Magic Trackpad seen as complement, not replacement

Apple in remarks today said it didn't see the Magic Trackpad replacing mice in the near future. A spokesperson asserted that Apple wanted to provide a "choice" and that the new peripheral was a supplement, not necessarily a replacement. Some features are better for a traditional mouse where others can use a trackpad, the company said.

The representative noted to TechCrunch that many Apple employees are often using the Trackpad side-by-side with a Magic Mouse. A small number of customers might switch over entirely, Apple said. The add-on costs $69 extra even when attached to a new Mac order.

It's uncertain what Apple's exact long-term aims may be, but the company now has the option of multi-touch across its entire product line and has interpreted devices like the iPad as a partial successor to the computer that relies entirely on touch. Other companies, such as Dell and HP, have implemented touch on desktops but have resorted to developing touchscreen all-in-ones that have sold in relatively low numbers.

By Electronista Staff