- MacBook Air and MacBook Pro hardware update announcements.
- MacBook Pro with Retina display new product announcement.
- iOS6 - the upcoming mobile devices' operating system.
- Mountain Lion - Apple's other upcoming operating system.
- Software refinements for personal assistance and personal navigation, and a seamless Facebook experience.
Both the refreshed and the new MacBook models are available online now, iOS6 releases to consumers this fall, and Mountain Lion becomes available within a month.
I didn't attend the keynote address, I am not participating in any WWDC events, and I am not a developer. There are many, many posts and podcasts dissecting each announced feature and benefit. So what's the purpose of this post? What can I add to the conversation without having a first-hand story? What's keeping me from repeating every technical specification shared earlier today?
I am one of Apple's target markets; I am a consumer. I buy things, and I often look to Apple to fill my need for devices having operating systems. We all buy based on our emotions, and then we all justify every purchase subjectively. Colors, options, fit and finish, and brand names are among the reasons each of us is willing to pay more for the things we "need."
Within the next two years, I will replace my 13" Mid-2010 MacBook Pro. Conjecture alone leaves me hopeful that I will have a decision to make between 13" models. As of yesterday, buyers targeting the 15" model will buy either an updated but very familiar MacBook Pro or a very new Air-like model with Retina display. To wildly oversimplify this purchasing decision, this is a choice between having the high-end of what you need to be productive, and having the one thing many sitting at your gate will noisily watch you use.
Fearing I will have no choice as I make my final purchasing decision, it may be time to discover how I can thrive without either an optical drive or a spinning hard drive. In exchange for these sacrifices, I will likely be left using a very fast platform that provides a remarkable auditory and visual experience. Memorable sensory experiences are often sources of inspiration.