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Apple updates iMac lineup with Intel Core i3, i5 and i7 processors

2010-07-27T14:30:53Z

On Tuesday July 27, 2010, Apple refreshed its iMac all-in-one desktop lineup with new Intel's Core i3, Core i5 and Core i7 processors and discrete ATI Radeon graphics. The new iMac line is shipping now and available through the Apple Store, Apple's retail stores and Apple Authorized Resellers

]]> ATI Radeon HD 5750.

"We took the world's best all-in-one and made it even better," said Philip Schiller, Apple's senior vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing. "With the latest processors, high-performance graphics and signature aluminum and glass design, customers are going to love the latest iMac."

Dual-core Intel Core i3 and Core i5, and quad-core Core i5 and Core i7 processors set a new benchmark for iMac performance. The processors feature an integrated memory controller to access the system memory directly, allowing the new iMac to take full advantage of its faster 1333 MHz memory.

New discrete ATI Radeon HD processors deliver incredibly smooth, crisp graphics for the most demanding 3D games, creative software and technical applications. iMac displays feature IPS technology to deliver a brilliant image across a wide 178 degree viewing angle.

The SD card slot on the iMac now supports the SDXC format to handle the latest high-capacity storage cards. Customers of the 27-inch iMac have the option to order a 256GB solid state drive (SSD) as a primary or secondary drive. The iMac SSD supports up to 215 MB/s data transfer rates for faster startup and application launch times.
The new 21.5-inch 3.06 GHz Intel Core i3 iMac, for a suggested retail price of $1,199 (US), includes:

21.5-inch 1920 × 1080 LED-backlit display;
3.06 GHz Intel Core i3 processor with 4MB shared L3 cache;
4GB 1333 MHz DDR3 SDRAM expandable to 16GB;
ATI Radeon HD 4670 discrete graphics with 256MB GDDR3 SDRAM;
500GB Serial ATA hard drive running at 7200 rpm;
slot-load 8x SuperDrive with double-layer support (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW);
Mini DisplayPort for audio and video output (adapters sold separately);
AirPort Extreme 802.11n wireless networking & Bluetooth 2.1+EDR;
iSight video camera;
Gigabit Ethernet;
four USB 2.0 ports;
one SDXC SD card slot;
one FireWire® 800 port;
built-in stereo speakers and microphone; and
Wireless Apple Keyboard, Magic Mouse.

Configure-to-order options include up to 8GB of RAM.

The new 21.5-inch 3.2 GHz Intel Core i3 iMac, for a suggested retail price of $1,499 (US), includes:

21.5-inch 1920 × 1080 LED-backlit display;
3.20 GHz Intel Core i3 processor with 4MB shared L3 cache;
4GB 1333 MHz DDR3 SDRAM expandable to 16GB;
ATI Radeon HD 5670 discrete graphics with 512MB GDDR3;
1TB Serial ATA hard drive running at 7200 rpm;
slot-load 8x SuperDrive with double-layer support (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW);
Mini DisplayPort for audio and video output (adapters sold separately);
AirPort Extreme 802.11n wireless networking & Bluetooth 2.1+EDR;
iSight video camera;
Gigabit Ethernet;
four USB 2.0 ports;
one FireWire 800 port;
one SDXC SD card slot;
built-in stereo speakers and microphone; and
Wireless Apple Keyboard, Magic Mouse.

Configure-to-order options include a faster 3.6 GHz Core i5 processor, 2TB hard drive and up to 8GB of RAM.

The new 27-inch 3.2 GHz Intel Core i3 iMac, for a suggested retail price of $1,699 (US), includes:

27-inch 2560 × 1440 LED-backlit display;
3.20 GHz Intel Core i3 processor with 4MB shared L3 cache;
4GB 1333 MHz DDR3 SDRAM expandable to 16GB;
ATI Radeon HD 5670 discrete graphics with 512MB GDDR3;
1TB Serial ATA hard drive running at 7200 rpm;
slot-load 8x SuperDrive with double-layer support (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW);
Mini DisplayPort for audio and video input and output (adapters sold separately);
AirPort Extreme 802.11n wireless networking & Bluetooth 2.1+EDR;
iSight video camera;
Gigabit Ethernet;
four USB 2.0 ports;
one FireWire 800 port;
one SDXC SD card slot;
built-in stereo speakers and microphone; and
Wireless Apple Keyboard, Magic Mouse.

Configure-to-order options include a 3.6 GHz Core i5 processor, 2TB hard drive, 256GB solid state drive (SSD) and up to 16GB of RAM.

