Apple Releases the MacBook

Today Apple released the 13.3" windscreen MacBook, the Intel-powered replacement to the entire iBook line and the 12" PowerBook. All MacBooks are built with an Intel Core-Duo processor, a built in iSight Camera, Front Row with Apple Remote, MagSafe Power Adapte. Airport Extreme, Bluetooth, 2 USB 2.0 Ports, 1 FireWire port and 512MB RAM. The MacBook comes in three basic configurations, a 1.83GHz White Core-Duo with a 60GB Hard Drive and a Combo Drive, a 2.0Ghz White Core-Duo with a SuperDrive and a 2.0GHz Black Core-Duo with a 80 GB Hard Drive and SuperDrive.

Of interest, the Black model costs $200 more than the mid-range white model with the only noticeable difference being a slightly larger hard drive. The mid-range model can be upgraded to an 80GB hard drive for only $50 more. The MacBook also lines up fairly well with the basic 15" MacBook Pro with nearly a $700 price difference. Aside from the screen real state and shinny exterior finish, the major difference under the hood is the MacBook uses an integrated graphics card similar to the Mac Mini. While this is not as good a graphics card as offered in the MacBook Pro, it will suffice for most consumer's needs and will even make professional users think twice when they look at the substantial cost savings.

Prices start at $1099 and are shipping this week.

In other news, Apple has re-configured the 15" MacBook Pro. The 1.8 GHz Core-Duo processor has been dropped form the lineup and Apple now offers only the 2.0 and 2.16 Core-Duo models. This change better places the 15" MacBook Pro in line with the 17" Model released late last month. Apple has also offered a "high gloss" screen on the MacBook Pros for no extra cost.

We'll have more details and commentary in our upcoming Podcast which should be released later this week.