11 ms·

Apple Magic Trackpad

156 points by mickeyben 16y ago

teilo 16y ago
Hmm. Maybe for my Mac Mini in my entertainment center, but I much prefer a trackball at the desk. No doubt BetterTouchTool will be updated to support this, making it far more useful: http://blog.boastr.net/ http://blog.boastr.net/
- cwalcott 16y ago
  Yeah, I could see using it for my Mac Mini, I just wish you could somehow attach it to the wireless keyboard. Having two separate devices on your lap doesn't really work...
username3 16y ago
Can it track eleven points of contact like MacBooks? http://www.gottabemobile.com/2009/11/09/track-11-fingers-on-your-macbook-inconceivable/ http://www.gottabemobile.com/2009/11/09/track-11-fingers-on-...
- dedward 16y ago
  They did say it was the exact same touchpad, just bigger... so very likely.
buro9 16y ago
Finally some of the stuff from fingerworks starts to surface as add-ons products for desktops. I've been wanting something to replace my long dead fingerworks keyboard, so I for one am happy. Now... if only there were drivers for something other than just OSX.
- robgough 16y ago
  I would replace my mouse at work with this in a heartbeat, but I'm a .net developer by day and need those windows drivers. (I use an MBP at home) I think they're missing a huge opportunity here by not providing those drivers. Obviously an opportunity they have decided they don't care about, I just wish they did.
  - napierzaza 16y ago
    Maybe if enough people ask? Or the product is generally popular enough? The iPod and the iPhone are only so popular because they embraced PC in all its ... glory. Hopefully they're already working on this.
    - bombs 16y ago
      The iPod didn't support Windows when it was released. Maybe Apple are doing the same thing here; I'm sure by not supporting Windows, they're able to get a better product out much quicker.
      - robgough 16y ago
        Fair point. It would be nice if they would at least commit to bringing Windows support in the future. I can't imagine this would affect actual sales though, just another of example of when Apple's secrecy can be irritating for some of us.
        irons 16y ago
        For Apple to commit to anything in advance, let alone Windows support for a brand-new peripheral, would be evidence of takeover by pod people, and thus not nice at all. Windows support for the original iPod arrived two years later.
        redrobot5050 16y ago
        Again, they were testing the market with the true believers. The music industry viewed the 2-3 million mac users back then as a nice microcosm they could experiment on. If it failed, it wouldn't get much press because back then nobody used macs.
    - rythie 16y ago
      Given Windows is suggested as an option on their machines, maybe they will write a driver. Either way I'm sure someone will write one for Linux.
- jwr 16y ago
  Some of us still use our FingerWorks TouchStream keyboards :-) (and keep two spares, in case the main one ever breaks)
  - francoisdevlin 16y ago
    And some of us got to play in the original figerworks lab...
  - buro9 16y ago
    That's where I failed... why on earth didn't I buy a second? Oh yes, the price. Which is also why I don't pick up one off of eBay, they're incredible nowadays with some going for an easy £600 or more. For that price I'd rather buy a great monitor.
tmlee 16y ago
I dont know, it just seems weird to be positioned on the right (where the mouse is)... well, won't know till i try it~
- vegasbrianc 16y ago
  I agree with you. It looks handy but dont know till I give it a go and see how useful it actually is.
- dedward 16y ago
  Just because nobody's really done it before... it does seem weird - especially if you want to use a mouse. - It's cordless - you can put it on the left or right or anywhere else. - You don't strictly need a mouse. - I remember thinking the touch-surface on the magic moues was silly -but now I miss it when Idon't have it... and I actually suspect (won't know until I try) that the increased size of the new touchpad will be an important factor - you'll essentially be able to use a finger like a mouse on a pad - without needing to necessarily resposition very much - giving you veyr mouse-like behavior.
suraj 16y ago
It should have been a mouse pad you can touch. Probably with a different design for mouse (you just need a metal point instead of trackball/optics).
- dedward 16y ago
  You can use your finger....
adolph 16y ago
I'm amazed that Apple seems so set on the AA battery format for desk peripherals that it is releasing a AA battery charger with the trackpad. I don't find AA objectionable, but Apple's marketing regarding removable batteries centers around "we can pack more battery in by eliminating the packaging."
- mbateman 16y ago
  Yeah, I was wondering about that too. Maybe they figure that making a battery charger is with AA batteries, in these cases, better than putting any sort of power input on the otherwise sleek device? An iPad or iPhone needs inputs on it to begin with, but solely bluetooth peripherals don't.
  - keltex 16y ago
    I really like how Logitech solves this problem with their Performance MX mouse. It takes a AA battery and includes a rechargeable AA battery. When the mouse's battery runs low, you just connect the (included) micro-USB cable. The mouse recharges and can be used at the same time, albeit tethered. Once's it's charged, put the cable away and keep on working.
- cubicle67 16y ago
  shhh.... I don't think Steve know this has removable batteries ;)
- replicatorblog 16y ago
  My guess is that it has to do with the battery losing its ability to hold charge with time. It makes sense to engineer a massive new battery for the iPhone or Macbook, but these peripherals don't have the same volume or margin cushion to absorb the cost, hence off the shelf battery technology. Also, I think most people expect to change out a computer every couple years, but a mouse is supposed to last longer. If the thing became incapable of holding charge after 18 months it would get customers riled. After using a Magic Mouse for 6 months, I can say the rechargeable battery station is a must buy, I have to change my MM batteries every 3 weeks or so.
jlcgull 16y ago
Now Apple just needs to incorporate this into the "iPad Keyboard Dock" and I'll be more than happy to buy!
- raimondious 16y ago
  How would that work? There's no cursor for it to control on the iPad.
  - deleted 16y ago
    [deleted]
  - roc 16y ago
    It could work. They could add a simulator-esque cursor without too much technical trouble. That said, it shouldn't. Why would anyone prefer indirect manipulation of a cursor over direct manipulation of the screen elements? If you've got an iPad in a keyboard dock, you're primarily writing and occasionally navigating. I don't see the use case. Gorilla-arm would only set in if you were primarily navigating, in which case you'd just undock the thing.
maukdaddy 16y ago
As a lefty this would be awesome. {Magic Trackpad}{Keyboard}{Mouse} Ultimate productivity!
- pilif 16y ago