The new 27-inch 2.8 GHz Quad-Core Intel Core i5 iMac, for a suggested retail price of $1,999 (US), includes:

27-inch 2560 × 1440 LED-backlit display;
2.8 GHz Quad-Core Intel Core i5 processor with 8MB shared L3 cache;
4GB 1333 MHz DDR3 SDRAM expandable to 16GB;
ATI Radeon HD 5750 discrete graphics with 1GB GDDR5;
1TB Serial ATA hard drive running at 7200 rpm;
slot-load 8x SuperDrive with double-layer support (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW);
Mini DisplayPort for audio and video input and output (adapters sold separately);
AirPort Extreme 802.11n wireless networking & Bluetooth 2.1+EDR;
iSight video camera;
Gigabit Ethernet;
four USB 2.0 ports;
one FireWire 800 port;
one SDXC SD card slot;
built-in stereo speakers and microphone; and
Wireless Apple Keyboard, Magic Mouse.

Configure-to-order options include a 2.93 GHz Quad-Core Intel Core i7 processor, a 2TB hard drive, 256GB solid state drive (SSD) and up to 16GB of RAM.

Additional accessories include: Magic Trackpad, Apple Battery Charger, wired Apple Mouse, wired Apple Keyboard, wired Apple Keyboard with numeric keypad, Mini DisplayPort to DVI Adapter, Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI Adapter (for 30-inch DVI display), Mini DisplayPort to VGA Adapter, Apple Remote, the AppleCare Protection Plan; and pre-installed copies of iWork, Logic Express 9, Final Cut Express 4 and Aperture.

Learn more about the new iMacs here.

San Jose Mercury News: At the heart of Apple, it's still the Mac

2010-07-27T01:20:17Z

In his July 25, 2010 article at the San Jose Mercury News, John Boudreau, highlights that the Mac, despite all the buzz and attention given to Apple's iPhone and iPad, is still a key contributor to Apple's business. The article highlights Mac sales data recently reported by Apple in their Q3 2010 earnings report. ]]>
Statements of interest from the Article
"But Apple's MacBook laptops, iMac desktops and low-end Mac mini desktops continue to represent a major portion of the Cupertino, Calif., company's business and innovative focus."

"Apple reported last week that second-quarter sales in its Mac unit soared 33 percent from the year before. Just recently, Apple quietly updated its Mac mini and entry-level MacBook. And a glance at the company's patent files indicates Apple's technologists continue to tinker with the Macintosh family of computers."

"There should be no talk about the demise of the Mac," said Richard Shim, research manager for IDC's personal-computing program. "Everyone is infatuated with the latest shiny object."

"But Apple continues to invest in its desktops and laptops, which had record sales in the most recent quarter."

"The Mac still represents the ultimate Apple experience," Kaufman Brothers analyst Shaw Wu said. "It's where it all started. It's still arguably the heart of the company."

"Macs have long been launching pads for features that have become core functions of the iPhone and iPad, including the Safari browser and the online iTunes store, which helped give birth to the App Store."

"The Mac operating system is also the foundation for both the iPhone and iPad."

"The popularity of the iPhone has only accelerated Mac sales further. "I'm certain the iPhone halo effect is stronger than the iPod, and that is starting to kick in," he added."

You can read the article in full here.

10 Killer Mac Applications

2010-07-26T16:33:38Z

In a July 24, 2010 slideshow at InformationWeek, Thomas Claburn states, "We picked ten worthy Mac applications, that are tops here and now." Noting that much of the hype these days is centered around Internet-based applications, InformationWeek takes the position that "there's still a lot of great software to be downloaded and installed." ]]> The List

Mac OS X
Adobe Photoshop CS5
Fission
Mozy
SuperDuper!
TextMate
HandBrake
Panic Transmit 4
Corona Game Edition
Google Chrome 5

Commentary
We'd like to note that Mac OS X is not in application but an operating system. Mac OS X includes a number of applications that contribute to the great experience of using a Mac. Please read our guide, What are Applications for an overview of Mac applications.

You can view the slideshow here.

Mac sales have tripled since 2005

2010-07-22T13:12:52Z

In a July 21, 2010 article at The Register, Rik Myslewski demonstrates that Apple Mac sales have tripled in five years. The article not only includes statements from Apple executive underlying the growth but also graphics that highlight the growth. ]]> Quotes from the article:
"Amid all the ballyhoo and whoop-de-doo about Apple's resurgence being a result of the consecutive successes of the iPod and iPhone -- and the promise of the iPad -- one Cupertinian money-maker has been flying under the radar: Mac sales have tripled in the past five years"

"A glance at the just-finished quarter's SEC Form 8-K shows that the total Mac revenue of $4.4bn, though lagging behind the iPhone's $5.3bn, was still head and shoulders above the iPad's $2.2bn, iPod's $1.5bn, and iTunes' $1.2bn."

