New iMac G5 Announced

[MacBytes]

Category: Apple Hardware
Link: iMac G5 shown to public (http://www.macbytes.com/link.php?sid=20040831055149)
Posted on MacBytes.com (http://www.macbytes.com)

Approved by Mudbug

[MacRumors]

Shown by Phil Schiller at the Apple Expo Paris keynote speech, the iMac G5 (http://www.apple.com/imac/) debuted to enthusiastic crowds. Taking the form of one of the recently introduced aluminum displays, the iMac is now the thinnest desktop personal computer on the market at only 2" thick. Featuring a 1.8 GHz G5 processor, NVidia 5200 graphics processor, and a choice of 17" or 20" displays, the imac is redesigned with the all-in-one ease of use of the original iMac with the horsepower and capability of a modern-day machine.

[rendezvouscp]

Beautiful. I'm glad it's finally here, and the design makes sense. I'm going to miss the whole rotation thing though.
–Chase

[narco]

totally ugly. it looks like a bulimic eMac. The eMac: regurgitated.

I'd rather it be thicker than to have that extra space on the bottom. Plus, the logos are way too large.

Who knows, maybe the rest of the world will like it.

Hell, maybe that's why Steve didn't do the keynote -- he was too embarrassed.

.narco

[Mudbug]

wowsa.

[makkystyle]

Looks like a G5 powerbook is very close!!!!

[jbrown]

Interesting lack of venting - wonder what the heating issues are?

OR NOT :(

My thought Mak

[Squire]

I want one. Very nice. But, as millions of others are probably thinking, the 17" PB can't be far behind.


Squire

[rdowns]

Finally! Now all I need to decide is if I want the 17" or 20".

[UKMacBod]

This seems like an excellent product - and, a VERY good price point!

[Porsche]

Not sure if I like the design...but the price is right, at least.

How'd they get a G5 in 2" of space? Pretty amazing.

[the.snitch]

strangely, i was hoping for something nicer looking :(

[nospleen]

Just placed my order!!! Whew, the person who just paid 1995 for my old 20" on ebay is going to be pissed....

[NicoMan]

totally ugly. it looks like a bulimic eMac. The eMac: regurgitated.

I'd rather it be thicker than to have that extra space on the bottom. Plus, the logos are way too large.

Who knows, maybe the rest of the world will like it.

Hell, maybe that's why Steve didn't do the keynote -- he was too embarrassed.

.narco

I'll pass judgement when I see it live. It's difficult with pictures on the web.

[nospleen]

I thought all G5's system bus was half the processor speed?

[Zaty]

Wow, it's so beautiful, great job Apple!

[Freg3000]

Initial reaction-a little ugly.... but it's slowly growing me.

Here's to hoping for an iPod mini effect where it turns out to be a great success after a lackluster introduction.

[dejaentendu]

Wow, I love it. If I didn't just get a PowerBook, I'd be placing my order right now.

[Interiority]

Amazing - certain to be a success. There seems to be a fairly sizeable vent along the bottom, and it's still a bit thicker than would be acceptable in a PowerBook - but hopefully that won't be too far away.

[nospleen]

Finally! Now all I need to decide is if I want the 17" or 20".

I am in the same boat, but, I decided on the 17. With the mini vga out, I am sure the ole hack will work to span!

[MacRy]

Not the most thrilling design in the world but still very very nice. Amazing how they crammed it all in that small form factor. The only question now is "What post office do I rob to get the money for one?"

[ipiloot]

Market desperately needs cheap headless consumer Mac. Only Apple won't see it. I don't believe that this machine is going to perform any better on market than the "lamp" did.

[michaelb]

I think it's beautiful. More pleasing to my eye than than iMac G4. Always thought that was a bit gangly with the watermelon base and the stalk holding the screen up.

The iMac G5 seems more geometrically consistent.

The QuickTime VR really shows it off well:

http://www.apple.com/hardware/gallery/imacg5_20_aug2004_480.html

[BornAgainMac]

Much better than what I expected. I was expecting something connected to the monitor and a bunch of holes in the case. It's nice that they got it so thin. The graphics card is probably the only disappointment. I don't know from first hand experience but that is what I hear from people in these discussion boards.

I bet that Apple can't meet the demand. Demand will be off the charts.

[rendezvouscp]

Oddly looks like an eMac. I'm going to have to see one in person.
–Chase

[Chaszmyr]

I too thought it was ugly at first, but it is growing on me, like all Apple products seem to do.

Initial reactions:

Con: No upgradable video card... UGH!

Pro: OMG it's tiny!

[nagromme]

A good deal on a G5 desktop, and great Apple style. (Not everyone LIKES simplicity but I sure do.) Plus appealing to iPod users--smart. I want a 20" but just bought a PowerBook :)

* Simple, white (so few vents!) and amazingly THIN!

* Stereo speakers (hidden in bottom edge) and mic built-in

* No power brick!

* TV-out (with adapter) as always

* Ability to play Doom III mentioned on Apple's page :)

* Up to 2 GB RAM

* Optical audio-out (and analog audio-in)

* 18.5 pounds (17")

* Consumer color but matches pro displays too

* ZERO footprint. Even the base remains usable desk space. Keyboard fits under screen. Worth losing the swingarm.

http://www.apple.com/imac/specs.html
http://www.apple.com/imac/design.html

Check out the VR with wireless mouse/keyboard option:
http://www.apple.com/hardware/gallery/imacg5_20_aug2004_480.html

Too cool.

Now let some people whine--EVERY Apple product gets that phase... followed by great reviews :D (Remember the iPod whining (http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=500)?)

(Low-end headless? Definitely a good idea. But that's not an iMac that's some other Mac. Time will tell.)

[MikeH]

Hmm, not sure yet - may be I'll be convinced when I see one for real.

But on first impressions I think there too much white space at the bottom of the screen - makes it look unbalanced.

[BakedBeans]

the old imac was much better to look at than this one, but its some good specs for a consumer machine...

better cpu than the pro powerbooks

[narco]

I'll pass judgement when I see it live. It's difficult with pictures on the web.

Well, I thought the same thing for a second -- but I've never had negative thoughts during an unveiling of a new Apple product.

.narco

[iGav]

I really like... especially from the rear. ;)

Sweet attention to detail, especially it's cooling capabilities.

Nice... very, very nice. :)

I think the graphics card and bus speed is going to be a bone of contention for some on here though... :eek: :p

[LeeTom]

Awesome! I'm ordering one for my mom!

Lee Tom

[sorryiwasdreami]

That is SO goregous! I am really glad the iMac is not aluminum and body like the new displays. It really keeps the look and feel of the "i" lineup, and makes me think iPod.

I wonder if the foot will be detatchable? It looks like there is a slot on the back for wall mounting (long thin slot on the upper back side).

I am placing an order now! Sweetnees!

[aussiemac86]

Very practical ( v. low footprint), but i agree with the above post about it looking too much like an emac, a bit too ugly from head on. Seeing it in the flesh may be a bit different

[jbrown]

I need to hear Duffmans thoughts - can't make up my mind till then!!

