been asking for YEARS for an ultralight laptop without an optical drive.

Now we have one and people are complaining? I don't get it. Of course it has limitations. It's not a desktop replacement and it's not meant to be one. In addition, Apple is trying to have a variety of machines for a variety of needs. Not everyone needs an optical drive when they travel, for example. If they are working with documents that are already stored on their HD, no problems.

Sure the price is a little steep (my only criticism), but the tech for this sort of thing is expensive, too. I'm actually considering buying one simply as an adjunct to my MBP (which is my de facto desktop now....). I do presentations in the community on stroke, and an ultralight machine without frills is perfect for Powerpoint and such.

Have a little imagination, and if you don't need an Air, don't hate on people who like it.

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permalink · 2008-02-01 05:57:14 · Print ·

fraz

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Re: Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood"

said by neuronbob

:

Now wait a minute. People in this very forum have been asking for YEARS for an ultralight laptop without an optical drive.

Now we have one and people are complaining? I don't get it. Of course it has limitations. It's not a desktop replacement and it's not meant to be one. In addition, Apple is trying to have a variety of machines for a variety of needs. Not everyone needs an optical drive when they travel, for example. If they are working with documents that are already stored on their HD, no problems.

Sure the price is a little steep (my only criticism), but the tech for this sort of thing is expensive, too. I'm actually considering buying one simply as an adjunct to my MBP (which is my de facto desktop now....). I do presentations in the community on stroke, and an ultralight machine without frills is perfect for Powerpoint and such.

Have a little imagination, and if you don't need an Air, don't hate on people who like it.

I agree 100% -- and bought mine for this very purpose, except my presentations involve extensive air travel-- no fun whatsoever with a MBP. I've been a computer geek type since the 80's and have never bought a piece of gear just for the "pretty" factor -- they're tools, not earrings. Actually. my favorite part of all the Mac Air "hating" is the inherent paternalism/maternalism -- somehow random people on the internet "know" what will work in my situation and I will find that these limitations will "hurt me" ? Bizarre.

permalink · 2008-02-01 07:20:09 · Print ·

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said by neuronbob

:

Now wait a minute. People in this very forum have been asking for YEARS for an ultralight laptop without an optical drive.
Now we have one and people are complaining? I don't get it.

I spoke positively about a non-hard drive iPod. Many people here though it a crazy approach. Now, I bought the iPod touch, and it's a marvel. Next Apple notebook with go flash only, mark my words. Unless you said this already, in which case you are right. BTW, I saw this laptop at my local Apple store. It's just beautiful.
JOE

permalink · 2008-02-03 18:03:57 · Print ·

Otto Premium join:2001-03-12 Hollywood, FL	For me personally, it'd be the ultimate "sit on the couch and surf while watching TV" notebook. I may not be in a plane weekly, but I still see the awesomeness .
	permalink · 2008-02-01 08:33:02 ·

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Yawn.

It doesn't matter that some dim-witted people don't know what it's for. Only those ready to buy a SUB-notebook and are ready to click BUY need to know what it can and can't do and in that, the feature set of the Air and its purpose are very well documented both online and in store.

I doubt anyone is going to buy the Air based solely on 'sex appeal', especially when the MacBook is $700 less. It's like saying someone is going to buy an SR500 based on sex appeal or a TZ150 based on sex appeal. And if there happens to be someone that stupid, let them be soured to Mac. Who cares? Just means a cheaper MBA on eBay for the rest of us.

Meanwhile with a 1.6-1.8GHz Core 2 Duo, it's performance is on par with a lot of notebooks on the market and kicks the living crap out of other notebooks in it's sub-notebook class.

So even if they did buy it "by mistake" which is quite a speculative leap, they aren't going to be disappointed with it's performance. Apple made compromises with ports, replaceable battery and the like, but they didn't compromise on performance.

Seems to be the biggest critics of the MBA are simply the same generic Apple haters we always see whenever an Apple item makes it to the front page of DSLR. Most clearly don't even know what a sub-notebook is and certainly don't travel for business. It's the same group of dumbasses who said the iPhone would be a failure and that it sucked. Meanwhile it's already sold millions of units and the entire industry has scrambled to release 'touch' products of their own all of which are marketplace failures.

Who gives a sh!t what the dumbass haters think? They'll endlessly piss, moan and complain no matter what simply based on the logo that is on the back.

permalink · 2008-02-01 09:37:46 · Print ·

Thaler
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Re: Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood"

said by Dogfather

:

I doubt anyone is going to buy the Air based solely on 'sex appeal', especially when the MacBook is $700 less.

