Macworld 2007: Axiotron unveil the ModBook "Mac Tablet"
I’m sure there are plenty of Mac users who’ve wished that Apple would create a tablet version of their notebook computers, but so far it hasn’t happened.
Axiotron to the rescue, who seem to have done a fantastic job at converting the latest MacBook machines into ModBooks – Mac OS X based tablet computers.
The ModBook is an ‘after-market hardware modification solution’ – in other words they buy ’em in as MacBooks and do the modifications, giving the new creations pen input, 13.3″ wide screen LCD, and optional GPS, in a tough, satin chrome-plated magnesium top shell. Everything else that makes the MacBook what it is remains.
Mac OS X already comes with built-in Inkwell handwriting recognition, which is usually reserved for adding standalone graphics tablets to a system, but here is used to convert input from the radio-based digitiser technology of the pen. The pen doesn’t even have to touch the screen, reducing wear, and making it intuitive to learn. Renowned tablet manufacturers Wacom have their patented pen input technology incorporated into the ModBook.
The optional GPS unit means the ModBook could well be a serious contender for ‘in-field’ applications.
Of course, because it’s still a notebook Mac, it comes with everything else you’d expect, such as the iSight camera, built-in CD/DVD burner, and Apple Remote.
It comes with up to a 2.0GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor and up to 2GB of RAM.
It will be available in Europe from the second half of 2007. Its introductory US price in $2199 for the entry-level machine, rising to $2699 for the high-end machine (normally $2849)
Prepare to want one.
Axiotron
More conference coverage: Macworld 2007 | CES 2007
