This is why they're quitting MacWorld
It's an artificial update date. You either save up stuff that's already done to announce in January (and thus delay getting it to market), or just go with what new great stuff you've done over the holidays (not much), or preannounce and suppress sales of existing stuff til the new stuff is ready.
Instead, they're going to announce cool new stuff - when it's ready - at Apple Special Events, which, because they aren't predictable, probably generate more press buzz anyway.
The only direct benefit to a splashy keynote is to MacWorld, not Apple. Now that Apple and the Mac are no longer in imminent danger of extinction, having a big successful buzz-worthy show where you gather all of the Mac folks is not that important anymore. (For similar reasons, I would imagine they will still do special Keynotes at WWDC, which is Apple's party).
Anyway, I'm sure the new Mini will be announced soon. As well as the iP Nano.
Patience. And another buying opportunity.
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