New Apple Products at Computer Connection

January 12, 2005 :: Chris Horrocks, Computer Connection

The Computer Connection is pleased to announce academic pricing and projected availability of the exciting new products announced by Apple Computer on January 11, 2005.

* The Mac mini is Apple's new value PC system. The mini includes a fast G4 processor, ample hard disk space, FireWire and USB ports, slot-loading combo drive, Ethernet, and more into a package only 6 inches across and 2 inches deep. The new iLife '05 suite (see below) is included. The Mac mini is an ideal upgrade system for those who may already have a keyboard, mouse, and display. Prices begin at $479. Apple informs us that the Mac mini should be available on or around January 22. (See http://www.business-services.upenn.edu/computerstore/home/computers/apple.html)

* Apple has extended the iPod range with its most affordable model ever: the iPod shuffle. The iPod shuffle, which uses flash memory for storage, can store up to 240 songs and weighs no more than four quarters. That is less than one ounce! The iPod shuffle can be connected to a USB 1.1 or 2.0 port, making it broadly compatible with a variety of Mac and PC systems. Its built-in rechargeable battery is powered by the USB port, too, so there's no need to worry tangling cables. iPod shuffle can also be used as a USB flash drive. Prices begin at $99. Apple informs us that the iPod shuffle should be available on or around January 22. (See http://www.business-services.upenn.edu/computerstore/home/store/mp3.html#music)

* Apple's suite of best-in-class media applications, iLife, has received a major update. With more than 30 new features -- from laying down multiple tracks in GarageBand 2 to working with HD video in iMovie HD -- it's never been easier to be creative. iLife '05 will be available to the Penn Community for only $39. Apple informs us that iLife '05 should be available on or around January 22. (See http://www.business-services.upenn.edu/computerstore/home/software/arts.html)

* iWork combines the updated Keynote 2 application with a new word processor, Pages. Keynote 2 builds on the success of the original, including more transitions and support for multiple displays -- a great way to view speaker notes on your laptop whilst your audiences sees your slides. Pages is a showcase for Mac OS X's advanced built-in typography features, letting you create documents and publications that you wouldn't have believed possible without more expensive software. You can share Pages files with Microsoft Word users, and vice versa. Apple informs us that iWork should be available on or around January 22. (See http://www.business-services.upenn.edu/computerstore/home/software/productivity.html#office)

Demand for these new products is expected to be high. To help ensure that you receive a desired item in a timely fashion, please use our Reservation Request Form . We'll use the information you provide to set aside your requested item and contact you when it comes in.

Remember, you must be a full-time student, faculty, or staff member of the University of Pennsylvania, or a full-time staff member of UPHS, to be eligible to purchase items through the Computer Connection. (For policy details visit http://www.business-services.upenn.edu/computerstore/home/general/policy.html.)