[Maxicek]

Nice price, nice specs, but I dont like the style. I don't think Mr Ive hasn't managed to capture the friendly, approachable styling that put so many G3 iMacs into living rooms around the world.

I'd still like one though, but won't be trading in my PB just yet.

[oingoboingo]

So is this officially the end of the "Waaaaahhhh!!! You can't fit a G5 in a thin, quiet, consumer system!! Too hot!! Too noisy!!" brigade? You know who you are :)

Overall, this looks like an impressive system. Interestingly the FSB is cut down to 533MHz on the 1.6GHz version (down from 800MHz on the 1.6GHz PowerMac equivalent) and 600MHz on the 1.8GHz model (down from 900MHz on the 1.8GHz PowerMac), and it looks like it uses single channel DDR400 (rather than dual channel DDR333 or DDR400). Guess it will perform a little slower than the equivalently clocked G5 PowerMacs. The video is ho-hum (yet another 64MB nVidia GeForce FX 5200 Ultra job). The amazing thing to me is the price: $AUD 2199. That's pretty good value...roughly double the cost of a premium 17" flat panel display, but you get a G5-class computer included.

Definitely be interesting to see how the pre-orders go on this one. If the iPod mini launch showed one thing, it's that the Mac (and I.T.) communities in general don't have the faintest idea how a product will perform in the real market :)

[mangoman]

Geez, people just love to piss and moan.

However, I like it. Good thinking that will continue to improve in the years to come. As usual.

Thumbs up.

[nmk]

Nice looking machine except, as with all iMacs, the GPU sucks. It does seem to mean that the PB G5 is more feasible than it was before. However, this unit seems to be at least two inches thick. Who knows how much of an engineering hurdle it'll be to shave off that extra inch. I, personally, would rather have a dual core 2Ghz G4 with memory controller in my PB than a 1.8 G5 with a slowed down bus. I still think that Apple will use the Dual Core's for the next major PB revision. Unless, of-course, it comes down to marketing over performance (in which case on might see a G5).

[rendezvouscp]

The foot is detachable for wall mounting–or any other mounting that's VESA.
–Chase

[LiveForPhysics]

Indeed, the new iMac does look more like an eMac due to its white color. The long, wide space beneath the screen does look somewhat odd, but how they were able to fit a G5 in there with the components and ports so well-organized is quite a remarkable feat.

However, I still prefer my 15" Powerbook over the new iMac. :D

[narco]

Market desperately needs cheap headless consumer Mac. Only Apple won't see it. I don't believe that this machine is going to perform any better on market than the "lamp" did.

Isn't an "all-in-one" computer the whole point of the iMac line to begin with? I doubt they'd ever release a "headless" iMac, unless they come out with another cube -- but we all know what a success that was.

.narco

[BornAgainMac]

I'd rather it be thicker than to have that extra space on the bottom. Plus, the logos are way too large.


The logos are large so you will see it in TV and Movie spots. Otherwise people will think it's a new Dull or Hpee.

[Ge4-ce]

I don't know if to like it, to hate it, or to love it!

In any case!, if this sucker is responsible for delaying the dual G5 Powermacs, then I HATE IT!

a bit weird design though.. Looks like a flat eMac put on a HD display foot.

Genious nevertheless, 2 inch + display! My 23" aluminal display has that size, or more! Thinking you could add a computer behind it, is just another piece of Apple art!

Grafix are a bit dissappointing. You notice how they try to boost framerates by quoting the G5 as a responsible fella for the better framerates with games.. They know the 5200 FX should have been a better card..

[paxtonandrew]

A $1.800 computer with less than 512 megs of ram :eek: ? When will they realize that 256 megs is WAY too little. The graphics card 64 megs :eek: ??? That is just unbelievable. How long will this computer be in this form? 5 months at the least. Tiger may be out, and a computer like that will have immense trouble with Core Image and Core Video. I guess the screen sizes and Hard Disc Drive are a decent (enough) size, but all in all, this is a VERY disappointing computer.


eMac with a flat panel monitor eat your heart out!

[BakedBeans]

So is this officially the end of the "Waaaaahhhh!!! You can't fit a G5 in a thin, quiet, consumer system!! Too hot!! Too noisy!!" brigade?

lets not go that far ;)
i still think its a joke because apple WONT EVER release a consumer machine that has a better cpu than the pro laptops :)

[aljawad]

I’m buying! Apple, reserve a 20 incher for me please :cool:

[seelab]

So, the powerbook which is supposed to be a PRO computer is now way behind. I guess the problem is not cooling (if they can fit a G5 in this new iMac) but a battery problem ...

[punkmac]

Shown by Phil Schiller at the Apple Expo Paris keynote speech, the iMac G5 (http://www.apple.com/imac/) debuted to enthusiastic crowds. Taking the form of one of the recently introduced aluminum displays, the iMac is now the thinnest desktop personal computer on the market at only 2" thick. Featuring a 1.8 GHz G5 processor, NVidia 5200 graphics processor, and a choice of 17" or 20" displays, the imac is redesigned with the all-in-one ease of use of the original iMac with the horsepower and capability of a modern-day machine.

Can the new imac play 5.1 audio?



I.

[Chaszmyr]

Am i the only one who thinks it's really funny that the #1 comment about the fake G5 iMac photos a few days ago was "does that really look like enough space to fit a G5 computer in?" and the real G5 iMac looks even smaller?

[dbally]

Any word on being able to detach the arm?

[nate13]

For one thing, i truly dislike the big empty space on the front. i personally wouldnt have minded a thicker body and just one big screen. maybe the next revision!? but, it has an awesome prosessor and jsut about everything except for a replaceable graphics card. Whoopie! now i can say without a doubt i will get a Powermac! Sorry iMac, you just dont move with the times. :( :o :D

[iMeowbot]

Egads, it's an oven on a stick!

[LiveForPhysics]

I agree, Apple really ought to push the standard amount of ram to at least 512.

[rendezvouscp]

Any word on being able to detach the arm?

You can. I believe it's noted in the design pages on their website.
–Chase

[tooflets]

Too bad the power cord comes off the back instead of the bottom. If it had a bottom-mount power cable & was removable from its stand, then you'd have a perfect format for a wall-mount (if the wall weren't too far away & you didn't need any of the other connectors on the back).

[rdowns]

I am in the same boat, but, I decided on the 17. With the mini vga out, I am sure the ole hack will work to span!

Screw it, it's been a great year.

Ordered:

iMac 1.8GHz w/20" TFT
SuperDrive (DVD-R/CD-RW)
512MB DDR400 SDRAM - 1 DIMM
AirPort Extreme Card
Bluetooth Module + Apple Wireless Keyboard & Mouse + Mac

[crap freakboy]

Market desperately needs cheap headless consumer Mac. Only Apple won't see it. I don't believe that this machine is going to perform any better on market than the "lamp" did.

I agree. Obviously Apple will announce it a great success on the back of the initial 'faithful' orders, then go strangely quiet. Sorry, a tad miffed about the Geforce 5200...great processor, screen, design but why oh why that graphics card??? give us a BTO at least.

