[Mr. X]

All of these rumors about MWSF....

iLife '05, a possible office suite.....

Did I just make a mistake ordering a new iBook 14? Should I try to cancel everything and place a new order after I see what's coming out? Or would it be simple to install iLife updates (and an office suite) where it wouldn't matter...?

Urgh. I can't believe I didn't consider MWSF until tonight. I may have made a big mistake placing this order two weeks too soon.

[Wrao]

I'm pretty sure we won't be seeing new iBooks at MWSF, they were bumped not that long ago(at least it doesn't seem like that long ago)

[Brad]

Purchasing advice = General Discussion. Moving there.

And do you really think we need a thread asking about buying near a major event? I think the answer should be obvious.

If it's too late, it's too late. You live; you learn. If you're desperate, you could always try to hawk it on eBay to some sucker.

[Mr. X]

You're right, it's a stupid thread. Sorry for the insanity of constantly posting! I'm just panicky because I need a new Mac, yet I want to make sure I spend my money wisely.

It certainly isn't too late. I'm calling first thing in the morning to cancel; I'll send it back to them if it's really on its way. There's no way I'm going to get burned when this much money is on the line.

[Luca]

Well, the chances of an iBook update are almost nil. The only money that is "on the line" is the cost of upgrading to Panther and the iLife '05 suite. Assuming they are both announced at MWSF, you'll save a bit of money by ordering after the announcement. You'll still have to pay $20 for a Tiger upgrade disc, assuming Tiger's release date is actually announced there. If not, you won't really save any money.

[Barto]

Never buy right before a MacWorld. It's common sense.

[Kickaha]

Which is precisely why Apple/Jobs are trying to make the Big Events (Mac{World,Expo}) a bit smaller - to keep people from doing just that, and evening out the sales figures a bit over the year.

[staph]

Actually, the historical pattern for iBook updates is twice a year, around April/May and October/November. Given that the iBooks were updated in mid-October, I would say that it's highly unlikely they'll be updated at Macworld SF.

Apple claimed re. 10.4 that it would be released "in the first half of 2005". You can interpret that as you may, but I doubt that 10.4 will be shipping in January or February.

So the only likely loss is iLife, and there are steep educational discounts anyway. Given that your computer sounds like it pretty much died, I would have done the same thing in your position.

[Mr. X]

Originally Posted by staph Actually, the historical pattern for iBook updates is twice a year, around April/May and October/November. Given that the iBooks were updated in mid-October, I would say that it's highly unlikely they'll be updated at Macworld SF. Apple claimed re. 10.4 that it would be released "in the first half of 2005". You can interpret that as you may, but I doubt that 10.4 will be shipping in January or February. So the only likely loss is iLife, and there are steep educational discounts anyway. Given that your computer sounds like it pretty much died, I would have done the same thing in your position.

Yeah, my iMac G3 is fried. That is why I jumped on the purchase so fast, not realizing that there is an expo coming up.

If I could go back, I'd wait two weeks to see what happens, but I just got off the phone with Apple and I feel better. I was told that I should be fine with my purchase, and if there is some kind of software update announced, that they're really good about working with people who just purchased something, and more than likely wouldn't be charged. This is a good thing, because I need to start working on my new Mac as soon as possible.

This board is great....lots of helpful people; very appreciative...

[psmith2.0]

Mr. X, didn't we go over this just the other night? The iBook is Apple's most recently updated computer (just a couple of months ago). There's no way on God's green earth it'll be updated AGAIN at MWSF. That just doesn't happen, especially when there are PowerBooks, eMacs and - some would say - G5 towers more in need of attention.

You said yourself that my comments on the above is what "sealed the deal". So why would you cancel your order? I thought this was all dialed-in, and you were "happy" with your decision?

And you'll get an educational price on iLife or Keynote or whatever software that comes out, right?

You made a great choice with your iBook. Relax, go take a hot bath or jog around the block.

[bassplayinMacFiend]

Well, at some point the iBook's video card needs to be updated to handle CI/V in Tiger. I doubt this will happen until closer to Tiger's release though.

[Mr. X]

Originally Posted by pscates2.0 Mr. X, didn't we go over this just the other night? The iBook is Apple's most recently updated computer (just a couple of months ago). There's no way on God's green earth it'll be updated AGAIN at MWSF. That just doesn't happen, especially when there are PowerBooks, eMacs and - some would say - G5 towers more in need of attention. You said yourself that my comments on the above is what "sealed the deal". So why would you cancel your order? I thought this was all dialed-in, and you were "happy" with your decision? And you'll get an educational price on iLife or Keynote or whatever software that comes out, right? You made a great choice with your iBook. Relax, go take a hot bath or jog around the block.

Noooooo...it wasn't that I was unhappy with my choice in the iBook; I was convinced after our discussion: The iBook was recently updated and it's a safe purchase.

What started to worry me was talk about the current graphics card being obsolete and unable to handle Tiger. What am I supposed to do when Tiger comes out? Deal with a completely slow Mac because the OS requires more power?

Then, I was also worried about the idea that MWSF may announce updated software, and realized it would be a lot nicer to have all of that preinstalled in my new Mac, rather than have to update everything, or, worse yet, have to purchase updates (iLife '05 or some new Mac Office suite that I would be all over, since I have ALWAYS loved AppleWorks)...