  this is an awesome idea. I'm able to use both hands equally well (though I might be hinging a tad bit to prefer the left hand). This could mean that I can alternate my pointing hand here and then
- blasdel 16y ago
  And that would be the last of Doug Engelbart's inventions to succeed in the market: http://www.cedmagic.com/history/first-computer-mouse.html http://www.cedmagic.com/history/first-computer-mouse.html
- mrfabbri 16y ago
  This mirrors my macbook setup [which I enjoy pretty much] with the external monitor: [mouse][keyobard][macbook trackpad] :-)
davidedicillo 16y ago
If you use BetterTouchTool or MagicPrefs with your Magic Mouse you can get all those touch features in your mouse, that is definitely better when it comes to move a cursor.
- Hovertruck 16y ago
  I think it's a matter of preference. I've been saying how much I wanted to ditch my mouse for a desktop version of the MBP trackpad since I got my laptop.
  - robgough 16y ago
    Here Here. I used to hate trackpads, so much so that I only ever used laptops with "nipples" (see ThinkPad). The MacBook with two-finger scroll was revolutionary for me, and I've never seen any manufacturer beat that pad. Well, any other manufacturer. The glass trackpad on my MBP is something else, and this is just a bigger version of that. Awesome. Apple are unbelievably ahead of the curve on this, I'm not quite sure why the other manufacturers are failing so badly. The trackpad on my HP workstations are as-good-as unusable in comparison. I always have to use a mouse.
vlucas 16y ago
This looks like a nice product and I do really love the multitouch pad on the MacBooks, but I'm so sick of Apple calling everything "Magic" and "Revolutionary".
chunkbot 16y ago
For wireless peripherals, non-charging AA batteries are a better choice than any charging dock or solution. Why spend every day docking/undock the thing (or charging the batteries when they die) when I can slip new batteries in once every 6 months?
- deno 16y ago
  If you have a digital camera of some sort then you're probably already accustomed to charging batteries anyway. I think recharging batteries is less messy than buying new ones each time. You have to stock them ahead of time (storage area), and remember to restock after resupplying your device (which you'll probably forget). Don't forget that each time you have to access new batteries you'll need to fight with those plastic containers and chances are you won't have scissors on you, use knife instead and kill or wound yourself in the process. Also, environment.
  - chunkbot 16y ago
    I'm inclined to agree with you regarding devices that you take outside the house, like a digital camera. My comment was more about desktop peripherals. To address your points: 1) A 24 pack of AA batteries somewhere near your desk should last over a year, and you should have storage area somewhere to accommodate it. 2) AA batteries generally come in easy-to-rip cardboard packs, so no fighting with the container and hurting yourself. 3) The environment argument could fall either way; I suspect neither of us has seen definitive research regarding the total environmental cost of disposable vs. rechargeable batteries.
    - deno 16y ago
      For devices that you keep at home any kind of batteries are really just a workaround for actual wireless electricity. Anyway my point is that most people that buy wireless trackpads probably already own power-sucking devices like digital cameras and so have invested, and are accustomed, to charging their batteries. In this case keeping additional non-rechargeable batteries wouldn't provide any benefits and would only add to confusion, as you have to be careful not to mix them. If you are not already enslaved to your digital camera's power inefficiency then perhaps buying brand new batteries might be more comfortable. In regard to environment your 24 pack of AAs wouldn't probably have any significant difference whatsoever and you won't live long enough to observe any. The impression, though, that rechargeable batteries are more environmental friendly will provide you with nice dopamine boost each time your device needs resupplying.
wmeredith 16y ago
I'd really like it if two of these would play nice with other. I could see doubling up with one on each side of my keyboard. (Been thinking about this for a while.) I know little to nothing about hardware (UX/marketing guy) does any one more knowledgeable consider this use of the driver probable as built in functionality?
akamaka 16y ago
I've been waiting for this since the rumors first started surfacing. As someone who uses a $100+ Kensington trackball, this is a bargain. If anyone has information on Windows 7 drivers for the Magic Mouse (whichare presumably the same), let us know! Otherwise I'll have to write them myself. :)
deleted 16y ago
[deleted]
againstyou 16y ago
a copy of wacom bamboo touch ? http://www.wacom.com/bamboo/bamboo_touch.php http://www.wacom.com/bamboo/bamboo_touch.php http://www.wacom.com/embed/player_inplay.swf http://www.wacom.com/embed/player_inplay.swf
napierzaza 16y ago
This is a great idea, it's one of the reasons I wasn't prepared to get a desktop over a laptop (besides the obvious portability). I think in the future there will be more integration of something like the iPad or the iPhone as direct interface to the computer.
rbxbx 16y ago
I've been waiting years for this. YAY.
deleted 16y ago
[deleted]
pilif 16y ago
Back in the days, I always preferred the Trackpoints the IBM ThinkPads used and I never quite liked the trackpads. I'm even going as far as to say that I'm quite the trackpad hater - they never felt precise to me and required way too frantic finger movement to be really comfortable for me. But when I moved to Apple hardware, I basically was stuck with the trackpads, but this time around, it was different. The bigger size meant less finger movement and with the advent of multi touch, it suddenly felt like a more "natural" way to control the machine. With the newer Macbook pros came this "the trackpad is the button" functionality and while it took me a day or so of getting used to, I absolutely cannot work with the dedicated button pads any more. Seing how quickly this became muscle memory, I assume that they did something (no idea what) right when they moved to that design. This is how I went from "I hate trackpads" to "trackpads are the only really natural way to control the machine". With this in mind, this new Apple device really interests me and I can't wait to get my hands on one. At worst it'll be a companion to my trackball, at best, it'll replace it (still also having a mouse connected for the eventual UT match though)
- tomjen3 16y ago
  The problem with trackpads are that you have to move your hand - great for normal browsing I suppose, but it sucks when you are writing code or typing.
  - lutorm 16y ago
    How is this different from any other pointing device? The only one I know where you didn't have to move your hand was the Touchstream LP (http://www.fingerworks.com/ST_product.html http://www.fingerworks.com/ST_product.html), but then typing was difficult at best.