[iZac]

come back luxo, all is forgiven ....j/k

im ambivolent, but i was ambivolent about the G4 iMac as well, and now i love it. i was also unsure about the cinema displays, but having saw one last saturday in John Lewis, i love em (might go back today to look again in lunch)

Yes the logos are a bit to big and and make it look a bit childish, and the strip under the monitor cries to have some sort of speaker grille, or vents (rather than having them underneath as they are now)

this will take more deliberation on my part, if i like it or not

let the lack of work and image browsing begin...

[DJY]

I think I'll need to see this in person - before I decide...

Some initial thoughts...
no upgraded specs on the 20" model..

no bluetooth (has to be added)
no video upgrade (as mentioned above)

No front USB ports...
actuall all the ports seem fairly close together...

Nice footprint - but the thick white below the widescreen display - Mmmm will need to see it.

I would have liked to have seen the 17 come in under AUD$2000... but only with the EDUC prices get it under the psychological 2000 barrier.

Wonder how long it will take to get to us here in Oz?!

Lack of vents -and thickness - does help keep the G5 PB rumours alive I guess...

[rendezvouscp]

From the graphics page:

Modern Art Installation

The iMac offers the smallest footprint ever, but you can make that zero with an optional VESA mount. Hang it from the wall or swing it around on your desk.

Straight from Apple.
–Chase

[nate13]

Any word on being able to detach the arm?
Yeah, on apples site they say that VESA has different mounts. a wall mount would be soooo awesome. "nice picture!" sorry thats my g5 imac with 2 GB ram and 250gb hd!

[aus_dave]

The amazing thing to me is the price: $AUD 2199. That's pretty good value...roughly double the cost of a premium 17" flat panel display, but you get a G5-class computer included.The pricing is not too bad I suppose in AUD but then again there's only 256 MB of RAM which is still a bit on the lean side for that sort of money IMHO.

I'd still have one though if I had the spare cash :D.

[Chaszmyr]

Any word on being able to detach the arm?

Someone else said you can, but I don't see where Apple said that, and i HIGHLY DOUBT IT. The reason i doubt it is because if you cuoldnt put a security cable through that hole on the stand, then I see no way to secure the unit, meaning anyone could steal them from school labs and such with ease.

[nospleen]

Screw it, it's been a great year.

Ordered:

iMac 1.8GHz w/20" TFT
SuperDrive (DVD-R/CD-RW)
512MB DDR400 SDRAM - 1 DIMM
AirPort Extreme Card
Bluetooth Module + Apple Wireless Keyboard & Mouse + Mac

Now you have me thinking, damn, I should of picked the 20"!! :D What was your ship time? Mine said 3-4 weels. I ordered the 1.8 17" and only upgraded the HD to 160.

[wcj912]

Though on the bright side it does look pretty cool.
It'll be interesting to see how hot it gets inside that small space - maybe that's why they had to tone down the bus speed a bit.

[nagromme]

The foot is detachable for wall mounting–or any other mounting that's VESA.

Where do you see that? Might that only be true of the pro displays? This foot attaches differently. (But the foot must come off to get the back off--and you know third parties will make a VESA adapter even if Apple doesn't.)

EDIT: It's on the graphics page. Nice. (I only searched for VESA on Design and Specs.)

[rendezvouscp]

I wonder if it'll prove to be really weird with the ports on the back? I mean, coming from the back of your screen?
–Chase

[nospleen]

I wonder if it'll prove to be really weird with the ports on the back? I mean, coming from the back of your screen?
–Chase

I think it will work well. If you look at the back, you can run the cords out of the hole in the stand, so you should not even see them!

[red_wedge]

The foot is detachable for wall mounting–or any other mounting that's VESA.
–Chase

Well, I guess that's a feature... except that you wouldn't be able to access any of the inputs/outputs.

I do feel it's a bit bland though - not much personality unlike the previous models - I guess there won't be any cool animated adverts for this one.

But then again, just because it doesn't meet my highly refined aesthetic tastes ;) doesn't mean it wont appeal to it's main target groups

You know what's impressive though - no only is it thin for the G5 heat issue, but they chucked the power brick in there also, and that's another quite considerable heat source to deal with.

[rdowns]

I really like... especially from the rear. ;)

Sweet attention to detail, especially it's cooling capabilities.

Nice... very, very nice. :)

I think the graphics card and bus speed is going to be a bone of contention for some on here though... :eek: :p

Everything Apple does is a bone of contention for some. A 600 MHz bus is awesome compared to what we've all been using to now (except the PM G5). Probably went to a 3:1 ratio due to heat issues.

[rendezvouscp]

I think it will work well. If you look at the back, you can run the cords out of the hole in the stand, so you should not even see them!

True, never thought of that! But Apple did!
–Chase

[JFreak]

jim carrey voice: B-E-A-UTIFUL :D :D :D

[nagromme]

Am i the only one who thinks it's really funny that the #1 comment about the fake G5 iMac photos a few days ago was "does that really look like enough space to fit a G5 computer in?" and the real G5 iMac looks even smaller?
No, not the only one :)


So, the powerbook which is supposed to be a PRO computer is now way behind. I guess the problem is not cooling (if they can fit a G5 in this new iMac) but a battery problem ...
The iMac is still MUCH bigger than a PowerBook in every dimension. More than triple the volume. Shrink that down and cooling IS a problem. Plus portables can't waste as much power on fans.

[stephenli]

omg! it is very nice!
iMac mounted on wall + wireless mouse + wireless keyboard.....can't imagine how cool it is!!!
regret that i just bought an apple display........otherwise i will place my order immediately!

[thatwendigo]

So is this officially the end of the "Waaaaahhhh!!! You can't fit a G5 in a thin, quiet, consumer system!! Too hot!! Too noisy!!" brigade? You know who you are :)

No, it's not the end, because Apple ended up doing just what I said they would have to. The machine uses a slower processor, lowered FSB, lower graphics card, less advanced memory architecture, and a customized cooling system in order to keep it from overheating. Basically, I was right.

I'll be interested to see what the power draw figures are like, whenever these are added to the techincal documentation pages.

...that being said, I want one. :D

This thing is almost certainly going to be faster than my current desktop, even at the low end. Of course, I currently compute on a 700mhz G4 eMac, so that's not all that hard to beat.

Pros for me:
-Less than half the weight of my current desktop.
-Better processor with 64-bit extensions that might, eventually, come in handy. (Yes, a 1.8ghz 970 is better than a 700mhz G4 on the desktop. I'll admit it. It better be, since it's more than twice the clock. ;))
-Faster RAM and a more capable support system to take advantage of it.
-SATA
-Optical audio out
-Reasonably priced for what you get. Quite so.

Cons:
-

[broken_keyboard]

It's cute.
And modelling it after the iPod was smart.

I think they will sell a lot!

[rdowns]

So is this officially the end of the "Waaaaahhhh!!! You can't fit a G5 in a thin, quiet, consumer system!! Too hot!! Too noisy!!" brigade? You know who you are :)


I just might name my new iMac G5 "thatwendingo". :rolleyes:

[painimies]

This design is clearly targeted at PC-using iPod lovers. The similarities between iMac G5 and an iPod are obvious.

