macbook pro prototype
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Prototype MacBook Pro repair parts returned to owner, 3G antenna stays in Cook's kitchen
Wondering what happened to that prototype 3G MacBook Pro Apple had pulled off eBay? Not too long ago, the boys in Cupertino reclaimed the specimen, along with a handful of spare parts the would-be auctioneer used to get the rig back into working order. After relinquishing of the prototype to Apple security in early September, previous owner Carl Frega petitioned the firm to return the repair parts to him. Last week, Frega finally received an unmarked FedEx package containing a notebook battery, hard drive, and two sticks of RAM. Despite the repossession, CNET reports that the outfit never gave Frega proof that the machine legally belonged to Apple, although he did say that the hardware and serial number were authentic. For more on the MacBook's journey through Craigslist, small claims court and its 15 minutes of eBay fame, hit the second CNET link below.
3G MacBook Pro auction pulled, MagSafe antenna detailed
Remember the prototype MacBook Pro on eBay that included a SIM card slot and retractable antenna? Bids for the laptop had reached an eye-watering $70,000 before, inevitably, Apple blocked the auction. Now the seller has posted more images of the device, revealing the antenna was held in place with two magnets -- a MagSafe-like connection that would come away if it was knocked or caught. No news as to what the seller intends to do with the machine now, maybe clutch it to their chest and cry themselves to sleep having missed out on a small fortune. Past the break you can stare mournfully at another new image of the prototype - free of charge.
Prototype MacBook Pro with SIM slot surfaces on eBay, unicorns actually exist
Always dreamt of a Apple notebook with built-in WWAN? Looks like today's your lucky day: a prototype MacBook Pro just surfaced on eBay, replete with a SIM card slot and retractable antenna in tow. Expecting a nonfunctional parts machine off Craigslist, its newfound owner managed to resuscitate the 2007-esque gizmo into booting, but was unfortunately unable to coax any GSM goodness from the thing. According to the seller, regular MacBook Pros from the era contain the same (but unused) solder points for the SIM card as the proto, lending credence to the notion that Cupertino might have seriously considered a 3G variant. Either way, if you've got a knack for rare Apple collectibles, or feel the need to ogle and some red-colored innards, hit the source below.