    - schwap 16y ago
      The Trackpoint (little nub) mouse on some laptops doesn't require you to move far if at all from the home row.
      - 16y ago
adolph 16y ago
I wonder: * If it will be Inkwell compatible someday if not now: http://www.apple.com/accessibility/macosx/physical.html http://www.apple.com/accessibility/macosx/physical.html * If it will BT pair with iPhone like the BT keyboard.
- allwein 16y ago
  No, just like the existing trackpads on the MacBook Pro, it's not Inkwell compatible. And No, since you can't pair a bluetooth mouse with the iPhone, you also won't be able to pair a trackpad.
hexis 16y ago
Does anyone know if this will have some sort of way to trigger a "middle click", like when one clicks on the scroll wheel? As far as I've seen with Apple mice, they've never had support for middle click.
- robgough 16y ago
  No middle click irked me for a while, but the two-finger tap, followed by a quick movement and single finger tap can be so quick and natural I don't notice this anymore.
- bombs 16y ago
  The older Mighty Mouse could be configured to do this by defining the scroll wheel Button 3 under Mouse in System Preferences.
- zerokyuu 16y ago
  Mighty mouse had middle click support; you just click with your finger on the scrolling ball. Not great but you could program what to do with this button. Unfortunately the Macbook trackpad doesn't have middle click natively. However, with BetterTouchTool you can assign commands for 2, 3, 4, and even 5 finger clicks. For five finger click you have to include the thumb. This means that clicking the trackpad with your thumb while a single finger is on it is a 2 finger click, which I prefer to be a regular left click. These are all settings you can control. Anyway, BetterTouchTool lets you configure a whole bunch of different actions (clicking or swiping in different parts of the pad with a different number of fingers) to activate a whole bunch of commands.
- irons 16y ago
  The Magic Mouse supports a three-finger click, which is interpreted as a middle click.
  - albemuth 16y ago
    Uhh, no it doesn't. At least not without third party software.
colinprince 16y ago
How do you right-click?
- dougp 16y ago
  If its like the laptops you press down with 2 fingers at once.
- dtegart 16y ago
  On my MBP you can set it up to to right-click with a two fingered tap, I imagine this is the same. Otherwise I think you have to hold down command and click or something like that
- Maktab 16y ago
  Two-finger tap.
- ugh 16y ago
  On the newer MBPs you can assign the bottom right corner to right clicks (or just use the two finger tap method mentioned by others, which feels quite natural). I assume that’s possible with this device, too.
- benofsky 16y ago
  On the Macbooks and Macbook Pros you just click in the bottom right corner (the whole thing is a button).
fragmede 16y ago
I was wondering when Apple would get around to doing that. I want Apple's version of this - http://www.google.com/products/catalog?&cid=10234387551099087518# http://www.google.com/products/catalog?&cid=102343875510... - Keyboard + trackpoint/pad, and make an external usb keyboard out of it.
regularfry 16y ago
Is there any chance of this pairing with a non-Apple desktop? I'd dearly love to join in the multitouch trackpad fun, but my main workstations are Ubuntu.
- _delirium 16y ago
  There's been some work on writing multitouch drivers for Linux: http://lii-enac.fr/en/projects/shareit/linux.html http://lii-enac.fr/en/projects/shareit/linux.html It's a bit of effort because it requires new functionality throughout the software stack, from the low-level kernel drivers to higher-level X hooks, and ideally in the future, hooks in UI toolkits to do more application-level things with gestures.
marknutter 16y ago
I actually think combining the Magic Mouse with Better Touch Tool (http://blog.boastr.net/?page_id=1722 http://blog.boastr.net/?page_id=1722) is a better solution. I use the trackpad on my Macbook because it's more convenient than using a mouse when I'm on the go. In the office I prefer a mouse for precision, but I also want multi-touch gestures, and with Better Touch Tool I can pretty much customize my Magic Mouse any way I want to, which actually lends more credence to the hyperbole "Magic." I have mine set up to move from tab to tab on two-finger swipes to the left and right, refresh the page with a three-fingered swipe up, close the tab with a three-finger swipe down, and two fingers up and down will activate expose and spaces respectively. There are a lot more gestures available to customize as well, I'm irritated Apple doesn't allow you that level of customization out of the box. So with all that said, I think the track pad doesn't add much value, at least for me. My advice is to get the Magic Mouse, unless you actually hate it as a mouse (which some people do).
joelesler 16y ago
Please Apple, gain the cut, copy, and paste (and other gestures) on the trackpad that you bought from FingerWorks. Freaking genius.
- catch23 16y ago
  You can get 3rd party tools to configure this if you want. Use something like BetterTouchTool if you want to configure a gesture to fire up GMail. Right now I have a 3-finger swipe up for copy, and 3-finger swipe down for paste. I also have a 4-finger gesture for switching between tabs in google chrome. However, I think there's probably a limit on how many gestures you can keep in your head, it's a lot easier remembering keyboard shortcuts than gestures. I can probably only keep track of five different gestures per app, but I'm sure I can probably recall at least 20 different keyboard combos when I use a tool like emacs.
jcsalterego 16y ago
I've got a MBP hooked up to an external monitor, and I find myself using the four-finger upward-swipe to show my desktop. That's about it.
Vitaly 16y ago
I WANT THIS! ;)
foomarks 16y ago
I love this idea, but how come they couldn't include this functionality into the Magic Mouse too? (Maybe next version?)
Vitaly 16y ago
next step is to make a one giant trackpad with keys printed on top of it. os if you touch it its a key press and if you drag it its a mouse movement. now only need to figure out how to mouse click ;)
- duck 16y ago
  That is actually a sweet idea... and it could easily be handled with modes like vim. If someone builds one I will buy it.
- daredevildave 16y ago
  And get the BlindType guys to make the software. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M9b8NlMd79w&feature=player_embedded http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M9b8NlMd79w&feature=playe... Make sure to check out the stuff at 2mins in.
- ZeroGravitas 16y ago
  Fingerworks had a keyboard exactly like that, many years ago: http://www.fingerworks.com/ http://www.fingerworks.com/ They got bought by Apple for their multi-touch experience.
- silversmith 16y ago
