new Imacs Coming!!!

[sbb155]

OK, time to start the inevitable thread... Shipping delays on all apple sites, and discounts at the retailers indicate... new iMacs soon????!!!???!!

[sbb155]

amazon has a rebate also now on iMacs.... the writing is in the sand???

[Chaszmyr]

Don't hold your breath. It's coming, but it probably won't come until after PowerMacs are updated, so start talking then.

[mad jew]

Maybe... You'd think they'd update the eMacs first though. And if they do, they're unlikely to update the iMacs for a while after, it'd take the 'new' shine off both.

Fingers crossed for an eMac with the 1.42 GHz processor and faster RAM.

[liketom]

iMacs are here soon 1-3 weeks ipods are on the way as well

1.8 /2.0/2.2 iMacs
5/6Gb Ipod Mini's
20/40/80 Gb iPod Photo's (aka 5th gen iPod )






well could not contain myself anymore 500 POST's wooohooooo

[mad jew]

iMacs are here soon 1-3 weeks ipods are on the way as well

1.8 /2.0/2.2 iMacs
5/6Gb Ipod Mini's
20/40/80 Gb iPod Photo's (aka 5th gen iPod )






well could not contain myself anymore 500 POST's wooohooooo

Congrats on the 500 posts! :D

Have you got any info to back this up or are these guesses? I honestly can't see the business case for upgrading them now. Then again, hopefully I'll be proved wrong. :p

[andiwm2003]

Don't hold your breath. It's coming, but it probably won't come until after PowerMacs are updated, so start talking then.


since i'm bored and have the coice to either shovel my driveway or post on MR:

why does everybody think there is some elaborate scheme to update products depending on three other different productlines?
can't they just update one line whenever the cpu's are available?

is there any marketing pro here who knows how this updates are usually done in the computer industry?

andi

[miloblithe]

I don't think there's a well-defined elaborate scheme to update products, but there has to be coherence. I think Apple understands that they get burned if the product matrix becomes incoherent. The old iMacs didn't do so well when the eMacs were as good as or more powerful than they were, and smart shoppers realizes the difference was all LCD and style. Powerbooks suffered when they weren't much better than the iBooks. The iMac and Powermac are not as direct substitutes, but still they can't be allowed to cross too much. However, I don't think a minor iMac update would really upset the Powermac line.

[liketom]

Congrats on the 500 posts! :D

Have you got any info to back this up or are these guesses? I honestly can't see the business case for upgrading them now. Then again, hopefully I'll be proved wrong. :p


all guesses going on apple store wait times - i would of thought like many that the eMac would have an update before the iMac but no - mini is a dead cert upgrade and iMac is a hopeful guess but i think they will be canning the 4th gen and and replacing with the photo as a 5th gen iPod .

thanks by the way

[Chaszmyr]

why does everybody think there is some elaborate scheme to update products depending on three other different productlines?
can't they just update one line whenever the cpu's are available?

Sadly that's just the way it is... Apple, and every other business enterprise, can't keep doing what they're doing if they don't make a profit: even if the company cares more about the product than the profit.

An example of Apple doing something like this is the recent report from ThinkSecret that tells of Apple using 5gb hard drives in some of the current iPod minis, and crippling them down to 4gb to match the hard drives being used from other manufacturers. They do this for supply and marketting reasons, despite the fact that some owners would love to have access to that extra gigabyte.

[topgunn]

My guess on the updated iMacs:

Updated this week or next week at the latest
1.6->1.8GHz
1.8->2.0GHz
256MB->512MB
4x Superdrive->8x
FX5200->Radeon 9600
Bluetooth 2.0

[mad jew]

An example of Apple doing something like this is the recent report from ThinkSecret that tells of Apple using 5gb hard drives in some of the current iPod minis, and crippling them down to 4gb to match the hard drives being used from other manufacturers. They do this for supply and marketting reasons, despite the fact that some owners would love to have access to that extra gigabyte.

That doesn't sound right though. Couldn't Apple use that small amount of 5 gig hard drives untouched and just charge a slightly higher amount? Wouldn't that be more likely?

Otherwise, I agree with you about how Apple can't just go and upgrade their systems every time a new component comes out. They have to keep interest in ALL their product lines.

[Chaszmyr]

That doesn't sound right though. Couldn't Apple use that small amount of 5 gig hard drives untouched and just charge a slightly higher amount? Wouldn't that be more likely?

Perhaps, but it's not really that simple. There are then concerns about having to keep both models in stock, needing separate packaging, a revised product manual, etc etc etc. If there wasn't a reason, it wouldn't be that way, but if ThinkSecret says it is, then it is ;)

[iGary]

The won't put a 2.0 G5 into the iMac before they update the PowerMac - I can guarantee they won't have a 2.0 in the iMac with a 1.8 in the bottom end of the PowerMac, but feel free to disagree. ;)

[liketom]

The won't put a 2.0 G5 into the iMac before they update the PowerMac - I can guarantee they won't have a 2.0 in the iMac with a 1.8 in the bottom end of the PowerMac, but feel free to disagree. ;)

yep i disagree lol powermac will be getting upgrades when tiger and final cut 5 come out . emac should get upgrade in april i think

[Dont Hurt Me]

Anyone think they will keep going on and on with the fx5200? Sure would like to see a 9600 ,9700. I bet its 128mb Fx5200 or a 6200 at 64mb or perhaps 128. Apple has gotten STINGY with its GPUs in everything but the powerbooks. Example my new Mini 1.42 struggles with Nanosaur2 while my Quicksilver 1.47 and Geforce3 make it shine. This is what im interested in, the 2.0 G5 bump is nice but the video is what needs help. I think they are concerned about putting everything on the motherboard hence bottom tier video as 9200,5200,7500,etc. Its easy and cheap, compact and low heat. I wonder if the Medium grade GPU's will ever make it into any Macs other then the Power series? iMac 2.0 G5 & (insert modern video) would make for 1 heck of a consumer computer.

