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News & Opinion
NPD: US MacBook Sales Down 6% Over Holidays, but
Beat Overall 7% Consumer Electronics Decline
PR: Consumers skewed their consumer electronics (CE) shopping
to the first few weeks of the holiday season, according to global
information company The NPD Group. US consumer electronics
sales1 were strongest at the beginning of the holiday season
and declined through the remainder of the five week holiday period
(November 18 December 22, 2012) according to NPD's Weekly Tracking
Service2.
46% of sales
took place in the first two weeks, the highest share in the past four
years, while the last three weeks of sales accounted for 54% of sales.
Overall sales declined 7% with consumers spending $13.7 billion
dollars. Sales for the first two weeks declined 3.7% over 2011 while
the last three weeks fell more than 11%.
"For the third consecutive year sales trends worsened in the later
part of the holiday season," says Stephen Baker, vice president,
industry analysis at NPD. "The hyped-up promotion of Black Friday,
Cyber Monday and now Thanksgiving Day has proven remarkably effective
in moving sales into the early part of the holiday season. Trends like
online shopping and self-gifting have intensified the focus on the more
event -driven early part of the holiday season."
Most categories struggled, as they've done all year but sales of
notebook computers and flat-panel TVs both exceeded $2 billion in total
dollars sales, while no other single segment accounted for over $1
billion in revenue.
Despite much hype and hope regarding the Windows 8 launch,
Microsoft's new operating system did little to boost holiday sales or
improve a year-long Windows notebook sales decline. Windows notebook
holiday unit sales dropped 11%, on par with Black Friday, and similar
to the yearly trend, but revenue trends weakened since Black Friday to
end the holiday period down 10.5%. Average Selling Prices (ASPs) rose
only $2 to $420. Touchscreen notebooks accounted for 4.5% of Windows 8
sales with ASPs around $700. Sales of Windows notebooks under $500 fell
by 16% while notebooks priced above $500 increased 4%. Apple MacBook
sales dropped 6% while their ASPs rose almost $100 to $1419 -
presumably thanks to introduction of new MacBook Pros with Retina
displays in June and October.
Overall flat-panel TV units declined slightly by 1.5% and average
selling prices (ASP) dropped more than 8% to a record-low $364. Large
screen TVs continued their impressive growth and helped drive the
category, but much of it at the expense of the once dominant 40-49"
segment. Flat-panel displays, 50" and greater, experienced 46% unit
growth and 19% revenue growth, while 40-49-inch flat-panel TVs dropped
36% in revenue and 29% in units. Strong demand for 32" and 39" displays
drove volume for the under 40" segment which accounted for 64% of all
units sold. Sales of TVs under 30", however, declined 24%.
"Consumer electronics remain trapped in a weak product cycle," says
Mr. Baker. "Despite undeniable success in segments like soundbars,
headphones with microphones, interchangeable lens cameras, cellular
accessories and tablets, the inability of the CE market to find
substantial new pockets of revenue looms menacingly over the industry's
future."
- Consumer electronics excludes: Amazon Kindle products, iPad,
Surface, mobile phones, and video games.
- NPD's weekly POS information is derived from a subset panel of
retailers that also contribute to NPD's projected monthly POS
panel.
Should Apple Make a Convertible MacBook?
Tech.Pinions' Tim Bajarin says that talks with IT directors by his
research firm Creative Strategies reveal strong interest in hybrids or
convertible laptops, exemplars of which that have recently entered the
marketplace being Lenovo's Yoga and HP's Elitebook Convertible, which
are deemed attractive for a variety of reasons, the main one being that
instead of IT departments having to support a separate tablet and
laptop, these converged products provide both in a single package.
Bajarin observes that while an IT-capable tablet might cost $600 or
$700 and an IT grade laptop sell for upwards of $900 to $1,300
depending on configuration, convertible or hybrid computers are priced
in the $900-$1,300 range, which is substantially cheaper than buying a
separate laptop and tablet combined, noting that he's also seeing some
real interest in 2-in-1 hybrids and convertibles with small business
users and some consumers as well.
Bajarin predicts that hybrids and convertibles could be the "sleeper
product" of 2013 and could catch on with business users in a big way,
and he thinks Apple may be obliged by competition to create a new
device that might be called AirPad or iPadAir - possibly an ultrathin
laptop like the current MacBook Air with a detachable display screen
that would allow it to morph into an iPad-esque touchscreen tablet.
However, Bajarin acknowledges that Apple CEO Tim Cook is recently on
record declaring that in Apple's estimation this type of device doesn't
make sense, and that Microsoft's new Surface tablet/PC hybrid has been
selling slowly in the early going at least.
