Five things still missing from Apple MacBooks

(Credit: CNET)

Unless you've been living under a rock (or in Redmond), you've no doubt seen the flood of product news coming from Apple's WWDC 2009 conference--from the new iPhone 3G S to an entire line of revamped MacBook laptops.

While we're down with the new SD card slots and lower prices (see reviews for three of the new MacBooks here), there are still a few items on our MacBook wish list:

Matte screen options
Despite the fact that nearly every serious laptop user we know prefers matte, non-glossy screens, only Apple's 17-inch MacBook Pro offers a matte option--in the form of a $50 anti-glare coating add-on.

Especially with the current models' edge-to-edge glass, popping open a MacBook outdoors (or in an overlit room) is just asking for trouble. Sure, glossy screens make colors pop and movies more dramatic--but we'd like to have the option of choosing a matte screen anyway (and not for $50, either).

Blu-ray drives
While high-capacity Blu-ray drives aren't quite a necessity, the format is slowing gaining a foothold. Many inexpensive Windows laptops at least offer it as an option, and many high-end laptops in the MacBook's price range include a Blu-ray drive by default.

Leaving aside the idea of having a high-capacity optical backup capability, Blu-ray seems like a natural fit for the MacBook's multimedia-friendly vibe.

Mobile broadband options
Another widespread option from most PC makers. We're slowing getting to the point where having a mobile broadband account connected to your laptop is just a common tool, rather than an exotic novelty--especially with AT&T's iPhone tethering plan not yet available.

While having to choose one carrier's antenna over another is a hassle, we found the built-in Verizon 3G on the HP Mini 1151nr Netbook to be "an obvious mashup of two useful technologies."

HDMI outputs
Mini DisplayPort is Apple's video connection of choice, and we've also seen a push toward it from PC makers such as Dell. But few of us have an external display with DisplayPort--HDMI, VGA, and even DVI are all more common.

Apple offers some helpful adapters (at $29 each) for DVI and VGA--but no way to connect a new MacBook to an HDMI-equipped TV, for example. Fortunately, some third-party vendors now offer a DisplayPort-to-HDMI adapter for around $15.

Touch screens
If we had a dime for every blog rumor about an Apple tablet we've seen, we'd have at least enough for a large soy-based coffee beverage from Starbucks. Plus, Apple has already proven it's mastered the touch screen in the iPhone and iPod Touch.

Actually, someone has already done this, in a way. Axiotron makes custom MacBook-based tablets by buying stock MacBooks, taking them apart, and rebuilding them as tablet PCs.

Of course, we haven't missed these features enough to keep us from bestowing the coveted Editors' Choice award on the new 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Pros. What's on your list of missing MacBook features? Let us know below!

> Need more laptop news? Follow me at twitter.com/danackerman.
> Laptops and more every week on the Digital City.

[holywarrior007]

I agree with you Dan. I really want matte screen option and Blu-ray drive in MacBooks. I don't know why the Apple is holding back on these.

[dhavleak]

And not just Apple -- I can't for the life of me understand how glass / glossy screens became so popular to begin with!

[geekbully]

Glossy screens make colors look so much more vibrant imo. I've owned matte finished laptops up until this one. I don't see glare being any worse of a problem than it was before.

[Random_Walk]

FWIW, I've found that glossy screens don't scratch as easily... a huge bennie on notebooks.

[karpenterskids]

Why would you want a Blu-ray drive?<br /><br />The PS3 is dying a slow death because they had to raise the price to include Blu-ray, thinking it would become a must-have.<br /><br /><br />As for matte screens...I wholeheartedly agree. Same with touch-screen.

[merlefisher]

I always owned matte screen computers until I bought my last Macbook Pro for a very good deal and it came with a glossy screen which I fell in love with immediately. I can see how some people might not like the glossy screen if you are planning to use the computer in extremely bright light or maybe even sunlight. However, the glossy screen is great for most normal laptop use.

[dhavleak]

@ Random Walk <br /> <br />They do scratch - just differently. i.e. you get micro-scratches in swirls if you wipe the screen with the wrong type of cloth (similar to the swirls that develop on a car's windscreen). <br /> <br />Besides, I wouldn't count that as a plus. The primary function of a computer screen is to be readable, and it's really hard to read anything from a screen that's reflecting tons of light into your eyes. God forbid there might be a light source or a moving image (like a TV) behind you somewhere. <br /> <br />Basically, matte finish screens actually have a special finish that diffuzes the light equally in all directions so that the screen is non-reflective and at the same time the image doesn't get distorted. The manufactures basically pulled a fast one on customers with glossy screens. They're basically selling stuff that's inferior (especially considering the function they are meant to carry out) and costs less to manufacture. And they have a lot of customers fooled into thinking they're getting a better product ("oh, look - bright and shiny!")..