[mad jew]

...the 2.0 G5 bump is nice but the video is what needs help.

You hit the nail on the head! I can't see them putting a great card in their iMacs, but I would love to at least have the option! It seems weird for Apple to make a computer with such an obvious and distinct downfall - upgrade the GPU and suddenly the iMac becomes a MUCH MUCH better computer. :cool:

[Dont Hurt Me]

Its the push everyone towards the powermac philosophy they use. Its really the only thing (holding down) the consumer products. They use Lame video in everything with no option shuffling the consumer to the higher products. A common sales tactic while in the Pc world you order your machine to go from many many makers. First of all lets leave white as a option and make a few colors :) 2.0 or 2.2 G5 would make me smile :) 6600 video oohhh yeah baby or even a 9700 :) 160 Drive who needs more? :) 20"Lcd :) wireless all the way and 512Mb of modern ddr and Tiger. :) Who wants one? :D

[liketom]

Its the push everyone towards the powermac philosophy they use. Its really the only thing (holding down) the consumer products. They use Lame video in everything with no option shuffling the consumer to the higher products. A common sales tactic while in the Pc world you order your machine to go from many many makers. First of all lets leave white as a option and make a few colors :) 2.0 or 2.2 G5 would make me smile :) 6600 video oohhh yeah baby or even a 9700 :) 160 Drive who needs more? :) 20"Lcd :) wireless all the way and 512Mb of modern ddr and Tiger. :) Who wants one? :D


yep i want it for £799 17" and £899 for the 20" with a free iPod Shuffle ! any questions ? lol

[Dont Hurt Me]

Anyways i read it might be the chineese new year and thats why the delays. :cool:

[Artful Dodger]

I would hope by fall that the iMac would be updated with a better video card and a faster dvd-r drive. :rolleyes: I wonder if they are "not" going to update the eMac but push the mini for edu. classrooms. Some schools could use the crts that they have and feel that that in it self could be a money saving option. Just a thought ;)

[daveL]

Your dreaming. Come back in another 6 months.

[aswitcher]

The eMac caught us all napping last year...and its well over its update time...

[Zaty]

The won't put a 2.0 G5 into the iMac before they update the PowerMac - I can guarantee they won't have a 2.0 in the iMac with a 1.8 in the bottom end of the PowerMac, but feel free to disagree. ;)

Well, six month ago I would have agreed with you. But with the latest changes/additions to Apple's product line, I wouldn't rule out a 2 GHz iMac anymore. iMacs G5 have sold very well, throwing in a 2 GHz chip would help keep it that way. PMs will get some sort of update in the following weeks as well. Also, a dual 1.8 GHz PM will perform better than a 2 GHz iMac so, I don't see a problem there. (I know there' s also a single 1.8 GHz PM, but like I said, PM will be updated soon.)

[topgunn]

I think this week will be a big week for updates for two reasons. One, a number of product lines are due. Two, Apple's stock will begin to be traded at a split-adjusted price on Monday February 28th, one week from today. Apple will do all that it can do "wow" investors this week and create a frenzy on Monday at which point every unit increase in stock value is double what it was 2 weeks ago.

[vtprinz]

The iMacs might be updated soon, but not to a huge degree. Especially not to 2.2GHz. Who would want a 1.8GHz PowerMac (single or dual) if the iMacs have 2.2? I'm sure there are a lot of consumers out there who wouldn't know the difference between single or dual processors and would get a 2.2GHz iMac over even a dual 2.0GHz powermac. Just like with megapixels in digital cameras, people want to see high numbers. Regardless of the other specs, uninformed customers will likely see a 2.2 imac as being better than a dual 2.0 powermac.

The powermac sales, from what I've heard, aren't exactly hot right now as it is, and bringing the imacs that much closer in power would really kill it. I've also heard (and I might be wrong here) that Apple gets a much better profit margin off of the power- lines than the i- lines. So it wouldn't make a lot of sense to kill your powermac sales.

As for the emac, I'm not sure if we'll see an upgrade or not. You can get the mini and a cheap CRT for less than the emac. If I were running a k-12 school, i would go the cheapest route possible. Say the emacs come in at $799, but you could get a stock mini + monitor for $600 (all this without edu pricing). How would you rationalize the extra $200 per computer? It adds up quickly when you're buying in bulk for a school. I don't think the convenience of having the computer and monitor in one case is going to cut it.

Anyway, those are my ideas, and they're more than likely wrong :o

[fanbrain]

The recent PowerBook update wasn't as great as I thought it would be, so I am now patiently waiting for the PowerMacs or iMacs to be updated. The only thing holding me back from an iMac is no FW800 and wimpy video. The only thing holding me back from a PowerMac is an inevitable update. I JUST WANT A NEW COMPUTER! This 500Mhz slotload iMac is killing me.

