If you recall MacWorld 2007 you may just remember the announcement of the ModBook, a MacBook converted into a tablet with pressure sensitive touch screen. Well, with all the delays on production and rumors it may just disappear, there is word that it will be shipping around January 8th of 2008. So is there much demand/desire for a tablet mac?

When I think of tablet computers I immediately think of the ToughBooks by Panasonic and the commercials showing construction workers using them and people spill coffee on their computer so I guess a few professions would benefit from this. Despite my overall skepticisim about the product, Axiotron is about to bring to the market, the first official tablet mac machine. Essentially, they are modifying the off the shelf Apple MacBook and integrating a tablet that allows for a pen-based user experience vs. a keyboard. As declared by Axiotron, the ModBook is:

Built for mobile users, artists, students and professionals, the ModBook enables its user to draw and write directly on the screen, while the handwriting recognition built into Mac OS® X Tiger not only turns hand scribbles into text in every application, but also provides extended control of the system through gesture recognition. The ModBook comes standard with a built-in iSight™ camera and an integrated CD/DVD combo drive that can be upgraded to a 8.5 GB DVD burner, and it is the only portable Mac solution that also features an optional built-in Global Positioning System (GPS).

Since a large portion of this machine is made up of the touch sensitive screen, they’ve built the shell with aircraft quality magnesium alloy, which results in great strength. It has a scratch resistant surface and the screen and built in iSight are covered with replaceable screen covers. According to Axitron, the surface is so scratch resistant they don’t believe you should even need a sleeve or carrying case.

There is a nice video from MacWorld showcasing the ModBook and all of these features especially the GPS!

I’m pretty impressed with and excited about the GPS system that is optional but can be built in. Axiotron states that its build with the leading SiRFstar TM III chipset which allows for faster first location fix times and improved tracking capabilities. Take this bad boy in the car with you and have the maps right there on your ModBook screen directing your every move!

This machine, hands down is an eye catcher. Another huge step in the Apple stride for world domination! Although, its slated for students, artists and professionals, I’m still struggling with how using a machine like this is beneficial to a user such as myself…or most users for that matter. Granted, it’s extremely cool and probably fun to play with to start, is it actually going to enhance and improve ones computing experience? I’m not sold in that regard yet.

Do you see yourself buying a ModBook? Are they practical? Would your profession benefit from a tablet mac?

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This entry was posted on Wednesday, December 26th, 2007 at 11:13 am and is filed under Apple, News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.