[Maclover1]

@karpenterskids PS3 dying a slow death???? Yeah they have sold just over 22 million compared to the Xbox 360 at 30 million and its been out a year longer and had two price drops. Only selling 22 million must just suck.<br /><br />Not to mention the PS2 is still selling a good 180k per month. The PS3 is helping BD become the next and probably last optical standard. Surveys just this year say 70% of consumers still prefer physical media. The PS3 will have a price drop before the holidays and it will push on 30 million by this time next year. Dying slow death...ahahahahahahah!

[kelmon]

@merlefisher<br /><br />Glossy screens are a big no-no for any form of colour sensitive work, such as digital photography because they distort colours to make them look more vibrant. Given this, the glossy screens are a deterrent to anyone operating in these areas unless you want to pony-up the money for a 17" MBP. I have a 17" MBP today but am seriously considering downgrading to a 15" version next time (smaller size, lighter, cheaper, more options for things like bags/cases, etc) but the screen is an issue.

[gregorysreid]

I am not an ophthalmologist, however, every person has a different natural focus for their eyes. For me, the glare screen isn't an issue; for others its a big issue. It seems to depend on the person and how their eyes naturally focus. I prefer the macbook screen over a matte screen because I really don't notice the glare. However, they SHOULD offer an option for a matte screen for those who find the glare bothersome.

[tcr071]

I like to use my laptop underneath fluorescent lights, in the sun, in front of the television, or anywhere but a dark room. It doesn't matter if the glossy screens have more vibrant colors if you can't see the colors because of the freaking glare on the screen. Apple doesn't even really help itself because they put a freaking glass sheet right on top of the display that makes it even more reflective. <br /><br />I need a notebook that I can read. Not a notebook that I can also use as a mirror.

[carguy622]

I'd like to see Matte screens first. I appreciate the durability of the glass surface, which is an improvement over my MacBook's glossy non-glass protected screen, but the glare is annoying. If I'm viewing documents that have areas of solid black, I'm staring at myself.

[bobmarleypeople]

"What's on your list of missing MacBook features? Let us know below! "<br /><br />Oh that's just asking for trouble! I've generally stayed clear of the laptop world in recent times, but I suppose a blu-ray drive (assuming it doesn't degrade battery much) would be nice. But only if said laptop comes with blu-ray movie playing software (something Macs don't seem to have yet)

[Aaron Kempf]

how about SQL Server? <br />how about Microsoft Access? <br /> <br />those are the only features that are missing from Macs, IMO.. If Apple knew what a database was-- maybe I'd use one. <br /> <br />Until then-- Apple's are just a toy.

[Jeremy Chappell]

Comes with MySQL, Macs tend to use FileMaker where PCs use Access (I have no idea what FileMaker is like - I know I hate Access as it allows users who've never heard of Edgar Frank "Ted" Codd to get themselves into some really unholy messes). You can run plenty of database products on the Mac (Oracle if your brave enough).<br /><br />Toy status is over, maybe you should take a fresh look.

[SiliconValleyJoe]

FIrstly, SQL Server and Microsoft Access are software, not "Mac features"; you are confusing software with hardware. Do you know database? :-) <br /><br />Secondly, FileMaker Pro is a database software that runs on the Mac. I run it and our business/corp (small) data sits in it. <br /><br />Thirdly, if you boot into Windows or use Parallel to run Windows, you can easily run Microsoft Access and SQL Server though, depending on which machine you are using, Parallel can impact performance. I run these too for our legacy data, sometimes in Parallel for simple minor queries and sometimes in native mode for full CRUD operations. <br /><br />This reply is more for the casual reader, not for a "troll" like you (Aaron Kempf).

[behni]

The Access comment is lame; ask Microsoft why THEY don't provide THEIR product for use with Mac. Don't blame Apple.

[SiliconValleyJoe]

For those who have never used Access, the UI is horrendous. I love those gigantic blocks of text sitting on top. The whole look and feel is ugly, it seems like some engineers in MSFT were told to just slap something on and ship it to small business users. <br /><br />I put up with Access because it is the only way to get to our legacy data. If there is time, I would migrate all such data to our FileMaker Pro running native on a Mac.

[lixpaulian]

How about staying with your windoze PC?... you don't need a Mac, as the vast majority of users don't need SQL Server and Microsoft Access. By the way, what about PostgresSQL? it runs perfectly on any Mac.<br /><br /> Troll...

