Wednesday, January 12, 2005

iObsolete

I had a fun time at MacWorld yesterday.
There's a couple of funny things that happen whenever I go:

First of all, unless you bought one of their products within the last 2 months, you'll immediately feel obsolete. This always happens to me. Last year was the first time that I went that I actually felt "hip" and up-to-date. I had recently bought a 15" Titanium Powerbook (which had finally elevated me into the world of USB and Firewire, and away from my old SCSI devices) and Dick had bought me a 40GB iPod for Xmas 2003. At last, I was at MacWorld with all the current, cool toys, and all of the accessories that I saw were actually relevant!

This year, I have an older model Powerbook, and my iPod is already more or less obsolete. I have what's known as the 3rd generation iPod. Last year, Apple launched both the Mini iPod, as well as the click-wheel full-sized iPod. I was looking mostly at the protective skins that you slip over the iPods, and almost none of the vendors had any merchandise for my model. (I'd have to order it online).

Those guys at Apple... they have a way of making you think you need to buy the newest stuff each year...

Which brings me to my second point: Dick and his friends call it "The Apple/Steve Jobs reality distortion field". They showcase their new products, and you immediately think, "I HAVE to have one". "How did I ever live without one?" :)

I saw the new iPod Shuffle showcased at the Apple booth before I had a chance to read anything about them. Initial reaction: they are fabulous. Tiny, lightweight, good UI, and really good for working out, etc., and all for $99! I came home and told Dick all about it, and thought he should get one for his commute on the train. His reply: "It sounds to me like YOU really want one." Hmmm... he's probably right.

The Mini Mac was also pretty cool to see in person. When Dick bought his new Dell last year, it was a complete package: CPU, monitor, keyboard, mouse, speakers, etc., Which is all good and fine, but what if you already have all of that (minus the CPU) That means, you have extras, which you either store, give away, donate, etc,. I think it makes sense to offer the CPU without all of the accessories at a lower price than the whole kit and caboodle. At least it's nice to have the option.

...and, you know.... it's cute as can be. (which is really what Apple products are all about)

So, what did I buy? I was a good girl. I bought a new long-sleeved t-shirt from the MacWorld booth. It matches my short-sleeved, white t-shirt that I bought last year (and just love)

What does it say?

"Mac Chick" :)

I also got a XtremeMac SporrtWrap for my iPod. I was looking for something like this for when I take my daily walks, or work out. (you know, for when I actually have my iPod again)

That's it so far.

I was also pretty enamored by the Adobe Creative Suite Presentation. Might be time to upgrade to the entire suite.
I'm such a sucker.
..a geeky sucker.

I think I must be their target audience.

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