As Macworld 2010 approached, many folks were wondering if the show could survive without Apple present. Right now the signs look good as the exhibit hall in Moscone North was packed for the second day in a row.

Traffic seemed steady throughout the day (Friday). Most of the vendors and Expo goers with whom I spoke were pleasantly surprised by the hustle and bustle and generally upbeat atmosphere of the show.

Of course, there's no denying that there simply isn't the intensity of past events with Apple absent. Heck I wish they had a booth here, so I could get my hands on an iPad, at last for a few moments. That said, this Macworld is a different beast than what we're used to. On that level, it certainly seems to be a success.

In fact, I think there will actually be more exhibitors at Macworld 2011 once the word gets out about this year's event. And come back Saturday for our last day of MWSF coverage.