[djames42]

@Jeremy:<br /><br />The Mac doesn't come with MySQL, but it's an easy download.<br /><br />@Aaron:<br /><br />Microsoft Access is a database? Don't let any DBAs hear you say that. Access may be a preferable alternative to storing piles of info in an Excel spreadsheet, but I'd never use it for anything other than a light structured database, and only then if it's not going to be accessed by more than a few people at a time.<br /><br />SQL Server is a fine database, but it sits on top of a terrible server environment. My company has multitudes of databases, several of which range up to 100TB in size. None of the serious systems sit on SQL Server, and even those few SQL Server-based systems we do run have scheduled reboots to free up memory leaks.<br /><br />I have MySQL installed on both my Mac Mini and Dell Linux desktop machines and find its conformity to SQL standards and robust multiuser features (c'mon Access, can we have table locking plz?) as well as support for things like stored procedures invaluable, even though they're just currently in use for development and testing purposes.

[Jeremy Chappell]

@djames42<br /><br />My bad, I was thinking of Mac OS X Server - didn't think about running a database on the client. Yeah, I know there are plenty of valid reasons for doing that as I say: "my bad".

[AppleProLeo]

@aaron<br /><br />"If Apple knew what a database was"<br /><br />HAHA. Are you kidding me or you just plain stupid - they own Filemaker, last I check that was a database application / company. <br /><br />Besides as already pointed out to you database/Access/SQL... are software and nothing to do with hardware. So I guess it's plain stupid is what you are.

[Random_Walk]

http://dev.mysql.com/downloads/mysql/5.1.html<br /><br />Works just fine on OSX, is the same DB that Google uses for its operations, is far more flexible than anything not named "Oracle", plus it gives you the source code so you can modify the crap out of it. <br /><br />MS Access is universally recognized as useless legacy crap, and MS SQL Server will cost you a hefty chunk of change if you want a full-featured DB that you can actually use (instead of the useless "Express" model). We won't even get into just how resource-hungry SQL Server can get...

[wfseube]

Microsoft software - the sure-fire way to ruin a perfectly good computer. No thanks, I'll stick with MySQL or DB2 or FileMaker or anything that doesn't reek of Redmond.

[dzankizakon]

I would like to see Home and End keys on the MacBook. <br /> <br />Also, the "Enter" key is too small - I would put the backslash where the current "~" key is and use the space to make the Enter key bigger. Tilde character would then replace the totally useless "+-§" key. Also, I would remove the utterly useless "Eject" key and replace it with a Del key (what Fn+Backspace does now). <br /> <br />Apple is usually reasonable with ergonomics but the US keyboard layout is really bad.

[merlefisher]

All macs have home and end keys... just press the Command key, or the Fn key, and then use the up, down, left &#38;right arrow keys.

[perropicante]

I would also petition for the Delete key to be called Backspace, and for the addition of a Delete key. Having been used to Windows, the Mac keyboard is tough to get used to. And how hard would it be to put little labels that explain that Command/Fn + Up/Down/Left/Right maps to home.<br /><br />Apple hasn't made their keyboards easy to use for people who are switching over.

[dzankizakon]

merlefisher, I know that you can get Home by pressing Fn+Left, but I'm suggesting there should be a standalone Home key (and also a standalone End key). These are very useful and frequently used keys when editing text. <br /> <br />I think most people would agree that a dedicated Eject key is just ludicrous in this day and age. Even MacBook Air has an Eject key, and it doesn't even have an optical drive. <br /> <br />This just shows that MacBooks need a more careful look at their keyboard layout.

[doughaycock]

mission from macbook: new macbook "pros" have been downgraded from previous unibody macbooks from 3.0gbps HHD to 1.5gps. Sure, i could spring for the SSD to get 3.0 but i wanted to get the HHD and upgrade myself---not happening now. <br />Maybe that's why they increased the battery--to compensate for poor hd performance.

[jtsnyc47]

Actually? if you understood the issue? you'd know that it's the SATA controller that is limited? which means that your speed loss would only be noticeable if you were to upgrade to a high-end SSD. HDDs (even the 7200 rpm HDDs) don't achieve 3.0 gbps.<br />So for the 99% of the population that won't be running a RunCore SSD in their MBP? and assuming this wasn't an oversight that will be fixed by Apple? there won't be any perceptible difference to the end user.

[tipoo_]

jtsnyc47, even though there's no palpable difference with standard hard drives (7200RPM ones are close to the SATA 1.5Gib/s 150mb per second transfer speed , just FYI) there was no need for Apple to limit future upgrade paths. I'm sure it will be fixed in a firmware update soon though, as so many people are complaining. <br /><br /><br />And? Why? All? The? Question? Marks?

