Welcome to the MacNN Forums.

Yes, I know, nobody really knows, but I've been out of the loop for a while - gone over to the dark side for a while - so what's the general speculation for improvements to the lineup?

In the market now, and seeking to come back to the Mac, and wondering if I should wait or not . . .

Check this page out:

http://buyersguide.macrumors.com/

Looks like - going by the average - we have another two months to go (60 days) till the PowerBooks will be revised.

Might not be very accurate, but it should give you an estimate.

Maybe not since the Xserve needs a refresh first. Also I think Apple is working on getting there Machines to 3Ghz. so the Powerbooks might see one either in July at MacWorld Boston or as a silent update during the year sometime or maybe in Paris.

The tower teams, xserve teams, etc are completely different from the powerbook development teams. Development of the different product lines occurs at the same time... not one after another.

I don't think I've seen an upgrade to laptops the same time as the Desktops. Usually a little later afterwards.

By the way you ask when we expect new Powerbooks? I got my new Powerbook this weekend.

yup, but I would bet that is done on purpose so there is always "something" coming out.... I do know for sure though that the development part of Apple is divided into "teams", and each team works on a certain project.

...and I loved your comment regarding when the new books are out!

There is always the wait for something better, faster and cheaper.

For me, I don't wait and get what I need and enjoy using ever since.

Maybe I am a little more optimistic, but I think the powerbook line will be revised sooner than later. It is based on the following:

1) Since the 15" is the ideal workhorse for the professional, it really has not been updated that much in speed over the past 14 monts (1 GHz to 1.25 GHz). Yes, In september 03, it got a new case, FW800, airport extreme, and an optional 80GB HD, but really no change in the horsepower). And this product has been flawed with white spots, etc and has really put a dent on quality reputation. I am sure Steve J is not happy.

2) That being said, 2003 was supposed to be the "Year of the Laptop", the flagship/workhorse hasn't changed that much. I really think Apple wanted to get the G5 powerbooks out this year, but my hunch is that it will be 1 qtr 04'. At MWSF? Probably not, but I think in late January/early February. Do I have any proof/sources? No I do not. But I think there are many of us PB 15" users just waiting for the next upgrade.

Just my humble opinion.

I wouldn't go that far. Apple has been on a roll this year. ITMS as time invention of the year, iPod, G5s, etc. I am sure Mr. Jobs has quite a few things to be happy about, not to mention his pay check.