"In a conference call with analysts and reporters detailing the company's Q3 2010 results, Apple COO Tim Cook provided one insight into why Mac sales have tripled since Q3 2005: sales outside of the US, and especially in Asia, are skyrocketing on a percentage basis"

"Speaking about what he referred to as "extraordinary" sales-development prospects in Asia, Cook said: "If you look at the Mac as an example, in Asia-Pacific the Macs grew 73 per cent year-over-year. This is phenomenal, that we could grow by this much. And in China we grew 144 per cent. In Korea we grew 184 per cent. In Hong Kong we almost doubled."

"And perhaps more interestingly, the ASPs (average selling prices) of those Macs increased far more than their mere numbers: Apple pulled in more than $1.8bn in Mac sales from Asia-Pacific in Q3 2010, but only $703m in Q3 2009."

You can view the article in its entirety here.

Apple sets new Mac sales record - 3.47 million units sold

2010-07-21T00:50:47Z

On July 20, 2010, Apple Inc. released fiscal 2010 third quarter that ended on June 26, 2010. Apple posted record revenue of $15.7 billion and net quarterly profit of $3.25 billion, or $3.51 per diluted share. These results compare to revenue of $9.73 billion and net quarterly profit of $1.83 billion, or $2.01 per diluted share, in the year-ago quarter. Gross margin was 39.1 percent compared to 40.9 percent in the year-ago quarter. International sales accounted for 52 percent of the quarter's revenue. New Mac Record
Apple set a new record by selling 3.47 million Macs during the quarter, a 33 percent unit increase over the year-ago quarter.

"It was a phenomenal quarter that exceeded our expectations all around, including the most successful product launch in Apple's history with iPhone 4," said Steve Jobs, Apple's CEO. "iPad is off to a terrific start, more people are buying Macs than ever before, and we have amazing new products still to come this year."

The following image provides a breakdown of Mac unit sales versus the prior year quarter (sequential change) and the year ago quarter (year/year change).

Source Apple Inc.

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McAfee releases new Antivirus and Internet Security software for Mac

2010-07-20T15:10:40Z

On July 20, 2010, software company McAfee rolled out revamped security products for Mac users, McAfee Internet Security and McAfee Family Protection for Mac. McAfee Internet Security empowers consumers to surf the web safely, while McAfee Family Protection allows parents to filter inappropriate content while their children are online. ]]> McAfee Internet Security
"McAfee Internet Security suite helps Apple users confidently live their digital lives," said Todd Gebhart, executive vice president and general manager, consumer, mobile and small business at McAfee. "It will protect Mac users from the growing threats users experience while searching the Internet every day, and McAfee Family Protection allows parents to keep a watchful eye over their kids' activities."

Key features of McAfee Internet Security for Mac include:

McAfee SiteAdvisor technology - protects users from malicious Web sites, browser exploits and notifies users whether an ecommerce site has been scanned by McAfee for potential vulnerabilities.
SiteAdvisor technology - provides site ratings in 22 search engines, and features advanced phishing protection that will alert users to sites that may try to steal personal identities or gain access to financial information.
Secure Search - a dedicated search tool that allows users to search, explore and shop more securely.
Two-Way Firewall Protection - monitors all data entering and leaving the Mac and blocks hackers from accessing the computer.
Advanced Malware Scanning - detects, blocks, and removes all Windows and Mac based viruses, spyware, and adware as well as any emerging threats that could harm the Mac.

McAfee Internet Security for Mac requires Mac OS 10.5 or later in the United States, Canada, Australia, United Kingdom, Italy, France, Germany, Spain, Mexico and Japan.

McAfee Family Protection - Keeping Families Safe on the Mac
McAfee Family Protection for Mac is designed to give parents a way to protect and monitor their children when using the Internet.

Key features of McAfee Family Protection include:

Web blocking - allows parents to block up to 35 different categories of content, preventing children from visiting sites related to topics like drugs or pornography. Keyword search filtering prevents children from searching for terms prohibited by parents.
Activity reports - provide parents a full view of their children's Internet activity - including all websites visited. The reports are designed to empower parents to teach their kids how to safely use the Internet.
Instant notifications - are sent to parents by email or text message when a child tries to access inappropriate sites.
Time limits - allow parents to manage the amount of time children use the Internet.
Program blocking - enables parents to block specific applications installed on the Mac. For example, a parent can block iTunes to ensure their children don't download songs or movies without their permission.
Encrypted site blocking - provides a deeper layer of protection against accessing Web sites that are encrypted which include many pornography sites.
Parents can remotely modify each child's profile - For example, a parent may block the category "drugs" but then remotely modify the rule if their teen needs access to an educational drug-related site for homework purposes.

McAfee Family Protection is available today on Mac OS 10.5 or later in the United States, United Kingdom and Australia. McAfee Family Protection is also available for Apple mobile products, including the iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad.

