True to the rumors, Apple released new iMac models on Tuesday that include faster quad-core Intel processors, Thunderbolt, and faster graphics, and FaceTime HD. Like previous models, the new iMac is available in 21.5-inch and 27-inch versions.
Apple’s updated iMac lineup
The new iMac ships with a quad-core Intel Core i5 processor, 16:9 LED backlit display, 4GB RAM, AMD Radeon HD graphics, four USB 2.0 ports, FireWire 800, two Thunderbolt ports, Gigabit Ethernet, SuerDrive, SDXC card slot, audio in and out ports, built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, built-in microphone and stereo speakers, and the same FaceTime HD camera that was introduced with the MacBook Pro earlier this year.
Apple ships its new iMacs with a Bluetooth wireless keyboard and Magic Mouse. Users can, however, choose to swap out the Magic Mouse for a Magic Trackpad at no additional cost when they purchase a new iMac through Apple’s online store.
Thunderbolt uses the same connector as Apple’s Mini Display Port video adapter and can currently support up to six devices in a chain. The port offers dual-channel 10 gb/s data throughput, and supports hard drives and other peripherals as well as displays.
The 21.5-inch display model ships with a 2.5GHz Core i5 processor, 1920 x 1080 resolution, 500GB hard drive, and AMD Radeon HD 6750M graphics processor with 512MB RAM. The 2.7GHz Core i5 processor version includes a 1TB hard drive and an AMD Radeon HD 6770M graphics card with 512MB RAM.
The 27-inch model includes a 2.7GHz quad-core Intel Core i5 processor, 2560 x 1440 resolution, 1TB hard drive, and AMD Radeon HD 6770M graphics with 512MB RAM. The 3.1GHz model includes a 1TB hard drive and AMD Radeon HD 6970M graphics with 1GB RAM.
Build-to-order options are available through Apple’s online store for Core i7 processors running at up to 3.4GHz, up to 2TB hard drives, and a 256GB solid state drive.
The 21.5-inch iMac is priced at US$1,199 for the 2.5GHz Core i5 model, and $1,499 fort the 2.7GHz Core i5 model. The 27-inch iMac costs $1,699 for the 2.7GHz model, and $1,999 for the 3.1GHz model.