  The idea is solid in theory, but in practice I would not use it. Without tactile feedback it just feels weird and imprecise, and I can't help but look at the keyboardto make sure I press the right keys even on the ultralight keyboards that still have seperate buttons.
ck2 16y ago
So, does the bluetooth disconnect when you accidentally touch the bottom left side with your thumb?
stcredzero 16y ago
What I want just a bit more than this: an iPad app that emulates the Trackpad and does just a bit more. For starters, a command-key could reconfigure it into a numeric keypad. Then incorporate custom per-app controls. (There are already iPad apps that do this.) Such an iPad app would have the promise of the Optimus OLED keyboard. It would be much better, since high fabrication costs wouldn't be a barrier. It would have the potential to be a game-changer in terms of PC productivity. Imagine integration with Eclipse for such a device. For example, when you execute your app in debug mode, it could configure itself as a debug remote. When you switch to an editor window, it could display editor macros and shortcuts. Alternative: a 5" or 7" multitouch LCD device with a similar form factor to the Trackpad that doubles as a universal remote.
- tialys 16y ago
  It's not exactly what you described, but close: http://www.mobilemouse.com/ http://www.mobilemouse.com/ I have the iPhone version, and it's pretty slick even with the wifi in between. That said, I'm still a bit miffed they didn't make it a universal app. :\
- Sidnicious 16y ago
  You don't have to look at a trackpad to use it. I think that putting screens on trackpads, keyboards, or remotes (you use them to control other screens) is a horrible idea.
  - stcredzero 16y ago
    You don't have to look at a trackpad to use it. Looking is optional for the device I described. You'd only have to look in moments of managing greater complexity, which is the correct time. I think that putting screens on trackpads, keyboards, or remotes (you use them to control other screens) is a horrible idea. For a DVR, the second screen is very useful. You get context-driven visual feedback without impinging on the video content in the main screen. Someone could check on a game or look up a related Wikipedia entry without interrupting everyone else's viewing. Someone could queue the next YouTube bit without the same.
- 16y ago
perplexes 16y ago
Looks like they're bringing out their version of the iGesture pad: http://www.amazon.com/Fingerworks-IGESTURENUMPAD-iGesture-Pad/dp/B00013MVT4 http://www.amazon.com/Fingerworks-IGESTURENUMPAD-iGesture-Pa.... Apple acquired Fingerworks in 2005, which is how they got the multitouch technology used in iPhones, MacBooks, and now the Magic Trackpad. The thing I'm wondering: My iGesture pad still works, and still has way more gestures than the Trackpad. For example - twisting clockwise with four fingers is "close" (it presses command-w for you), which is pretty natural. Will the Magic Trackpad be able to handle this with software updates, or will we have to hack it to do the things its predecessor could do 5 years ago? Also, be sure to check out all of the crazy multitouch products Fingerworks had before they were acquired. My favorite was the insane keyboard at the bottom of http://fingerworks.com/ http://fingerworks.com/.
- z5h 16y ago
  I've owned http://www.fingerworks.com/igesture_tech.html http://www.fingerworks.com/igesture_tech.html for around 5 years. SOLID product. I'm glad I got one before they were acquired. It's definitely saved my mousing hand. And has way more features than Apple's product. Still, the iGesture cost me around $400 here in Canada. So to get something even close for $70, isn't bad.
Malic 16y ago
I have some doubts that this will be comfortable to use for hours at a time. The Magic Mouse is bad on the wrists because of it's low profile. I have to wonder if the same will happen here. I suppose a bit of experience with using it is what it will take.
- csixty4 16y ago
  I use a bean bag under my wrist when I use the Wacom touch pad. Works great.
matwiemann 16y ago
One word: Finally.
JeremyHerrman 16y ago
Now that all macs can take advantage of gestures, I wonder when Apple will include some of the iOS inertial scrolling to OS X. It's such a simple change that (for me) makes a big difference in functionality. I was happy to see inertial scrolling added to Google Maps not too long ago.
- weaksauce 16y ago
  The magic mouse has that type of scrolling as a setting you can enable.
Maro 16y ago
I can't get my head around how Apple manages to come out with products that are cool enough they could come from a startup with some very motivated founders working day and night. Almost all other companies with >100 employees are turning out mostly crappy products that no one gets excited about. When's the last time you talked about a Xerox printer or HP laptop? In my mind this is why a company like Nokia can't make a comeback into the smartphone market: they're probably unable to motivate a small team and then let them work out a cool product. Or they can't amortize away the risk of that team being on the wrong track, the way most startups are. Apple can consistently pull this off, how do they do it?
- deleted 16y ago
  [deleted]
- geden 16y ago
  Benevolent dictatorship.
- smackfu 16y ago
  Because people will buy their products on faith, where a startup would just be ignored. Belkin could release this exact same thing and it would be mocked.
  - jcromartie 16y ago
    But Belkin couldn't release this exact same thing. They don't have the right people. There's a single person at the top of Apple that all products go through. If Steve doesn't love it, it doesn't get made, and Steve has good taste. I'm not trying to idolize the guy, it's just how the company works (internally, and in the market).
  - quantumhobbit 16y ago
    Belkin could release this exact same thing and it would break after two weeks.
    - c1sc0 16y ago
may 16y ago
I read this and thought this was a joke.
mortenjorck 16y ago
10/GUI just became a little more possible today.
zacharypinter 16y ago
Does anybody know the dimensions of this trackpad? I've been looking for a way to accomplish something like the image below with 2-finger scrolling (either above or below the thumbkeys) on my Kinesis Advantage: http://www.flickr.com/photos/robert-p/4408732537/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/robert-p/4408732537/
usaar333 16y ago
How are Apple trackpads in terms of ergonomics? When I first started using a laptop 5 years back, I found myself feeling massive pain in my wrists as a result of using the touchpad. To this day, I find a mouse far more comfortable to use; however, I haven't had much of a chance to try out the touchpad on Macs.
sigzero 16y ago
Engadget review: http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/27/apple-magic-trackpad-first-hands-on/ http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/27/apple-magic-trackpad-firs... "It feels just like using a slightly larger version of a MacBook or MacBook Pro pad. And we mean exactly, right down to the multitouch gestures and whole-pad click."