[KD7IWP]

I feel it is pretty much ethically wrong to update all these other computers without touching the powerbook to something better. But oh well. New ipods would be nice, I personally liked the light up buttons on the third gen ipods. Would be happy to have them back, but a nice bright white would look cool I think.

[dhracer88]

since i'm bored and have the coice to either shovel my driveway or post on MR

I spent 5 hours shoveling my driveway (very long and extremely wet snow) last weekend, but it was definitely worth it--no ice!!! :D
"You never realize how big your driveway is until you shovel it"

Now if only my jumps would emerge from the snow...
JM

[Cooknn]

How about 3Ghz Power Mac's released at the same time as OS X Tiger 10.4 :p

[Dont Hurt Me]

The eMac caught us all napping last year...and its well over its update time...The new Mini is the new Emac.

[jbrjake]

The new Mini is the new Emac.

Umm....except the appeal of the eMac is that it's a heavy AIO unit that can't wander off on its own from computer labs. Plus, how is it economical for educational buyers to replace eMacs with Mac minis? The mini's for people who already have a separate monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Putting the mini in the eMac's place leaves schools with the option of buying outdated CRT monitors that take up valuable lab space, or paying a premium for an LCD screen. In both cases, since the computer and monitor can't be stacked, extra desktop space is used up compared to their current setups.

The mini would be a terror in computer labs; even with Kensington locks a kid could still smash the thing up easily enough.

[mad jew]

Umm....except the appeal of the eMac is that it's a heavy AIO unit that can't wander off on its own from computer labs. Plus, how is it economical for educational buyers to replace eMacs with Mac minis? The mini's for people who already have a separate monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Putting the mini in the eMac's place leaves schools with the option of buying outdated CRT monitors that take up valuable lab space, or paying a premium for an LCD screen. In both cases, since the computer and monitor can't be stacked, extra desktop space is used up compared to their current setups.

The mini would be a terror in computer labs; even with Kensington locks a kid could still smash the thing up easily enough.

Yeah, there's no way they're getting rid of the eMacs. They're some of the best designed computers a school could ask for. A Mac Mini just wouldn't work in the same situation. :p

[Dont Hurt Me]

You dudes are wrong,, first of all you dont have the mini where kids can touch it and 2nd of all those emacs will last a long time and when replaced they will have a choice! thats right any kind of monitor. crts for kids and lcds for adults and choice again on size. Mini's sit in a nice locked cabinet with cables to and fro. Face it folks Emac is about over and if it would have been updated it would have been when they intro'd the Mini. Mini gives the school options that the eMac couldnt as a all in one. With imacs dropping in price as componets get cheaper and new mini whats the point of goofing around with heavy,bulky,breakable,powerhungry Crts. Emac will be around a awhile until those sales hit rock bottom. Emac wont see another update. my 2 cents as a long time user observer and master of all i survey :D

[vtprinz]

Umm....except the appeal of the eMac is that it's a heavy AIO unit that can't wander off on its own from computer labs. Plus, how is it economical for educational buyers to replace eMacs with Mac minis? The mini's for people who already have a separate monitor, keyboard, and mouse.

Economical because it's flat out cheaper. AIO or not, you can get a better deal with the mini with a cheap CRT/keyboard/mouse. And being big and heavy isn't a plus anymore. Just because the mini is small doesn't mean it would be easy to steal, if the school is smart. Also, NOT having the computer AIO means cheaper repair. No need to buy a whole new computer if the monitor goes out. Cheaper upgrade as well. Keep the same CRT/keyboard/mouse, and just get a newer mini. And another thing, a lot of schools still use PCs, which means they already have monitors. The mini would give them a better reason to look to Macs for their next upgrade.

Putting the mini in the eMac's place leaves schools with the option of buying outdated CRT monitors that take up valuable lab space, or paying a premium for an LCD screen. In both cases, since the computer and monitor can't be stacked, extra desktop space is used up compared to their current setups.

So your saying the CRT in the emac isn't outdated? Doesn't take up a lot of space? :p

The mini would be a terror in computer labs; even with Kensington locks a kid could still smash the thing up easily enough.

And they could do the same with the emac. Or any computer for that matter.

[Xenious]

Come thursday we shall see. I ordered a BTO 20" 1.8 iMac G5 on the 11th and it was orig supposed to ship on the 17th now it is the 24th. Thats a bit more than 3-5 business days ;).

[maya]

"new iMac's are coming", get out of here, serious. :rolleyes:


How many of these "New iMac's are coming" threads are we going to have?

Use "Search Tool" on MR. ;) :)

When are we going to get a MR Forum search plugin for the Google bar in Safari? When? When? :p ;) :)

[Trout74]

So with all the iPod talk, has this rumor died down? Is there still a general consensus that we will get an iMac update?

and when Apple does updates, do they say anything? or do they just update the site to reflect the changes and let word of mouth/Internet do the talking?

im new to apple, so how to updates work, is there an official Spoksemen for the company the makes a statement or a press release. Is it at Midnight?

enough questions!

trout

[Dont Hurt Me]

If it has a new bus or video system they will beat their chest but if its a bump say 2.0 and still using 5200s they will sneak it in, maybe drop its price. Chineese New Year could have slowed down the Macs folks because thats where they come from. Anyone remember when they shipped, not promised to ship.? add 9 months and get ready for the most part.