Then again, the late Steve Jobs famously declared that tablet with
screens smaller than 9.7" didn't make sense and were "worthless," but
now there's the 7.85" iPad mini.*
Bajarin observes that about a dozen hybrid or convertible PCs will
come to market in Q1 or Q2 of 2013, and says some of them are
"stunning" in their design and functionality. And since most of these
machines qualify under Intel's Ultrabook spec., they will be heavily
promoted as part of a stepped-up campaign to convince users to buy
Ultrabooks. With their innovative designs and priced mostly under
$1,000, he maintains that hybrids and convertibles should "really take
off " in 2013, which will oblige Apple to reconsider creating a similar
type of product.
Link: Should Apple Make a
Hybrid or Convertible PC?
Apple's iPad Kills Netbooks. Will MacBook Air
Devour Notebooks Next?
Computerworld's Jonny Evans notes that Apple and its iPad have
destroyed the netbook industry with Acer and Asus the last major
players in netbook production. Evans deems that as an inflection point
as we enter the Post-PC age and suggests that we get ready for Apple's
next-generation MacBooks to devour what's left.
Evans cites the late Steve Jobs' observation at the iPad launch
keynote in 2012 that "The problem is netbooks aren't better at
anything. They're slow, they have low quality displays, they're just
cheap PCs," having famously said in a speech to investors in 2008: "We
don't know how to make a $500 computer that's not a piece of junk. Our
DNA will not let us do that."
He also notes that back in 2010, analyst Katy Huberty predicted that
iPad sales would destroying the netbook market, which many disputed at
the time, but she's been proved correct.
Thanks to iPad sales, Apple is now the world's biggest PC vendor (if
you count iPad sales), accounting for 22% of PC sales.
Netbooks were unable to compete with the sophisticated technological
execution of the iPad, nor have they been able to compete with the
design and usability challenge posed by Apple's MacBook Air. And it
isn't just the bottom-feeder netbooks that face the Apple threat. Evans
notes that when the MacBook range gets refreshed come June, Apple is
expected to reduce MacBook Air prices and to adopt a "new processor
platform" - presumably Intel's "Haswell" next-generation of Core I
chips.
Link: Apple's iPad
Kills the Netbook; Will MacBook Air Devour Notebooks Next?
Ultrabook Vendors Concerned About Next MacBook Air
Revision
DigiTimes' Aaron Lee and Joseph Tsai report that Apple has issued
requests for quotations (RFQ) to Taiwan-based OEMs for revision of
several of its notebook models including the MacBook Pro and MacBook
Air series for June 2013, causing concern among Ultrabook vendors who
fear that Apple is likely to reduce the prices for its existing MacBook
Air stock before launch in the new models which could diminish demand
for Ultrabooks. to supply chain sources.
The scuttlebutt is that the MacBook Air for 2013 will feature a new
processor platform but no major form factor changes.
Link: Ultrabook
Vendors Concerned About Revision of MacBook Air in 2013
Is Intel Planning the Next Mac Update?
Wall Street Cheat Sheet's Aabha Rathee observes that Apple may have
been careful about not letting anything slip about coming refreshes of
its MacBook line this year, but CPU supplier Intel obviously doesn't
share Apple's obsession with secrecy.
Rathee notes that on Monday at the Consumer Electronics Show, Intel
showed off several upcoming processors, including fourth-generation
Haswell Core series CPUs likely manufactured with Apple's MacBook line
in mind - and that significantly improves battery charge life up to 9
to 13 hours.
Nominally, these Core processors are also the first to be designed
specifically for Intel's Ultrabook premium thin-and-light laptop spec,
and Apple is no participant in the Ultrabook program (which is deduced
to be a Windows PC reply to the MacBook Air), but the Air will almost
certainly adopt Haswell silicon with its next update.
Link: Is Intel Planning
Apple's Mac Update?
Intel's New Chips Could Power Next MacBook Airs for
13 Hours
Reporting from CES 2013, Cult of Mac's John Brownlee notes that
Intel's next-generation Core chip technology could make it possible for
Apple to design and build a 20% lighter and thinner MacBook Air with 13
hour battery life a reality by the end of the year, or a Retina MacBook
Pro with nine hours battery life.
Brownlee notes that even in the existing generation of Core
processors, Intel has a few new chips that sip just 7 watts of power,
compared with the i5 processor in the current MacBook Air that draws 17
watts of power, so the next-generation Air could conceivably have the
same battery life as an iPad, although these existing 7W cores may very
well not have enough power to be suitable for the MacBook Air.
However, Intel has its fourth-gen Core processors coming, expected
to give nine hours of battery life to even more powerful machines.
Link: Intel's New Core
Chips Could Power 20% Thinner MacBook Airs for 13 Hours
How to Fix Poor Retina MacBook Pro Graphics
Performance
MacFixIt's Topher Kessler reports that after applying the latest EFI
firmware update, some Mac users may experience lower graphics
performance in demanding applications, with some of the latest MacBook
systems showing drastic drops in graphics performance, particularly
notable when playing graphically intensive applications like video
games.
