Apple moves hint at new iMacs
Published: 10 Jul 2001 10:46 BST
Supplies of Apple Computer's iMacs are dwindling at resellers and distributors, a sign that changes could be in store for the company's venerable all-in-one computer.
Apple's online store now lists a ten-day wait for all iMacs, except the low-end $899 model. Apple usually lists a one-day time frame for shipping its standard models.
The 10-day wait would postpone shipments until after Apple chief executive Steve Jobs' 18 July keynote address at Macworld New York, a forum Jobs often uses to unveil new models. And such a time frame would give computer buyers the chance to change their orders based on any announcement Jobs makes.
"That certainly makes me think that we are going to see new consumer products at Macworld," Guernsey Research analyst Chris LeTocq said.
One reseller said that although Apple has not outlined what changes it will make to the iMac, it is pretty clear that something new is imminent. "I think the handwriting is clearly on the wall," the reseller said Monday.
A dwindling supply of products ahead of a Macworld trade show has often been a harbinger of which models will be updated.
Apple representatives declined to comment.
The company last updated the three-year-old iMac line in February, adding the option of rewriteable CD drives and two psychedelic colors, the tie-dyed Flower Power and Blue Dalmatian, a light blue computer with white polka dots.
With last week's confirmation that Apple is discontinuing the PowerMac G4 Cube, speculation is running high that Jobs will introduce a flat-panel version of the iMac, at least at the high end of its consumer line.
However, LeTocq said Apple may need to keep the traditional iMacs around to hit the right prices for the low end of the consumer market and for schools.
"Eventually, even that will go away as [the price of] LCD panels comes down," LeTocq said, referring to liquid crystal displays used for flat-panel monitors and notebooks.
Changes may also be afoot for the PowerMac, Apple's professional line. All of the single-processor PowerMacs show a ten-day wait for shipment at Apple's online store. The reseller noted there are still quite a few of the current PowerMac models in the distribution channel but said he expects upgraded models to be announced soon.
"I do anticipate there will be a change, at least a speed bump," the reseller said.
Have your say instantly, and see what others have said. Click on the TalkBack button and go to the ZDNet News forum.
Let the editors know what you think in the Mailroom. And read what others have said.
Did you find this article useful?
30 out of 68 people found this useful
Digg
Slashdot
Del.ici.ous
Stumble
Reddit