[aswitcher]

The new Mini is the new Emac.


I dont think so. Its not a good form factor for schools.

[Superhob]

I just noticed that Amazon which had been featuring a 150 rebate on imacs and showed availability of 2-3 days as of this morning has now changed their shipping estimate to 1-2 weeks and the rebate is no longer available. They're showing J&R as the main seller and J&R says that they ship in 1-2 business days.

Something is definitely up with the imacs. Here's to hoping upgrades are right around the corner!

Edit: I'm talking about the 20" imac.

[aafuss1]

I certainly agree that Apple's split/adjusted stock price will be pleasing to investors.

PCI Express could be used in eMacs/iMacs, but the PMG5's would have include PCIE support first/
New lineup specs:
iMacs:
G5-1.8, 2.0, 2.2GHz (970FX based)
RAM-512MB, single DIMM-same as current Powerbooks
HD-160GB/250GB-first one for 17"/20" has the latter
Chipset-U3L/Shasta, PCI Express for say rev B/C iMac G5
GPU:Radeon 9600 128MB or 6200 (if it is available in AGP )
Drives-8x superdrive (PBG4's use 8x drive now and are slot-loading) and combo
BT 2.0+EDR
eMac:
1.33/1.5ghz or 1.5/1.67ghz G4 or 1.6/1.8GHz G5
RAM:512MB
HD:160GB
GPU: 6200 or X300
Drives-8x superdrive (PBG4's use 8x drive now and are slot-loading) and combo
BT 2.0+EDR

[The Black Rock]

All I really need in an update is:

Updated GPU (Radeon or nVidia I don't care. Though that 6600 with 128 looks very nice)

Faster bus.

8x superdrive.

What I'd like:

2.0 Ghz

BT 2.0+EDR built in

Airport built in.

Firewire 800 ports.

More RAM slots (4 G max)

[maya]

All I really need in an update is:

Updated GPU (Radeon or nVidia I don't care. Though that 6600 with 128 looks very nice)

Faster bus.

8x superdrive.

What I'd like:

2.0 Ghz

BT 2.0+EDR built in

Airport built in.

Firewire 800 ports.

More RAM slots (4 G max)

I would love the option if I can place in a 2GB DIMM x 4 slots. :)

[aafuss1]

Also, the iMacs include DVD's as part of the software bundle (eg. Invader ZIM DVD's, as those DVD's isn't readily available outside the USA) but again, perhaps never. Ties in with one of my iPod edition ideas

[ddtlm]

My list of things that I predict the iMac will not get soon:

1. G5 at more than 2ghz
2. FSB with multiplier of 1/2
3. graphics chip better than R-9600 or GF-6200 (AGP)
4. 128M VRAM as standard equipment
5. PCI-E
6. DDR2 (I expect this to arrive with PCI-E)
7. support for more than 2G of RAM

As others have observed, the possibilities are bounded by the PMac. Apple will not position the iMac to threaten it. The PMac, meanwhile, is going to have a hard time going anywhere before IBM rolls out something better than the 970fx.

[madmaxmedia]

Regarding crippling the consumer products- Apple has been in a bind with lack of G5 progress on both desktop and notebook. As a result, they've had to hold back on updating the consumer lines to artificially maintain distinction between the 2.

It's very unfortunate, but to be honest I don't think they could do anything else for now.

[cwerdna]

I just noticed that Amazon which had been featuring a 150 rebate on imacs
The rebate expired on Feb 22nd. I was thinking about buying a Power Mac G5 (rebate also applied to it along w/a whole bunch of other machines) from Amazon for sometime.

I'm still stuck wondering if I should go w/the PM G5 1.8 ghz dual, 2 ghz dual or wait till end of March, April or maybe WWDC. I'd hate to have them introduce something that significantly pushes down the price of what I would've bought or be able to get something a lot faster/better for the same $.

I've already ruled out the iMac G5 in its current form due to the very outdated and permanently installed FX 5200 video.

[ddtlm]

madmaxmedia:

It's very unfortunate, but to be honest I don't think they could do anything else for now.
Another way to look at it is that if Apple "uncrippled" consumer lines, they could only go a little ways before running into the same barriers holding back the high-end stuff. ;) But noone has been moving quickly as of late, so its really not a big deal for Apple.

[SallyWattle]

dual processor, bus speed, pci slots, 8 gig ram, choose graphic card, second hard drive, gigabit ethernet and fire wire 800. These are the only real specs which should matter when comparing the pro and the consumer mac.

Put 2 gig or more ram and a 256mb graphics card in a 1.8 power mac with a firewire 800 backup drive. There is no comparison, and the above specs are what you are really paying for, and the really heavy case.

[Platform]

If this were to happen (look's very good)
But would they really update the iMac before the PM :confused:

[vouder17]

My guess on the updated iMacs:

Updated this week or next week at the latest
1.6->1.8GHz
1.8->2.0GHz
256MB->512MB
4x Superdrive->8x
FX5200->Radeon 9600
Bluetooth 2.0

i reckon that is all right except for the GPU. iMacs have had Nvidia in them for a while so i reckon that would stay. But i really hope it becomes atleast decent. But i reckon otherwise good guess.

I heard somewhere...oh yeah at macbidouille they said that the Powermacs have a special that runs until the 28th....assume what u like. so i reckon that we could see those next week....then in two or three weeks iMacs.