Edit:
Ah, a few people beat me to it.

[rendezvouscp]

It's cute.
And modelling it after the iPod was smart.

I think they will sell a lot!

Pretty safe bet. :D
–Chase

[jiggie2g]

I'm not sure if i should Love it or hate it , but i can live with the Design , don't understand 2 things.

1. Why is the Bus Underclocked to 600mhz as it should be 900mhz (big gap maybe done for heat issues?)

2. Why, Why , Why in god's name did they bother to make it this thin if they knew they were going to have to put a ********* notebook Optical Drive. 4X DVD-R/ 16X CD-R c'mon they don't even make those anymore. now people are going to have to buy extrernal Drives just to do with this should already do.

You can get a NEC 3500A 16X DVD+/-RW / 4X DL DVD+R for $84.99 at new egg. and an external optical drive case with USB 2 , FW400 for about $45
atleast you only have to buy the case once.

I can Live with the Geforce FX5200 Ultra Video Card even though it is a crappy one (after all i'm typing this on my 800Mhz Flat-panel iMac G4 with a 2X Superdrive and a cheesey Geforce MX2)

I would've Screamed Bloody Murder if they had those Prices Think Secret posted , but Kudos to them for atleast getting the Specs right.

At The Prices ($100 cheaper with Edu Discount) I believe these are great computers at a great price. I Paid $1799 for my iMac back in Feb 2002. these are even cheaper.

P.S. I'm Dying to see how the hell we upgrade the ram and find the Airport Slot.

[Chaszmyr]

omg! it is very nice!
iMac mounted on wall + wireless mouse + wireless keyboard.....can't imagine how cool it is!!!
regret that i just bought an apple display........otherwise i will place my order immediately!

Everyone remember... Even if this thing can be mounted on a wall.... You can't mount it flat on a wall because that wuold mean you couldn't use the ports on the back of the computer.

(Which means it is only viable to mount flat on a wall if you have airport, bluetooth, and no need for firewire access)

[gopher]

Nice looking machine. And build to order with 250 GB hard drive, it should be a fine machine to partition and use for video. Finally they didn't skimp out on the hard drive for the iMac!

[thatwendigo]

I just might name my new iMac G5 "thatwendingo". :rolleyes:

Maybe it can correct your errors for you, just like I do. :p

[raynegus]

UT2004 is 212% faster over a maxed G4 iMac. Sweeeeet.

[Zaty]

Specs wise, it's exactly what I expected, but I think they should have added another 256 Megs of RAM. I wonder if the iMac G5 will sell better than the G4 model.

[Chaszmyr]

UT2004 is 212% faster over a maxed G4 iMac. Sweeeeet.

Incase anyone needed further evidence that the G4 iMac was outdated.

[robbieduncan]

P.S. I'm Dying to see how the hell we upgrade the ram and find the Air port Slot.

There's a little 2 step animation on one of the product pages: you take the back off.

[belair]

Yep, got to agree, the first impression was a little awkward. But I start to like it. I think the lower part of the screen seems big but makes the whole thing more approachable. Like that people wont have to go looking for the computer behind the screen. (I can already see them doing it in stores :rolleyes: ) It is a very good consumer machine.
They could have done something about the graphics card but thats the only downpart I can see.

SALES are gonna go TROUGH THE ROOF!

[rdowns]

Now you have me thinking, damn, I should of picked the 20"!! :D What was your ship time? Mine said 3-4 weels. I ordered the 1.8 17" and only upgraded the HD to 160.

LOL. We're already asking ship dates? Mine said 3-4 weeks as well.

[Yuh]

From iMac specs page:

Typical viewing angle:

* 17-inch models
o 120° horizontal
o 90° vertical

Aren't these specs a bit crap for a 17" monitor?

[BakedBeans]

No, it's not the end, because Apple ended up doing just what I said they would have to. The machine uses a slower processor, lowered FSB, lower graphics card, less advanced memory architecture, and a customized cooling system in order to keep it from overheating. Basically, I was right.

I'll be interested to see what the power draw figures are like, whenever these are added to the techincal documentation pages.

...that being said, I want one. :D

This thing is almost certainly going to be faster than my current desktop, even at the low end. Of course, I currently compute on a 700mhz G4 eMac, so that's not all that hard to beat.

Pros for me:
-Less than half the weight of my current desktop.
-Better processor with 64-bit extensions that might, eventually, come in handy. (Yes, a 1.8ghz 970 is better than a 700mhz G4 on the desktop. I'll admit it. It better be, since it's more than twice the clock. ;))
-Faster RAM and a more capable support system to take advantage of it.
-SATA
-Optical audio out
-Reasonably priced for what you get. Quite so.

Cons:
-

look thatwendingo your trying to twist what you actually meant when you said that they wont fit a g5 in a imac enclosure... this proves they can fit g5 into tight enclosures this is as tight if not tighter than the half dome.

just confess you were WRONG and start babbling about how they wont ever fit a g5 in a laptop

[iFaulder]

i think that it looks grate but the front is a little empty.

[macidiot]

Sooo... if the 20" iMac has the same screen as the 20" ACD(same 1680x1050 resolution), does that mean its got about $600 worth of computer???? So who is getting ripped off, the ACD buyers, the iMac buyers, or the G5 tower buyers? Looks like I got screwed w/my 20" ACD...

And again with the weak graphics. Otherwise the hardware seems pretty decent. Nice 2GB ram limit.

And if Apple broke that $600 computer out by itself, they'd sell MILLIONS. At $600 it blows the doors off of Windows boxes. Heck, I'd buy 2 immediately, one for the home theater and one for the bedroom.

I think it doesn't look that bad, but I really like the look of my ACD which is basically the same. No vertical adjustment though. Here's an idea, how about a modular computer back, that hooks onto the ACD's...add what monitor you want...or none at all.

[RandomDeadHead]

Yes, I want to hear what Duff Man thinks!
For he is the voice of reason.

Apple just had to go and crippled the bus, didn't they, Bastards.

[nagromme]

Everyone remember... Even if this thing can be mounted on a wall.... You can't mount it flat on a wall because that wuold mean you couldn't use the ports on the back of the computer.

Two options:

1. Wall mount with an inch of space or so. Needed for cooling anyway and would look fine.

2. Slick permanent installation, with cooling and cables holes in the wall. Grab your chisels!

Personally, I think these will look really cool on the end of long VESA swingarms. Sunflower iMac, eat your heart out! (Too bad Apple doesn't sell a VESA arm like the old iMac one--cool for pro displays too.)

PS, I like the hidden speakers and lack of visible vents. Very sleek. That front space puts the screen at viewing height, and leaves a place for Post-It notes ;)

(Now watch... people will take off the foot and put the thing in their laps... the Mac tablet is here...)

