DigitalSandbox

Apple has released updates to both the iMacs and the Minis today. This comes ahead of a scheduled press event on the 12th of September. The fact that these updates are coming out now instead of waiting a week speaks volumes about what we can expect at the event. But that is for another post.

The updates are pretty impressive in the iMac line and not bad in the Mini line.

The Minis lost the Core Solo configuration for a 1.66�GHz Core Duo. The top end configuration is now at 1.83�GHz. Other than that, the machines don’t seem to have changed. Same integrated graphics, same port configuration, same great prices, same solid machine just slightly faster.

Now that even the low end model can support up to 1080i/p�HD video, the Mini looks even more appealing to those looking to integrate one into a home entertainment setup. Before you had to buy the $800 version to get something that could handle HD. Now it can all be yours for $600. Be on the lookout for the old Core Duo version on clearance. It has an 80�GB hard drive and a SuperDrive.

The updates to the iMac are much more significant. The entire lineup is now based on the Core�2�Duo with speeds from 1.83�Ghz to 2.33�Ghz. The 2.33�GHz available in a BTO configuration, base models go to 2.16�GHz. This also includes updated graphics card (except for the low-end that now uses integrated graphics), new Firewire�800 ports, and the ability to hold up to 3�GB of RAM. All this goodness starting at only $999.

The big addition is the availability of a 24” iMac. Just take a moment and let that sink in. That has to be one glorious system. Sporting a 1920�x�1200 resolution the iMac is fully ready for 1080i/p�HD video.

When the G4 iMacs hit 20” I thought that a screen that size looked out of place and a bit silly. But the G5 version, with its redesigned case, at 20” is extrememly nice and would be the smallest size I would consider buying. My initial reaction to the 24” iMac was similar to the 20” G4. It just seems so big. But I am sure that when I see it in person it will not look overly huge. Instead, it will look extremely useful and will be very tempting when it comes time to replace my Mini.