156 points by mickeyben 16y ago

teilo 16y ago

Hmm. Maybe for my Mac Mini in my entertainment center, but I much prefer a trackball at the desk. No doubt BetterTouchTool will be updated to support this, making it far more useful: http://blog.boastr.net/ http://blog.boastr.net/

cwalcott 16y ago
Yeah, I could see using it for my Mac Mini, I just wish you could somehow attach it to the wireless keyboard. Having two separate devices on your lap doesn't really work...

username3 16y ago

Can it track eleven points of contact like MacBooks? http://www.gottabemobile.com/2009/11/09/track-11-fingers-on-your-macbook-inconceivable/ http://www.gottabemobile.com/2009/11/09/track-11-fingers-on-...

dedward 16y ago
They did say it was the exact same touchpad, just bigger... so very likely.

buro9 16y ago

Finally some of the stuff from fingerworks starts to surface as add-ons products for desktops. I've been wanting something to replace my long dead fingerworks keyboard, so I for one am happy. Now... if only there were drivers for something other than just OSX.

robgough 16y ago
I would replace my mouse at work with this in a heartbeat, but I'm a .net developer by day and need those windows drivers. (I use an MBP at home) I think they're missing a huge opportunity here by not providing those drivers. Obviously an opportunity they have decided they don't care about, I just wish they did.
- napierzaza 16y ago
  Maybe if enough people ask? Or the product is generally popular enough? The iPod and the iPhone are only so popular because they embraced PC in all its ... glory. Hopefully they're already working on this.
  - bombs 16y ago
    The iPod didn't support Windows when it was released. Maybe Apple are doing the same thing here; I'm sure by not supporting Windows, they're able to get a better product out much quicker.
    - robgough 16y ago
      Fair point. It would be nice if they would at least commit to bringing Windows support in the future. I can't imagine this would affect actual sales though, just another of example of when Apple's secrecy can be irritating for some of us.
      - irons 16y ago
        For Apple to commit to anything in advance, let alone Windows support for a brand-new peripheral, would be evidence of takeover by pod people, and thus not nice at all. Windows support for the original iPod arrived two years later.
        redrobot5050 16y ago
        Again, they were testing the market with the true believers. The music industry viewed the 2-3 million mac users back then as a nice microcosm they could experiment on. If it failed, it wouldn't get much press because back then nobody used macs.
  - rythie 16y ago
    Given Windows is suggested as an option on their machines, maybe they will write a driver. Either way I'm sure someone will write one for Linux.
jwr 16y ago
Some of us still use our FingerWorks TouchStream keyboards :-) (and keep two spares, in case the main one ever breaks)
- francoisdevlin 16y ago
  And some of us got to play in the original figerworks lab...
- buro9 16y ago
  That's where I failed... why on earth didn't I buy a second? Oh yes, the price. Which is also why I don't pick up one off of eBay, they're incredible nowadays with some going for an easy £600 or more. For that price I'd rather buy a great monitor.

tmlee 16y ago

I dont know, it just seems weird to be positioned on the right (where the mouse is)... well, won't know till i try it~

vegasbrianc 16y ago
I agree with you. It looks handy but dont know till I give it a go and see how useful it actually is.
dedward 16y ago
Just because nobody's really done it before... it does seem weird - especially if you want to use a mouse. - It's cordless - you can put it on the left or right or anywhere else. - You don't strictly need a mouse. - I remember thinking the touch-surface on the magic moues was silly -but now I miss it when Idon't have it... and I actually suspect (won't know until I try) that the increased size of the new touchpad will be an important factor - you'll essentially be able to use a finger like a mouse on a pad - without needing to necessarily resposition very much - giving you veyr mouse-like behavior.

suraj 16y ago

It should have been a mouse pad you can touch. Probably with a different design for mouse (you just need a metal point instead of trackball/optics).

dedward 16y ago
You can use your finger....

adolph 16y ago

I'm amazed that Apple seems so set on the AA battery format for desk peripherals that it is releasing a AA battery charger with the trackpad. I don't find AA objectionable, but Apple's marketing regarding removable batteries centers around "we can pack more battery in by eliminating the packaging."

mbateman 16y ago
Yeah, I was wondering about that too. Maybe they figure that making a battery charger is with AA batteries, in these cases, better than putting any sort of power input on the otherwise sleek device? An iPad or iPhone needs inputs on it to begin with, but solely bluetooth peripherals don't.
- keltex 16y ago
  I really like how Logitech solves this problem with their Performance MX mouse. It takes a AA battery and includes a rechargeable AA battery. When the mouse's battery runs low, you just connect the (included) micro-USB cable. The mouse recharges and can be used at the same time, albeit tethered. Once's it's charged, put the cable away and keep on working.
cubicle67 16y ago
shhh.... I don't think Steve know this has removable batteries ;)
replicatorblog 16y ago
My guess is that it has to do with the battery losing its ability to hold charge with time. It makes sense to engineer a massive new battery for the iPhone or Macbook, but these peripherals don't have the same volume or margin cushion to absorb the cost, hence off the shelf battery technology. Also, I think most people expect to change out a computer every couple years, but a mouse is supposed to last longer. If the thing became incapable of holding charge after 18 months it would get customers riled. After using a Magic Mouse for 6 months, I can say the rechargeable battery station is a must buy, I have to change my MM batteries every 3 weeks or so.

jlcgull 16y ago

Now Apple just needs to incorporate this into the "iPad Keyboard Dock" and I'll be more than happy to buy!

raimondious 16y ago
How would that work? There's no cursor for it to control on the iPad.
- deleted 16y ago
  [deleted]
- roc 16y ago
  It could work. They could add a simulator-esque cursor without too much technical trouble. That said, it shouldn't. Why would anyone prefer indirect manipulation of a cursor over direct manipulation of the screen elements? If you've got an iPad in a keyboard dock, you're primarily writing and occasionally navigating. I don't see the use case. Gorilla-arm would only set in if you were primarily navigating, in which case you'd just undock the thing.

maukdaddy 16y ago

As a lefty this would be awesome. {Magic Trackpad}{Keyboard}{Mouse} Ultimate productivity!

pilif 16y ago
this is an awesome idea. I'm able to use both hands equally well (though I might be hinging a tad bit to prefer the left hand). This could mean that I can alternate my pointing hand here and then
blasdel 16y ago
And that would be the last of Doug Engelbart's inventions to succeed in the market: http://www.cedmagic.com/history/first-computer-mouse.html http://www.cedmagic.com/history/first-computer-mouse.html
mrfabbri 16y ago
This mirrors my macbook setup [which I enjoy pretty much] with the external monitor: [mouse][keyobard][macbook trackpad] :-)

davidedicillo 16y ago

If you use BetterTouchTool or MagicPrefs with your Magic Mouse you can get all those touch features in your mouse, that is definitely better when it comes to move a cursor.

