Apple ending rebates on MobileMe and iWork, updates to follow?

Posted by Andru Edwards Categories: Apple, Rumors, Software

Apple has inexplicably ended two long-offered rebates for MobileMe and iWorks, fueling speculation that it will launch revamped versions of both software suites any day now.

"The 'Buy a Mac and Save $30 on iWork' and 'Buy a Mac or iPad and Save $30 on MobileMe' promotions will both end on April 18, 2011. Resellers must remove any reference to these promotions by close of business on that date," Apple wrote in an alleged letter to resellers obtained by 9to5Mac.

You can still download a free 60-day trial of MobileMe or pay $99 for the annual subscription; iWork is free for 30 days and $79 to purchase thereafter.

Apple MobileMe remotely stores your files and photos, and pushes email and calendar updates to your iOS device or Mac desktop. It launched in 2000 and was last updated in 2008 during Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), held every June.

In December 2010, an Apple fan emailed Steve Jobs to complain about MobileMe, and Jobs reportedly replied, "Yes, it will get a lot better in 2011."

Since then, reports about an imminent refresh have been on the rise. Last month, The Music Void reported that Apple was preparing to launch a revamped version of MobileMe in April for only $20 a year, which would feature a new cloud-based music locker service in conjunction with Warner Music Group.

In March, iLounge reported that Apple was nudging customers to sign up for MobileMe's free 60-day trial, rather than purchase a $99 annual subscription, to fill the gap between an update expected in May. ILounge also reported that Apple will only support the existing service for another year to cover those who might have recently subscribed to MobileMe, which means a retooled version of MobileMe could be very different. In February, Apple briefly took down MobileMe's landing page.

Meanwhile iWork, last updated in 2009 and 2008, is Apple's office software suite geared towards students, home users, and to a lesser extent, professionals and businesses.

This article, written by Sara Yin, originally appeared on PCMag.com and is republished on Gear Live with the permission of Ziff Davis, Inc.