Apple almost snuck this one past us, but friendly tipster Graham spotted the change-up: Apple has swapped out the standard wired Apple Keyboard for a new model lacking a numeric keypad. It's the same design as the
wireless model, which also lacks a numeric keypad, except that this one has USB plugs on each end, and a cord of its own snaking towards your otherwise immaculate desktop. The good news is that the regular keyboard hasn't gone anywhere, you just have to make sure to configure your new purchase with it when you order -- it's a free "upgrade." Inversely, the Mac Pros still ship with the regular keyboard, but you can get 'em numpad-free if you'd like, for a similar zero cost. We're not sure what game you're at, Apple, but if you're trying to make us forget all those maths we struggled so hard to comprehend back in the day... well, OK, you win. Another straight-on shot of the keyboard is after the break.
[Thanks, Graham]
posted March 3rd 2009 9:50AM
The only time this would be handy is in a scenario where the machine would not be handled regularly. Why would it be the default option.
I was given an alu wireless keyboard and while it looks great and is nice and smal on my desk I keep having to plug in my wired alu one when I work. Typing numbers into Quark/InDesign using the top keys is cumbersome.
I'd love a full-sized wireless board.
That's pretty dumb.
So is the option of adding the one with the keypad, for only 0.00$ more.
I've always thought the numpad should be on the left side of the keyboard (Insert, Delete, etc. and the arrow keys would not move). This effectively centers the letter keys, which is where you'd want them. True, you'd need to relearn number entry using the left hand, but at least you wouldn't have to pick your hand up from the mouse.
creo que si tienes opcion de escojer es mejor, a algunos les gusta sin el pad numerico y a otros con, que Apple deje decidir a los usuarios cual quiere es lo mejor. Y aunque sea dificil de creer de Apple gratis!.
I'm left handed, and years ago when I did play games on my computer, I always remapped the WASD to the numpad 8456. Numberpad is more ergo if you are lefty.
Alas, almost all shortcuts are not too handy, when you have to put down the mouse (or stylus in my case) when you have to, um, key them.
The effects of this recession are far and wide!
While Apple cuts corners it helps users "forget" about those silly numbers!
To everyone saying: "It's a free add-on". Yeah, sure, on the online BTO store, if you want to wait a week to get the machine. If you want to go into the store to get a machine now today, they'll only have the pre-packaged options without the extended keyboard.
Which is the whole point of this - 90% of people have no idea about the option and will walk into an apple store in the mall and buy an iMac and get what they get, saving apple a million bucks a year or whatever. Making it a free upgrade online is just a way to shut up the people who know what they're doing and mask the cost-saving measure as "choice".
oh no! whatever will i do now that i have to choose between having a keypad or not when i'm buying all my new imacs?
Maybe this is an attempt to get themselves extra Green Points for saving on materials?
That's stupid...
..still not colemak.
numpad through software... = P
that really dumb, most DAW/video editing software use those keys as shortcuts
Next: Apple removes numbers and letters from it's keypad. Replaces with a giant scrollwheel.
Personally I don't care about the numpad but as a programmer I rely on the proper arrow keys and home/end etc keys. I wish Apple would make the exact configuration I want but I can handle having an unused numpad.
You idiots, don't any of you bother reading the article before ranting? It says it is a FREE OPTION. You still get the numberpad-ful Keyboard, or If you find it is unnecessary for you, you can choose tick the option for the wireless keyboard design.
Now /rantersgodieinahole
Okey...okey you win, Apple.
To make keyboard without numeric keypad as default in retail package will definitely save some $,
and u "kindly" let user to "upgrade" it without extra cost.
Fine. Its always appreciated to have "choice", but..
where is my Wireless Keyboard WITH numeric keypad, Apple ??!?!?!?! huh?!?!?!
To the haters, have you used an apple keyboard? I have friends that are def not huge apple fans but they love the way it types and have one on their PCs. It is an awesome feeling keyboard. I type faster on mine than any of the MS natural or logitech ones I own.
now if only they' make a wireless version with the numeric keypad! i'd buy that instantly.
i actually like it...
dont shoot me! lol.
its... cute =p
plus it reminds me of my macbook air keypad. which is good cause i LOVE my macbook air's keyboard
Well I'm glad I bought mine a couple months ago then. I love my numeric keypad. I love the look of my keyboard.
Seriously gimps, wake up - not EVERYONE wants a numpad, just because you do. Open your eyes a little, and realise there's a GREAT deal more people in the world... all you need to do is shut down your computer, open the door and... BANG!! look!! PEOPLE!!! (and they exist OUTSIDE your bedroom!). :-O
It's a good idea, expanding a product range to precisely match the requirements of personal taste. Grow up, put your shoes on and go for a stroll - and yes... that means venturing OUTSIDE ;-)
It's nice that everyone just looked at the picture.
Apple doesn't grandfather tech they want to lose; if they were getting rid of it, it wouldn't still be an option.
I never realised how much I loved my numpad until this day.