Event proves relatively bare-bones

Several major predictions failed to come true during today's iPad 2 event. Perhaps the most significant of these was an upgraded MobileMe; the service was expected to become free, and gain some sort of media locker allowing remote access of iTunes content. Strong evidence came from Apple itself, as the company discontinued boxed copies of MobileMe and indeed removed any way of paying. Apple has even admitted that its North Carolina data center is being constructed for iTunes and MobileMe content.

The company did not even offer a preview of iOS 5, instead choosing to concentrate on iOS 4.3. Some showing of v5.0 was considered virtually guaranteed, as Apple has traditionally previewed major iOS revisions in March. If iOS 5 ships in time for an iPhone 5 in June or July, the company will have to schedule a separate event to give developers enough time to prepare apps.

MobileMe improvements may be delayed by one or more factors. The beginning of the data center's operations has been postpoined until "spring," which could mean March but also a date as far away as May. The service itself may have incomplete features, or unresolved licensing agreements. Apple is believed to have solved objections from music labels.

By Electronista Staff