At long last, Apple Computer has excised the G3 processor from its consumer laptop line. The company has announced its revamped line of G4 iBooks, featuring the same type of CPU that's found in its iMac and eMac systems.
Improved iBooks
G4 processors aren't the only improvement to the new systems. They also gain support for AirPort Extreme 54-mbps wireless networking connectivity, DDR RAM, ATI Mobility Radeon 9200 graphics with 32MB of VRAM, and the ability to use an internal Bluetooth module for wireless peripheral connectivity. What's more, all iBooks come equipped with 256MB RAM and a slot-loading CD-RW/DVD-ROM Combo drive.
IBooks also gain USB 2.0 support with this new revision, but otherwise retain features seen in previous models, including FireWire 400, a built in 56K v.92 model and 10/100BASE-T Ethernet connectivity. They all retain 1024-by-768 pixel resolution displays, as well.
Souped-Up Software
Apple noted that all new iBooks come with Mac OS X v10.3, "Panther," pre-installed. Panther hits store shelves worldwide on October 24 and includes more than 150 new features including Expose, a way of quickly navigating open applications; Fast User Switching; FileVault, a security system that uses 128-bit encryption, and improved compatibility with Windows printers and network services.
Also included is three-fourths of Apple's iLife suite, comprising iTunes, iMovie and iPhoto, which allow users to listen to and download music, edit movies imported through DV cameras and FireWire, and arrange and edit digital photos. iDVD is not included since none of the new iBooks include DVD-R-burning SuperDrives; for that capability, laptop users will need to step up to Apple's professional PowerBook line.
Also included is a host of additional software including AppleWorks, Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 4 from Aspyr Media, Ambrosia Software's Deimos Rising, and other products from Apple and third parties.
Hardware Upgrades
All units come equipped with slot-loading Combo drives and 256MB RAM, along with two USB 2.0 ports, FireWire 400 and a video-out port. The video-out port attaches to the included Apple VGA Video Adapter, which enables iBook users to mirror their internal video on an external display or projector. S-Video and composite video output to a TV or VCR is also supported--that requires the Apple Video Adapter, sold separately.
The $1099 model comes with an 800-MHz processor, 12.1-inch display and 30GB hard drive. The $1299 933MHz model includes a 14.1-inch display and 40GB hard drive. The 1.0-GHz system includes a 14.1-inch display and a 60GB hard drive.
What's more, users can upgrade their iBooks by specifying build-to-order options like up to 640MB of RAM, 40- or 60GB hard drives, internal Bluetooth support, and AirPort Extreme card.
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