[rendezvouscp]

Well, I've blown up the back of the iMac, and the screen survived! No, I'm kidding. Here's a bigger photo of the iMac's innards.

http://rendezvouscp.shyper.com/inside_the_imac.jpg

–Chase

[nospleen]

LOL. We're already asking ship dates? Mine said 3-4 weeks as well.

I figured someone had to start the countdown, so this way we know when to start getting upset. :D I still cannot believe the pricing, very nice.! Apple could have kept the old prices and gouged the faithful.

[iNetwork]

I am in the same boat, but, I decided on the 17. With the mini vga out, I am sure the ole hack will work to span!
Make sure you order the adapter, it doesn't ship with it.

Personally, it's ugly and plain, a G4 1.5 powerbook has more power (graphics and system) and GF5200 ??? WTF is all I have to say. Now they even skimp on accessories. I wouldn't be surprised if they stop shipping keyboards and power cables with their computers next. Why the heck does everything have to be an option. Also I have no use for a DVD recorder, the upper models do not give you an option for a combo drive. Looks like I'm not buying one.

[JLS]

What is it with apple and crap graphics cards... grrr

[ssamani]

Also the things of note, in my mind are:

- VESA wall mountable => genuine zero footprint
- 3:1 bus speed ration compare with PM G5 2:1, not a big deal
- only 256MB in top end model, hello? Perhaps Apple have just realised that no-one buys memory from them, cos its cheaper elsewhere
- Blooming ports are going to get cluttered all together like that... you know its going to get pulled about - lop sided iMacs anyone?
- normal, user upgradable memory, woohoo!
- Superdrive is only 4x compared with 8x in eMac and PowerMac - what gives!!

I think I may be using my Developer connection discount to get one before the end of the year is out.

Sanj

[realityisterror]

my only beef:
measly 256 RAM on all models (when will you learn apple?)...
big white space on the bottom should have speakers on it...
aluminum stand doesn't quite match :rolleyes: ....
but as always, apple's product come at a shock first, and make perfect sense the next week...

reality

[rendezvouscp]

- Superdrive is only 4x compared with 8x in eMac and PowerMac - what gives!!
Sanj

It's hopefully a typo. There's no reason for them to hold back.
–Chase

[AmigoMac]

I'll have a big/long talk at home giving the reasons why we would need one of those babies ;) ...

I wonder how long it will take until the thread "iMac G5, buy now or wait" comes :p :p :p ... I hate when people post that within the first month :eek:

[mcsmiley]

Like others in this thread I thought the design was a little bottom heavy. Rather cluncky from the front and to paraphrase the keynote, the only computer I have ever preferred from the back. But then saw this picture of the imac in front of a user and it looks altogether more compact, modern, and proportional. I imagine it looks terrific up close.

[porky]

I've sold these kind of designs (pc in monitor) already many years ago with a pc, and it wansn't a huge succes. I hop Apple will do better.

[The Mac Lord]

One thing I noticed. If you go to the Online Apple Store you have the option to upgrade your keyboard and mouse to a wireless set that come with the bluetooth adapter for $99. My question is are you now able to setup a bluetooth mouse and keyboard when wanting to reinstall your software, how does the computer know that they are there. Don't you have to run a setup and link them to the computer???

[iNetwork]

What is it with apple and crap graphics cards... grrr
A-men brother. Preach... but it's an ULTRA lol :p

[xsnightclub]

Impressive design, very reminiscent of both the iPod and the facial dimensions of the orignal iMac. The price points are amazing, can it be true that Apple is finally trying to be competetive on price?

And to everyone bitching about 256, you can upgrade to 512 for only $75!

[discoteca]

Well, I've blown up the back of the iMac, and the screen survived! No, I'm kidding. Here's a bigger photo of the iMac's innards.

http://rendezvouscp.shyper.com/inside_the_imac.jpg

–Chase

You can get an even bigger pic on the apple pr website here - http://www.apple.com/pr/photos/imacflat/04imac.html :)

[belair]

Like others in this thread I thought the design was a little bottom heavy. Rather cluncky from the front and to paraphrase the keynote, the only computer I have ever preferred from the back. But then saw this picture of the imac in front of a user and it looks altogether more compact, modern, and proportional. I imagine it looks terrific up close.

When I saw that pic I was convinced that apple did the right thing. This computer is HOT.

[MattG]

It's nice, but I definitely prefer the FP G4 design.

[aswitcher]

well I think it would have looked much better in metal than white plastic but thats probably because I wanted a metal finish BT keyboard...guess I'll go buy a white one now...

Very happy with the Australian pricing...dropped $600-$700 AUD for a far superior machine. Excellent.

[aussie_geek]

Apple has done it again! :eek: :eek:
That is one fine piece of hardware. Hands down to the development and design team at Apple

[Craiger77]

Although it probably isn't upgradable, the ease of removing the back gives some hope that it may be possible to put in another graphics card or even processor. The pic with the back removed on Apple's pages is not great, but it does seem that there is a lot more exposed than with the former iMacs. We will just have to wait and see what is possible. People here just assume the graphics card isn't upgradable because they weren't in the past.

[iMeowbot]

When I saw that pic I was convinced that apple did the right thing. This computer is HOT.
Agreed.

[thatwendigo]

look thatwendingo your trying to twist what you actually meant when you said that they wont fit a g5 in a imac enclosure... this proves they can fit g5 into tight enclosures this is as tight if not tighter than the half dome.

I'm still waiting for someone to show how I was wrong. Apple cut the FSB, used a lower clocked processor, cut the memory to single-channel, used a lower-speed optical drive intended for laptops, built a custom cooling system, used an older graphics chipset, and otherwise tweaked things so that it's a lower-performing machine than the towers.

It's exactly what I've been saying they'd have to do if they were to use a small form factor.

just confess you were WRONG and start babbling about how they wont ever fit a g5 in a laptop

iMac G5 internal volume: 1930.66 in^3
iMac G4 internal volume: 1273.36 in^3

There's more internal volume to dissipate heat, not to mention the fact that Apple moved to a blow-through design that would push heat out of the case rather than waiting for it to drift towards a fan.

[penum6ra]

Apple may be pissing off plenty of their small developers, but with this new iMac G5 I'm sure they'll have plenty of third-party HARDWARE vendors lining up. Griffin, Power Support, Belkin, Dr. Bott (or whoever Dr. Bott's OEM is) off to the races with ya!

VESA compliant mounts, you want a wall mount? Don't whine about the ports, you're gonna hafta get the mount anyway, just get a mount with a passthrough that snakes the cords down or to the side (can you imagine a full complement of Apple White cords arranged from thickest to thinnest, evenly spaced, cascading completely vertical from the middle of the back of the iMac down the wall - could even provide another rubber strip further down that could be open or under the desk to keep them stretched out like a grill or more accurately a Harp.)

But a swing-arm iMac now? There's heaven.

As for the Big White Space™? Student computer + iPod styling + potential PC-Users not really noticing it = great place for some stickers or personalization. Cellphone mount? Mouse holder? Blazing Fast Flame decals? I know, I know, gag-me-with-a-spoon ugly, but some people will LOVE that stuff.

Out.