Hovertruck 16y ago
I think it's a matter of preference. I've been saying how much I wanted to ditch my mouse for a desktop version of the MBP trackpad since I got my laptop.
- robgough 16y ago
  Here Here. I used to hate trackpads, so much so that I only ever used laptops with "nipples" (see ThinkPad). The MacBook with two-finger scroll was revolutionary for me, and I've never seen any manufacturer beat that pad. Well, any other manufacturer. The glass trackpad on my MBP is something else, and this is just a bigger version of that. Awesome. Apple are unbelievably ahead of the curve on this, I'm not quite sure why the other manufacturers are failing so badly. The trackpad on my HP workstations are as-good-as unusable in comparison. I always have to use a mouse.

vlucas 16y ago

This looks like a nice product and I do really love the multitouch pad on the MacBooks, but I'm so sick of Apple calling everything "Magic" and "Revolutionary".

chunkbot 16y ago

For wireless peripherals, non-charging AA batteries are a better choice than any charging dock or solution. Why spend every day docking/undock the thing (or charging the batteries when they die) when I can slip new batteries in once every 6 months?

deno 16y ago
If you have a digital camera of some sort then you're probably already accustomed to charging batteries anyway. I think recharging batteries is less messy than buying new ones each time. You have to stock them ahead of time (storage area), and remember to restock after resupplying your device (which you'll probably forget). Don't forget that each time you have to access new batteries you'll need to fight with those plastic containers and chances are you won't have scissors on you, use knife instead and kill or wound yourself in the process. Also, environment.
- chunkbot 16y ago
  I'm inclined to agree with you regarding devices that you take outside the house, like a digital camera. My comment was more about desktop peripherals. To address your points: 1) A 24 pack of AA batteries somewhere near your desk should last over a year, and you should have storage area somewhere to accommodate it. 2) AA batteries generally come in easy-to-rip cardboard packs, so no fighting with the container and hurting yourself. 3) The environment argument could fall either way; I suspect neither of us has seen definitive research regarding the total environmental cost of disposable vs. rechargeable batteries.
  - deno 16y ago
    For devices that you keep at home any kind of batteries are really just a workaround for actual wireless electricity. Anyway my point is that most people that buy wireless trackpads probably already own power-sucking devices like digital cameras and so have invested, and are accustomed, to charging their batteries. In this case keeping additional non-rechargeable batteries wouldn't provide any benefits and would only add to confusion, as you have to be careful not to mix them. If you are not already enslaved to your digital camera's power inefficiency then perhaps buying brand new batteries might be more comfortable. In regard to environment your 24 pack of AAs wouldn't probably have any significant difference whatsoever and you won't live long enough to observe any. The impression, though, that rechargeable batteries are more environmental friendly will provide you with nice dopamine boost each time your device needs resupplying.

wmeredith 16y ago

I'd really like it if two of these would play nice with other. I could see doubling up with one on each side of my keyboard. (Been thinking about this for a while.) I know little to nothing about hardware (UX/marketing guy) does any one more knowledgeable consider this use of the driver probable as built in functionality?

akamaka 16y ago

I've been waiting for this since the rumors first started surfacing. As someone who uses a $100+ Kensington trackball, this is a bargain. If anyone has information on Windows 7 drivers for the Magic Mouse (whichare presumably the same), let us know! Otherwise I'll have to write them myself. :)

deleted 16y ago

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againstyou 16y ago

a copy of wacom bamboo touch ? http://www.wacom.com/bamboo/bamboo_touch.php http://www.wacom.com/bamboo/bamboo_touch.php http://www.wacom.com/embed/player_inplay.swf http://www.wacom.com/embed/player_inplay.swf

napierzaza 16y ago

This is a great idea, it's one of the reasons I wasn't prepared to get a desktop over a laptop (besides the obvious portability). I think in the future there will be more integration of something like the iPad or the iPhone as direct interface to the computer.

rbxbx 16y ago

I've been waiting years for this. YAY.

deleted 16y ago

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pilif 16y ago

Back in the days, I always preferred the Trackpoints the IBM ThinkPads used and I never quite liked the trackpads. I'm even going as far as to say that I'm quite the trackpad hater - they never felt precise to me and required way too frantic finger movement to be really comfortable for me. But when I moved to Apple hardware, I basically was stuck with the trackpads, but this time around, it was different. The bigger size meant less finger movement and with the advent of multi touch, it suddenly felt like a more "natural" way to control the machine. With the newer Macbook pros came this "the trackpad is the button" functionality and while it took me a day or so of getting used to, I absolutely cannot work with the dedicated button pads any more. Seing how quickly this became muscle memory, I assume that they did something (no idea what) right when they moved to that design. This is how I went from "I hate trackpads" to "trackpads are the only really natural way to control the machine". With this in mind, this new Apple device really interests me and I can't wait to get my hands on one. At worst it'll be a companion to my trackball, at best, it'll replace it (still also having a mouse connected for the eventual UT match though)

tomjen3 16y ago
The problem with trackpads are that you have to move your hand - great for normal browsing I suppose, but it sucks when you are writing code or typing.
- lutorm 16y ago
  How is this different from any other pointing device? The only one I know where you didn't have to move your hand was the Touchstream LP (http://www.fingerworks.com/ST_product.html http://www.fingerworks.com/ST_product.html), but then typing was difficult at best.
  - schwap 16y ago
    The Trackpoint (little nub) mouse on some laptops doesn't require you to move far if at all from the home row.
    - 16y ago

adolph 16y ago

I wonder: * If it will be Inkwell compatible someday if not now: http://www.apple.com/accessibility/macosx/physical.html http://www.apple.com/accessibility/macosx/physical.html * If it will BT pair with iPhone like the BT keyboard.

