Apple Geeks On Edge
Steve Jobs has invited reporters and analysts out to Apple’s Cupertino, CA offices to check out some “fun new products”. Of course, this has Apple junkies (myself included) quite excited.
Rumors include:
- iPod boombox that features wireless audio streaming for the home. Call it the “Homepod” with “Airtunes Speakers”
- Full screen video iPod with virtual clickwheel interface
- Intel-based Mac Mini that will feature Front Row, DVR technology, iPod dock, etc
- Widescreen Intel-based iBook with magnetized latches and power connectors
- Full length movies for sale on iTunes
My guess is that a new iPod is likely and the Mac mini will be unveiled. You can track the live event at MacRumors starting at 10AM PST.
UPDATE:
Specs on the new iMac mini: iLife 06, Apple’s suite of applications that includes iTunes, iPhoto, iDVD, iMovie, GarageBand and iWeb. Also standard is Mac OS X v10.4, a remote control, Front Row, AirPort Extreme, Bluetooth, four USB 2.0 interfaces, FireWire 400, GigaBit Ethernet, DVI video out, and Dolby Digital 5.1 and analog audio in and out. The entry-level Mac mini system, available starting today, is a 1.5GHz Core Solo system with 667MHz bus, 512MB RAM, 60GB SATA hard drive and “Combo” DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive for $599 — $100 more than the previous base model. The 1.67GHz Core Duo-based model features an 80GB SATA internal hard disk and 8x “SuperDrive” that can burn DVDs as well as CD-Rs, for $799.
Introducing iPod Hi-Fi! Three speakers, Integrated power supply, can also be powered by of six D batteries. The unit comes with two 80mm mid-range drivers in sealed acoustic suspension with a 130mm dual voice coil woofer center channel. iPod Hi-Fi also sports a Universal Dock connector and integrated handles. It has a sealed resin enclosure, and doesn’t vibrate which helps provide an actual hi-fi experience.
IPod integration for the iPod Hi-Fi: there’s a software update for iPods that puts a speaker menu item in the main menu. Tone control, backlight always on or off, large album art on or off or the screen can go black and just show album art. All of this can be controlled with the Apple Remote. $349 and it goes on sale today.
Apple rules.