I have heard the theory that the trackpad is part of bigger scheme Apple has for moving people from old input methods (like mice) to touch. See http://minimalmac.com/post/866196442/of-mice-and-magic and http://ihnatko.com/2010/07/27/apples-magic-trackpad-just-the-start-of-the-magic-trick/
I agree with this idea completely, but I do not think this is Apple’s first step in that direction. The Magic Trackpad fits perfectly next to the Apple Bluetooth keyboard or even the wired keyboard that does not have the number pad. Apple has been shipping the number pad-less keyboards by default for a while now; and I have heard many complain about it. Apple knew all along that they were going to make this move to touch, they were just making room on your desk.
It goes to show that Apple really does have a greater plan for their computers…and I can’t wait to see what the final result is.