[gconnery]

Modern HDDs have RAM caches in them which cache both reads AND writes. So the 1.5Gbps=150MBps (actual thruput at 10bits per byte removing timing overhead of SATA) of throughput can be a limiting factor in performance even with HDDs. And that's not even counting the fact that certain 500GB 7,200rpm hard drives (Seagate 7200.4 say) can exceed the SATA 1 rate anyway.

[seven7dust]

It's hard to figure out wether this is a HD problem{usually a jumper setting can fix this}<br />or a Firmware problem <br />but it stinks !<br />Hopefully it gets sorted out fast

[TheBlueLeopard]

I have to wonder about the HDMI options. The more I look into hooking a computer up to a TV, the more I hear that VGA is the best, as it's designed for computers. Would HDMI output on a laptop result in a better experience?

[gconnery]

How about (a) the fact that it carries audio as well as video over a single cable... you really prefer hooking up multiple cables rather than just one? (b) the fact that it can handle higher fidelity audio like 5.1 surround tracks on a DVD say, which that headphone jack just can't (c) the fact that it would be a line level output, not affected by the current volume setting on the laptop, (d) lots of other reasons...

[superswiss]

You are kidding, right? VGA is an analog signal. So, the digital image on the computer side has to be converted to an analog signal to be sent over the wire and then has to be converted back to a digital signal so it can be displayed. If that's not an obvious lower quality solution to you as opposed to a direct lossless digital connection, then I don't know who you've been talking to. The whole point of HDMI, DVI and DisplayPort is so that you can achieve a lossless transmission of the video signal to today's digital displays.

[ofmyony]

HDMI has built in HDCP so you can view HD content. While Mac Pros don't come with Bluray it's nice to have the ability to watch protected content. VGA is an analog connector, DVI soon replaced VGA in many computers, DVI is a digital connector. HDMI replaced DVI in many computers because it's video capabilities are the same or similar as DVI but with the ability to stream multi-channel sound. While many HD Televisions have a VGA input you should get better results with HDMI at the proper resolution (Full HD is 1920x1080). <br /><br />I believe the VGA max resolution is 800x600 while the HDMI is 2560x1600 v1.3. So if you are using VGA you will get a very soft washed out picture. If you want the best picture use the HDMI port.

[mraardvark]

I can promise you that VGA is not limited to 800x600 and can handle higher resolutions than 1080. It does tend to produce a softer image on newer TV's but some of the blame lies on the TV's conversion of the analog signal and VGA signals are interlaced which also tends to produce softer images. <br /><br />If you took the same hard ware and hooked it up with VGA VS DVI (assuming you weren't using a 30 ft cable) I doubt most people could tell the difference.

[saffroncapital]

@ Aaron...<br /><br />You do realize that SQL Server is a Microsoft product and that Apple just can't walk in and port it over to Mac OS X - and maybe it even can't be ported over...<br /><br />As for Access? What a pile of crap....<br /><br />I've no doubt that Blu-Ray will come to Macs but not when... best to see where this is in 12 months. Apple could look at building cell wireless into MacBooks but I suspect the issue is the carriers not Apple. As for touch screens... don't be a tool. You have the trackpad for that and in Mac 10.6 you can draw Chinese characters on the trackpad... I'd expect a lot to come from this development...

[Get_a_life_Leo]

Just because a technology is available doesn't mean it should be incorporated. What's with a BluRay drive? To watch a movie? BluRay looks great on a 52" screen but its quality over DVD is much less discernible on a laptop screen. HDMI out? Why? How many people hook up their laptops to a big screen? For those few, there's the $15 buck adaptor. Matt screens should be an option, but there are after-market appliques available. Wireless broadband? Stick in a USB adaptor. <br /><br />For good or bad, Apple clearly has an agenda to avoid technologies it decides are not core to the use of its products. It has its own stake in digital media (not BluRay) and home theatre. Would these add-ons really translate into more sales? The best thing about the new MacBooks is the increased battery life and 8 GB RAM option. These are things that make a practical difference to most people.

[catch23]

It is just one more example of Apple telling you what is important and how you will use technology.<br /><br />Unlike the iSheeple, I would prefer to decide if BluRay or HDMI is important to me.

[holywarrior007]

Picture quality might be noticeable on larger screen. However, audio quality can easily be differentiated between DVD and Blu-ray. Besides Blu-ray disc burning provides another advantage to back up your data easily. Blu-ray has lots of advantages and one does not need to listen to Steve Jobs to understand this.

