Integrated 3G coming to Macs?
Job posting hints that portable Mac with integrated mobile broadband could be on the way.
Integrated 3G could finally be coming to Mac portables, at least according to a job posting for a position at Apple.
IT PRO's sister site Bit-Tech has spotted a blog noting that in a recent job advert Apple is seeking a QA engineer versed in 3G Wireless WAN networks.
The advert states that the candidate "Must possess in-depth knowledge of one or more Comms technlogies, including Gigabit Ethernet for consumer and enterprise-class workstations, Bluetooth v2.0, 3G Wireless WAN and Wi-Fi [802.11] a/b/g/n..."
While Apple claims that its Macbook Air is the world's thinnest laptop, in lieu of a Wi-Fi network, an external 3G data dongle is required to access the internet - somewhat of an issue when the machine infamously only has one USB port. A Mac with integrated 3G would therefore make Apple's machines even more of an attractive proposition for business executives.
Apple recently decried netbooks as junky', so we are unlikely to see a machine of that sort though rumours still abound of a tablet style machine. Alternatively, we may just get updates to its Macbook and Macbook Pro range, rather than any new models.
Response to an enquiry from from IT PRO on this story elicited a simple, "we do not comment on rumours or speculation".
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Benny Har-Even is a twenty-year stalwart of technology journalism who is passionate about all areas of the industry, but telecoms and mobile and home entertainment are among his chief interests. He has written for many of the leading tech publications in the UK, such as PC Pro and Wired, and previously held the position of technology editor at ITPro before regularly contributing as a freelancer.
Known affectionately as a ‘geek’ to his friends, his passion has seen him land opportunities to speak about technology on BBC television broadcasts, as well as a number of speaking engagements at industry events.