Kessler says the problem appears to be a hardware-based issue, since
it happens not only in OS X, but also for games running under
Windows in Boot Camp, and it may have been introduced with the latest
EFI firmware update released for these systems. Luckily for those
experiencing it, the issue seems to stem from a fault in hardware-based
settings for the system and can usually be addressed by resetting the
system's system management controller.
Link: Fix Poor Retina
MacBook Pro Graphics Performance
Rumor Roundup
Apple Devices to Get '5G WiFi' in 2013?
The Register's Rik Myslewski cites The Next Web report that
according to unnamed "[s]ources familiar with Apple's plans," Apple has
"struck a deal" upgrade its Mac systems in 2013 to include "5G WiFi"
(802.11ac),
advanced technology that can increase wireless connectivity to speeds
"in excess of a gigabit per second," using Broadcom 5G WiFi chips.
Myslewski notes that Broadcom launched its 5G WiFi chip product at
last January's Consumer Electronics Show, touting increased speed,
improved power efficiency, and longer range with the 802.11ac standard,
and cites Broadcom SVP and general manager of the company's Mobile and
Wireless Group Michael Hurlston speaking at a company event last month
affirming: "We see almost every major infrastructure customer retail
routers, even some gateways has adopted 5G WiFi, across the board:
Linksys, Netgear, Belkin, D-Link, Buffalo in Japan. Every single player
is using our chipset to do that."
He says that Asus is the first major PC maker to adopt the 802.11ac
standard in some models for certain markets, but Apple upgrading its
Macs could put it ahead of other major PC makers, depending of course
on the respective timing for adoption, again quoting Mr. Hurlston
suggesting that we should see more 802.11ac-equipped clients at or
shortly after this year's CES trade show," and commenting that the
first 802.11ac-equipped smartphones and tablets should become available
"in very, very early 2013," if not at CES, then "certainly by Mobile
World Congress" which will be held February 25 through 28 in
Barcelona.
Based on that affirmation, it seems plausible that upgraded iPads in
March could turn out to be the first 802.11ac-equipped Apple machines,
if Apple were to keep to its pattern of major new iPad revisions in
late winter. However, the iPad received an early and substantial
refresh on October 23, 2012, so March may be a bit soon to expect
another. On the other hand, it's been nearly six months since the
MacBook Airs, Pros, and 15" Retina MacBook Pros were
refreshed/released....
All just speculation, of course.
Link:
Apple to Upgrade to '5G WiFi' This Year? (subscription
required)
Apple Updates
EFI Firmware Update for Mid 2012 MacBook Air
The MacBook Air EFI Firmware Update 2.6 is recommended for MacBook Air (mid 2012) models.
This update fixes a color issue with HDMI displays connected to
MacBook Air, resolves an issue with Windows which can prevent MacBook
Air from booting properly, and also resolves an issue where unplugging
a Thunderbolt device may cause the system to freeze when waking from
standby.
The MacBook Air EFI Firmware Update will update the EFI firmware on
your computer.
After update EFI ROM will be: MBA51.00EF.B02
System Requirements: OS X 10.8.2
Link: MacBook Air EFI Firmware Update
2.6
Tech Trends
Windows 8 Not for Older Than the Latest PCs
WSJ's august commentator Walt Mossberg advises that if you're
pondering an upgrade to Microsoft's new Windows 8 and you're not
already running the latest PC hardware, you should be prepared for
hassles and disappointment, even if your more than a year or two old
machine technically meets the basic requirements to run the new Windows
version.
Mossberg says he's speaking from firsthand experience, having spent
big chunks of the past week trying to upgrade a 2008 Lenovo laptop and
a 2009 Hewlett-Packard touchscreen desktop to Windows 8, reporting
that the process was painful and resulted in lost capabilities, even
though both of these PCs ran Windows 7 quite well and met the
minimum requirements for running Windows 8 (a 1 GHz or faster
processor, at least 1-2 GB of RAM and at least 16-20 GB of free storage
(depending on whether the PC is 32-bit or 64-bit), and a graphics
system that can handle a Microsoft graphics standard called DirectX 9
with WDDM driver), albeit learning too late that neither of these
computers was included on the list of models for which their
manufacturers respectively have provided Windows 8 compatibility
patches.
Specific issues include the touchpad on the Lenovo ThinkPad X301
laptop not being able to scroll in the new tablet-like Start Screen
environment in Windows 8, or perform certain Windows 8
gestures, and the HP TouchSmart 300's touchscreen isn't precise or
sensitive enough to reliably perform Windows 8's touch gestures
reliably. And the microphone doesn't work. And the computer crashes, in
one instance obliging Mossberg to execute a procedure that wiped out
most of his installed software, including HP and Microsoft
programs.
He concedes that Microsoft does offer Upgrade Assistant software that might have
warned him of the pitfalls. However, Mossberg concludes that if your PC
is three-years-old or older, you may want to just stick with the
Windows you've got.
