January 25, 2008
Forget about watching DVDs wirelessly on your MBA
Posted Jan. 25, ’08, 6:32 AM PT by Derik DeLong
Category | Hardware
One of the first questions that popped into my head was whether there would be limitations on what Remote Disc could do when acting as a drive for the MacBook Air. Booting isn’t an issue (a feat which I wouldn’t have imagined back when Airport debuted). However, it’s compatibility isn’t perfect.
We know it won’t write discs already (hardly surprising considering the lack of data reliability over a network link). Did you know though that you won’t be able to watch DVDs either? Before you ask, you can’t rip with Handbrake either. This means you either must rip using another computer, or buy Apple’s external drive.
Well, there’s another option. Maybe Apple would rather you rented from the iTunes Store. Before I get too paranoid, I’m sure the MPAA would be none to happy if Apple were streaming that video data over that wireless connection. The horror.
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And if that weren't enough, the MBA cannot jump over tall buildings in a single bound. Why, it can't even stop speeding bullets!!! Very limited, very bad computer.
Nothing but bad press for MBA, this is the first of its kind by Apple, give it time and I believe the engineers at Apple are already busy at work to resolve the many complains mentioned.
So, put a half a dozen movies on a 16GB Thumb drive in MPEG4 format instead of carrying a stack of fragile DVD's. Throw an ethernet to USB dongle in your suitcase for use at the hotel if need be. Throw your bulky laptop bag away, drop your MacBook Air into your briefcase, in a company envelope if you like, and head out. Oh! and don't forget the AC power cord and the aircraft power adapter. No, it doesn't work like your old laptop did, get over it, or with it.
Why would you want to watch a DVD wirelessly any way???????? If you want to watch a DVD on the Air , get the $99 superdrive , or don't get the Air , since it is not for you!!