Apple speeds up iMacs with Core 2 Duo

Author: Caroline Mc Carthy

Apple Computer's iMac desktops are now equipped with Intel's new Core 2 Duo processors, the Mac maker said Wednesday.

The iMac lineup has also been expanded to include a 24-inch model, supplementing the company's 17-inch and 20-inch versions of the widescreen, tower-free desktop. According to Apple, the new machines will operate 50 percent faster than with the original Core Duo.

In June 2005, Apple announced that it was ditching its PowerPC chips in favor of Intel processors. The iMacs with Intel's original Core Duo chip debuted early this year.

With the release of the Core 2 Duo models, iMac prices have also dropped a notch. The 17-inch model--which cost $1,299 with the first Core Duo--is now $999 with a 1.83GHz Core 2 Duo and $1,199 with a 2GHz version.

The 20-inch iMac, with a 2.16GHz Core 2 Duo, is priced at $1,499. The new 24-inch model, with the same processor speed, costs $1,999.

Apple's announcement was not limited to iMacs. Its Mac Mini budget desktop was given a processor upgrade too--from an Intel Core Solo to a Core Duo--not the new Core 2 Duo. The box-shaped Mac Minis, which come without a monitor, are now $599 for a 1.66GHz model and $799 for 1.83GHz version.

The Cupertino, Calif.-based company is expected to give more product news at a self-described "special event" in San Francisco next week.