You obviously don't know anyone in the Beverly Hills / Hollywood area. I've met my share of people that buy on "t3h cutting edge" of fashion, then later find out just WTF they purchased.

Of course, to that crowd, buying an "oops" laptop like the MBA, then picking up a Macbook, isn't so big a deal.

permalink · 2008-02-03 15:04:19 · Print ·

yanks

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With the possibility of recession around the corner this was pretty bad timing to come up with such a niche product like the MacBook Air.
Very disappointing to me, I really was hoping for a real 13" MacBook Pro, something that would compete with the Sony SZ and Dell XPS M1330. As much as I like OS X over Windows Apple has pushed me over to the PC side this time to get a proper 13" notebook. Had Apple only updated the 12" Powerbook into a 13" MacBook Pro there would be have been hoards of people lining up for one. This is one of those cases where it looks good in the window but how many people are really going to buy one. Steve Jobs is not infallible, this time I think he went over the top.

permalink · 2008-02-01 09:52:13 · Print ·

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NOCMan Verizon Fios User Premium join:2004-09-30 Flower Mound, TX	I have not misunderstood it. It's a toy. Hard Drive = PATA Dongles Can not open it up.. It's a high priced POS. At this point I'd just buy one of the other micro laptops out there and hackintosh it. -- Mac Chatter »www.macchatter.net
	permalink · 2008-02-01 10:04:44 ·

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Lincoln, NE

·Internet Nebraska

I was about to create the same time of thread because I got sick of all the rants about the MBA from people who apparently don't understand its purpose. You did a good job of saying what I was thinking. The only other thing I want to add is that the MBA is not a desktop replacement and it's not even a laptop replacement. Hence the reason it is it's own product category and didn't replace the Mac Book.

Having said that, the only complaint about the MBA that I think is valid is the complaint about how annoying it is that some USB devices don't fit.
--
Proud owner of a Mac Book & iPod Touch (8 Gig) | Mac Rumors | Apple Store

permalink · 2008-02-01 10:34:47 · Print ·

stufried
Premium
join:2003-10-13

·Verizon BroadbandA..

My wife owns the Sony Vaio that Steve Jobs compared his machine to. Her machine is slightly heavier, but can fit in that same envelope that he used for the Air. INMHO her machine is far more versatile. First, the machine can connect to the internet via a wired connection (still common in many hotels and client sites), it has an integrated EVDO card, and it has an express card slot for a third party data modem. The Air has problems with most USB modems out there. It is relying on wifi, wifi, and wifi. While wifi is getting more common, it isn't everywhere.

I don't know about the optical drive prediction that Jobs made. People like to watch DVDs on the road and I think he is trying to shift this to iTunes rentals. I could be wrong, but that is my theory. I'm also concerned about data recovery problems. If your harddrive crashes in bumf-k, a trip to the local Walmart, purchasing a copy of Norton's gives you a fighting chance.

I remember being at a hotel outside DC and trying to get a hotel clerk at one of the minimally staffed chain places to print my boarding pass from my USB key. She refused to insert my key in her machine (I wound up faxing the boarding pass from my laptop to the hotel fax). Imagine asking to click up to her drive.

Yes, you can buy an external superdrive, but my experience is that you leave the drive behind for weight and then need it where you least expect it.

permalink · 2008-02-01 10:57:52 · Print ·

Titus Pullo
I came, I saw, I slept

join:2004-06-26

·Embarq

said by Authority

:

People keep asking me me what I think of the MacBook Air. Even non-Apple users are intrigued... something I haven't seen since the iPhone.

I think the problem with the Air is that people don't really understand what it's for. The Air is really for people who already have one or more Mac AND travel

OK. "people keep asking you what you think ..." of the product and are "intrigued." How does that indicate that they misunderstand the product? I'm missing the support part that usually follows the claim.

About all I hear are comments like (a) 'damn, that thing is thin! and (b) 'damn, that's too rich for my blood' I don't get the impression that everyone is an ape looking at a TI83 while wondering how to eat it.
--
McCain/Fascism 08

permalink · 2008-02-01 11:07:06 · Print ·

MarkyD Premium join:2002-08-20 Oklahoma City, OK clubs:	perfect road warrior machine. Not for me. But I can see how one would find it incredibly useful. -- MCSE, ACSA, and a lot more
	permalink · 2008-02-01 13:09:01 ·

stonecolddsl
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join:2004-01-07
Sarasota, FL

·Rapid Systems, Inc.

