TEK TALK Computer insights by Ed Collins

Apple introduces new, entry-level iMac

 BY ED COLLINS

Apple Computer recently came out with a new, low-cost, all-in-one desktop iMac that should appeal to price-conscious users that really don’t need all the bells and whistles that an iMac power geek may require.

With some users already nicknaming the product “iMac Junior,” the 21.5-inch screen contains a 1.4 GHz dual-core i5 processor, with Turbo Boost up to 2.7 GHz.

Some have criticized Apple for not boosting the processing power further, but of course that could increase the price. For others it’s probably unnecessary if you are using common office software.

The computer comes standard with 8 GB of RAM, has a 500 GB hard drive, and has an integrated Intel HD Graphics 5000 chip.

It also has some of the same components as the more expensive iMac “Senior” such as four USB 3.0 ports, two Thunderbolt ports, and 802.11 ac wireless networking.

A few storage built-to-order options are available, such as a one TB hard drive for an extra $50, a one TB Fusion Drive for $250, and 256 GB of flash storage for $250.

The remaining iMac configurations have generally remained intact, yet the pric for the new “Junior” model undercuts the previous 2.7GHz version which sold at the customary $1,299 since its introduction back in 1998.

Some believe that with Apple’s price cut on MacBook Airs earlier this year, Apple may be trying to make its computer line more cost- competitive with those PCs on the economy end of the market.  

ooOOoo

Ed Collins is a staff writer and news editor for Passages Online, the official digital publication of the Northwest of Us. NWoU is the largest Apple user group in the Chicago area. They meet monthly at 10 am on the second Saturday of the month at the Hyatt Place Hotel, Schaumburg.