BTW: If any accessories vendors like these ideas, just drop me a line, preferrably with a job offer, and we can talk about signing over rights ;)

[mhouse]

I've sold these kind of designs (pc in monitor) already many years ago with a pc, and it wansn't a huge succes. I hop Apple will do better.

Uhh, sorry no. Even the best of PC all-in-ones were horrifically clunky compared to the new iMac.

[michaelb]

It's hopefully a typo. There's no reason for them to hold back.

There is, actually. Two and a half years ago when the iMac G4 was announced, Steve actually made the point that CD drives positioned on their sides had to be throttled back...

Don't know if the technology has changed since then.

[Vanilla]

Its a nice design bar one point for me: I am disappointed with the positioning of the ports on one side of the screen.

When you have plugged in a keyboard and tethered mouse having the leads dangling down off the back of the screen will surely look messy? When you then add an iPod lead, Camcorder lead etc. it will only get worse. Also as someone pointed out, once you have stuff plugged in isn't moving the screen going to potentially be awkward?

I would have preferred the ports placed somehow at ground level, in the stand maybe or even a separate unit (which would help wall-mounting setups).

Maybe there is a wire tidy structure at the back that channels wiring down the stand, I dunno, guess I'll wait until I see one in the flesh before passing final judgement but the positioning of the ports was the first thing that leapt out when I saw the design.

vanilla

[BakedBeans]

and since when has this machine got a slower processor?? its a 1.8 g5 for god sake wendingy, im sure it wouldn't be too hard to get it too 2 gig... but that would be bad marketing..its not due to the possibility of it

[TorbX]

Is it just me, or am I the only one that find resemblance to THIS?

http://www.comparestoreprices.co.uk/images/pa/packard-bell-l15c.jpg

[SilentPanda]

You could always use the extra space at the bottom of the screen for Post-It's... :)

I like it overall. Now I just have to figure out if I'm going to get this one or wait in hopes that the next revision will have a better graphics card...

[AmigoMac]

... but thats probably because I wanted a metal finish BT keyboard...guess I'll go buy a white one now...
.

I was in the same situation, waiting for a new BT Mouse/KB ... I'll order one in 2 minutes ... (1 button mouse with scrolling pad a la iPod :) )

[nagromme]

Time to be jealous of education buyers again:

17" 1.6 Combo = $1199

17" 1.8 Super = $1399

20" 1.8 Super = $1799

Even at NON-edu pricing these should sell great.

Re GPU: keep asking for more, Apple may listen! I'd like the highest GPU I can get. (Replaceable? Not in that form factor!) But we aren't all hard-core gamers that would care about maxing the detail level on next year's titles without slipping below 60 fps. The iMac G5 is great for current games, and the PowerMac option remains as well. (And why make everyone else pay for a GPU more than they need? I bet Apple knows its iMac market.)

Re RAM: you do want more--I suggest MORE than 512--and get it from OWC etc., don't pay Apple prices. But Apple's not stupid here--they are selling RAM at a profit for them and their resellers. Such is life. Luckily more RAM is cheap.

Re whining: Why not more of it? Seems like everyone's loving the new iMac or giving the design a chance to grow on them. Come on, I know you can do better! Let's hear it: Apple is dead! :)

[Wardofsky]

A lot of people on the IRC channel had... strong thoughts on the design.
It took me about 5 minutes to love it already!

So does this make those elavator pics real?
Either way, I can't wait to test them out.

[NusuniAdmin]

just looks like oversized cinema

[xsnightclub]

Is it just me, or am I the only one that find resemblance to THIS?

http://www.comparestoreprices.co.uk/images/pa/packard-bell-l15c.jpg

UH, NO.

[IndyGopher]

Everyone remember... Even if this thing can be mounted on a wall.... You can't mount it flat on a wall because that wuold mean you couldn't use the ports on the back of the computer.

(Which means it is only viable to mount flat on a wall if you have airport, bluetooth, and no need for firewire access)

True.. but with 54mb/s airport express (not hugely fast, but fast enough to stream video) all I personally would need to do is mount it to the wall above my desk (faces a wall) and that would be that. Maybe throw another drive or two in my server, and I regain basically my whole desk. And realistically, I would want a wall mount that tilts up and down at least a little, so there would still be enough room to plug in a cable.. maybe plug cables into USB and Firewire, run them, and the power cable down a conduit to firewire and usb hubs, and never worry about it again. Could even run them inside the wall, for that matter.. but I am not that obsessive.

[slipper]

very impressed with the design although the design kinda shocked me at first.

quit your whining about the RAM, this is a consumer machine designed for internet surfing and it now cost significantly less that the previous generation. whats $50 for another 256, geeze.

my sis bought a 1.25ghz iMac the beginning of this year, im gonna try to convince her to sell that and buy this!

[Mencius]

Well I love the machine. I won't be buying one but I think it's an amazing design. This announcement was the decider for me 64MB 5200 just won't do; full stop. I was just waiting to see if I could put a good graphics card in a consumer Apple and it's not to be. It's quite a tear really since I've used macs since 1987 but I'm going to build myself a PC box and run linux. And one thing's sure that PC box will have one whopping graphics card that I may decide to UPGRADE in a year or two. I suppose I'm just outside Apple's target market but I'm still torn I can't get one of these.

[xsnightclub]

quit your whining about the RAM, this is a consumer machine designed for internet surfing and it now cost significantly less that the previous generation. whats $50 for another 256, geeze.


Plus a Bluetooth adapter AND BOTH a wireless keyboard AND mouse for $99, Great Deal

[appleface]

perfect. wow. even their ad is great, "from the creators of ipod." i'm sure half of you will think that ad is stupid, but it's great. they're using the ipod to introduce the masses to the apple experience. way to go!

i'm glad it's not all aluminum. white is clean. aluminum is cold.

i'm glad the speakers are not visible. it looks ten times cleaner and the times less like a pc with them out of sight. you're not even supposed to use the speakers. you're supposed to use airport express, but apple put in speakers, so we wouldn't say, "it doesn't even have speakers!?"

i'm glad i don't need to buy 512mb of ram from apple.

i'm amazed they kept the price down, and i'm glad they eliminated the 15". every G5 imac is going to be impressive to see, even the low end. wowsers. A+.

this may finally initiate the switch (especially for many happy ipod users).

(and it can be completely wireless. i was hoping for that one!)

[djdarlek]

I cannot believe the UK Price points! I am amazed! £1350 inc. VAT for the top model????? wtf?? That is quite simply the most value friendly price I have ever seen! Just going to check out how much its going to be with edu. disc.. (frantically looks for link............finds link..reports...) £1173???? wtf??? dvd burner! 20" tft! an apple product! 160 gig HD! this price is spectacular..>!