[djames42]

Good one you. I choose OS/X because I believe the user experience trumps that of Windows, I love having a proper shell (ksh scripting already rocked over anything Microsoft provides before Apple came along and gave it the ability to interact with the rest of the operating system via Automator and Applescripting), and frankly I'll take stability and security over the ability to watch a high-definition movie on a screen small enough that I won't notice much of a difference between it and the standard-definition DVDs I watch now.<br /><br />But then life is about choices innit.

[DrtyDogg]

@Get_a_life_Leo: HDMI isn't just for hooking up to big screens. Many monitors are coming with an HDMI connection now, way more than are coming with a display port connector. Blu-Ray, meh, I don't use it, but I can see where some people would want it. I'm with you on the broadband though, I just use my phone, and having it built in would make me pay extra/month.

[rrod182]

@DrtyDogg and everyone else. DisplayPort will eventually kill HDMI in PCs and laptops. It was designed to replace VGA and DVI and therefore supports the necessary resolutions for computing. HDMI was created to fix the shortcomings of S-Video and Component. You might see HDMI in consumer products, which the MBP is not. Also Get_a_life_Leo is right, why would Apple risk its stake in digital media? BluRay is great, but it'll be gone in a few years, even Sony is shifting gears to digital media with the new PSP and PS3 software.

[dmv915]

@rrod182<br />Personally I don't see Bluray going away in the next few years, unless some other sort of physical and commercially viable solution is to replace it. You claim that Sony is moving towards digital distribution, which I can believe is a good move, but I do not see this happening in the next few years. The major constraint on this will definitely be bandwidth. Yes, I can see distribution with games being possible, but movies are highly unlikely. I personally wouldn't like to be waiting around a whole day just to download bluray content, and only to be entertained for a few hours. The best solution at this point and most likely in the near future is still brick and mortar distribution.

[jumpjetta]

Apple has a business built on downloadable HD movies and has said they believe Blu-Ray is a stop-gap technology that'll not last. <br /><br />I tend to like that line of reasoning in that you don't wast resources on more stupid plastic discs nobody'll use in a few years. Audio CDs sure had their run, but look at the hundreds of millions of them (basically) headed to landfills. <br /><br />I think Apple will have shown to have made a smart move with this one. Just as they did with floppy drives and the original iMac. Everyone clamored about the lack of a floppy drive. Wow, and it was SUCH a big deal, too, not to have one. I think it was a lot of PC users who pretty much couldn't do without one, of course, since booting/loading a copy of Windows off an optical disc was just crazy-talk.

[deanbvfx]

Why Blu-Ray n Why HDMI cna be summed up in the same answer, you hook your blu-ray playing laptop upto your TV with a HDMI cable. Which is generally why many Blu-Ray playing laptops have a HDMI port. My parents use their laptop in this way, and up until we got a PS3 to do the task we'd steal our house mates Girlfriends laptop for watching films on the big tele.<br />Apple obviously think BD is going somewhere though as they are one of the BDA board of Directors sitting on the round table with Sony n Co. Why would you invest in a technology you don't think is going anywhere?

[b_baggins]

@catch23,<br /><br />And yet, I bet you use Windows....

[ivandrago]

I personally hook my HDX18 to big screen TVs everyday. I'm an English Instructor in S. Korea, and I find that having the HDMI and even the VGA connectors to be much more useful than the mini DisplayPort. It's so much easier to present in a classroom with a big screen vs a blackboard.

[Jeremy Chappell]

Personally I'd like (in no particular order)<br /><br />Rugged Mac Laptop<br />Mac Tablet (not a giant iPhone/iPod Touch - something that can run Mac OS X) ideally a convertible<br />MacBook sans web camera (there are plenty of situations where you can't use a device that includes a camera)<br />Internal IDcard reader<br /><br />The glossy screen doesn't seem like a problem (but I've only used them briefly) the Blu-Ray seems like a total non-issue (is anyone using Blu-Ray?) Tethered modem via Bluetooth works perfectly for me. Never encounter anything with HDMI that doesn't also have VGA.

[Vegaman_Dan]

Touch pad sensitivity adjustment. My MBP's touch pad is overly sensitive forcing me to keep my thumbs and palms above the touchpad by a couple of inches to avoid uinintentional mouse movements or focus changes. <br /> <br />Toshiba had this issue with the Portege R500 and R600 ultra light units . Their solution was a new driver with a sensitivity slider, along with the brilliant option to click that ignored touchpad input while the keyboard was in use. That meant you could type away blissfully, the heels of your hands fully down on the palm rest for proper ergnonomic positioning, and never accidentally click on anything. Need to use the touchpad? Stop typing and the touchpad is active. <br /> <br />Simple solution. I wish all laptops had this.

