Modbook

Last updated

The Modbook is a brand of a pen-enabled Mac tablet computers first manufactured by Axiotron, Inc. from 2008 [1] [2] to 2010, [3] and then by Modbook Inc. from 2012 to present. It is an aftermarket Mac conversion based on certain models of the MacBook and MacBook Pro product lines manufactured by Apple.

Contents

Manufactured using the original motherboard and all other core components of a previously purchased, genuine Apple laptop computer, the Modbook is able to run the Mac operating system unmodified and maintain the same level of compatibility with any Mac application, as the initial donor MacBook or MacBook Pro system.

Commercial sales of the Modbook are, like every Mac conversion before it, protected in the U.S. by the First-sale doctrine and similar legal concepts in most other countries.

Currently the company's website Modbook.com has been suspended and they have not updated the Kickstarter and Wefunder campaigns in years. After successful campaign funding and website preorders, the Modbook Pro X still has not been fulfilled to customers as of February 2022.

Original Modbook

An original Modbook Modbook in box.jpg
An original Modbook

Originally developed by Los Angeles, California-based Axiotron, Inc., the Modbook was introduced at the 2007 Macworld Conference & Expo as the first commercially available pen-enabled tablet Mac and won a Best in Show award. [4] [5] [6] [7]

The Modbook started shipping soon after the Macworld 2008 [8] [1] [2] and was positively received as the pen-based macOS based tablet Apple fans had been waiting for, [9] with all the components of a MacBook and a built-in Wacom digitizer for pen input, in a slate-style form factor.

The Modbook used the Apple MacBook Core 2 Duo White with speeds of 1.8 GHz and 2 GHz. Its pen support was based on Penabled Wacom digitizing technology and did not include touch input. The Axiotron Digitizer Pen featured 512 pressure levels, 2 programmable side buttons plus an eraser.

The Modbook also was equipped with a new and improved LCD panel, more suited for use as a tablet computer, offering wider viewing angles and higher contrast colors compared to the original base MacBook display. The "AnyView" display was bonded to the "ForceGlass" screen cover, which was chemically strengthened to improve the durability of the screen and featured an etched surface to improve the response of the digitizer pen.

Connectivity options on the Modbook were identical to the underlying MacBook and include two USB 2.0 ports and a single FireWire port. Networking was supported with an integrated Gigabit Ethernet port, a Wi-Fi card that supports the 802.11 a/b/g/draft-n specification and Bluetooth. The Modbook could also be connected to an external display device using a Mini-DVI port (supports DVI, VGA, S-video, and composite video). Other features included a built-in CD/DVD or DVD burner, built-in iSight Camera, built-in Mounting Locks for use with VESA compatible mounting system, and an optional built-in WAAS Global Positioning System module. [10]

Conversion process

The top segments of the MacBook are removed, which include the keyboard, LCD screen and camera. A glass screen cover, a new LCD screen, a sensor board, the original camera and a chrome-plated magnesium top shell are then installed. This is done either to a new-from-Apple MacBook for a device sold complete to a new owner, or to the customer's previously owned MacBook for an aftermarket modification.

Modbook Pro

A Modbook Pro prototype on display at the Macworld Expo booth, 2009 Modbook pro.jpg
A Modbook Pro prototype on display at the Macworld Expo booth, 2009

Introduced in June 2012, [11] by the newly founded Southern California-based Modbook Inc., the Modbook Pro uses a completely new conversion process and enclosure design to convert a MacBook Pro 13.3-inch standard display model into an all black, all aluminum slate-style pen-enabled Mac tablet. [12] [13] [14] The system's specifications [15] start with a 2.5 GHz Intel Core i5 processor with up to 16GB of RAM and either a 1TB hard drive or a 960GB SSD, with a SuperDrive and Intel HD 4000 graphics. The system can be bumped up to a 2.9 GHz Core i7 processor and additional storage options. The Modbook Pro is targeted at creative professionals looking for the power of a MacBook Pro running macOS, but in a pen-enabled tablet computer. [16]

Modbook Pro X

The Modbook Pro X was conceived as a one-off, limited production run, starting off as a successful Kickstarter project at the end of 2014. [17] [18] Through several delays, caused by technical challenges and subsequent Apple updates to the MacBook Pro it is based on, [19] the Kickstarter project eventually evolved [20] into Modbook Inc.’s next commercial product line, the Modbook Pro X with Touch Bar.

No Modbook Pro X machines were delivered to customers. Payments were not refunded.

Modbook Pro X with Touch Bar

The Modbook Pro X with Touch Bar was introduced on September 14, 2017 together with Modbook Inc.’s first Equity crowdfunding campaign hosted on the Wefunder platform, and is expected to begin shipping after a successful closing of the campaign. [21] Unlike previous Modbook models, the new Modbook Pro X is a tablet-to-laptop convertible, based on Apple's top-end 15.4-inch Touch Bar MacBook Pro models.