Link: Windows 8: Not for
Old-at-Heart PCs
Intel Delivers Broad Range of New Mobile and
Laptop Experiences for 2013
PR: Intel Corporation
executives held a press conference Monday at CES in Las Vegas,
outlining a plan to accelerate new mobile device experiences across the
company's growing portfolio of smartphone, tablet and Ultrabook
offerings.
The announcements included a new smartphone platform for emerging
markets, details on a forthcoming 22nm quad-core SoC for tablets, and
more personal and intuitive Ultrabook devices in innovative convertible
designs were outlined by Mike Bell, vice president and general manager
of the Mobile and Communications Group, and Kirk Skaugen, vice
president and general manager of the PC Client Group at Intel.
"The best of Intel is coming to a mobile device near you," said
Skaugen. "We are set to deliver the biggest increase in battery
efficiency in Intel's history with 4th generation Intel Core
processors, while adding broad new human interfaces to computing
devices through touch, voice, facial recognition, and gesture-based
interactions. We're also significantly extending the performance and
power savings in Atom processors as we accelerate our mobile offerings
in an unprecedented fashion in 2013."
Intel Inside Smartphones
Building on the progress first detailed a year ago at CES, Intel
unveiled a new low-power Atom processor-based platform (formerly
"Lexington") and smartphone reference design, targeted at the value
smartphone market segment, which industry sources predict could reach
500 million units by 2015. Customers announcing support for the
platform include Acer, Lava International and Safaricom.
The new platform brings Intel's classic product strengths to this
fast-growing smartphone market segment, including impressive
performance for quick Web browsing, and a great multimedia and Android
applications experience.
"The addition of the low-power Atom platform enables Intel to
address new market segments and further rounds out our expanding
portfolio of smartphone offerings," commented Bell. "We believe the
experience that comes with Intel Inside will be a welcomed choice by
first-time buyers in emerging markets, as well as with our customers
who can deploy more cost-conscious devices without sacrificing device
performance or user experience."
The new value offering includes many high-end features including the
Intel Atom processor Z2420 with Intel Hyper-Threading Technology that
can achieve speeds of 1.2 GHz, 1080p hardware-accelerated
encode/decode, and support for up to two cameras delivering advanced
imaging capabilities, including burst mode that allows people to
capture seven pictures in less than a second in 5-megapixel quality.
The platform also includes the Intel XMM 6265 HSPA+ modem that offers
Dual Sim/Dual Standby capability for cost-conscious consumers.
Bell also highlighted the forthcoming Intel Atom Z2580 processor
platform (formerly "Clover Trail+") targeted at performance and
mainstream smartphones. The platform includes a dual core Atom
processor with Intel Hyper-Threading Technology, and also features a
dual-core graphics engine. He said the new platform will deliver up to
two times the performance benefits over Intel's current-generation
solution (Intel Atom processor Z2460 platform), while also offering
competitive power and battery life.
Tablet Roadmap Expanded with upcoming Quad-Core Intel Atom
Processor
Speaking to a robust product roadmap and growing ecosystem of tablet
and tablet convertible devices running on Intel technology, Bell
reinforced the wide range of tablet designs based on the Atom Processor
Z2760 running Windows2 8 now on shelves and online from OEMs such as
Acer, ASUS, Dell, Fujitsu, HP, Lenovo, LG and Samsung. More tablet
designs are scheduled to ship over the coming weeks. Enabling a mobile,
connected and full Windows 8 experience, the Atom platform boasts
all-day battery life and is more power- efficient than competitive
offerings.
Bell also unveiled details about the company's next-generation 22nm
Atom SoC, code named "Bay Trail," which is already booting and
scheduled to be available for holiday 2013. The first quad-core Atom
SoC will be the most powerful Atom processor to date, delivering more
than two times the computing performance of Intel's current generation
tablet offering. It will also include new improved integrated security
offerings. These improvements will enable new experiences for business
and personal use in devices as thin as 8mm that have all-day battery
life and weeks of standby, all at lower prices.
"With Bay Trail we will build on the work done with our current SoC
development and accelerate very quickly by leveraging Intel's core
computing strengths," Bell said. "We will take advantage of the
tremendous software assets and expertise at our disposal to deliver the
best products with best-in-class user experiences."
Low Power Fuels Ultrabook Innovation
Since mid-2011, Intel has led the industry in enabling Ultrabook
devices aimed at providing new, richer mobile computing experiences in
thin, elegant and increasingly convertible and detachable designs. To
enable these innovative designs, Intel announced last September that it
added a new line of processors to its forthcoming 4th generation Intel
Core processor family targeted at about 10 watt design power, while
still delivering the excellent performance people want and need.
