My predictions for 2008

It's that time of the year again, so here are my predictions for 2008. Some of these may be announced at MacWorld Expo, starting Jan. 15.

• The iPod classic is dead, to be replaced with a 32G or 64G flash-based iPod touch & iPhone. The iPod classic doesn't fit in Apple's product line. It competes with the iPod Touch for the high end, lacking most of the Touch features but merely acting as a stopgap until a high-capacity Touch can be made. The name 'classic' should be a hint that it's a dead end product.

• AppleTV will finally be done right, with a DVD drive, DVR capabilities, and web browsing on the TV.

• Home Server. I've predicted this before, but I think this is finally the right time for it. The AppleTV needs a streaming media server, and there has to be a server compatible with Time Machine.

• Subcompact notebook, possibly flash-based like the eeePC.

• The iMac will get a quad core processor.

• the iPhone will finally be available in Canada. No 3G iPhone until at least 3rd quarter. iPhone firmware update will add video recording, voice dialing, and IM. iPhone will also get Bluetooth modem capability, so Macs can get online through the iPhone.

• The mini will get bigger, or there will be a mid-range model. Still the most inexpensive Mac, but it will be easily expandable. Some people want to be able to easily upgrade drives & memory, but don't need a Mac Pro.