Almost as amazing as this placeholder image I found on the Apple UK HE store.. lol...

http://a248.e.akamai.net/7/248/8352/346/store.apple.com/Catalog/uk_inst/Images/cp_top_indi_imac_20040831.jpg

djdarlek

[AmigoMac]

Well I love the machine. I won't be buying one but I think it's an amazing design. This announcement was the decider for me 64MB 5200 just won't do; full stop. I was just waiting to see if I could put a good graphics card in a consumer Apple and it's not to be. It's quite a tear really since I've used macs since 1987 but I'm going to build myself a PC box and run linux. And one thing's sure that PC box will have one whopping graphics card that I may decide to UPGRADE in a year or two. I suppose I'm just outside Apple's target market but I'm still torn I can't get one of these.

Get an old 1.8 GHz ;) ... people are ebaying those...

[dekator]

my only beef:
measly 256 RAM on all models (when will you learn apple?)...
big white space on the bottom should have speakers on it...
reality

At least the top model should have like 512MB ('cause that's what you need for OS X to run smoothly). Maybe they're planning some 'special offer' thing on memory, but that would still be kinda lame.

As for the speakers... I was looking for them too. Aren't they in the white space ??? No, gosh... no internal speakers ? Pitty.
Anyways, I guess the lower part needs to be a bit more robust for overall stability.

My beef: No FW 800, no Gigabit Ethernet.

(And of course, that I would be like the same machine (specs) without a monitor, lots of optical drive options etc...)

[Wardofsky]

Almost as amazing as this placeholder image I found on the Apple UK HE store.. lol...

[IMG]

Ha ha, classic!

The prices are pretty amazing, the 17inch 1.8, costs less the the price we paid for our old Sage 450mhz iMac in 2000...

[BakedBeans]

I cannot believe the UK Price points! I am amazed! £1350 inc. VAT for the top model????? wtf?? That is quite simply the most value friendly price I have ever seen! Just going to check out how much its going to be with edu. disc.. (frantically looks for link............finds link..reports...) £1173???? wtf??? dvd burner! 20" tft! an apple product! 160 gig HD! this price is spectacular..>!

Almost as amazing as this placeholder image I found on the Apple UK HE store.. lol...

http://a248.e.akamai.net/7/248/8352/346/store.apple.com/Catalog/uk_inst/Images/cp_top_indi_imac_20040831.jpg

djdarlek

i have to admit that top end price is sweet... for the uk... at edu prices its great...

and even better for the americans

[5300cs]

The first thing I though when I saw this, was it's the new TAM.


Ok, maybe it's just me :rolleyes:
I love it, very progressive design. The bottom part of the bezel will take some getting used to. Another machine to add to my collection, it appears :)

[datasurge]

What happened?

This thing looks like so many of the pizza boxes with screens around the office I see all day.

OK, it's neato that there isn't a computer at the end of the cable, but boy, this is not the most attractive baby Steve and Jonathan have given the world.

I am sorry to use my very first post here on Mac Rumors to predict less sales for this chopped eMac looking iMac than even the second generation lamp post iMac had.

[lalcan]

I guess it'll take until tomorrow morning to really LOVE this new member of the family... :-)

One accessory i can already think of is one battery, and there you go, the apple tablet!

The old iMac is dead, long live the new iMac!

[xsnightclub]

Everyone remember... Even if this thing can be mounted on a wall.... You can't mount it flat on a wall because that wuold mean you couldn't use the ports on the back of the computer.

(Which means it is only viable to mount flat on a wall if you have airport, bluetooth, and no need for firewire access)

Uh what about the power cable? I am envisioning a simple accesory power cable for the vesa mounts with firewire + bluetooth. Simple answer!

[NusuniAdmin]

wait a second...did ID release mac doom III specs. Right off apple imac design page:

That’s a 1.6 or 1.8GHz G5 processor, 533 or 600MHz frontside bus, 256MB DDR SDRAM running at 400MHz and NVIDIA GeForce FX 5200 Ultra with 64MB graphics memory. So you’ll be able to play Worlds of Warcraft, Doom III and other fantastic entertainment.

I guess apple designed it for cheaper gaming computer a little bit?

[mrzippy]

Cool design.

Only bad thing I can see is that the 17" still appears to have the low quality TFT that the old iMac had ie. viewing angles 120 H / 90 V.

My 2nd Mac is an iMac 17", but the screen has an aweful viewing angle compared to my Sharp LCD on my powermac with 170 H / 170 V viewing angles.

120 H / 90V is very old when it comes to viewing angles on TFTs now.

[BakedBeans]

What happened?

This thing looks like so many of the pizza boxes with screens around the office I see all day.

OK, it's neato that there isn't a computer at the end of the cable, but boy, this is not the most attractive baby Steve and Jonathan have given the world.

I am sorry to use my very first post here on Mac Rumors to predict less sales for this chopped eMac looking iMac than even the second generation lamp post iMac had.
im going to get a lamp imac if the prices drop enough,,, but i have to disagree and say that they will sell really well at that price... there a steal... 1.8 g5 for 1350gbp including monitor... nice..but there not the "lamp" are they

[MacSA]

The price is great, £919 here in the UK (why not £899?), anyway the old 15" G4 sold for £999. Now we get a 17" screen with G5 for less than that, great stuff.

[nagromme]

No, gosh... no internal speakers ? Pitty.

It has stereo speakers built-in. They emit from the bottom edge and reflect off the desk.

Hidden speakers--cool :) I wondered the same thing though until I read Apple's page.

Watch "journalists" make the same mistake now ;) (They probably think the 12" PBook has no speakers when it has three.)

[Detlev]

I'm so happy! Said in a voice reminiscent of Monty Python.

Hey, wait! Every picture shows a wireless keyboard and mouse but not even the 20" is Bluetooth ready. Wassup with that?

[gekko513]

I love it! It looks much better, for some reason, when you see it with the keyboard.

The 20" is also cheaper than I expected!

[stevehaslip]

when i first saw it i wasn't exactly convinced. I thought the branding on it was too big and that there was too much white at the bottom of the display. But now i actually quite like it, its well thought out and the speakers that bounce off the desk are genius! (much like the powerbook speakers) I can see these selling well but is it just a little bit too late for the back to school market?

Its very impressive how much they got in to such a small enclosure. They look good in the non studio photos and in the quicktime 3D movie.

[fistful]

ahhh much better!

now taking orders! :D

ships? uh, it's in the mail! :rolleyes:

[CmdrLaForge]

It took me a while, but I really like the new design. The 20" model is more balanced and I would definitly go for that model.

Enough said about the RAM and the Video, they are both disappointing.

Overall: great new iMac, I hope it will attract many many switchers and will be a success like the first iMac.

[ChrisH3677]

well... a nice machine of course... but ho-hum design when compared to the iMac G4. Now that was futuristic! Not even Apple could top that!

The G5 iMac looks like a computer. It looks like a terminal. It looks like something you'd see someone entering your order into at a restaurant.

Sure people will say "Where's the computer" but they said that about the G4 iMac too.

This new iMac is a laptop on a stand. Nothing revolutionary or even evolutionary about that. Anyone one could have done that. All they've done is taken out the battery and put in the power supply.

These will sell, but they just lack the "Wow!" factor the G4 iMac had. It's not a head turner.

I'm sad, but I guess I knew it was going to happen.

[aussie_geek]

For all the aussie's out there - the site has been updated.

