Apple Upgrades iMac Computers: Speed, Power, Performance

Just when you thought iMac had everything, now there’s even more. Apple today updated its all-in-one iMac line with the latest Intel Core 2 Duo processors based on the 45-nanometer Penryn architecture, plus the most powerful graphics ever available in an iMac.

The new iMacs also include 6MB L2 cache and a faster 1066 MHz front-side bus across the entire line and 2GB of memory standard in most models. The 24-inch iMac now offers a 3.06 GHz Intel processor and the high-performance NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GS graphics as options, extending iMac’s lead as the ultimate all-in-one desktop computer for both consumers and professionals.

Apple is offering three different models for customers to choose from. The base retails for $1,199 and includes a 20-inch widescreen LCD display, 2.4 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, 1 GB of RAM (expandable to 4GB), 250 GB hard drive, and ATI Radeon HD 2400 XT with 128 MB GDDR3 memory.

The mid-range model retails at $1,499 and a 20-inch widescreen LCD display, 2.66 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, 2 GB of RAM (expandable to 4GB), 320 GB hard drive, and a ATI Radeon HD 2600 PRO with 256 MB GDDR3 memory.

The top-of-the-line model has the same feature set as the mid-range, except for the addition of a 24-inch widescreen LCD display and a faster 2.8 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor. That model retails for $1,799.

Customers can opt for an NVIDIA 8800 GS graphics card with 512MB of video memory to double the performance on graphics intense applications. NVIDIA graphics are only available on the 24-inch iMac. Other features include AirPort Extreme 802.11n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 2.1+EDR, Gigabit Ethernet, iSight camera and five USB ports including the pair on the keyboard.

Apple is also touting the new iMac’s environmental friendliness. The system is composed of “highly recyclable and durable materials including scratch-resistant glass and professional grade aluminum,” Apple said.

Every model in the iMac line is rated EPEAT Silver and the power-efficient iMac also meets the stringent Energy Star 4.0 requirements for power consumption. The company is also offering free recycling of old Macs and PCs, with their Apple Recycling program.