allwein 16y ago
No, just like the existing trackpads on the MacBook Pro, it's not Inkwell compatible. And No, since you can't pair a bluetooth mouse with the iPhone, you also won't be able to pair a trackpad.

hexis 16y ago

Does anyone know if this will have some sort of way to trigger a "middle click", like when one clicks on the scroll wheel? As far as I've seen with Apple mice, they've never had support for middle click.

robgough 16y ago
No middle click irked me for a while, but the two-finger tap, followed by a quick movement and single finger tap can be so quick and natural I don't notice this anymore.
bombs 16y ago
The older Mighty Mouse could be configured to do this by defining the scroll wheel Button 3 under Mouse in System Preferences.
zerokyuu 16y ago
Mighty mouse had middle click support; you just click with your finger on the scrolling ball. Not great but you could program what to do with this button. Unfortunately the Macbook trackpad doesn't have middle click natively. However, with BetterTouchTool you can assign commands for 2, 3, 4, and even 5 finger clicks. For five finger click you have to include the thumb. This means that clicking the trackpad with your thumb while a single finger is on it is a 2 finger click, which I prefer to be a regular left click. These are all settings you can control. Anyway, BetterTouchTool lets you configure a whole bunch of different actions (clicking or swiping in different parts of the pad with a different number of fingers) to activate a whole bunch of commands.
irons 16y ago
The Magic Mouse supports a three-finger click, which is interpreted as a middle click.
- albemuth 16y ago
  Uhh, no it doesn't. At least not without third party software.

colinprince 16y ago

How do you right-click?

dougp 16y ago
If its like the laptops you press down with 2 fingers at once.
dtegart 16y ago
On my MBP you can set it up to to right-click with a two fingered tap, I imagine this is the same. Otherwise I think you have to hold down command and click or something like that
Maktab 16y ago
Two-finger tap.
ugh 16y ago
On the newer MBPs you can assign the bottom right corner to right clicks (or just use the two finger tap method mentioned by others, which feels quite natural). I assume that’s possible with this device, too.
benofsky 16y ago
On the Macbooks and Macbook Pros you just click in the bottom right corner (the whole thing is a button).

fragmede 16y ago

I was wondering when Apple would get around to doing that. I want Apple's version of this - http://www.google.com/products/catalog?&cid=10234387551099087518# http://www.google.com/products/catalog?&cid=102343875510... - Keyboard + trackpoint/pad, and make an external usb keyboard out of it.

regularfry 16y ago

Is there any chance of this pairing with a non-Apple desktop? I'd dearly love to join in the multitouch trackpad fun, but my main workstations are Ubuntu.

_delirium 16y ago
There's been some work on writing multitouch drivers for Linux: http://lii-enac.fr/en/projects/shareit/linux.html http://lii-enac.fr/en/projects/shareit/linux.html It's a bit of effort because it requires new functionality throughout the software stack, from the low-level kernel drivers to higher-level X hooks, and ideally in the future, hooks in UI toolkits to do more application-level things with gestures.

marknutter 16y ago

I actually think combining the Magic Mouse with Better Touch Tool (http://blog.boastr.net/?page_id=1722 http://blog.boastr.net/?page_id=1722) is a better solution. I use the trackpad on my Macbook because it's more convenient than using a mouse when I'm on the go. In the office I prefer a mouse for precision, but I also want multi-touch gestures, and with Better Touch Tool I can pretty much customize my Magic Mouse any way I want to, which actually lends more credence to the hyperbole "Magic." I have mine set up to move from tab to tab on two-finger swipes to the left and right, refresh the page with a three-fingered swipe up, close the tab with a three-finger swipe down, and two fingers up and down will activate expose and spaces respectively. There are a lot more gestures available to customize as well, I'm irritated Apple doesn't allow you that level of customization out of the box. So with all that said, I think the track pad doesn't add much value, at least for me. My advice is to get the Magic Mouse, unless you actually hate it as a mouse (which some people do).

joelesler 16y ago

Please Apple, gain the cut, copy, and paste (and other gestures) on the trackpad that you bought from FingerWorks. Freaking genius.

catch23 16y ago
You can get 3rd party tools to configure this if you want. Use something like BetterTouchTool if you want to configure a gesture to fire up GMail. Right now I have a 3-finger swipe up for copy, and 3-finger swipe down for paste. I also have a 4-finger gesture for switching between tabs in google chrome. However, I think there's probably a limit on how many gestures you can keep in your head, it's a lot easier remembering keyboard shortcuts than gestures. I can probably only keep track of five different gestures per app, but I'm sure I can probably recall at least 20 different keyboard combos when I use a tool like emacs.

jcsalterego 16y ago

I've got a MBP hooked up to an external monitor, and I find myself using the four-finger upward-swipe to show my desktop. That's about it.

Vitaly 16y ago

I WANT THIS! ;)

foomarks 16y ago

I love this idea, but how come they couldn't include this functionality into the Magic Mouse too? (Maybe next version?)