I already took a hot shower...I'm starting to feel a little better....hehe

[Brad]

Originally Posted by Mr. X What started to worry me was talk about the current graphics card being obsolete and unable to handle Tiger. What am I supposed to do when Tiger comes out? Deal with a completely slow Mac because the OS requires more power?

Oh, you just misunderstand Apple's recent trends with updating the OS.

Everyone will get across-the-board improvements with Tiger. Whether you have a G3, a G4, or a G5 and whether you have a Rage 128, a Mobility Radeon, or a GeForce Ultra, 10.4 will generally perform faster than 10.3.

Each iteration of Mac OS X has gotten faster since 10.0. This is because there's still room for optimizations both in the code and in the compilers.

If your system can't support some of the flashy add-ons, it'll simply default either to software-mode (as with window compositing and pre-Quartz Extreme systems) or it will simply ignore some features (as with the cube rotation and pre-Quartz Extreme systems).

I would be genuinely shocked if Tiger actually slows down your iBook. Your iBook should not suddenly become "obsolete" simply because it won't do some eye-candy ripple effects.

I'm glad you're feeling better about all this now.

[Mr. X]

Originally Posted by Brad Oh, you just misunderstand Apple's recent trends with updating the OS. Everyone will get across-the-board improvements with Tiger. Whether you have a G3, a G4, or a G5 and whether you have a Rage 128, a Mobility Radeon, or a GeForce Ultra, 10.4 will generally perform faster than 10.3. Each iteration of Mac OS X has gotten faster since 10.0. This is because there's still room for optimizations both in the code and in the compilers. If your system can't support some of the flashy add-ons, it'll simply default either to software-mode (as with window compositing and pre-Quartz Extreme systems) or it will simply ignore some features (as with the cube rotation and pre-Quartz Extreme systems). I would be genuinely shocked if Tiger actually slows down your iBook. Your iBook should not suddenly become "obsolete" simply because it won't do some eye-candy ripple effects. I'm glad you're feeling better about all this now.

Ahhhh...I see. So, Tiger will still be a nice upgrade from Panther for my iBook; nothing to worry about, then?

I just received my RAM....so I WILL be able to install it as soon as my new iBook arrives!!

[scratt]

I think some of this fear has come from the Motion restrictions....
Not one to complain () but I did feel a little upset that Motion wouldn't run on my original 17" G4 Powerbook.

I am not sure that I have seen that kind of thing happen before with what is a major piece of software IMHO, so perhaps it really does need the architecture of those most recent graphics cards.

I still think a 'software patch' to enable it to function with a few restrictions would be possible and even reasonable to expect... But Hey Ho... I can't complain. I've sent my requests to Apple... I won't hold my breath for a reply... Although in the past I have been quite suprised to actually get an email back from Apple when I have sent them feedback.

That said... My iBook from 4 years ago is still running fine in my Wife's capable hands and does seem to get a little better with each release of OS X.

I am just glad I have the G5 to run my flashy stuff on...

[Brad]

Yup, nothing to worry about!

(unless you plan to use motion, as scratt mentioned)

[Mr. X]

Thanks, Brad. I don't even know what Motion is! (so, no, I won't be using "motion")

Expected arrival date is January 6th. My first *new* Mac in over four years. Can't wait...

[Mr. X]

If it's true that iWork will become bundled with new Macs after the expo I'm going to want it on my new iBook (expected to arrive Jan. 6). Do you think Apple can be understanding when something comes out immediately after a purchase, and allow me to obtain the software? I just wonder if people have had similar situations and success with Apple after talking to them...

[ast3r3x]

I do believe this would have fit perfectly into the thread below this. You know, yours about if purchasing the iBook before the expo was a good idea

[Mr. X]

Urgh...yeah, I wish I could move it into that thread...is that possible?

sorry to clog up the board like this...

[Brad]

Since I'm an administrator, I can. Merging threads now...

[Mr. X]

Originally Posted by Brad Since I'm an administrator, I can. Merging threads now...

thanks, Brad...

I talked to someone at Apple about this, and of course the rep. explained that he can't comment because no "iWorks" announcement has been made (as I expected him to say), but he did say, "the iBook was a great purchase," and generally, in the past, Apple has given a 30-day window when new software is released and bundled in new Macs after a purchase, where the customer can then get the bundle free. I have confidence that Apple will work with me if this happens...

I finally feel 100% good about my decisions and can finally stop bombarding everyone with questions....for now..hehe

Thanks again, everyone...

[psmith2.0]

Do you watch "Monk", by any chance?

[nomorewindows]

The most important rule to remember once you buy a computer--don't leave your house or talk to anyone or read anything about computers. Just kidding. Sort of. It's Murphy's law. The second you buy computer equipment, something "better" comes along. My hubby gave me a gorgeous new PowerBook G4 a few weeks ago. He got such a GREAT deal (Thanks Small Dog) I don't care what happens at MWSF. Whatever uber-machine they come up with, I can always pick up later. I love having something to lust after!

[scratt]

In short... It's never a bad time to buy something from Apple.
They are always worth the money and for some just opening the packaging is worth the expense!

[HHogan]

The most important rule to remember once you buy a computer--don't leave your house or talk to anyone or read anything about computers.

It's true. I bought my Dual G4 500 (GE) as soon as it came out in 2000. Since then I've used it quite often, and it does absolutely everything I need at a very good speed.

If it wasn't for the fact that I've been choking it lately with data, and the fact I'd like to use Motion, I wouldn't even consider a Dual G5.