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General discussion

Mac OS and Keyboard

Mar 30, 2007 9:04PM PDT

I live permanently in France. I write a lot in french, of course, so my PC Keyboard is French, but, being British, I find Windows XP to be easier in English. I am thinking of getting a Mac Book Pro 17" -(I just fancy trying a Mac) BUT I CAN'T GET A STRAIGHT ANSWER ANYWHERE -(from Vendors at least). Apple Store says the Mac Book is avaiable with English OS + English Keyboard; French OS + French Keyboard; and French OS + English Keyboard. Does anyone KNOW if and where I can get a Mac with ENGLISH OS + FRENCH KEYBOARD; Please !

Discussion is locked

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Every combination but!
Mar 31, 2007 12:05AM PDT

I thought this was going to be an easy answer but apparently not.

So, with nothing else to do on this stormy Saturday morning, I took a dig around the various Apple stores.
I found this at the UK store and found its equivalent at the French store. This is the English version:
Quote
Your MacBook Pro typically ships with an operating system and keyboard that match the official language of the country in which you purchased it. However, you can also choose an operating system and keyboard that displays information in a different language, if available in your country.
If you select another language, you will also receive supporting software manuals and other print materials appropriate for that language.

Note: Your computer always comes equipped with cables, manuals and other items appropriate for the country in which you purchased it.

Unquote.

Does that help at all?

I guess you would have to actually talk to someone at the Apple Store to actually order something that is offered as an alternative but not on the web page

P

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Mac OS & Keyboard
Apr 2, 2007 7:40AM PDT

Many thanks, MrMacfixit.
I don't know why I didn't think of this before, but after your reply, I went to the French Apple Store - and there it was ! I CAN buy a MacBook in France with French Keyboard and an English OS.

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(NT) Glad to help
Apr 2, 2007 10:08AM PDT
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English OS + French Keyboard
Apr 23, 2007 9:35AM PDT

In case you're still looking for an answer:

The installation CDs that come with the purchase of a Macbook includes all OS languages. So you should buy a Macbook in france so you have the French keyboard, then re-install the OS in English. The installation is very easy to do.

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French Keyboard and English OS
Apr 23, 2007 5:38PM PDT

Many thanks, Thezeus. I now have on order from Apple Store France, just the configuration I require.
As a point of interest to anyone interested, I tried to buy this MacBook Pro in a large French Store (Fnac). However, although they could supply other Mac Books with the Brilliant Screen, not the 17" one ! Apple ( or it could be Fnac, of course) seem to have a very peculiar retail operation.