Skaugen announced Monday that the company is bringing the low-power
line of processors into its existing 3rd generation Intel Core
processor family. Available now, these chips will operate at power
demand as low as 7 watts, allowing manufacturers greater flexibility in
thinner, lighter convertible designs. Currently there are more than a
dozen designs in development based on this new low-power offering and
they are expected to enable a full PC experience in innovative mobile
form factors including tablets and Ultrabook convertibles. The Lenovo
IdeaPad Yoga 11S Ultrabook and a future Ultrabook detachable from Acer
will be among the first to market this spring based on the new Intel
processors and were demonstrated by Skaugen on stage.
The 4th generation Intel Core processor family enables true all-day
battery life - representing the most significant battery life
capability improvement in Intel history. Skaugen disclosed that new
systems are expected to deliver up to 9 hours of continuous battery
life, freeing people from some of the wires and bulky power bricks
typically toted around.
"The 4th generation Core processors are the first Intel chips built
from the ground up with the Ultrabook in mind," Skaugen said. "We
expect the tremendous advancements in lower-power Core processors, and
the significant ramp of touch-based systems will lead to a significant
new wave of convertible Ultrabooks and tablets that are thinner,
lighter and, at the same time, have the performance required for more
human-like interaction such as touch, voice and gesture controls."
To demonstrate the impact of the 4th generation Intel Core processor
family, Skaugen showed a new form factor Ultrabook detachable reference
design (code named "North Cape") that converts into a 10mm tablet and
can run on battery for up to 13 hours while docked.
Advancements made in the way consumers will interact with their
computing devices were also demonstrated, including natural and more
immersive interaction experiences using a 3-D depth camera. Intel
showed applications running on an Ultrabook in which objects can be
manipulated naturally with free movements of the hands, fingers, face
and voice. One application that was demonstrated can be used for
enabling new and immersive video collaboration and blogging
experiences. These were all enabled using the Intel Perceptual
Computing SDK Beta. This year, Intel expects more Ultrabooks and
all-in-one (AIO) systems to offer applications for voice control
(Dragon Assistant) and facial recognition (Fast Access) for convenience
and freedom from passwords.
Bringing Back 'Family Night'
During the event, Skaugen also demonstrated new adaptive AIO systems
that have a battery built into the screen and can be picked up and
easily moved around the home or office as needed. Adaptive AIOs are
high-performance computers with large touch-enabled screens that can be
used as a multi-user touch gaming system, or as an interactive art
creation device, as well as for many other shared, in-person
experiences. Simply put, these devices will help bring "game night"
back to its roots through shared experiences where families and friends
gather around the system to interact, play and have fun.
Intel also continues to drive access to content on Intel-based
devices by working with video service providers around the globe such
as Comcast and Bouygues Telecom to create television experiences that
will allow customers to view live and on-demand pay TV content. Intel
is collaborating with Comcast to bring the XFINITY TV experience to
multiple screens in the home including Ultrabook devices, and
Intel-based AIO PCs and tablets.
This experience is made possible by the Intel Puma 6MG-based XG5
multi-screen video gateway developed by ARRIS. This new category of
devices allows any screen in the home to access live and on-demand
entertainment premium content. Intel is also working with Bouygues
Telecom to bring customers in France the Bbox TV experience to these
same Intel-based devices. Consumers will experience both live TV and
video on demand anywhere on the Bouygues Telecom network.
Acer CEO: Touchscreen Offers New Opportunity for
PC Brands
DigiTimes' Aaron Lee and Joseph Tsai report Acer president Jim
Wong's take on the state of the PC industry, which saw several major
developments in 2012, such as the rise of ARM-based products that
greatly weakened the influence of the Wintel platform - and Microsoft's
launch of Windows 8.
These changes have brought both challenges and opportunities to
brand vendors, Wong told the reporters in an interview with DigiTimes,
and who takes the optimistic view that innovations such as the
confluence of Windows 8 and touchscreen control will allow vendors
to make breakthroughs and revitalize the PC industry.
Wong is still bullish on Windows 8 and contends that many of the
concerns and criticisms it's been receiving have been rather unfair,
but he concedes that it's a new system that consumers must learn, and
the learning process has been an impediment to it taking off quickly,
adding that companies must take risks when introducing innovations, and
consequently it's still too early to say whether Windows 8 is a
success or not.
As for the Windows RT operating system developed jointly by
Microsoft and ARM, Wong said Acer does plan to eventually release
Windows RT-based products, but company's current strategy is to focus
on Windows 8 with x86 architecture, since the major demand from
Windows users is still related to data management.
Wong affirms that Acer believes touchscreen notebooks' shipment
proportion will continue to rise to eventually surpass that for
traditional notebooks and become the mainstream in the market, but
acceptance and the replacement process may take 2-3 years to complete,
and that the supply of touch panels will also be a major factor
affecting the penetration of touchscreen notebooks in the PC
market.
He also thinks high definition displays a la the Retina
MacBook Pros (RMBPs) will definitely become a trend, but wonders why
Apple opted not to adopt touchscreen control with the RMBPs.