McAfee provides a 30-Day Money Back Guarantee and 30-Days of Free Support

For more information about these products visit: www.mcafee.com/mac

Amazon offering nearly $40-$100 discount on new MacBook Pro models

2010-04-14T20:59:47Z

If you haven't heard already, Apple released new MacBook Pro models yesterday. Amazon is now showing these models in stock and is offering between $40-$100 off the price charged by Apple. On top of that, Amazon doesn't impose shipping charges or rebate forms to get these discounts. For most buyers, you won't even have to pay state sales tax. Thus, buying your new MacBook Pro from Amazon could save you some significant coin! ]]> Here are Amazon's Prices

13-inch MC374LL/A - $1,159.99 (save $39.01)
13-inch MC375LL/A - $1,449.99 (save $49.01)
15-inch MC371LL/A - $1,739.99 (save $59.01)
15-inch MC372LL/A - $1,929.99 (save $69.01)
15-inch MC373LL/A - $2,099.99 (save $99.01)
17-inch MC024LL/A - $2,199.99 (save $99.01)

Visually comparing Apple's April 2010 MacBook Pro specs to the June 2009 models

2010-04-13T20:27:03Z

This article details the key differences between the newly released April 2010 MacBook Pro models against the prior generation models that were released in June 2009. Those interested in making the comparison will find this article quite useful as it could aid in the purchase decision.]]> Interpreting the table
Note that purple indicates a better spec, feature, or price. As you can see, the base 15-inch model increased in price hence the red. Click on the image for a larger view.

You can get further details about these features and the MacBook Pro as a whole in our MacBook Pro Guide.

MacBook Pro Guide updated - April 2010

2010-04-13T17:21:39Z

On the heels of today's MacBook Pro update from Apple, we have updated our MacBook Pro Guide to reflect the features of the latest models. The guide offers a detailed review of the MacBook Pro broken down as follows: ]]>

Fast - A Mobile Workstation

In the Box

Key Configuration Options

Installed software

Aluminum unibody enclosure

Design - Beautifully Aluminum and Packed with Features

Graphics

Audio

Innovative Features

Intel's latest Processors - Performance

Battery

Overall Design

Environmentally Friendly

Expansion - No Problem

Amazing Display

Expand your Screen Real Estate

What can you do with a MacBook Pro?

Conclusion & Buying Advice

To find out more about the MacBook Pro click here or read the MacBook Pro Guide. We also have guides for other Mac portables including the MacBook, and MacBook Air.

Apple Updates MacBook Pro Lineup Apple Updates MacBook Pro Lineup - with Intel Core i7, i5 processors

2010-04-13T12:41:38Z

Apple today updated the MacBook Pro line with faster processors, powerful next-generation NVIDIA graphics and even longer battery life. The popular 13-inch MacBook Pro features the new NVIDIA GeForce 320M graphics processor for up to 80 percent faster graphics and a groundbreaking 10-hour built-in battery. The new 15-inch and 17-inch MacBook Pro models feature Intel Core i5 and i7 processors and Apple's new automatic graphics switching technology that toggles seamlessly between powerful NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M and energy efficient Intel HD Graphics processors.

]]>
All 13-inch MacBook Pro models now include faster Intel Core 2 Duo processors, 4GB RAM, a 10-hour built-in battery and the new NVIDIA GeForce 320M graphics processor. With 48 processing cores, the new NVIDIA GeForce 320M is the fastest integrated graphics processor on the market, ideal for graphics intensive applications or high performance games. The 13-inch MacBook Pro is available in two configurations: one with a 2.4 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo and 250GB hard drive priced at $1,199; and one with a 2.66 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo and 320GB hard drive priced at $1,499.

The new 15-inch and 17-inch MacBook Pro models are up to 50 percent faster than the previous systems. Using Intel's state-of-the-art 32 nanometer process, Intel Core i5 and i7 processors integrate the memory controller and Level 3 cache for faster access to system memory. Hyper-Threading technology improves data throughput by creating virtual processing cores, while Turbo Boost optimizes performance between the two processor cores, accelerating the system from 2.66 GHz to 3.06 GHz for intensive dual core tasks, and up to 3.33 GHz for single core tasks.

All 15-inch and 17-inch models include two graphics processors, the new NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M for peak performance and Intel HD Graphics for energy efficient operation. More than twice as fast as the GeForce 320M, the powerful new GeForce GT 330M provides incredibly smooth, crisp on-screen graphics for the most demanding 3D games, creative software and technical applications. Apple's automatic graphics switching determines which graphics processor an application needs and switches instantly between processors to deliver peak performance and long battery life. Tightly integrated hardware and software allow the new 15-inch and 17-inch MacBook Pro to deliver 8 to 9 hours on a single charge.

