Activate Apple’s 802.11n for under two bucks
OK, it looks like either everyone got a 60% discount on the $4.99 802.11n activation fee or Apple carefully judged the harsh reactions folks gave on spending $5 for something they almost already have. Gizmodo mentions that Intel Core 2 Duo Macs can step up their WiFi range and speeds for $1.99 today via the Apple Store right here. Before you ask: no, there’s no shipping and handling charges. Let’s hope Senator Sarbanes and Representative Oxley are satisfied…
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I don’t think it’s SOX at all that’s causing Apple to do this. I have had Linksys provide firmware since SOX has came out that HAS added features. It’s not GAAP either. Apple is just out for CASH! :D Or at least trying to make sure they are extra spiffy in case the SEC does investigate the stock thing and Mr. Jobs.
Actually it costs more than $1.99, you have to pay sales tax.
Keep up — the “change” to $1.99 is old news (at least in the IT sense): http://www.tuaw.com/2007/01/18/apple-to-charge-1-99-for-802-11n-enabler/
And Apple has to charge a premium to keep its image as being, well, premium. You know, rich folks who buy Apples wouldn’t simply take something for free — wouldn’t seem right. Helps keep away the riff-raff, too.
Thanks Matt; I read the story on the 18th as I used to work on a sister blog of the TUAW folks and I’m still a huge fan. I waited to post the story until I saw that the actual activation was “live”; which it is and is what we reported today.