iPad nearly had video conferencing?
Software support, hardware lacking, probably
Developers pawing over the latest iPhone SDK have found references to a front-facing camera, and controls to manage video calls, despite the lack of announced hardware.
The latest iPhone SDK, which is also used to develop iPad applications, has references to a hasFrontCamera variable - so applications can check if the hardware exists - but developers have also found buttons for accepting and rejecting video calls, buttons that are too wide for the iPhone's screen:
Image and story details from MacRumours
Video calling was supposed to be the killer function for 3G networks, but it turned out that nobody wanted it. Since then companies such as Skype have made the capability free and still there's only minimal use. Despite this apparent reality, almost all manufacturers still regard a front-facing camera as an essential feature on a 3G handset - all except Apple ,that is.
The iPhone has never had a front-facing camera, and from what Apple has said neither does the iPad - some Apple fans are predicting a surprise inclusion of such a camera at launch, though it seems more likely destined for a future model.
Video calling does have its place in keeping disparate families connected and long-distance relationships alive, but in those circumstances the connection is more room-to-room than face-to-face. Face-to-face video calling - such as a front-facing camera on a mobile phone makes possible - is just strange. However, the iPad, with a suitable stand, might be well suited for room-to-room connections, and if anyone can convince the world that it needs video calling then it's Apple. ®
COMMENTS
wow, not like Apple to withhold features is it?
Title says it all, no surprise that Apple milks its user base for all the cash it can as it introduces features 'as new' as selling points and reason to upgrade that other companies bundle as standard.
Don't like it myself but Apple are in it to make money. Kudos to them for buggering the gullible.
I feel sorry for...
the people who don't get excited enough about something new and would rather wait a year or two before buying a product...
This is no diefferent. Who cares if they release a newer model next year with more features.
Don't most companies operate in the same way?
Don't point the finger at Apple just because you can.
I'll probably buy one and I don't count myself as gullible, but then I've no use for a front facing camera so it doesn't phase me much
Well I can see a LOT of use for phone based video chats...
...It involves people who, otherwise would be unable to communicate via voice in the usual way. I am of course referring to people who use sign language. Have seen it a lot on my travels, and it always makes me feel good that these people have the chance to use it. Yes texts are quicker and what have you, but sometimes you just have to "speak" to someone...
Cases
Given the many 3rd companies making a living supplying accessories to the iPhone/iTouch who see a huge market for the iPad, what's the betting that someone will design a clip on case with a webcam in it and connection/power via the docking port? Put a pull-out stand on it and voila, instant video conferencing with no nasal passages dominating the proceedings.
It is useful...
I have found that it is very useful to use iChat to talk to my sons in college and colleagues at other universities - on other continents. If the iPad had this feature, it would be an easy replacement of my phone... basically having a computer and phone etc all in one package.