Peace
DjVoTeZ

[Lacero]

Right now, the iMac line is seriously overpriced. Either Apple needs to do a refresh with better specs or drop prices by at least $200 across the board.

[Platform]

Right now, the iMac line is seriously overpriced. Either Apple needs to do a refresh with better specs or drop prices by at least $200 across the board.

I would like a price drop on all the machines from apple :rolleyes:
As you said the iMac's are overpriced but look at the PowerBooks then :eek:

[Loki.Mephisto]

Anyone think they will keep going on and on with the fx5200? Sure would like to see a 9600 ,9700. I bet its 128mb Fx5200 or a 6200 at 64mb or perhaps 128. Apple has gotten STINGY with its GPUs in everything but the powerbooks. Example my new Mini 1.42 struggles with Nanosaur2 while my Quicksilver 1.47 and Geforce3 make it shine. This is what im interested in, the 2.0 G5 bump is nice but the video is what needs help. I think they are concerned about putting everything on the motherboard hence bottom tier video as 9200,5200,7500,etc. Its easy and cheap, compact and low heat. I wonder if the Medium grade GPU's will ever make it into any Macs other then the Power series? iMac 2.0 G5 & (insert modern video) would make for 1 heck of a consumer computer.

Full Ack. Give us some better GPUs, PLEASE!

[yoak]

I´m holding out for an Imac. Buying one when they upgrade the videocard. Can´t afford a PM at the moment (not sure if I really need one either).
Not in a hurry though, but before spring would be nice.
(Next week even better)

[rsamo]

My guess on the updated iMacs:

Updated this week or next week at the latest
1.6->1.8GHz
1.8->2.0GHz
256MB->512MB
4x Superdrive->8x
FX5200->Radeon 9600
Bluetooth 2.0

I hope you're right top gun. This would make a 20 inch purchase definite as soon as Tiger comes out.

[jer446]

do you think we will see a design change?? i hope so, i like the old ones better.

[The Black Rock]

No there will be no design changes. The new one is the new form, until the next model comes out.

Plus the old one looks like a lamp, blech!

[The Black Rock]

What exactly is the advantage of having PCI-E? Isn't that for an expansion slot of some kind?

[ddtlm]

The Black Rock:

PCI-E is going to replace both PCI and AGP. It offers more bandwidth, allows more than one high-speed graphics card, and does a much better job of reading from the video card.

[The Black Rock]

The Black Rock:

PCI-E is going to replace both PCI and AGP. It offers more bandwidth, allows more than one high-speed graphics card, and does a much better job of reading from the video card.

Thanks for the response, I've heard about the addition of PCI-E in the PMs and I wasn't sure what to make of it.

So what's the feasability of putting one of these in the iMac G5? Good, or no? I hope they try anything and everythig for a better GPU.

[vtprinz]

Thanks for the response, I've heard about the addition of PCI-E in the PMs and I wasn't sure what to make of it.

So what's the feasability of putting one of these in the iMac G5? Good, or no? I hope they try anything and everythig for a better GPU.

I highly highly doubt PCIe will make it into the next iMac rev, whenever that may be. We're still speculating about whether or not the powermacs will get it.

What I don't get is why apple, in general, seems to be behind in video cards. OS X uses the GPU to a much greater extent that windows, and a better video card will create better OS performance, so you'd think that Apple would want to be putting the best GPUs into their systems. instead we find that even in their pro systems you have an incredibly outdated card. Weird.

EDIT: not only an outdated card, but becoming outdated hardware to run that card

[ddtlm]

vtprinz:

Same reason as its always been: Apple is smaller than the PC market and has a lot fewer development resources.

[BakedBeans]

i can simply never believe that would put a better video card in the consumer imac than they would the professional powermacs, imagine buying a dual 2ghz with a 5200 but imac having a 9600 in it,

the graphics card in the powermacs is a disgrace

[dezigNergy]

We just want an option to upgrade our vid cards!!! Is it too much to ask for? Come on apple, i am still waiting!!! :cool: Or i'll be forced to buy a retched PC! JK :p

[The Black Rock]

i can simply never believe that would put a better video card in the consumer imac than they would the professional powermacs, imagine buying a dual 2ghz with a 5200 but imac having a 9600 in it,

the graphics card in the powermacs is a disgrace

But don't the Power Mac consumers always have the option of choosing a different GPU? iMac buyers on the other hand are stuck with whatever they fuse to the board. So they'd better fuse something bloody amazing!

Besides the Power Mac users are more likely to upgrade their systems, and open their machines for user installable goodies. This is why I think the Power Macs should come with the absolute base RAM, HD, and GPU. "Pro Users" will do what's necessary, and not just settle for what they're given.

[topgunn]

Two changes to iMacs in the Apple Store. One, refurbished 20" iMacs are now $1649 from $1699. Two, estimated shipping time is now 1-3 days down from 3-5 days. Maybe early next week?

[aafuss1]

I highly highly doubt PCIe will make it into the next iMac rev, whenever that may be. We're still speculating about whether or not the powermacs will get it.

What I don't get is why apple, in general, seems to be behind in video cards. OS X uses the GPU to a much greater extent that windows, and a better video card will create better OS performance, so you'd think that Apple would want to be putting the best GPUs into their systems. instead we find that even in their pro systems you have an incredibly outdated card. Weird.

