Do you think future MacBook Air versions will have a built-in GSM/CDMA/LTE chipset, or will Apple expect people to tether to their phones?
Adding a cell radio to the MacBook Air seems like a logical next step; it’s already de rigueur for tablets and netbooks, but Apple never claimed the Air was a netbook. (It’s too nice, you know?) Adding GSM/CDMA/LTE chipsets will raise the price, so it’d be preferable to continue offering a model without it, like the iPad Wi-Fi and iPad Wi-Fi+3G. Apple could be planning to add it to the next version of the Air—or maybe not.
The 2010 MacBook Air: BYO internet.
As you suggest, tethering (that is, using your cell phone’s network connection to get your computer online) is great; it’s convenient, and who wants to pay twice for the same internet? Naturally, most carriers charge you for tethering, but that upcharge can be less than what you’d shell out for two separate plans. And there are also USB 3G modems and portable hotspots like the Mi-Fi, and of course plain old Wi-Fi is more widespread all the time. With such flexible choices, having GSM/CDMA/LTE too isn’t fully necessary and could be a drag if it requires signing another contract.
If I had to bet, I’d say they’ll go for it and create a more netbook-like, cellular MacBook Air within the next year or two. But if I’m wrong, it certainly wouldn’t be the first time.
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March 17, 2011 at 11:57pm
Hard question to answer. Would Apple add the chipsets? I think they would.
Would the carriers approve with GSM/CDMA/LTE chipsets; or would they rather get that extra $$ for tethering?Most of us have heard rumors about iPad 3 coming this fall right?
I think the iPad 3 will basically be a MacBook Air minus the physical keyboard and it will have carrier chipsets.
Maybe with a quad core version of the A5? Apple 40 pin USB and Thunderbolt only?
Everything else would be wireless / bluetooth.