[GRobLewis]

Amen to that. My year-old MBP's touchpad is too sensitive.

[Seaspray0]

Nice, Dan. That's something I would like to see as well. It's also something that can be grandfathered into existing laptops.

[AppleProLeo]

@aaron<br /><br />"If Apple knew what a database was"<br /><br />HAHA. Are you kidding me or you just plain stupid - they own Filemaker, last I check that was a database application / company. <br /><br />Besides as already pointed out to you database/Access/SQL... are software and nothing to do with hardware. So I guess it's plain stupid is what you are.

[Seaspray0]

I agree on the database not being a relevent beef,. but don't exclude software entirely. Something like a really good voice recognition piece, or a good text to speech engine (all software) could be useful for those with disabilities.

[djames42]

Can we please have back the Express Card slot? Okay, Apple says they're utilised by a fraction of users, but those fractions of us really need them. The rest can fork over the whopping $20 for an EC/34 card reader that supports a lot more formats than just SD (incl XD, MS, SM).<br /><br />I don't get the fascination with Blu-Ray drives, as if some users simply cannot live without HD video on their little screens. DVD looks just fine to me on those rare occasions I actually watch DVD on my laptop. More often than not, if I'm watching video, it's been downloaded. Nothing says "I don't care about battery life" like a spinning optical drive :)

[seven7dust]

+1<br />agree Completely<br />Express card slot is way more functional than a lame SD slot<br />plus for 20$ you get a adapter to read all the different cards you can find !<br />it should have never been removed

[kelmon]

Apologies but I think you are being a bit selfish. If most people want an SD card slot, why shouldn't the laptop come with one, particularly when these things are available on laptops from many other manufacturers? Ideally, the MacBook Pro would come with both an ExpressCard slot and memory card reader but if that is not possible then the SD card slot makes much more sense. After all, why should the majority have to fork out another $20 for a device they probably do not know exists? Sorry.

[pithenumber]

why decide?<br />Apple should put both a card reader and an expresscard slot on the MacBooks<br />how hard could that be?

[Aaron Kempf]

no.. apple just doesn't understand the business world. databases run everything in the real world. FileMaker isn't popular-- you're stuck using a 2nd rate database product.

[Jeremy Chappell]

You're not serious that Access is better are you?<br /><br />Simply put Access gets everything wrong. It is horrendous, the number of stupid problems I see that can be placed at the door of Access is simply staggering. The lack of SQL Server on a laptop doesn't seem so bad. You can run plenty of perfectly good heavy weight database products on Mac OS X. Seriously dude, databases aren't a Mac shortcoming. If that's your only objection you really should get yourself to an Apple store and see what the Mac is all about.<br /><br />If you REALLY want SQL Server on your MacBook you can even do that, run some VM software and Windows. You can develop against that, and even check that it runs for Mac clients (and Linux too).

[AppleProLeo]

So now it's the business world - not database? Second rate or not (your opinion) it's still a database which belongs to Apple.<br /><br />Again what is this got to do with their hardware???????

[meh100]

Believe it or not, Apple is not the only one to make software that runs on Mac. MySQl, PostgreSQL, and Oracle all run on OS X and are all better than SQL Server.

[SteveW928]

@ Aaron Kempf -<br /><br />FileMaker isn't popular? Are you for real? I suppose next you'll tell us FM isn't a relational DB. LOL

[ewelch]

Filemaker isn't popular? Don't tell Disney. They run their company on it. Not to mention hundreds and hundreds of other companies that need databases that scale vastly more than Access can, and who don't want to pay the Microsoft client tax.

[kelmon]

Kindly explain why you think FileMaker is a 2nd rate database. I agree with you that Apple doesn't understand the business world (or simply isn't interested in catering to it) but this has nothing to do with the database software available for the Macintosh platform.

[Seaspray0]

Aaron Kempf. If you plan on complaining about the lack of a database on a laptop, it will fall on deaf ears. First, a database program is a back end product which uses front end apps to access and manipulate the data (even the front end apps require resources better than a laptop). ... Second, a laptop is not the proper hardware platform to host a business class database (lack of resources). mobility is not needed, nor are speakers, cameras, etc. You need a good server class product. <br /> <br />Basically, asking for a database on a laptop is like asking for racing tires on a smart-for-2 car. <br /> <br />@Jeremy Chappell. Access is designed to be a customizable front end application for databases. If you have any complaints, take it up with the person who customized it (If you open access, it starts out as a blank template). Other than web development or visual basic apps, I've seen no other product that allows you to build your own interface to link to a database. It's a database interface design tool that average people can work with, nothing more. <br /> <br />It's not access that's horrendous, it's what you did with it that was.