EDIT: not only an outdated card, but becoming outdated hardware to run that card

I agree, as PCIE might require a new PCI Express capable chipset (currently iMac's use the U3 Lite+ Shasta IC)

[the dr]

All the UK waiting times have returned to 24hrs (other than those products recently released). No new iMacs after all?

[The Black Rock]

All the UK waiting times have returned to 24hrs (other than those products recently released). No new iMacs after all?

I just checked the US site; "Estimated Ship: 1-3 business days". But if you have it in the cart (like I do), it still says "Estimated Ship: 5-7 business days" as it has since this whole speculation thing began.

I should add that the one in my cart is

iMac G5 20" 1.8GHz SuperDrive
Part Number: Z096
SuperDrive (DVD-R/CD-RW)
256MB DDR400 SDRAM - 1 DIMM
AirPort Extreme Card
Bluetooth Module + Apple Wireless Keyboard & Mouse + Mac OS X - U.S. English
Accessory kit
Power Supply
None - Bluetooth Module
160GB Serial ATA drive

[topgunn]

I just checked the US site; "Estimated Ship: 1-3 business days". But if you have it in the cart (like I do), it still says "Estimated Ship: 5-7 business days" as it has since this whole speculation thing began.

I should add that the one in my cart is

It is only 5-7 if you add or take anything away from the iMac. The base configurations says 1-3 days.

[jouster]

Why does it say 'BT module etc.,' then 'none - BT module' a few lines later?


BTW, I'm with the majority here - once the iMac gets a decent GPU, I'll shell out. The 5200 in a close to $2000 computer just isn't tempting.

[topgunn]

Why does it say 'BT module etc.,' then 'none - BT module' a few lines later?
There are two options to get a bluetooth module built in. The first is the module itself for around $50. The other is a combo to get the wireless keyboard and mouse with the adapter for around $100. He got the latter and it says none for the former.

[gekko513]

I don't think the iMac upgrade needs to wait for a PowerMac upgrade because the iMac isn't targeted at the same audience as the PowerMac, there are some people who are in the market for both, but mostly the iMac is targeted at mass market consumers with average needs, and the PowerMac is targeted at professionals who often have special needs and sometimes require customizability and upgradability. If a PowerMac buyer decides that he doesn't need a fast graphics card, he shouldn't mind that the iMac can play games better, if he does he can always get a better card and also 2.77 times more CPU power (theoretically) if that is what he wants.

I think that the iMac was introduced with the fastest G5 CPUs that could be comfortably cooled in the smaller case and/or the fastest G5 CPUs that were available in high enough numbers from IBM at the time.

[x86isslow]

You know, perhaps a big school system bought a large amount of iMacs. That would push back ship times for the rest of us, too.

Makes more sense than Apple pushing in an iMac update before Powermacs. ;)

[SteveC]

You know, perhaps a big school system bought a large amount of iMacs. That would push back ship times for the rest of us, too.

Makes more sense than Apple pushing in an iMac update before Powermacs. ;)
If it was THAT large, you would've heard about it lol. A few hundred iMac purchases by a school barely touch inventory. Apple sells millions of computers. Even a thousand is a small #.

[vieoray]

just read that someone in the uk ordered an iMac on 2/20 and it has been shipped. take that for what you will about the iMac being updated.

[The Black Rock]

just read that someone in the uk ordered an iMac on 2/20 and it has been shipped. take that for what you will about the iMac being updated.
Where'd you hear about that? And does that mean that you'll be getting your iMac then?

[vitinho]

Major problems:

- Fan noise in "Fast" mode and slower than mac mini in "Automatic" mode
(http://www.macintouch.com/perfpack/comparison.html);
- Prices must be comparable with mac mini + cinema display 20" ($ 1499); more penetration means more customers in software and services (Tiger, iWorks, Music Store, .Mac, iLife '06) where they can gain major profits.

Minor problems:

- Optional bluetooth and wireless keyboard and mouse not in line with the philosophy that inspires who buy an all-in-one desktop;
- Graphic card performance.

RESULTS

All models
- external power supply
- bluetooth 2.0
- wireless keyboard and mouse

$ 1.099 iMac G5 17" 1.6
- 64 MB graphic card
- 256 MB ram
- combo drive

$ 1.399 iMac G5 17" 1.8
- 128 MB graphic card
- 512 MB ram
- superdrive 8x

$ 1.699 iMac G5 20" 1.8
- 128 MB graphic card
- 512 MB ram
- superdrive 8x

Vitinho

[ddtlm]

vitinho:

Prices must be comparable with mac mini + cinema display 20"
Rediculous. Apple didn't introduce the Mini so that they could force their own hand on iMac prices. If the Mini is too good then they can just let it age while they add features to the iMac.

[Dont Hurt Me]

vitinho's model is wrong, but i do agree with removing the power supply and using a brick. where is the 2.0 G5??? they could move some models down in pricing but faster cpu's are coming. GPU is a major problem not Minor problem for most consumers since what you get is what you get. Apple isnt going to make the wireless keyboard standard. A lot of people dont mind a wire and dont want to be bothered with batteries. Consumers are gamers figure this out everyone. Apple is almost getting this but it has taken years. A $1500 - $2000 iMac should be able to outgame a $150 Xbox period. Tiger will have the new drivers and i hope we see the new GPU's from Apple soon. FX5200 just doesnt cut it anymore and is the one sore spot on a Beautiful machine. A little polish,a decent GPU and this machine is near perfect except for the Pod styling. :rolleyes:

[vieoray]

Where'd you hear about that? And does that mean that you'll be getting your iMac then?

somebody posted it in the discussions at apple. my iMac is still supposed to ship on or before 3/2

[vitinho]

I don't mind about processor and I agree we will find 1.8 and 2 ghz processors in new iMac but my opinion is based on daily use of the 1.6 model.