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·Verizon Online DSL

I dont think it misunderstood I think this MBA rev1 will end up with the G4 Cubes, TAM(I have one still NIB my center piece of my Mac Collection) , AppleTV, Newton corner, nice idea but not well thought out.

Preformance is key. Removeable Batteries are key . Some people mention that the point is to view and light editing of documents so preformance does not need to be great. Okay I buy that one for now.

No removable batteries... Some would say that that what AC apdaters are for I say blah. While the magport is my favorite feature on my MBP it lacks 3rd party devices. Example there was a back order on the Airplane adpater when I went on a trip well hence why I keep 3 fully charged batteries with me.

No optical drive ... No response here as I seldom use the one in my mbp so the times I am absolutely going to need it I am going to have a external near by.

Screen size not really important to me unless I doing major editing but as the proponents state I should not be using it for major editing as it made to be a ultralight ment for reviewing documents and light editing and presitations. Fine I can believe that.

1 USB port. No excuse for this there should be 2 at and it also as a bad location.

So after all this what does ultra light do other then run OSX legally? Nothing really.

Asus EEE PC I got it during Xmas 299 camera wifi 4 gig flash. Can illegaly (which is bad so dont do it) OSX. Very light and actually not a bad little machine and it views documents , and does everything the MBA does except run OSX legally. If I was in a rush I would grab the EEE PC over my MBP if I was just going to use the EEE PC for the same uses that apple and the MBA supporters say I should use the MBA for .

Granted the biggest factor is the extra 60 gigs of flash that the MBA has on the flash drive version and that adds to cost but even comparing the mba HD version at 1,700 to the eee pc at what the today price of 399 for the 4G edition that can do the same task also very light and 1,300 dollars more. Sorry I really dont see the need to spend an extra 1,300 to run OSX legally to do the same tasks the EEE PC can do.

I love my macs and I think if apple sticks to the MBA that future MBA revsions will hopefully take care of some of the minor issues and the biggest issue cost.

permalink · 2008-02-01 13:41:24 · Print ·

sporkme drop the crantini and move it, sister Premium,MVM join:2000-07-01 Morristown, NJ ·Optimum Online	Re: Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood" said by stonecolddsl : Asus EEE PC I got it during Xmas 299 camera wifi 4 gig flash. Can illegaly (which is bad so dont do it) OSX. Has anyone made an EEEEEEPC run OS-X? I'd love to see that.
	permalink · 2008-02-01 14:01:21 ·

Alakar
Facts do not cease to exist when ignored

join:2001-03-23
Milwaukee, WI

·AT&T U-Verse

Re: Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood"

said by sporkme

said by stonecolddsl

:

Asus EEE PC I got it during Xmas 299 camera wifi 4 gig flash. Can illegaly (which is bad so dont do it) OSX.

Has anyone made an EEEEEEPC run OS-X? I'd love to see that.

Check this site.

»www.osx86project.org/
--
"Necessity is the plea for every infringement of human freedom; it is the arguments of tyrants; it is the creed of slaves." William Pitt the Younger

permalink · 2008-02-01 14:28:29 · Print ·

Dogfather Premium join:2007-12-26 Laguna Hills, CA	Re: Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood" Every pre-release Leopard thread gets killed under the guise of NDAs but we can talk iPhone hacking and promote Hackint0sh 24-7. Amazing.
	permalink · 2008-02-01 14:34:50 ·

cmaenginsb
Premium,MVM
join:2001-03-19
Palmdale, CA

With respect to the USB 3G modem "issues", from my and other's experience having the modem directly connected to the USB port on the computer is a bad idea as it creates unplanned for stress on the USB port that gives you a "loose" port. I have always used the extension cable that comes with the modem and have found that in addition to worrying less about breaking the modem off while plugged in the signal strength and performance of the unit is better with it further away from the computer. (It's also stated in the manual of the modem this way.) So in that case it is not a real drawback.

This is going to be a love it or hate it product, just like the iPhone.

As to comparing the eee pc to an MBA, from reading the specs it to lacks an optical drive, has 1/2 the screen size of the mba, a smaller keyboard, smaller hard drive, slower processor, and less ram. So of course it's going to be cheaper than even the MBA with a hard drive.
--
CCNA, Comtrain Certified Tower Climber

permalink · 2008-02-01 14:31:54 · Print ·

stonecolddsl
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Sarasota, FL

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Re: Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood"

Your missing the point.