The new 15-inch MacBook Pro is available in three models: one with a 2.4 GHz Intel Core i5, NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M and 320GB hard drive at $1,799; one with a 2.53 GHz Intel Core i5, NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M and 500GB hard drive at $1,999; and one with a 2.66 GHz Intel Core i7, NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M and 500GB hard drive at $2,199. The new 17-inch MacBook Pro features a 2.53 GHz Intel Core i5, NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M and 500GB hard drive for $2,299.

The MacBook Pro glass Multi-Touch™ trackpad now supports inertial scrolling, an intuitive way to scroll through large photo libraries, lengthy documents and long web sites. All MacBook Pros feature bright, LED-backlit wide-angle displays with a broad color gamut. The 17-inch MacBook Pro includes a high resolution 1920 × 1200 display, and the 15-inch MacBook Pro is now available with an optional high resolution 1680 × 1050 display. Customers can also upgrade their MacBook Pro with new 128GB, 256GB and 512GB solid state drives.

As the industry's greenest notebook lineup, every Mac® notebook achieves EPEAT Gold status and meets Energy Star 5.0 requirements, setting a new standard for environmentally friendly notebook design.*** Each unibody enclosure is made of highly recyclable aluminum and comes standard with energy efficient LED-backlit displays that are mercury-free and made with arsenic-free glass. Mac notebooks contain no brominated flame retardants, are PVC-free and are constructed of recyclable materials.

Apple uses advanced chemistry, intelligent monitoring of the system and battery, and Adaptive Charging technology to create a notebook battery that delivers up to 10 hours of wireless productivity on a single charge and up to 1,000 recharges. The built-in battery design results in less waste and depleted batteries can be replaced for $129 or $179, which includes installation and disposal of your old battery in an environmentally responsible manner.

All Macs come with Mac OS® X Snow Leopard®, the world's most advanced operating system, and iLife®, Apple's innovative suite of applications for managing photos, making movies and creating and learning to play music. Snow Leopard builds on a decade of OS X innovation and success with hundreds of refinements, new core technologies and out of the box support for Microsoft Exchange. iLife features iPhoto®, to easily organize and manage photos; iMovie® with powerful easy-to-use new features such as Precision Editor, video stabilization and advanced drag and drop; and GarageBand® which introduces a whole new way to help you learn to play piano and guitar.

Pricing & Availability
The new 13-inch MacBook Pro, 15-inch MacBook Pro, and 17-inch MacBook Pro are now available through the Apple Store® (www.apple.com), Apple's retail stores and Apple Authorized Resellers.

The 2.4 GHz, 13-inch MacBook Pro, for a suggested retail price of $1,199 (US), includes:

    * 13.3-inch widescreen LED-backlit 1280 × 800 glossy display;
    * 2.4 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo with 3MB shared L2 cache;
    * 1066 MHz front-side bus;
    * 4GB 1066 MHz DDR3 SDRAM, expandable to 8GB;
    * NVIDIA GeForce 320M integrated graphics;
    * 250GB serial ATA hard drive running at 5400 rpm, with Sudden Motion Sensor;
    * a slot-load 8X SuperDrive® with double-layer support (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW) optical drive;
    * Mini DisplayPort (VGA, DVI and HDMI adapters sold separately);
    * AirPort Extreme® 802.11n wireless networking and Bluetooth 2.1+EDR;
    * Gigabit Ethernet port;
    * iSight® video camera;
    * two USB 2.0 ports;
    * one FireWire® 800 port (FireWire 400 compatible);
    * SD card slot;
    * combined headphone/line in (analog/digital);
    * glass Multi-Touch trackpad and illuminated keyboard;
    * built-in, 63.5WHr lithium polymer battery; and
    * 60 Watt MagSafe® Power Adapter.

The 2.66 GHz, 13-inch MacBook Pro, for a suggested retail price of $1,499 (US), includes:

    * 13.3-inch widescreen LED-backlit 1280 × 800 glossy display;
    * 2.66 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo with 3MB shared L2 cache;
    * 1066 MHz front-side bus;
    * 4GB 1066 MHz DDR3 SDRAM, expandable to 8GB;
    * NVIDIA GeForce 320M integrated graphics;
    * 320GB serial ATA hard drive running at 5400 rpm, with Sudden Motion Sensor;
    * a slot-load 8X SuperDrive with double-layer support (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW) optical drive;
    * Mini DisplayPort (VGA, DVI and HDMI adapters sold separately);
    * AirPort Extreme 802.11n wireless networking and Bluetooth 2.1+EDR;
    * Gigabit Ethernet port;
    * iSight video camera;
    * two USB 2.0 ports;
    * one FireWire 800 port (FireWire 400 compatible);
    * SD card slot;
    * combined headphone/line in (analog/digital);
    * glass Multi-Touch trackpad and illuminated keyboard;
    * built-in, 63.5WHr lithium polymer battery; and
    * 60 Watt MagSafe Power Adapter.