Why to have the illusion to acquire a 2 ghz if it must be uses to half of the performances (in "automatic" mode)? I hope in a ghz upgrade only if they really solve the noise problem. Remember that with iMac you have the computer on your face.

Looking just a bit foreward, the ideal solution for wireless should be keyboard and mouse rechargeable via usb connection. The only great advantage of an iMac compared with mac mini + display is the design and easy to use of a wireless solution.

Mac mini is a milestone for the computer evolution. For the first time a computer bases its success on the knowledge that a year ago processor is good for 99% of conventional tasks and focalizing on other features.

So I think that iMac can follow this epochal tacking.

[NewtypeCJ]

I've got my fingers crossed for some kind of refresh this week. When it happens I'll be right there ready to buy in. I'm hoping for a base RAM bump to 512, maybe a speed bump to 2.0 on the high end, and perhaps a GPU upgrade. Personally, the GPU isn't all that important to me since I don't play many games, but it'd be nice to have something a little better.

It seems like, just from monitoring Apple's own discussion forums, that a lot of people are getting unexplained shipping delays (past 3-5 business days) when there was previously a very steady flow. Since we're outside of the holiday shopping season I don't know if such a hiccup can be easily explained away.

It's worth noting that the eMac and iMac pages haven't been updated to reflect that they're shipping with iLife '05 pre-installed, whereas the iBook product page has (recently? I thought last time I looked it wasn't). Why update the iBook page but not the iMac or eMac pages, unless larger updates to those pages were close at hand?

[dezigNergy]

It's worth noting that the eMac and iMac pages haven't been updated to reflect that they're shipping with iLife '05 pre-installed, whereas the iBook product page has (recently? I thought last time I looked it wasn't). Why update the iBook page but not the iMac or eMac pages, unless larger updates to those pages were close at hand?

Cool theory. Got my fingers crossed for the imac update :cool: . I hope it come within weeks rather than months.

:)

[The Black Rock]

- external power supply


Why? I much prefer the simplicity of just the cord, and no bricks in sight.

[Lacero]

Remove the internal power supply and get rid of the white space underneath the LCD.

[The Black Rock]

Remove the internal power supply and get rid of the white space underneath the LCD.

I doubt that there going to be doing that this late in the game. But then again, this is Apple, so you never know.

[vtprinz]

It's worth noting that the eMac and iMac pages haven't been updated to reflect that they're shipping with iLife '05 pre-installed, whereas the iBook product page has (recently? I thought last time I looked it wasn't). Why update the iBook page but not the iMac or eMac pages, unless larger updates to those pages were close at hand?

Actually the eMac page has been updated to show iLife '05. The only ones that don't are the iBooks, iMacs, and PowerMacs.

This sort of makes sense to me. The PowerBooks and Mini's have been updated (or announced for the mini) since iLife '05 came out, so you'd expect them to say '05 is included. The eMac probably won't be upgraded, so they went ahead and updated the page to show '05 (I don't know if the eMac will be killed, but Apple will probably want to hold off on updating it to see if the mini takes off as a replacement).

The iBook is 27 days away from it's average update, the iMac is 13 days away, and the PowerMac is a lovely 87 days PAST it's average update. So this gives pretty good reason to believe that the pages haven't been updated to show iLife '05 because they're getting ready to update them for the next revision of computers. However, this says nothing about exactly how long we'll have to wait...

[NewtypeCJ]

Actually, you're right -- the eMac page in the store says it comes with iLife '05. But this one (http://www.apple.com/emac/software.html) doesn't -- it says '04. Whereas the iBook software (http://www.apple.com/ibook/software.html) page says iLife '05. The iMac page also says it comes with '04. Maybe it doesn't mean anything, but I find it strange that we're over a month since iLife '05 started shipping and the software page of their top-selling consumer model (before the Mini, that is) still says it's shipping with iLife '04.

[erict]

It's interesting to me that there is this discussion. I bought an iMac on 2/16 that hasn't been shipped, along with some software and asked that it be shipped together. So, a couple days later I got the software. Just today Apple has asked if I want to cancel the rest of the order. Any advice?

[SteveC]

It's interesting to me that there is this discussion. I bought an iMac on 2/16 that hasn't been shipped, along with some software and asked that it be shipped together. So, a couple days later I got the software. Just today Apple has asked if I want to cancel the rest of the order. Any advice?
So they're asking if you want to cancel the iMac, right? That could be a good idea if you want to get a Rev B sometime soon for the same price as the Rev A you ordered.

[sbb155]

Tomorrow
You are going to see an update... don't ya'll think?
Samantha

[SteveC]

Tomorrow
You are going to see an update... don't ya'll think?
Samantha
Hope so. :D In fact, I'm REALLY hoping, but not getting my hopes up just in case. ;) I have a feeling it'll happen though...

