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Apple Upgrades iBook, Mac Mini Computers.

Category: Other

by Anton Shilov

[ 07/26/2005 | 02:59 PM ]

Apple Computer on Tuesday updated its lineup of entry-level computers – iBook and Mac mini – with more powerful models ahead of back-to-school season. In addition, Apple also recently kicked off a special program for students, which allows to get a free iPod mini when buying certain Mac computer.

iBook Gets Faster

The iBook faced more powerful microprocessors, 512MB of memory across the boards, faster wireless networking and more advanced Bluetooth connectivity. In addition, the computers now include the so-called Apple’s Sudden Motion Sensor, which halts hard disk drive once it recognizes that a notebook is moving too fast.

The new lineup of iBook computers features either 1.33GHz or 1.42GHz G4 processors, 512MB of DDR memory, RADEON 9550 graphics with 32MB local-buffer, 802.11g (54Mb/s) wireless LAN controller, Bluetooth 2.0 connectivity as well as scrolling TrackPad and Apple’s Sudden Motion Sensor technology to help protect a spinning hard drive if the notebook is accidentally dropped. The portable notebooks from Apple feature up to 100GB hard disk drive, slot-load SuperDrive (DVD±RW/CD-RW burner) as well as all the necessary connectors, including USB 2.0, FireWire 400 and so on. iBook computers are available now in 12.1” as well as 14” form-factors for $999 and $1299 respectively.

According to Apple, iBook computers are capable of working up to 6 hours on battery.

Mac OS X version 10.4 “Tiger” comes with every iBook. Each iBook also includes iLife 05, Apple’s award-winning suite of digital lifestyle applications featuring iPhoto, iMovie, iDVD, GarageBand and iTunes.

Mac Mini Lineup Broadening

Apple’s Mac mini family of computers was expanded with a $699 offering, furthermore, all the models now include wireless connectivity and networking as well as 512MB of memory. All three Mac mini models are available right now.

From now on Apple will supply three versions of its Mac mini PCs at $499, $599 and $699 price-points without display. The basic model features 1.25GHz PowerPC G4 chip and 40GB hard disk drive, whereas more expensive offering integrate 1.42GHz chips and 80GB hard drives. All the Mac mini computers feature 512MB PC2700 memory; ATI RADEON 9200 graphics chip; 10/100Mbps Ethernet; AirPort Extreme wireless networking (802.11g), internal Bluetooth module, FireWire, USB 2.0 as well as other features. The most advanced Mac mini for $699 now includes SuperDrive (DVD±RW/CD-RW burner), whereas two other models utilize combo (DVD-ROM/CD-RW) optical drive. Customers can also order 56K modem, 1GB of memory and other enhancements.

Every Mac mini includes Mac OS X version 10.4 “Tiger”, iLife ‘05, an upgrade to Apple’s suite of digital lifestyle applications with major new versions of iPhoto, iMovie, iDVD and GarageBand. iLife ‘05 also features the latest version of iTunes, a digital music jukebox software which includes the iTunes Music Store.

Apple Gives Free iPod Mini to Students

In addition to its usual discounts for students Apple now also offers a $179 mail-in rebate when purchasing a Mac computer and an iPod. In case of iPod mini, customers will basically receive the music player for free.

In order to get a free 4GB iPod or $179 discount on any other iPod, students should buy an iBook, PowerBook, iMac or Power Mac at their campus computer store, the Apple Store online or an Apple Store, then fill-in a special rebate coupon and send it to Apple. Once receive, Apple returns $179 by check. This offer is valid through September 24, 2005.