Build-to-order options for the 13-inch MacBook Pro include the ability to upgrade to 8GB 1066 MHz DDR3 SDRAM, a 320GB 5400 rpm or a 500GB 5400 rpm hard drive, a 128GB, 256GB or 512GB solid state drive, Mini DisplayPort to DVI Adapter, Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI Adapter (for 30-inch DVI display), Mini DisplayPort to VGA Adapter, Apple Remote, Apple MagSafe Airline Adapter and the AppleCare® Protection Plan.

The 2.4 GHz, 15-inch MacBook Pro, for a suggested retail price of $1,799 (US), includes:

    * 15.4-inch widescreen LED-backlit 1440 × 900 glossy display;
    * 2.4 GHz Intel Core i5 with 3MB shared L3 cache;
    * 4GB 1066 MHz DDR3 SDRAM, expandable to 8GB;
    * integrated Intel HD Graphics + NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M discrete graphics with 256MB of VRAM;
    * 320GB serial ATA hard drive running at 5400 rpm, with Sudden Motion Sensor;
    * a slot-load 8X SuperDrive with double-layer support (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW) optical drive;
    * Mini DisplayPort (VGA, DVI and HDMI adapters sold separately);
    * AirPort Extreme 802.11n wireless networking and Bluetooth 2.1+EDR;
    * Gigabit Ethernet port;
    * iSight video camera;
    * two USB 2.0 ports;
    * one FireWire 800 port;
    * SD card slot;
    * audio line in (analog/digital);
    * audio line out/headphone (analog/digital);
    * glass Multi-Touch trackpad and illuminated keyboard;
    * built-in, 77.5WHr lithium polymer battery; and
    * 85 Watt MagSafe Power Adapter.

The 2.53 GHz, 15-inch MacBook Pro, for a suggested retail price of $1,999 (US), includes:

    * 15.4-inch widescreen LED-backlit 1440 × 900 glossy display;
    * 2.53 GHz Intel Core i5 with 3MB shared L3 cache;
    * 4GB 1066 MHz DDR3 SDRAM, expandable to 8GB;
    * integrated Intel HD Graphics + NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M discrete graphics with 256MB of VRAM;
    * 500GB serial ATA hard drive running at 5400 rpm, with Sudden Motion Sensor;
    * a slot-load 8X SuperDrive with double-layer support (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW) optical drive;
    * Mini DisplayPort (VGA, DVI and HDMI adapters sold separately);
    * AirPort Extreme 802.11n wireless networking and Bluetooth 2.1+EDR;
    * Gigabit Ethernet port;
    * iSight video camera;
    * two USB 2.0 ports;
    * one FireWire 800 port;
    * SD card slot;
    * audio line in (analog/digital);
    * audio line out/headphone (analog/digital);
    * glass Multi-Touch trackpad and illuminated keyboard;
    * built-in, 77.5WHr lithium polymer battery; and
    * 85 Watt MagSafe Power Adapter.

The 2.66 GHz, 15-inch MacBook Pro, for a suggested retail price of $2,199 (US), includes:

    * 15.4-inch widescreen LED-backlit 1440 × 900 glossy display;
    * 2.66 GHz Intel Core i7 with 4MB shared L3 cache;
    * 4GB 1066 MHz DDR3 SDRAM, expandable to 8GB;
    * integrated Intel HD Graphics + NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M discrete graphics with 512MB of VRAM;
    * 500GB serial ATA hard drive running at 5400 rpm, with Sudden Motion Sensor;
    * a slot-load 8X SuperDrive with double-layer support (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW) optical drive;
    * Mini DisplayPort (VGA, DVI and HDMI adapters sold separately);
    * AirPort Extreme 802.11n wireless networking and Bluetooth 2.1+EDR;
    * Gigabit Ethernet port;
    * iSight video camera;
    * two USB 2.0 ports;
    * one FireWire 800 port;
    * SD card slot;
    * audio line in (analog/digital);
    * audio line out/headphone (analog/digital);
    * glass Multi-Touch trackpad and illuminated keyboard;
    * built-in, 77.5WHr lithium polymer battery; and
    * 85 Watt MagSafe Power Adapter.

Build-to-order options for the 15-inch MacBook Pro include the ability to upgrade to 8GB 1066 MHz DDR3 SDRAM, a high resolution 15-inch 1680 × 1050 display in glossy and antiglare, a 500GB 5400 rpm or 500GB 7200 rpm hard drive, a 128GB, 256GB or 512GB solid state drive, Mini DisplayPort to DVI Adapter, Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI Adapter (for 30-inch DVI display), Mini DisplayPort to VGA Adapter, Apple Remote, Apple MagSafe Airline Adapter and the AppleCare Protection Plan.