[-Roddly]

meh100 - I am a fan of PL/SQL, but even I have to admit that Oracle is not better than SQL Serv anymore. We are a multi-db shop, and I work in both regularly as an applications developer. It was better 3 years ago, but now they are really lagging behind on support for the latest and greatest technologies whereas SQL Serv supports everything Oracle does and more. Even our DB admin is now a believer in SQL Serv, as it makes makes his part of the job a lot less of a headache. <br /><br />Access is good for apps that use small localized databases. I personally find it good for experimenting with new technologies in quick and dirty demo apps. For what it is meant for, it is great, but It is not good for large business applications which is what really matters.

[Aaron Kempf]

Maybe Apple should buy 'Sybase' and start to offer real end-to-end database solutions. <br /> <br />Maybe Oracle should buy Apple -- and make Apple realize that graphics designers arent' the only customers out there in the real world. <br /> <br />No-- Access doesn't suck-- yes-- it can be mis-used.. But it's vastly superior to anything available on the Mac. <br /> <br />No-- It's not Microsoft's problem. Databases are gravy.. and if Microsoft wants to include gravy with their own products-- and not apples--- that is their perogative. <br /> <br />That is what Microsoft gains by producing wildly successful software from the top of the database world-- to the bottom of the database world. <br /> <br />www.olapreport.com - Oracle hasn't been competitive with Microsoft SQL Server for at least a decade (ESPECIALLY on large databases)

[Jeremy Chappell]

Access doesn't suck? Err, what?! Now I'm not about to knock every Microsoft product, but Access?! Does anyone else here rate Access? Access lets you put spaces in field names (so you build it, can you now port it onto say "Microsoft SQL Server"? Nope!). Access has no idea about what a transaction is (I have a form with an embedded form, I create an order record, but I escape out before adding the order details... what happens?) I write my application (God help me) in VBA, will it run in the new version?<br /><br />How can you love this product? Seriously.<br /><br />No I've never used FileMaker, but it can't be worse than this (I suspect it's no better... but it can't be worse)<br /><br />Sybase does run on the Mac BTW<br /><br />Do you really care about databases? Are you just some hopeless MS-fanboi? Now I'm not saying the Mac is perfect for everything, but I am saying Macs are more than fine for databases.

[kangotang]

What does it matter? If Apple's don't cut it for you then don't buy one. There are some downsides to using Apple machines in the business world, but I'd say the lack of MS Access is hardly one of them. But as someone who uses both Windows and OS X on a daily basis I can tell you that Apple's are hardly a "toy." Try keeping an XP workstation running for 4 years with no issues. It can be done, but it takes very cautious user. With OS X re-formats and 'rescues' are rare. UNIX anyone?

[djames42]

"No-- Access doesn't suck-- yes-- it can be mis-used.. But it's vastly superior to anything available on the Mac."<br /><br />Oh God, you're right. Access mops the floor with Oracle, PostgreSQL and MySQL. I'd much rather have a database that allows corrupted records because it doesn't support true row-level locking and proper transactions. Oh yeah, and I'm quite certain Access could handle thousands of transactions per second because it's just that scalable.<br /><br />Actually, I'm sorry to contradict you, but Access does indeed suck. At least when compared to just about anything comparable on the Mac.

[Random_Walk]

You. Must. Be. Joking. You claim that Access is a "real" database, claim that Microsoft makes "wildly successful" DB software (when SQL server sits at a distant 3rd place behind IBM and Oracle), then point out one (damned small) segment of the DB market and use it to proclaim SQL Server as somehow better than Oracle? <br /><br />What color is the sky on your planet? Us Earth folk would like to know.

[SteveW928]

@ Aaron Kempf - <br /><br />First, did you know you can respond to your threads above rather than starting new ones? (though maybe I can see why you didn't... as you kinda got whooped by the responses...)<br /><br />Second... as others noted, there are MANY db apps available for the Mac. MySQL, PostgresSQL, etc... including FileMaker (which as someone noted, Apple owns... so they know more than a bit about DBs). You simply don't know what you're talking about.<br /><br />But the really funny thing is complaining about DBs and then using Access as your example.. and being unaware of FileMaker. Are you really serious? You really need to climb out of your M$ pit one of these days and take a look around.

[ewelch]

Give up already. You've been pwned over and over.

[Seaspray0]

@jeremy chappel. "can you now port it onto say "Microsoft SQL Server"? " YES YOU CAN. Don't make statements on something you are clearly ignorant about.