As of February 2022, Modbook, Inc. has not delivered any Modbook Pro X or Modbook Pro X with Touch Bar machines to any customers. Wefunder, Kickstarter, and individual preorders have not been fulfilled. The website Modbook.com has also been suspended. [22]

See also

Related Research Articles

macOS Operating system for Apple computers

macOS, originally Mac OS X, previously shortened as OS X, is an operating system developed and marketed by Apple since 2001. It is the primary operating system for Apple's Mac computers. Within the market of desktop and laptop computers, it is the second most widely used desktop OS, after Microsoft Windows and ahead of all Linux distributions, including ChromeOS.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Power Mac G5</span> Line of tower computers designed and manufactured by Apple

The Power Mac G5 is a series of personal computers designed, manufactured, and sold by Apple Computer, Inc. from 2003 to 2006 as part of the Power Mac series. When introduced, it was the most powerful computer in Apple's Macintosh lineup, and was marketed by the company as the world's first 64-bit desktop computer. It was also the first desktop computer from Apple to use an anodized aluminum alloy enclosure, and one of only three computers in Apple's lineup to utilize the PowerPC 970 CPU, the others being the iMac G5 and the Xserve G5.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">MacBook Pro</span> Line of notebook computer

The MacBook Pro is a line of Mac laptop computers developed and manufactured by Apple. Introduced in January 2006, it is the high-end sibling of the MacBook family, sitting above the ultra-portable MacBook Air and previously the low-end MacBook. It is currently sold with 14-inch and 16-inch screens, all using Apple M-series chips. Before Apple silicon, the MacBook Pro used Intel chips, and was the first laptop made by Apple to do so, replacing the earlier PowerBook. It was also the first Apple laptop to carry the MacBook moniker.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mac OS X Snow Leopard</span> Seventh major version of macOS, released in 2009

Mac OS X Snow Leopard is the seventh major release of macOS, Apple's desktop and server operating system for Macintosh computers.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">MacBook Air</span> Line of ultraportable notebook computers by Apple

The MacBook Air is a line of laptop computers developed and manufactured by Apple since 2008. It features a thin, light structure in a machined aluminum case and currently either a 13-inch or 15-inch screen. The MacBook Air's lower prices relative to the larger, higher performance MacBook Pro have made it Apple's entry-level notebook since the discontinuation of the original MacBook line in 2011.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mac (computer)</span> Family of personal computers made by Apple

Mac, short for Macintosh, is a family of personal computers designed and marketed by Apple. The name Macintosh is a reference to a type of apple called McIntosh. The product lineup includes the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro laptops, and the iMac, Mac Mini, Mac Studio, and Mac Pro desktops. Macs are sold with the macOS operating system.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mac Mini</span> Desktop computer by Apple Inc.

Mac Mini is a small form factor desktop computer developed and marketed by Apple Inc. As of 2022, it is positioned between the consumer all-in-one iMac and the professional Mac Studio and Mac Pro as one of four current Mac desktop computers. Since launch, it has shipped without a display, keyboard, and mouse. The machine was initially branded as "BYODKM" as a strategic pitch to encourage users to switch from Windows and Linux computers.

iMac Line of all-in-one desktop computers by Apple Inc.

The iMac is a series of all-in-one computers from Apple Inc. operating on the MacOS. Introduced by Steve Jobs in August 1998 when the company was financially troubled, the computer was an inexpensive, consumer-oriented computer that would easily connect to the Internet. Since that time, it has remained a primary part of Apple's consumer desktop offerings and evolved through seven distinct forms.

The history of tablet computers and the associated special operating software is an example of pen computing technology, and thus the development of tablets has deep historical roots. The first patent for a system that recognized handwritten characters by analyzing the handwriting motion was granted in 1914. The first publicly demonstrated system using a tablet and handwriting recognition instead of a keyboard for working with a modern digital computer dates to 1956.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">OS X Lion</span> Eighth major release of Mac OS X

OS X Lion, also known as Mac OS X Lion, is the eighth major release of macOS, Apple's desktop and server operating system for Mac computers.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">ThinkPad X series</span> Series of laptops by IBM and Lenovo

The ThinkPad X series is a line of laptop computers and convertible tablets produced by Lenovo with less power than its other counterparts. It was initially produced by IBM until 2005.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">OS X Mountain Lion</span> Ninth major release of OS X

OS X Mountain Lion is the ninth major release of macOS, Apple Inc.'s desktop and server operating system for Macintosh computers. OS X Mountain Lion was released on July 25, 2012, for purchase and download through the Mac App Store, as part of a switch to releasing OS X versions online and every year, rather than every two years. Named to signify its status as a refinement of the previous OS X version, Lion, Apple's stated aims in developing Mountain Lion were to allow users to more easily manage and synchronise content between multiple Apple devices and to make the operating system more familiar.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">OS X Mavericks</span> Tenth major release of OS X

OS X Mavericks is the 10th major release of macOS, Apple Inc.'s desktop and server operating system for Macintosh computers. OS X Mavericks was announced on June 10, 2013, at WWDC 2013, and was released on October 22, 2013, worldwide.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Surface Pro 2</span> Tablet-hybrid computer device