The 2.53 GHz, 17-inch MacBook Pro, for a suggested retail price of $2,299 (US), includes:

    * 17-inch widescreen LED-backlit 1920 × 1200, glossy display;
    * 2.53 GHz Intel Core i5 with 3MB shared L3 cache;
    * 4GB 1066 MHz DDR3 SDRAM, expandable to 8GB;
    * integrated Intel HD Graphics + NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M discrete graphics with 512MB of VRAM;
    * 500GB serial ATA hard drive running at 5400 rpm, with Sudden Motion Sensor;
    * a slot-load 8X SuperDrive with double-layer support (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW) optical drive;
    * Mini DisplayPort (VGA, DVI and HDMI adapters sold separately);
    * AirPort Extreme 802.11n wireless networking and Bluetooth 2.1+EDR;
    * Gigabit Ethernet port;
    * iSight video camera;
    * three USB 2.0 ports;
    * one FireWire 800 port (FireWire 400 compatible);
    * ExpressCard/34 expansion card slot;
    * audio line in (analog/digital);
    * audio line out/headphone (analog/digital);
    * glass Multi-Touch trackpad and illuminated keyboard;
    * built-in, 95WHr lithium polymer battery; and
    * 85 Watt MagSafe Power Adapter.

Build-to-order options for the 17-inch MacBook Pro include a 2.66 GHz Intel Core i7 processor, 8GB 1066 MHz DDR3 memory, a 500GB 7200 rpm hard drive, a 128GB, 256GB or 512GB solid state drive, antiglare display, Mini DisplayPort to DVI Adapter, Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI Adapter (for 30-inch DVI display), Mini DisplayPort to VGA Adapter, Apple Remote, Apple MagSafe Airline Adapter and the AppleCare Protection Plan.

You can find out more about the new models here.

Refurbished Mac mini with Snow Leopard Server available at the Online Apple Store

2010-04-06T15:11:14Z

The Mac mini has been MIA from the Refurbished Mac section of the Online Apple Store the past few weeks. As I've been looking to get one for development work, I noticed today that Apple has a 2.53GHz Intel Core 2 Duo Mac mini with Snow Leopard Server available for $849. A 3-5 business day shipping time frame is listed.

]]> Specs are as follows:

2.53GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
4GB memory
Dual 500GB hard drives
NVIDIA GeForce 9400M with 256MB memory
Mac OS X Server Snow Leopard

What's in the Box

Refurbished Mac mini
Mini-DVI to DVI Adapter
110W power adapter and cord
Install/restore DVDs
Printed and electronic documentation

About Apple Certified Refurbished Products
Apple Certified Refurbished Products are pre-owned units that have undergone a thorough refurbishment process prior to Apple offering then as 'Refurbished'. Apple employs a stringent quality process that ensures that the product you are purchasing can be labeled as refurbished. All Apple Certified Refurbished Products are covered by Apple's One-Year Limited Warranty. You can even purchase AppleCare, Apple's extended warranty program. The upside is that you can get a system that is not only cheaper than a new unit, but is also fully tested.

Find out more here.

Apple adds 'Data Collection' feature in Snow Leopard 10.6.3

2010-03-29T19:50:48Z

As part of today's Snow Leopard Leopard 10.6.3 maintenance update, Apple rolled out a new feature called 'Data Collection' that can automatically collect diagnostic and usage information from your Mac and send it to Apple for analysis. Here's what Apple states in the 10.6.3 Knowledge Base article:

]]> Data Collection: Mac OS X v10.6.3 can collect diagnostic and usage information from your Mac and send it to Apple for analysis automatically. The information is only collected with your explicit consent, and is submitted anonymously to Apple.

Apple has rolled out this new feature stating that 'Many problems are caused by particular hardware or software configurations.' As a result, reports submitted to Apple will contain specifications about your Mac and software, including information about devices connected to your Mac, as well as OS and application versions running on your Mac.

Choose if/how your Mac sends reports to Apple
You can configure your Mac's ability to send reports to Apple if one of the following diagnostic events occur:

An application crashes (unexpectedly quits)
You force quit an application
A "kernel panic" occurs that informs you that you need to restart your Mac

Diagnostic and usage reports
These reports will include information such as:

Kernel panics, application or system unresponsiveness, an unexpected application quit
Event information on your Mac such as if your Mac failed to wake from sleep
Certain usage information such as information about Apple and third-party hardware, software, and services

All of the diagnostic and usage information from your Mac is anonymous and will not personally identify you. Via the Console utility, you can view the diagnostic information that will be sent to Apple via a problem report. After the first event is triggered, you will be able to set up how reports are submitted to Apple. You can later make changes via the Console utility's preferences setting.

