Apple Computer Inc announced its return to the consumer market yesterday, with the launch of the iMac, a so-called Internet- age system with a single piece translucent casing. Going back to its design-oriented roots, Apple hopes the desirability of its latest box will persuade customers to pay out somewhat more money than for consumer-oriented Windows PCs. iMac is next year’s computer for $1,299, not last year’s computer for $999 said interim CEO Steve Jobs at the launch. Using a PowerPC G3 processor running at 233MHz and 512k backside L2 memory cache, Imac systems come with a 15 1024×768 monitor, one button Internat access and internal 33.6Kbps modem, and the MacOS 8.1 operating system. Standard configuration is 32Mb SDRAM, expandable to 128Mb, 2Mb SGRAM, 4Gb drive, 24x CD ROM, 10/100Base-Tx Ethernet and two 12Mbps USB ports. There is no floppy drive, and no option to upgrade processors in the future. The iMac should be available in August. Apple also launched new PowerBook G3 notebook systems, shipping now, with prices starting at $2,229. รก