The Surface Pro 2 is a Surface-series 2-in-1 detachable produced by Microsoft. Unveiled at an event in New York City on September 23, 2013 and released on October 22, 2013, it succeeds the Surface Pro released in February 2013. While maintaining a design similar to the original design of its predecessor, the Surface Pro 2 has improved hardware specifications compared to it, such as a Haswell Intel Core processor and an increased number of storage options, improved versions of the kickstand and cover accessories.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">OS X Yosemite</span> Eleventh major release of macOS (called OS X when released)

OS X Yosemite is the eleventh major release of macOS, Apple Inc.'s desktop and server operating system for Macintosh computers.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">OS X El Capitan</span> Twelfth major release of macOS

OS X El Capitan is the twelfth major release of macOS, Apple Inc.'s desktop and server operating system for Macintosh. It focuses mainly on performance, stability, and security. Following the California location-based naming scheme introduced with OS X Mavericks, El Capitan was named after a rock formation in Yosemite National Park. El Capitan is the final version to be released under the name OS X. OS X El Capitan received far better reviews than Yosemite.

To date, two methods have been used to make a personal computer, not offered by Apple, but able to run a Mac operating system: either create a Macintosh conversion or build a Macintosh clone.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">MacBook Air (Intel-based)</span> Line of ultraportable notebook computers by Apple

The Intel-based MacBook Air is a discontinued line of notebook computers developed and manufactured by Apple Inc. from 2008 to 2020. The Air was originally positioned above the previous MacBook line as a premium ultraportable. Since then, the original MacBook's discontinuation in 2011, and lowered prices on subsequent iterations, made the Air Apple's entry-level notebook.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">MacBook Pro (Intel-based)</span> Line of notebook computers

The Intel-based MacBook Pro is a discontinued line of Macintosh notebook computers sold by Apple Inc. from 2006 to 2021. It was the higher-end model of the MacBook family, sitting above the low-end plastic MacBook and the ultra-portable MacBook Air, and was sold with 13-inch to 17-inch screens.

References

  1. 1 2 "ModBook tablet Mac finally ships". Macworld. January 2, 2008.
  2. 1 2 "Axiotron finally ships Modbook OS X tablet". Engadget. January 1, 2008.
  3. ↑ "Axiotron Restructuring Granted Final Approvals by TSX Venture Exchange". SEDAR. June 30, 2010.
  4. ↑ McLean, Prince (2007-01-11). "Unofficial Mac tablet draws record crowd at Macworld (high-res photos)". Apple Insider. Archived from the original on 18 April 2007. Retrieved 2007-04-28.
  5. ↑ Jade, Charles (2007-01-10). "Ars at Macworld: ModBook rules Macworld". Ars Technica.
  6. ↑ Seff, Jonathan (2007-01-25). "First Look: ModBook". IDG:Macworld.
  7. ↑ Ramirez, Louis (2007-01-27). "Axiotron ModBook Manhandled by Macworld". Gizmodo.
  8. ↑ Wilson, Mark (2007-01-10). "Hands-on: Axiotron Modbook Tablet Mac". Gizmodo.
  9. ↑ Chen, Jason (2008-03-03). "Axiotron ModBook Review (Verdict: A Touchscreen MacBook Done Right)". Gizmodo.
  10. ↑ Cheng, Jacqui (2008-05-13). "Tablet PC, Mac style: a review of the Axiotron ModBook". Ars technica.
  11. ↑ "The original OS X tablet: how Modbook got its groove back". Ars Technica. June 28, 2012.
  12. ↑ Kendrick, James (2015-11-18). "Modbook Pro: Yes, there is an OS X tablet and it's been available since 2012". ZDnet.
  13. ↑ "Modbook Pro". Cnet. 2012-06-28.
  14. ↑ Künzler, J. Glenn (2012-06-28). "Meet the New ModBook Pro: A Full-Fledged OS X Tablet Built From a 2012 13-Inch MacBook Pro!". MacTrast.
  15. ↑ "Modbook Pro Tech Specs". Modbook Inc. Retrieved September 28, 2017.
  16. ↑ "The original OS X tablet: how Modbook got its groove back". Ars Technica. June 28, 2012. ... The idea is to offer creative professionals a way to work on a "real" computer while still offering them a tablet-like experience—a sort of Frankenstein between the iPad and a normal MacBook Pro ...'
  17. ↑ "Modbook Pro X — 15.4" Retina Quad-Core Mac OS X Tablet". Kickstarter. July 30, 2014.
  18. ↑ "Modbook's next project is the convertible MacBook Apple won't make". Ars Technica. July 30, 2014.
  19. ↑ "Modbook Pro X — Kickstarter Updates". Kickstarter. Retrieved September 28, 2017.
  20. ↑ "Last 2016 Updates and a Happy New Year". Kickstarter. December 31, 2016.
  21. ↑ "Modbook Inc. Launched Equity Crowdfunding Campaign on Wefunder and Introduced the Modbook Pro X, World's First Convertible Tablet Mac". prweb. September 28, 2017.
  22. ↑ "Modbook.com news - Account Suspended" . Retrieved 2023-03-28.
This page is based on this Wikipedia article
Text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 license; additional terms may apply.
Images, videos and audio are available under their respective licenses.