Link: Touchscreen Offers
New Opportunity for PC Brands Says Acer President Jim Wong
(subscription required)
Is the Ultrabook a Triumph After All?
While not the buzzword it was in 2012, Intel's Ultrabook has its
fingerprint everywhere at CES 2013, says Cnet's Dan Ackerman, declaring
that the Ultrabook concept continues to be one of the most influential
ones he's seen in many years of laptop watching.
However, he notes that it's more the Ultrabook's idea that's spread
to nearly every corner of the laptop ecosystem, than the name itself
(which is an Intel trademark that is attached to a circumscribed set of
engineering and design specifications), and while there are plenty of
new laptops from Lenovo, Dell, and others bearing the official
Ultrabook moniker, probably an equal number are skirting the edges of
Intel's Ultrabook standards.
For example, Ackerman says that HP Sleekbooks look and feel an awful
lot like HP's Ultrabook-branded products, but they might have AMD CPUs
or traditional spinning platter hard drives instead of SSDs, while
other PC makers such as Dell and Toshiba have simply slimmed down their
$500 to $600 non-Ultrabook laptop form factors. Consequently he notes
that after Intel's having initially invested $300 million in helping PC
companies develop Ultrabooks, it's a rarity that anyone walks into a
store announcing, "I'm shopping for an Ultrabook!"
However, Ackerman contends that even if the Ultrabook name
eventually fades from public view, it has already altered the consumer
laptop landscape, rewriting what it means to be a mainstream laptop to
a point where every laptop needs to be reasonably thin now to even get
a foot in the door.
Of course, it was really Apple's MacBook Air that launched
this revolution in 2008, but we agree that Intel deserves credit for
its Ultrabook promotion, even if it hasn't turned out quite as they had
hoped.
Link: Ultrabook's Quiet
Triumph
Netbook Market Winds Up at End of 2012
DigiTimes' Monica Chen and Joseph Tsai report In that the last two
netbook makers standing - Asustek
Computer and Acer - are winding up netbook production, and the netbook
market will officially end after the two vendors finish selling off
their remaining inventories.
The Mac Observer's Bryan Chaffin observes) that the late Steve Jobs and
Apple's then-COO Tim Cook made the right call in staying out of the
netbook market despite strong criticism for so doing, quoting Tim Cook
commenting at the time: "We're watching [the netbook space]. Right now
from our point of view, the products in there are principally based on
hardware that's much less powerful than we think customers want,
software technology that is not good, cramped keyboards, small
displays, etc."
Chaffin observes gleefully that even following its bear contraction,
Apple's stock has risen 568% since Cook made that comment. "If only the
company had released a netbook," he deadpans.
The Register's Neil McAllister notes that while analysts were initially
bullish on netbooks because of their compact size and low price tags,
and it was easy to overlook that their real-world performance was
generally lackluster, while their miniaturized keyboards often made
even basic word processing a chore and tiny, low-resolution screens
made for a cramped desktop experience.
McAllister expects that PC Ultrabooks will likely fare better in the
market than netbooks did, in large part due to their not being in a
race to the bottom for manufacturers, but instead carry premium specs -
and price tags to match.
Link: Netbook Market to
Wind Up at End of 2012 (subscription required)
Lenovo Looking to Challenge Apple's MacBook with
New ThinkPads
M.I.C. Gadget's Star Chang reports that according to a leaked
internal email from Lenovo CEO Yang Yuanqing, come April Lenovo, which
purchased IBM's ThinkPad laptop computer division in 2005, will be
splitting its internal operations into two groups: Lenovo for mid- and
low-range products, and Think for higher-end products currently
associated with the ThinkPad. Mr. Yang also says that Think is best
positioned to compete with Apple in the high-end market
Chang also cites recent rumors that Lenovo plans to move its
notebook production in-house within three to five years in order to
make it easier for the company to produce its own high-end hardware,
and that in 2013, we can anticipate ThinkPad going to war with MacBook
Air/Retina, but notes that ThinkPad laptops don't have the lifestyle
elements to compete with Apple's products.
Link: Lenovo Wants
ThinkPad to Compete with Apple MacBook
Products & Services
Fins-Up Releases the FIN for MacBook Air and
MacBook Pro Retina Laptops
FIN for 15" Retina MacBook Pro
PR: Fins-Up, LLC has announced the FIN, a new aesthetic,
single piece combination handle/stand designed exclusively for Apple
MacBook Pro Retina and MacBook Air notebook computers. The streamlined
design of the FIN is aesthetically unobtrusive, with only a single
piece to install. The sandblasted finish matches that of your notebook,
becoming literally an extension of the computer. Constructed from
durable 100% aircraft-grade aluminum the FIN helps transport your
notebook safely.
