The world (well, except Japan) flocks to Apple's doorstep for the iPhone, but don't think that (and the iTV - well, Apple TV now) would be the whole world for MacWorld. You might have just overlooked something just as interesting (sexy, even). Remember all those rumors and wild dreams about an Apple UMPC/UMMac? Well, it's still a no-show in MacWorld 2007, but Axiotron, Inc., with Other World Computing, provides the closest thing possible. Meet the ModBook: their take on a Tablet Mac.

"The first ever Mac OS X tablet computer solution" literally is the guts of a Core 2 Duo MacBook in the shell of a UMPC, explains AppleInsider. It will cost the buyer around US$ 2,279 to transplant the essence of a MacBook into a 13.3 inch Wacom pen-enabled widescreen and chrome-plated magnesium top shell. The ModBook retains all the functionality of its donor, up to and including the CD/DVD combo drive and the iSight camera. The ModBook also comes with an optional built-in GPS system.

It drew such a huge crowd - for a non-Apple booth - and it was awarded "Best in Show". Until January 31, Other Word is offering a special introductory price of US$ 2,199 for the ModBook - optional GPS included. Slated for an April release. Pictures of the demo pre-production unit below from AppleInsider. Come on. You know you want it.