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Hi this is Moshe
Pleas look at my post.
Comments will be appreciated.
http://www.wepc.com/vote/view/dream/7362/William_Gibson_Cyberspace_Machine

My point being, is that Apple didn't slap some flashy etches or stickers on a laptop, in fact they did the opposite. They produced the most minimalist design out there so that their software could shine. People need to market the fact that it's not what your laptop looks like that makes you cool, it's what you can do with your laptop that makes you unique. Sell it as an instrument, or tool, and you'll see it soar.

The reason Apple computers blew up, was because of OS X, along with major price reductions of course. Example after example, I've seen people switch to OS X, and their whole perspective on what a computer could and should do, as well as how easily it could be done, did a 180.

Once the celebrities, TV shows, and musicians started using the devices, they became cool to the eyes of the general public; as do most other things, sadly.

Only since 2002 has OS X been shipped on Apple computers, and only shortly after that did Apple begin to tear through the market.

But not so long ago, Apple computers were only viable for design firms and the like. Corporate software was not compatible, network integration was always a headache, and the price premium for buying an Apple instead of something like a Dell was outrageous.

People would buy a pocket laptop so long as it still has a touch type keyboard. What I feel is the best hardware design was the Psion 5mx (which was 6.9" x 3.6" x .90"); if that were updated to run full XP or Vista that would be a hot product!

What PC companies should do is provide more options that enhance function. What I mean is that the laptop form factor is the dominant form factor regardless of Apple or PC but nobody has improved on options of that. What would be a huge hit is a simple long and narrow pocket laptop that runs a full desktop OS yet is designed around a typical jacket pocket. Jacket pockets can handle something about 7 to 7.5" x 3.6" to 4.2" depending on the height of the computer, which should be as thin as possible but under 1.3".

Think about how long the laptop has been around yet to this day what I described has NEVER been created.

It makes sense that style is what sells these days. It's the natural progression for most consumer products that reach "commodity" status. To the average person, one PC functions the same as any other PC...they all seem to surf the web, check e-mail, and Facebook the same. In order for the manufacturers to differentiate their products, they are naturally turning to styling.

it really pains me to realize that Style is more treasured than true substance, hence why Apple is gaining marketshare.

but yeah: keep it simple, and all the crud should stay optional. I want performance and value - something apple cannot give - and i want it simple. So that means 1] stay FAR away from Apple's approach, and 2] keep it efficient and simple.

The new Studio 15/17 Dells? I LOVE it. Simple yet clean, it is awesome. The only thing is, it needs some improvment in the 'value' area, as the last time I looked, it didn't have an offer for Intel's Montevina chips or the 9600m GT at a competitive price.

Kibbles, excellent post, you've hit the nail on the head. I especially like your comment on simplicity. Simplicity in design is always going to carry a certain appeal as Apple knows this (Google also does an excellent job in this area) and combines simplicity with a look that everyone recognizes to be something "different" other PC venders can't (or I can't think of a way for them to) offer something that is as unique on the inside but I think simple designs such as the X300 look best.

I think one of the problems with many of the designs from the PC side is they are trying too hard to design something. I'm no fan of Apple, hell I don't even own any of their products. However, their style is consistently above average. Simplicity is something that comes to mind. Adding bunch of curves and different colors doesn't always make something stylish. Infact it often detracts from it. It's like makeup, more isn't better.
One of the best looking Dell desktop is actually in their business lineup. Their current Latitude laptops have this "Little black dress" look to it.
Everyone can platinum plate and diamond encrust stuff and call it "style" you know?

Very nice. As Technical advancements slow, the next big thing will be design, imho.