[-Roddly]

Aaron Kempf is right. I don't care about the Win vs Apple battle here or dissing either one. All I care about is clearing up the misinformation about the aforementioned databases, and SQL Server is better than Oracle and has been. Don't mistake market share for capabilities because even we still have some ancient obsolete sybase servers. Not every company wants to switch DB's even if it's obsolete, because it is the grandest of undertakings and risky, especially if it is supporting a system like your financial management system.

[camp88]

So let me see if I've got this right . . . <br /><br />One of the things that's "still missing" from the Mac is the touch screen which, as you yourself point out, is already available (and has been available for years)? <br /><br />So how, exactly is that "still missing"? <br /><br />That is, what part of your own independent clause, "someone has already done this" don't you understand?

[Randys2cents]

has anyone mentioned the huge performance gains on the new USB 3.0 spec yet?

[bluelight421]

Is this all CNET knows how to do anymore, pick out everything that is missing from the MacBook lines even after Apple slashes the prices and continues to improve upon them. I'm not being a fanboy or whatever else people could call me but holy crap. Every time Apple refreshes the MacBook line, somebody is unhappy. <br /> <br />1) Matte Screen - I will give you this Dan! This would be a great option for the whole line but lets face it, glossy screens are the standard for some stupid reason right now. <br /> <br />2) Blu Ray - who the hell cares and who really is that desparate to watch 1080p high def movies on their new 13" MB Pro. Purchase them from iTunes in 1080i and I promise you will not care enough to notice the difference on that small of a screen! It's a luxury and Jobs already said in his "bag of hurt" comment that it's not on Apple's agenda right now. So lets get over Blu Ray. <br /> <br />3) Mobile BB - Purchase a laptop connect card from any of the major wireless carriers, or tether via your smartphone. This does not need to be built in, you are nit-picking here Dan. <br /> <br />4) HDMI - I wont beat this one down because many MB users may actually want this instead of Display Port due to the lack of Display Port monitors out there (minus Apple's own monitor). <br /> <br />5) Touch Screens - Really?! How well are Tablets doing right now might I ask? They make up say... 2% of the entire market. MacBooks don't need touch screens, as they have multi-touch trackpads which make many basic tasks much simpler. I'm sure Apple will release the new iProd or whatever the hell you wanna call it fairly soon. Just be patient if your that desparate for an OS X Tablet!

[talking poo]

I think that's short sighted to slam on Touch Screens. <br /><br />That's like saying Apple shouldn't have gotten into the smartphone market b/c only 1% of the users (at the time) were using smartphones. Or what about MP3 players? What was the market before Apple got in? <br /><br />Obviously if Apple did a Tablet, they'd re-invent the market for the better. One of their specialties.

[ironsnakemx]

Oh my god please stop it ...... Dan is just saying things that he would love in a Mac ,....... I for once use HDMI to hook my laptop to my tv and watch bluray movies, so i can understand why a lot of people would love that in a Mac.......besides everyone is perfectlly capable of deciding what is important for them and whats not ...... obviously for a mac troll there is nothing new you can add to a mac because its already perfect for them , and for a Windows Zombie the Mac is a Useless toy because it does not have hdmi, not that good for games, its not easy to upgrade them.......etc etc.... none of you are going to change your opinions based on what is written in this article

[Seaspray0]

@bluelight. You make a point. So, here's some things I'd like to see on PC laptops... 1. less "glittering" led's. I've seen some models with a lit indicator for just about everything (I would rather have the battery life). 2. HDMI. Yep, want it on PC laptops too. 3. Touch screens. Only a few models have them and windows 7 will have the support built in. I'd like to see more. 4. DTV receiver. Why not? I think it would be a neat option. <br /> <br />So, don't feel picked on. There's wish lists for every make/model.

[geekbully]

How about a hard drive busy light? Was surprised there wasn't one. It's not a huge deal but every now and then I like to see when the HDD is busy so I can stop giving the computer additional tasks.

[Jahntassa]

How about the ability to close the lid and NOT have the computer go to sleep! Maybe I WANT it to keep doing what it was doing while I walk across the office.

[geekbully]

Agreed. The rules outlined in the Power Save preferences should apply to both open and closed states. There's got to be way to change that in a config file somewhere...

[xason]

Try InsomniaX http://www.macupdate.com/info.php/id/22211

[geekbully]

Thanks xason. Trying this now. btw here's a link that works for the software: http://www.versiontracker.com/dyn/moreinfo/macosx/30315

[geekbully]

Ok InsominiaX absolutely wrox! It supplements the existing Power Saver settings instead of over-riding them (which I like). It'll cost you about 10MB of RAM but worth it for me. This was one problem that was really starting to annoy me. Thanks again for the solution xason!