*Debit card in hand...* *Ready to place order as soon as new ones are announced.*

[wdlove]

I think that the design of the iMac is just fine now. Updates are a good thing. If there is an update coming tomorrow, surprised that Think Secret doesn't have a story. Unless TS has been hurt by the lawsuit.

[Xenious]

It's interesting to me that there is this discussion. I bought an iMac on 2/16 that hasn't been shipped, along with some software and asked that it be shipped together. So, a couple days later I got the software. Just today Apple has asked if I want to cancel the rest of the order. Any advice?

I found out this was due to a government rule (so I was quoted) that mandates after x delays in shipping a product they have to ask the user if they want to cancel the order. No clue on the truth of it, but that is what I was told.

[vieoray]

I found out this was due to a government rule (so I was quoted) that mandates after x delays in shipping a product they have to ask the user if they want to cancel the order. No clue on the truth of it, but that is what I was told.

that's correct. the email apple sent me contained this:

"If we do not hear from you or we cannot ship your order by the revised date above, we are required by federal law to cancel your order and issue a prompt refund, and we will do so."

someone on the apple boards got their iMac today, and they ordered on 2/4. i dont really know what to think about an update coming as soon as tomorrow. it seems awfully quiet. however it is kind of funny how most of the recent orders have had shipping dates extended until 3/1 or 3/2 and the wait in the online store has now went to 1-3 days.

[Trout74]

that's correct. the email apple sent me contained this:

"If we do not hear from you or we cannot ship your order by the revised date above, we are required by federal law to cancel your order and issue a prompt refund, and we will do so."

someone on the apple boards got their iMac today, and they ordered on 2/4. i dont really know what to think about an update coming as soon as tomorrow. it seems awfully quiet. however it is kind of funny how most of the recent orders have had shipping dates extended until 3/1 or 3/2 and the wait in the online store has now went to 1-3 days.

OK,
Just a theory here, but bear with me.

IF there is an update this week, then the delay was due to the update(obviously right.......)

IF there is NO update, and they start to ship from orders placed weeks ago, this this is my theory.

Apple has had quite few issues with the screens flickering, and with the midplane being replaced due to fan noise and the HD is not performing up to its 7200RPM specs. These are ALL documented and talked about on here, so no flameing please :o

Perhaps Apple put in a large order of NEW fans and different screens and "Fixed" the glitches. They would'nt publicize them, due to every Tom, Dick and Harry would want a refund and replacement. Furthermore, those that had issued they probalby have addressed and the remainder are just fine and no need to cause a stir.

So maybe the new iMac's rolling off the assembly line are "updated" just not in the CPU, GPU and RAM department, but are updated in the Screen, FAN/HEAT and HD departments..........?

Just a theory.

trout

[Etrain]

Thats a good theory Trout! It makes sense to me.

I just hope they update them before May because that is when I plan to purchase my 20".

[vieoray]

so much for an update. apple shipped my order yesterday. no tracking number yet. ordered mine 2/13, shipped 2/28.

[kirk26]

OK, time to start the inevitable thread... Shipping delays on all apple sites, and discounts at the retailers indicate... new iMacs soon????!!!???!!


Careful with all those question marks and exclamation points. You can hurt yourself like that.

[Xenious]

so much for an update. apple shipped my order yesterday. no tracking number yet. ordered mine 2/13, shipped 2/28.

Mine shipped too. It would be nice to know why the delay happened out of the blue.

I've got my tracking number., but its not in fedex's database yet.

[vieoray]

Mine shipped too. It would be nice to know why the delay happened out of the blue.

I've got my tracking number., but its not in fedex's database yet.

yeah, it would be nice. im not holding my breath.

i just got my tracking number. supposed to be here saturday.

[germ79]

:( I really had my hopes up that today would be the day! I've been waiting to order one and don't know how much longer I can hold out!

J

[homer_simpson]

tomorrow could be the day :confused:

just want to order mine

[vtprinz]

I think you guys have a while still to wait. People's orders are starting to get shipped, and ship times are coming down on the website, and, perhaps most interestingly (or perhaps least?), the imacs are starting to take the place of the emacs in retail stores. I don't think they'd be putting more imacs out on display if they were going to be updated very soon.

I'm hoping for powermac updates this month, imacs in april or may.

[Trout74]

yep I agree, may be a while, soooooooooooooooooo

I WENT AND BOUGHT A MINI!!!!!!!!!!!!! 1.42, yada yada yda

im sooo pumped, first Mac, and got 512Meg of RAM On the way home.

ITs 6:00 Denver time and I dought ill go to bed tonight, setting it all up.

Going to run this puppy for a few months and wait for all the revisions and then get another one this summer.

wahoooo!

trout

[mpopkin]

dont hold your breath, i predict that imacs will be the last on the revision list behind eMacs and PMacs, EMacs need a refresh soon for the academic buying season so look for them soon, stevie has been holding back on the golden 3ghz for a reason(what reason who knows?) iMac's are nice now, dont expect them to break 2ghz early this year.


OK, time to start the inevitable thread... Shipping delays on all apple sites, and discounts at the retailers indicate... new iMacs soon????!!!???!!

[jouster]

stevie has been holding back on the golden 3ghz for a reason(what reason who knows?)

Because they don't yet exist seems most likely.

[Etrain]

Like I said before, I will buy at the end of April or early May update or not. Even if they don't update by then I am still getting an awesome computer. The only real update I would even want would be either a slight price cut or a better graphics card. Even without either I am still very happy with the current one.