A. I can add ram to my EEE PC with out having the take the whole thing apart and void my warrenty.

B. It was to point out that all the things people say the MBA is supposed to be good at the EEE is good at too.

C. What is screen size is all the MBA is supposed to be use for is presentations and light doc editing etc.

D. Does screen size really matter when your hooking it up to a dlp project. Answer NO.

permalink · 2008-02-01 15:19:15 ·

HiVolt 30 Premium join:2000-12-28 Toronto, ON clubs: ·TekSavvy Solutions.. ·Bell Sympatico	Re: Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood" said by stonecolddsl : Your missing the point. A. I can add ram to my EEE PC with out having the take the whole thing apart and void my warrenty. You can't add or change the ram in the MBA, its soldered onto the board and there are no slots. 2GB is what you get, no more no less. -- GO LEAFS GO! Don't question the authoritaaaa!
	permalink · 2008-02-01 15:21:41 · Print ·

stonecolddsl Linux Junkie join:2004-01-07 Sarasota, FL ·Rapid Systems, Inc. ·Sprint Mobile Broa.. ·Verizon Online DSL	Re: Why the MacBook Air is "misunderstood" See yet another point not to buy a MBA for the reason apple zealots claim to be it point when cheaper alt that do the samething at reasonable preformance exsist. I really like the idea of the MBA but I do belive that it this first rev needs some major overhualing by the apple engineering department.
	permalink · 2008-02-01 15:26:07 ·

cmaenginsb
Premium,MVM
join:2001-03-19
Palmdale, CA

said by stonecolddsl

:

Your missing the point.

A. I can add ram to my EEE PC with out having the take the whole thing apart and void my warrenty.

B. It was to point out that all the things people say the MBA is supposed to be good at the EEE is good at too.

C. What is screen size is all the MBA is supposed to be use for is presentations and light doc editing etc.

D. Does screen size really matter when your hooking it up to a dlp project. Answer NO.

I am how?

A. MBA has 2 Gb of ram stock vs 512 mb so there is less need to upgrade.
B. It still runs a slower processor with a tiny hard drive.
C. Only some posters mentioned presentations, in that case it is only important unless you like to put your back to your audience and face the screen to speak.
D. Redundant with item C.

Both computers lack DVD drives, however only the MBA has a large enough hard drive to store the DVD on it.

Comparing the EEE PC with the MBA on a price point is like pointing to a Honda Civic and saying a BMW should cost the same because both get you to the same place.

permalink · 2008-02-01 16:43:31 · Print ·

zahir06 join:2007-09-28	Well MacBook Air is not for me. I never had a Mac before but if ever I want my first Mac, I will look into their other products.
	permalink · 2008-02-01 18:17:19 ·

MrUmbra

@verizon.net

I actually like what I see. My only concern is that wired into the system battery situation. Then, although it's really not an insurmountable problem, installing software might be a hassle without and optical drive.

I have seen it criticized for lack of ports. But really, with wireless connectivity how many wired ports does one really need?

It's for those who prefer Macs. Comparing it to Windows machines is literary comparing Apples to some other fruit.

--- CHAS

permalink · 2008-02-03 10:47:40 ·

gabeman

join:2001-05-03
Philadelphia, PA
clubs:

·Hotwire Communicat..

If you're the type of person who's on a plane twice a week, lives out of hotels, and want to surf the web from your hotel room, this is the perfect laptop for you.

If you're a graphic designer, gamer, or general "Upgrade teh video card" type person, this is not for you.

I don't understand why people are hating on the MBA for things its not supposed to be. If you need a powerful, full size laptop, buy a MBP, end of story.
--
Rest in Peace Hunter S Thompson."There he goes. One of God's own prototypes. Some kind of high powered mutant never even considered for mass production. Too weird to live, and too rare to die."

permalink · 2008-02-03 13:52:26 · Print ·

Post Op
Premium
join:2001-11-06
Far Out

I think the MacBook Air is cool. I think it costs a lot of money. I think they'll sell a shitload of 'em. It's not for me. I think it's the start of things to come. I think it will get faster and cheaper and be able to do more in the very near future. Then they'll sell an even bigger shitload of 'em. It's getting Apple a whole lotta free press (advertising). Those Apple guys seem to be pretty smart about that.
--
I'd rather have a bottle in front of me than a frontal lobotomy.

permalink · 2008-02-03 23:30:16 ·

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