The FIN easily attaches to the MacBook Pro or MacBook Air and sports
equally easy removal. When installed, the FIN tilts the notebook with
the forward rake many prefer for typing and screen viewing. The FIN
also serves as a convenient handle that not only makes carrying the
notebook easier, but aids with insertion and retrieval of the notebook
from computer bags. And when installed, the FIN provides beneficial
heat dissipation for the notebook, helping to increase product
longevity in the process.
FIN for 13" MacBook Air and Retina MacBook Pro
"We're very excited to bring the FIN for the latest Apple models to
Apple notebook users around the world," says Tim Trombly, founder and
CEO of Fins-Up, LLC. "The FIN is really three superior products in one:
a stand, handle and cooling system that perfectly blends with Apple
notebooks to add to its overall form and function."
Priced at $39.95, the FIN is available for the MacBook Pro Retina
13" (Late 2012), MacBook Pro Retina 15" (Mid 2012), MacBook Air 13"
(Late 2010, Mid 2011 and Mid 2012), MacBook Air 11" (Late 2010, Mid
2011 and Mid 2012), MacBook 13" (Late 2008), MacBook Pro 15" (Late 2008
to the latest) Unibody models, MacBook Pro 13" (Mid 2009 to the latest)
Unibody models, MacBook Pro 15", MacBook Pro 17" non-Unibody models,
and MacBook 13" (black and white). Visit Fins-Up online for complete
details as well as to purchase directly.
Link: Fins-Up
Belkin Debuts New Wireless AC Networking Lineup at
2013 International CES
PR: Belkin is showcasing its new lineup of wireless
networking technologies designed to empower the connected home, this
week at the 2013 International CES. The powerful new AC750 and
AC1800 
Dual Band routers, as well as the new USB 3.0 ready AC WiFi USB
Dual-Band Adapter will be on display alongside Belkin's existing suite
of wireless networking products at the Belkin booth, #30651, in the
South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center, January 8-11, 2013.
"With the launch of our latest AC WiFi products, Belkin becomes the
leading provider of state-of-the-art, next-gen WiFi devices, and
delivers the ultimate in speed, coverage and performance for today's
connected home networks," says Mike Chen, senior director of product
management for Belkin's networking group. "With upgraded features like
Simple Start browser based setup and a smart MediaPlay app, our AC
routers deliver the promise of the connected home, where all of your
devices work together seamlessly, from home entertainment to home
automation."
With four next generation WiFi routers, Belkin claims to offer the
largest selection of 802.11ac products on the market today. Belkin's
most advanced router, the new AC1800 DB router, delivers combined
speeds up to 1.6 Gbps, up to four times faster than traditional 802.11n
WiFi technology. With gigabit speeds, the AC1800 extends network range
and provides more reliable coverage at greater distances, making it
possible to stream more content to multiple smartphones, tablets, and
smart TVs anywhere in the home.
The AC750, Belkin's entry level AC router, takes advantage of next
generation AC WiFi for a new level of reliability and connectivity.
With combined dual band speeds up to 733 Mbps, the AC750 upgrades your
network with the latest technology and is perfect for digital
entertainment throughout the home.
Both the AC750 and AC1800 are the first Belkin routers to feature
Simple Start, a browser-based setup interface that streamlines the
installation process and eliminates the needs for a computer or CD
drive. Simple Start enables one-click access to the router dashboard,
making it easy to configure a media server, turn on parental controls
or troubleshoot from a mobile device.
Another feature new to Belkin routers is MediaPlay, an app powered
by Twonky that turns your iOS or Android device into a wireless network
media player and enables you to stream content directly from a
smartphone or tablet to a Smart TV. MediaPlay pairs seamlessly with the
Belkin routers built-in media server function that turns any USB
storage device into a network storage device. The free MediaPlay app
pushes media from multiple sources to multiple destinations and is able
to sync between iOS and Android devices.
To get the most out of your new network, laptops and Ultrabooks can
be upgraded with the USB 3.0 ready AC WiFi Dual-Band USB Adapter. This
adapter provides speeds up to 867 Mbps for smooth gaming and streaming
around the home.