Vitaly 16y ago

next step is to make a one giant trackpad with keys printed on top of it. os if you touch it its a key press and if you drag it its a mouse movement. now only need to figure out how to mouse click ;)

duck 16y ago
That is actually a sweet idea... and it could easily be handled with modes like vim. If someone builds one I will buy it.
daredevildave 16y ago
And get the BlindType guys to make the software. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M9b8NlMd79w&feature=player_embedded http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M9b8NlMd79w&feature=playe... Make sure to check out the stuff at 2mins in.
ZeroGravitas 16y ago
Fingerworks had a keyboard exactly like that, many years ago: http://www.fingerworks.com/ http://www.fingerworks.com/ They got bought by Apple for their multi-touch experience.
silversmith 16y ago
The idea is solid in theory, but in practice I would not use it. Without tactile feedback it just feels weird and imprecise, and I can't help but look at the keyboardto make sure I press the right keys even on the ultralight keyboards that still have seperate buttons.

ck2 16y ago

So, does the bluetooth disconnect when you accidentally touch the bottom left side with your thumb?

stcredzero 16y ago

What I want just a bit more than this: an iPad app that emulates the Trackpad and does just a bit more. For starters, a command-key could reconfigure it into a numeric keypad. Then incorporate custom per-app controls. (There are already iPad apps that do this.) Such an iPad app would have the promise of the Optimus OLED keyboard. It would be much better, since high fabrication costs wouldn't be a barrier. It would have the potential to be a game-changer in terms of PC productivity. Imagine integration with Eclipse for such a device. For example, when you execute your app in debug mode, it could configure itself as a debug remote. When you switch to an editor window, it could display editor macros and shortcuts. Alternative: a 5" or 7" multitouch LCD device with a similar form factor to the Trackpad that doubles as a universal remote.

tialys 16y ago
It's not exactly what you described, but close: http://www.mobilemouse.com/ http://www.mobilemouse.com/ I have the iPhone version, and it's pretty slick even with the wifi in between. That said, I'm still a bit miffed they didn't make it a universal app. :\
Sidnicious 16y ago
You don't have to look at a trackpad to use it. I think that putting screens on trackpads, keyboards, or remotes (you use them to control other screens) is a horrible idea.
- stcredzero 16y ago
  You don't have to look at a trackpad to use it. Looking is optional for the device I described. You'd only have to look in moments of managing greater complexity, which is the correct time. I think that putting screens on trackpads, keyboards, or remotes (you use them to control other screens) is a horrible idea. For a DVR, the second screen is very useful. You get context-driven visual feedback without impinging on the video content in the main screen. Someone could check on a game or look up a related Wikipedia entry without interrupting everyone else's viewing. Someone could queue the next YouTube bit without the same.
16y ago

perplexes 16y ago

Looks like they're bringing out their version of the iGesture pad: http://www.amazon.com/Fingerworks-IGESTURENUMPAD-iGesture-Pad/dp/B00013MVT4 http://www.amazon.com/Fingerworks-IGESTURENUMPAD-iGesture-Pa.... Apple acquired Fingerworks in 2005, which is how they got the multitouch technology used in iPhones, MacBooks, and now the Magic Trackpad. The thing I'm wondering: My iGesture pad still works, and still has way more gestures than the Trackpad. For example - twisting clockwise with four fingers is "close" (it presses command-w for you), which is pretty natural. Will the Magic Trackpad be able to handle this with software updates, or will we have to hack it to do the things its predecessor could do 5 years ago? Also, be sure to check out all of the crazy multitouch products Fingerworks had before they were acquired. My favorite was the insane keyboard at the bottom of http://fingerworks.com/ http://fingerworks.com/.

z5h 16y ago
I've owned http://www.fingerworks.com/igesture_tech.html http://www.fingerworks.com/igesture_tech.html for around 5 years. SOLID product. I'm glad I got one before they were acquired. It's definitely saved my mousing hand. And has way more features than Apple's product. Still, the iGesture cost me around $400 here in Canada. So to get something even close for $70, isn't bad.

Malic 16y ago

I have some doubts that this will be comfortable to use for hours at a time. The Magic Mouse is bad on the wrists because of it's low profile. I have to wonder if the same will happen here. I suppose a bit of experience with using it is what it will take.

csixty4 16y ago
I use a bean bag under my wrist when I use the Wacom touch pad. Works great.

matwiemann 16y ago

One word: Finally.

JeremyHerrman 16y ago

Now that all macs can take advantage of gestures, I wonder when Apple will include some of the iOS inertial scrolling to OS X. It's such a simple change that (for me) makes a big difference in functionality. I was happy to see inertial scrolling added to Google Maps not too long ago.

weaksauce 16y ago
The magic mouse has that type of scrolling as a setting you can enable.

Maro 16y ago

I can't get my head around how Apple manages to come out with products that are cool enough they could come from a startup with some very motivated founders working day and night. Almost all other companies with >100 employees are turning out mostly crappy products that no one gets excited about. When's the last time you talked about a Xerox printer or HP laptop? In my mind this is why a company like Nokia can't make a comeback into the smartphone market: they're probably unable to motivate a small team and then let them work out a cool product. Or they can't amortize away the risk of that team being on the wrong track, the way most startups are. Apple can consistently pull this off, how do they do it?

deleted 16y ago
[deleted]
geden 16y ago
Benevolent dictatorship.
smackfu 16y ago
Because people will buy their products on faith, where a startup would just be ignored. Belkin could release this exact same thing and it would be mocked.
- jcromartie 16y ago
  But Belkin couldn't release this exact same thing. They don't have the right people. There's a single person at the top of Apple that all products go through. If Steve doesn't love it, it doesn't get made, and Steve has good taste. I'm not trying to idolize the guy, it's just how the company works (internally, and in the market).
- quantumhobbit 16y ago
  Belkin could release this exact same thing and it would break after two weeks.
  - c1sc0 16y ago

may 16y ago

I read this and thought this was a joke.

mortenjorck 16y ago

10/GUI just became a little more possible today.

zacharypinter 16y ago

Does anybody know the dimensions of this trackpad? I've been looking for a way to accomplish something like the image below with 2-finger scrolling (either above or below the thumbkeys) on my Kinesis Advantage: http://www.flickr.com/photos/robert-p/4408732537/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/robert-p/4408732537/

usaar333 16y ago

How are Apple trackpads in terms of ergonomics? When I first started using a laptop 5 years back, I found myself feeling massive pain in my wrists as a result of using the touchpad. To this day, I find a mouse far more comfortable to use; however, I haven't had much of a chance to try out the touchpad on Macs.

sigzero 16y ago

Engadget review: http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/27/apple-magic-trackpad-first-hands-on/ http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/27/apple-magic-trackpad-firs... "It feels just like using a slightly larger version of a MacBook or MacBook Pro pad. And we mean exactly, right down to the multitouch gestures and whole-pad click."