Back in 2007, Apple created a functional prototype of a cellular MacBook, and Bloomberg indicates that there might be plans for a release utilizing its own radio chip.
Steve Jobs was initially hesitant about the concept for two main reasons, which no longer hold true today. So, nearly two decades later, is it finally time to reconsider … ?
Apple developed a prototype cellular MacBook
Jobs mentioned to me last week that while Apple considered the concept, incorporating the capability would occupy space and limit consumers to a single carrier.
However, he didn’t disclose that a functional prototype had indeed been built the year prior, only later surfacing when it was sold on Craigslist by someone who was unaware of its significance.
The seller acquired it from a Craigslist listing as a non-functional device for parts. Upon inspection, he realized that it was no ordinary MacBook Pro (the conspicuous antenna was a dead giveaway!). He managed to get the device operational (though 3G functionality was untested) and is now selling it as-is, “no guarantees.”
Steve’s previous concerns no longer apply
With Apple’s proprietary modem chip slated for the upcoming iPhone SE, it is clearly compact enough to fit within a MacBook’s framework.
Additionally, there is no longer a necessity to confine users to a specific carrier, as modern radio chips can accommodate all necessary frequencies, and eSIM technology facilitates easy selection and switching of carriers on demand.
I desired one for years, but not anymore
For an extended period, I really yearned for a cellular MacBook.
Various methods have existed for connecting a laptop to the internet indirectly for years. In fact, the first time I achieved this was in 1983 via an acoustic coupler with a Tandy 100! I first tethered a device to a cell phone in 1996, using an infrared connection between a Psion 5mx and a Nokia “banana” phone. The first practical solution for Mac laptops involved a radio card that fit into an ExpressCard slot on a Powerbook.
However, during those early days, the idea of a convenient, always-online cellular Mac sounded incredibly appealing.
Since then, though, two significant changes have occurred. First, public Wi-Fi hotspots are now widespread, available in virtually every café, restaurant, public structure, and transit hub. They can even be found in locations devoid of mobile signal, such as underground metro trains and airplanes.
Second, there’s the Personal Hotspot feature on iPhones. Initially a bit cumbersome when it launched in 2010, I would still have preferred integrated cellular back then; however, it has since become remarkably seamless. The iPhone consistently appears as an available Wi-Fi network, and connection takes mere seconds. Often, this is quicker and more reliable than public Wi-Fi solutions.
Thus, personally, I no longer desire a cellular MacBook and wouldn’t pay extra for it as an option – how about you? Please participate in our poll and share your perspectives in the comments.
Photo by Parker Byrd on Unsplash
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