Apple launches new iMacs with fastest processor, graphics

Apple Inc. on Monday released the long-awaited update of its renowned desktop brand, the all-in-one iMac desktops. The offering comes nearly eight months after the computer maker launched upgrade to iMac in August 2007.

The recent version of the popular all-in-one system is available in three basic configurations: a 20-inch 2.4-GHz model, a 20-inch 2.66-GHz model, and a 24-inch 2.8- GHz model.

The new iMacs are equipped with faster Intel Core 2 Duo processors and an optional more powerful graphics processor on its high-end 24-inch model.

The 2.4-GHz iMac comes with an ATI Radeon HD 2400 XT (128-MB memory) and retails for $1,199, while the 2.66-GHz and 2.8-GHz models come with an ATI Radeon HD 2600 PRO (256-MB memory) and retail for $1,499 and $1,799 respectively.

All the new iMacs will come equipped with a faster 1066MHz system bus, 6MB of level 2 cache, and the most power graphics yet available on the system. The top of the line units feature a 3.06 GHz Intel processor and a new graphic solution NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GS graphics that, according to Apple, is able to deliver up to two times standard performance for graphic intensive applications.

"We want to make the iMac even more appealing to even more people, whether that's gamers looking [to play] great games or consumers and creative professional who want to run pro-level software faster," said Tom Boer, senior director of Apple desktop product marketing.

Apple's new lineup of iMacs also include built-in AirPort Extreme 802.11n Wi-Fi networking, Bluetooth 2.1+EDR, Gigabit Ethernet; a built-in iSight video camera; five USB 2.0 ports; one FireWire 400 port; and one FireWire 800 port. They also ship with Apple's iLife consumer media suite and Mac OS X 10.5.2, known as "Leopard."

"With the latest Intel processors, a faster new graphics option and more memory, customers now have even more reasons to love the iMac," said Philip Schiller, the company's senior vice president of worldwide product marketing.

Touting its new iMac's environmental friendliness, Apple said the system is made up of highly recyclable and durable materials including scratch-resistant glass and professional grade aluminum, and meet Energy Star's new 4.0 power consumption requirements.

EPEAT, the Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool, has rated all the new iMacs at EPEAT Silver that means the product is environmentally preferable.

The new iMac models are available now through Apple's retail and online stores.