As you can see, a 'diagnostic event' hasn't been triggered on my Mac to setup reporting hence, I can't make a change in Console's preferences.

The full details of Data Collection can be viewed in the following knowledge base article.

Apple Releases Mac OS X 10.6.3 Update

2010-03-29T19:15:39Z

Apple today released Mac OS X 10.6.3, the third maintenance update to the Snow Leopard operating system for Intel-based Macs. The update included numerous fixes since the November 2009 10.6.2 update and it also includes the January 2010 security update. The update is recommended for all Snow Leopard users (client and server) and can be obtained via Mac OS X Software Update or downloaded directly from Apple. ]]> About the 10.6.3 update
The 10.6.3 Update is recommended for all users running Mac OS X Snow Leopard and includes general operating system fixes that enhance the stability, compatibility, and security of your Mac, including fixes that:

improve the reliability and compatibility of QuickTime X
address compatibility issues with OpenGL-based applications
address an issue that causes background message colors to display incorrectly in Mail
resolve an issue that prevented files with the # or & characters in their names from opening in Rosetta applications
resolve an issue that prevented files from copying to Windows file servers
improve performance of Logic Pro 9 and Main Stage 2 when running in 64-bit mode
improve sleep and wake reliability when using Bonjour wake on demand
address a color issue in iMovie with HD content
improve printing reliability
resolve issues with recurring events in iCal when connected to an Exchange server
improve the reliability of 3rd party USB input devices
fix glowing, stuck, or dark pixels when viewing video from the iMac (Late 2009) built-in iSight camera

Complete details are included in the following support knowledge base article

You can install the update via Software Update of with an Update Installer

Mac OS X v10.6.3 Update (719.23 MB)
Mac OS X v10.6.3 Update (Combo) (784 MB)
Mac OS X Server v10.6.3 Update (831.31 MB)
Mac OS X Server v10.6.3 Update (Combo) (897.32 MB)

Security Update 2010-002 for users on Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard

Security Update 2010-002 (Leopard-Client) (78.39 MB)
Security Update 2010-002 (Leopard-Server) (361.40 MB)

Happy 9th Birthday Mac OS X!

2010-03-24T20:33:44Z

Today marks Mac OS X's 9th birthday as Apple first unveiled Mac OS X nine years ago on March 24, 2001 as a replacement to the Mac OS 9 operating system. Mac OS X (pronounced Mac O-S-Ten) has come a long way over the past nine years including a major rewrite that transitioned the OS to run on Intel processors..

]]> From Apple's Press Release from March 21, 2001

Mac OS X Hits Stores This Weekend

CUPERTINO, California--March 21, 2001--Apple® today announced that beginning this Saturday, March 24, customers can buy Mac® OS X in retail stores around the world. Mac OS X is the world's most advanced operating system, combining the power and openness of UNIX with the legendary ease of use and broad applications base of Macintosh®.

"Mac OS X is the most important software from Apple since the original Macintosh operating system in 1984 that revolutionized the entire industry," said Steve Jobs, Apple's CEO. "We can't wait for Mac users around the globe to experience its stability, power and elegance."

The full press release is available in the Apple PR library.

A summary of Mac OS X's release history:

10.0 Cheetah - March 24, 2001
10.1 Puma - September 25, 2001
10.2 Jaguar - August 24, 2002
10.3 Panther - October 24, 2003
10.4 Tiger - April 29, 2005
10.4 Intel Tiger - January 10, 2006
10.5 Leopard - October 26, 2007
10.6 Snow Leopard - August 28, 2009

For a history of Mac OS X, read our "What is Mac OS X" guide. Happy Birthday to the "world's most advanced operating system"!

U.S. Army looking to increase Mac footprint?

2010-03-24T20:03:39Z

The United States Army recently announced that its research and development command is evaluating the use Apple products including the iMac, MacBook, iPad, and iPhone. Leaders from the Army's technology command visited Apple's headquarters earlier this month as part of their evaluation program. ]]> From the news release:

"Apple officials gave the Army group tours of its laboratories and other facilities and talked about some examples of where the military is already using Apple technology. The Army's research and development command is evaluating commercial hand-held solutions such as iPad, iPhone, iPod, iMac, and MacBook platforms."

"Apple technologies offer unique and proven solutions with intuitive designs that allow users to learn quickly without a training manual," said Ron Szymanski, CERDEC's lead computer scientist on the project. "The Army would like to leverage Apple's experience when designing military applications."

Commentary

A 2007 Forbes article indicated that the U.S. Army has increased its use of Macs as a means to diversify itself against security threats. In our view, increased adoption by the Army would lend additional support to the Mac's growing install base within the United State military and other government organizations. Hopefully, we'll see increased demand within U.S. government for the Mac!

You can read the Army's new release about this visit here.