Here's my take on why there's no iSight available

[Zoidberg]

Sure, the popular speculation is building it into the next round of Cinema Displays, which is a good bet. I think this'll happen regardless.

But I think Apple may have another foray into the Windows world planned. I think they've been working on a USB2 version of the iSight for some time, also reducing its overall size. Further, I would think -- from a business standpoint -- a good package would be a USB2-based iSight bundled with a Windows version of iChat.

My first thought would be no; iChat and the iSight are why some people come over and get a Mac. But it's like the iPod thing; the halo effect would be good. Apple's got the reputation for making things that work, and the elegance of use, and the sheer coolness factor.

I dunno. But I think there's been a few problems with it, which is why we haven't seen it.

Now, why isn't Apple still selling the iSight FW400 model? I don't know, I keep searching for info but I can't find it (and if it's available or has been posted I've railroaded right over it).

Just my 2¢. But whatever they're going to do I wish they'd come on and do it already; I've got a few clients (with older iMacs) who are wanting one and not wanting to spend $300+ on eBay for it.

[Lux Interior]

Hey, could be just stupidity.

Why don't they offer the original Airport card? There is still a demand for them and it's not like buying an AP extreme card is an option for people whose Macs need original cards. And it's not enough motivation to upgrade (spend $90 on a card or $1000 on a new Mac?).

I hope it's not integration with the new ACDs. I plan on buying a new tower this summer, but I will probably buy two Dell 24" widescreens. ACDs are too expensive. SO a USB2 option would be nice. But why not sell the FW version until the USB one is ready?

[BigGuynRusty]

Apple makes neither the iSight, nor original Airport card.
The manufacturer of either device no longer makes them.
Unless Apple puts a few million in their banks, and guarantees sales, you're not gonna see them back in production.
Bottom line, it is all about the Benjamins.
Profit guides all.

BGnR

[elmo3]

GASP! You mean Apple PLANS for their products to become OBSOLETE????

Who'd'a thunk it?!???!!!!????

Hint: don't buy a computer with a built in monitor, and always buy a network Postscript printer. At least then you won't be throwing perfectly good monitors and printers away just because circumstances forced your hand into getting an all-new computer with an all-new operating system.

[C(-)ris]

What I heard was that the current model of iSight doesn't meet some sort of European RoHS standard. Apple decided to cease production on the model because they couldn't export it. The ban came to be law rather quickly. I think it caught some manufacturers by surprise. I imagine that Apple is creating a new model, which isn't ready yet. The old available supply didn't quite meet the demand.

[BigGuynRusty]

Snuck right up on them!
"The RoHS Directive (Restriction of Certain Hazardous Substances) became law in the European Union countries in February 2003. Member states must implement the law by August 2004 and product deadline for compliance is July 2006."

BGnR

[Jem]

Zoid,

I'm having the same problem with a client that wants one for her G5 PowerMac. I hope you are right about the USB 2.0 model being around the corner. It makes sense given how little support there is for 3rd party solutions that work seamlessly.

Here's hoping!

Cheers,

Jem

[GeneL]

I'm sure glad I bagged a brand new one from Craiglist. Paid $100 which now seems like an even better deal