AC1800 DB Wireless Router (F9K1118) $179.99
- Speeds up to four times faster than 802.11n technology with
simultaneous dual-band speeds up to 1.6 Gbps (300 Mbps on 2.4 GHz band
+ 1.3 Gbps on 5 GHz band)
- Uninterrupted HD streaming to multiple devices simultaneously helps
conserve battery power on mobile devices
- Belkin's built-in IntelliStream QoS automatically prioritizes video
and gaming and reduces loading time on frequently visited sites
- Parental Control powered by Norton blocks unsafe and inappropriate
content with three available levels of protection
- MediaPlay App by myTwonky beams content directly from your device
to your TV
- Media server by myTwonky to stream DLNA multimedia throughout your
home
- IPv6 compatibility future-proofs the home network
- Backward-compatible with previous generations of WiFi
- 4 Gigabit ports for maximum network speeds
- Two USB 2.0 ports
AC750 DB Wireless Router (F9K1116) $89.99
- Advanced, next generation WiFi technology
- Dual band speeds up to 733 Mbps (300 on 2.4 GHz band + 433 on 5 GHz
band)
- Uninterrupted HD streaming to multiple devices simultaneously helps
conserve battery power on mobile devices
- Belkin's built-in IntelliStream QoS automatically prioritizes video
and gaming and reduces loading time on frequently visited sites
- Parental Control powered by Norton blocks unsafe and inappropriate
content with three available levels of protection
- MediaPlay App by Twonky beams content directly from your device to
your TV
- Media server by MyTwonky to stream DLNA multimedia throughout your
home
- IPv6 compatibility future-proofs the home network
- Backward-compatible with previous generations of WiFi
- One USB 2.0 port
AC WiFi Dual-Band USB Adapter (F9L1106) $69.99
- Fast AC WiFi speeds up to 867 Mbps or N WiFi speeds up to 300
Mbps
- USB 3.0 for high-performance wireless
- Works with G, N, and new AC WiFi routers
- Perfect for upgrading laptops and Ultrabooks for faster gaming and
movie streaming
Availability
The AC750 with Simple Start will be available this month at Best Buy
and Belkin.com. The AC1800 DB Wireless Router is available now at
Belkin.com and retailers across the United States. An updated version
with Simple Start will begin rolling out this month to retailers across
the country. The AC WiFi Dual-Band USB Adapter is available now.
MediaPlay is available now on the App Store and Google Play store.
Order Links
- AC WiFi Dual-Band USB Adapter, currently
$66 at Amazon.com
Kingston Digital Ships New Generation USB 3.0
Flash Drive
PR: Kingston Digital, Inc., the Flash memory affiliate of
Kingston Technology Company, Inc., has announced the launch of the
DataTraveler Ultimate 3.0 Generation 3 USB 3.0 Flash drive.
DataTraveler Ultimate 3.0 G3 is redesigned with a sleek and slim new
case and features fast transfer speeds for moving high resolution
images, music libraries and HD video files.
Kingston's DataTraveler Ultimate 3.0 G3 is ideal for consumers, IT
professionals and enthusiasts who want to take advantage of all the
performance improvements offered by USB 3.0 technology. DataTraveler
Ultimate 3.0 G3 features read speeds up to 150 MB/s and write speeds up
to 70 MB/s. When plugged into a USB 2.0 port, the drive has read speeds
up to 30 MB/s and write speeds up to 20 MB/s. It is available in 32 GB
and 64 GB capacities.
DataTraveler
Ultimate 3.0 G3 takes its design inspiration from DataTraveler HyperX
Predator 3.0, the world's largest-capacity USB 3.0 Flash drive. Inside
a solid metal matte finish case, DataTraveler Ultimate 3.0 G3 features
a convenient retractable design that protects the USB jack from damage
while carrying it on a key chain, purse or briefcase.
"USB 3.0 is becoming more mainstream as it is standard on most
motherboards and PCs shipping today," says Andrew Ewing, Flash memory
business manager, Kingston. "We are working hard to make sure we
improve the speed and design of our USB 3.0 Flash drives to stay
competitive as demand grows in the market. DataTraveler Ultimate 3.0 G3
is a perfect example of this evolution."
DataTraveler Ultimate 3.0 G3 is backed by a five-year warranty, free
live technical support and Kingston's traditional reliability.
Kingston DataTraveler Ultimate 3.0 G3 Features and
Specifications
Capacities: 32 GB, 64 GB
Speed:
- USB 3.0 up to 150 MB/s Read, 70 MB/s Write
- USB 2.0 up to 30 MB/s Read, 20 MB/s Write
USB 3.0 performance: dramatic time savings when transferring large
media files; 8x faster than a standard USB 2.0
Durable design: solid metal sliding casing with no cap to lose
Backwards compatibility: usable with USB 2.0 systems with excellent
performance throughout
Guaranteed: five-year warranty and free technical support
Dimensions:
- without key ring: 2.6929" x 0.8961" x 0.4567" (68.40mm x 22.76mm x
11.6mm)
- with key ring: 3.3622" x 0.8961" x 0.4567" (85.40mm x 22.76mm x
11.6mm)
Operating Temperature: 32F to 140F (0C to 60C)
Storage Temperature: -4F to 185F (-20C to 85C)
Link: Kingston
DataTraveler Ultimate 3.0 Generation 3
Bargain 'Books
For deals on current and discontinued 'Books, see our 13" MacBook and MacBook Pro,
MacBook Air, 13" MacBook Pro, 15" MacBook Pro, 17" MacBook Pro, 12" PowerBook G4, 15" PowerBook G4, 17" PowerBook G4, titanium PowerBook G4,
iBook G4, PowerBook G3, and iBook G3 deals.
We also track iPad,
iPhone, iPod touch, iPod classic, iPod nano, and iPod shuffle deals.
