(06-27-2021, 02:35 AM)Arwen Wrote: I think a more practical goal would be the existing Pinebook Pro feature set, with the new RK3588 processor. Then maybe have some of these:And perhaps refresh even more:
- Option of 4GB or 8GB memory
- Power / charging issues corrected. Maybe support a 5v 4amp barrel charger.
- Look at better firmware for both the keyboard controller, and the trackpad, especially the trackpad
None of those are earth shattering, and in my opinion, quite doable.
- Have the USB 2 port changed to be USB 3, (but still Type A)
- Maybe have a newer WiFi chip, or have the new one optional
- Put the eMMC disable switch in a place where you can switch it without opening the chassis, (side mounted?)
- Put the Serial Console / Audio Jack switch in place you can switch it without opening the chassis, (again, side mounted?)
The 360 hinge, touch screen and low latency pen input would likely add a bit more cost than a majority of Pinebook Pro users might pay.
If I may...
1. RK3588 - yay, but only in 4x Cortex-A76 and 4x Cortex-A55 version.
Reasoning: Lets be real - current SoC is underpowered for Manjaro KDE and it is palpable. Software will get only more demanding. Lets get the best we can.
2. 8GB memory only.
Reasoning: We already have 4GB and it was already too little when Pinebook Pro was released couple of years ago. Software is getting more demanding and RAM heavy all the time. I am afraid 8GB will already be too little when they finally come out, but more appropriate than 4GB we currently have.
3. USB C charging only. 4-5 Amp charging OK.
Reasoning: Almost all chargeable electronics are bound to get USBC. That is the current trend - Lenovo slim laptops, most other ultraportables, smartphones... etc. Pinebook Pro is a "travel" laptop. It is very inconvenient for a person to carry tho chargers - one proprietary barrel charger and one universal USB C charger to get best charging times for all one's gadgets. Best way is to use one universal USB charger to use on all devices, PBP included. Forget barrel chargers, they are anachronisms.
4. Better firmware - yes, please
5. USB 2 -> USB 3.0, yes please.
6. Stronger WIFI antenna - yes please!!!
7. eMMC disable switch - ok.
8. Audio jack is not needed.
Reasoning: it is strongly affected by EM interference inside the laptop. Almost all ppl I know use Bluetooth headphones anyways.
9. Replace existing power button with a DELETE button!!!
Move On/Off button somewhere else.
Reasoning: Keyboard is very inconvenient without a dedicated delete button, especially when one uses this laptop at work, e.g. entering or editing lots of data.
10. Backlit keyboard - wouldn't it be good...
11. Nvme SSD boot out of the box.
Reasoning: more space than eMMC.
That is it for now...