Apple doesn't expect Magic Trackpad to replace mice yet

updated 01:55 pm EDT, Tue July 27, 2010

 

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

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industry, peripherals, Dell, HP, Apple, Magic Trackpad
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Previous Comments

  1. t_c

    Fresh-Faced Recruit

    Joined: May 2002

    +3

    Hmmmm..

    .... it might be me but these 'magic' items don't quite do it for me ergonomically. I've actually stopped using my magic mouse for the size/'flatness' factor. I do like/want the functionality of it though.

    To me instead of a flat 'magic trackpad', it should be round and larger to fit the hand better.

    I'm thinkin' a "Magic 8-ball" would just about be perfect (maybe a tad big) but on the right path...


  1. Omek

    Fresh-Faced Recruit

    Joined: Jan 2002

    -2

    Multitouch Mac

    I'm still confused why Apple hasn't created a mutlitouch Mac. Yet, they will release a multitouch trackpad. Why not invest in multitouch iMacs or Macbook Pros that also have wacom pen capabilities for graphic artists?


  1. bdmarsh

    Fresh-Faced Recruit

    Joined: Feb 2006

    +3

    re: Omek

    because they won't do full screen multi-touch half-way... to properly do Multi-touch it has to be written to do it from the ground up pretty much.

    Most likely they do have one or more people working on it, but much like the resolution independence for the UI, it takes time.


  1. tightzeit

    Fresh-Faced Recruit

    Joined: Jul 2006

    0

    Re: Hmmmm..

    t_c, you could always try one of these. I don't find the MM a chore to use, but I do know some people prefer the support of a higher/rounder mouse.

    It's only $12 USD.

    http://mmfixed.com/


  1. testudo

    Forum Regular

    Joined: Aug 2001

    -1

    duh!

    Considering all the people who use mice with their laptops, who would think that trackpads, even magic ones, would replace the more precise mouse?


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