Apple Boosts iBook Speed
Apple has given the iBook a much-needed speed boost, announcing new souped-up models with prices starting at $999 USD. Exactly one year ago, Apple transitioned the iBook to same G4 processer found in its PowerBook line and continues to tout the portable as a low-cost option for consumers and education customers.
The new 12- and 14-inch iBooks feature either a 1.2 GHz or 1.33 GHz PowerPC G4 processor, built-in AirPort Extreme wireless, and an optional slot-loading SuperDrive DVD burner. Apple boasts 6 hours of battery life on the new models.
"Apple has done a great job extending iBook's value. The $1,299 model, with built-in 802.11g and 60GB hard drive, is competitvely priced with Windows XP notebooks," said Jupiter Research senior analyst Joe Wilcox.
"But that value would have made more sense in August, when Apple had no iMacs to ship, and the newer iBook could have snapped up back-to-school sales. Apple might have prevented slight sequential sales dip in iBook sales," said Wilcox.
For $999 USD, the 12-inch iBook offers 256MB of RAM and a 30GB hard drive alongside the 1.2 GHz G4. Customers looking for more screen space can opt for a 14-inch display with 1.33 GHz processor and 60GB hard drive for $1,299 USD.
The new iBooks are available to order now online and from Apple's retail stores.