$A 2199 for 20 inch 1.8 GHz = $US 1,537.83

$A 2499 for 17 inch 1.8GHz = $US 1,747.63

$A 3199 for 17 inch 1.6Ghz = $US 2,238.10


we are still getting ripped off down here :(


aussie_geek

[jaw04005]

I think its rather ugly, but I wil give it a chance in person. Its just not what I was expecting. Nice pricing though.

[xsnightclub]

It took me a while, but I really like the new design. The 20" model is more balanced and I would definitly go for that model.


I agree, and the 23" model will look pefectly balanced!

[aswitcher]

For all the aussie's out there - the site has been updated.

$A 2199 for 20 inch 1.8 GHz = $US 1,537.83

$A 2499 for 17 inch 1.8GHz = $US 1,747.63

$A 3199 for 17 inch 1.6Ghz = $US 2,238.10


we are still getting ripped off down here :(


aussie_geek

Not as much as we used to be but yeah, still some overheads

[Belly-laughs]

iMac G5 internal volume: 1930.66 in^3
iMac G4 internal volume: 1273.36 in^3

Did you include the iMac G4s monitor volume as well? Otherwise one could argue that the new iMac uses 0 cubic inches.

As for G5 in a small unit, I seem to remember that in the discussion that went on you argued that they´d have to clock it down to 1,4GHz and a that the G4 at that speed would outperform the G5. Also, even though they´ve cut the bus speed to 600MHz, it´s still higher than the 400MHz bus supported by the not yet seen Freescale G4.

I think it´s safe to say that Apple has come out with a product that not even you would have thought possible.

[Frump]

Apple fails to innovate, Mr. Ives runs out of ideas.
It is a Flat panel monitor! Not much on the innovation and design front.
All in one flat panel computers are not new.
I do have to say that the price is excellent for a G5 + Monitor.
This will most likely sell very well. I might even think
about getting one for Christmas.


Frump.

[jaw04005]

ahhh much better!

now taking orders! :D

ships? uh, it's in the mail! :rolleyes:

Ill take one, except can you make the Apple logo like the new displays? Lol. Sigh.

[aswitcher]

I would have been quite impressed if they had done a limited edition 20" with 128 meg vram, 1 gig ram, and with a metal not a white shell, for the 20th anniversary of the Mac.

[thatwendigo]

and since when has this machine got a slower processor?? its a 1.8 g5 for god sake wendingy, im sure it wouldn't be too hard to get it too 2 gig... but that would be bad marketing..its not due to the possibility of it

Top of the line PowerMacs are now using 2.5ghz processors, middle grade on 2.0ghz, and the bottom of the line are hitting at 1.8ghz. The fastest iMac is a single processor version of the slowest PowerMac, minus 30% of the bus speed and dual-channel RAM. Even if the processors are identical, the processor performance will not be because the ability to access and move data around will be lower.

I'd love to see how it would be bad marketing to have a single-processor 2.0ghz machine, though. Enlighten me.

[hob]

sorry if i missed this somewhere along the line - is the expo gonna be webcast similar to WWDC? I'm checking quicktime but i'm not seeing it there!! Maybe Schiller fell over on stage or something and they're quickly re-editing it? :rolleyes:

Hob

[usay]

If I am going to open internet Cafe in Tokyo, I'll use this iMac.

Making computer and display into one has many advantages.
iMac + Bed = iBed.
iMac + Sofa = iSofa.

These could not be made with old iMac. Now it is possible.

iBed, iSofa, iInternetCafe.
If you are CGI designer, please create these.

Like iPod, I think there will be many options for this new iMac.
I think iPod is successful partly because it has many options from other companies.

Please someone invent iBed. "Now you don't have get up"

Thanks. :)

[sebisworld]

I'm so utterly disappointed. This iMac is not innovative at all, at least from design point of view. It's just a tablet PC that stands. I wonder if it will be user expandable, according to http://scr3.golem.de/?d=0408/imac_g5&a=33294&s=3 it could be.

[Stella]

Too expensive and too ugly.

It looks like the front of an eMac.

[dekator]

It has stereo speakers built-in. They emit from the bottom edge and reflect off the desk.

Hidden speakers--cool :) I wondered the same thing though until I read Apple's page.

Watch "journalists" make the same mistake now ;) (They probably think the 12" PBook has no speakers when it has three.)

Thanks for the clarification! Yes, I couldn't really believe there were no speakers, as I read something about 'speaker grills' with respect to cooling. Will have a closer look at Apple's page... lookong forwards to hear more about (from) those speakers :cool:

[hob]

I wonder if it will be user expendable

Sounds like an Arnie line...

I hope it will be!

[jim_az]

Want a (large) Apple Tablet? Just exchange the internal power supply for a battery :D

Az Jim

[slipper]

Well I love the machine. I won't be buying one but I think it's an amazing design. This announcement was the decider for me 64MB 5200 just won't do; full stop. I was just waiting to see if I could put a good graphics card in a consumer Apple and it's not to be. It's quite a tear really since I've used macs since 1987 but I'm going to build myself a PC box and run linux. And one thing's sure that PC box will have one whopping graphics card that I may decide to UPGRADE in a year or two. I suppose I'm just outside Apple's target market but I'm still torn I can't get one of these.
youve been using apples since '87 but you dont know about the powermac? i dont get the big deal. yes it would be cool if the iMac came with a better graphics card, but for the market it is targeting, its absolutely fine. if your gonna do advanced work or gaming or are worried about upgrading, get the powermac.

[Poff]

http://images.apple.com/imac/images/designcooling08312004.jpg

It seems to me the chimney-patent from the Cube is what helps the fans running at such a slow speed. The idea is that when the air gets hot, it rises. Thus, it will automatically flow out of the top of the computer, and cold air will then follow through the opening in the bottom. The computer has a couple of fans to speed up the process, but it seems to me this is the basic idea.

From the Apple website:

Cool Operator
The speaker grill lets a trio of ultra-quiet blowers draw cool air into the system. These custom heat dissipaters can rotate at speeds as low as a few hundred RPM. Advanced thermal software spins them as fast or slow as needed and you’ll hardly ever notice them. Quieter than a whisper, the iMac G5 measures less than 25dB when idle (at the same distance of 50cm, a whisper in a quiet room measures more than 30dB). A slit in the back of the case allows heat to rise out the top.

[MacFan26]

Looks pretty cool to me so far. I'd like to see them in person. True they may not have all the best specs, but everyone wants a consumer model, and these prices are pretty good I'd say. Sure, it not $599 with instant rebate! But people buying that aren't going to look at Apple to begin with. The front looks a little weird since it's so eMac like, but I did like whose ever idea it was to put sticky notes there :D btw, my post wasn't supposed to be mean spirited or anything, but it is really early and I should be in bed and probably don't know what I'm saying.

[nagromme]

I'm so utterly disappointed. This iMac is not innovative at all, at least from design point of view.

To the handful who say this has been done before. A link, please? Because it really hasn't. Find me an all-in-one that's even remotely so thin and elegant.

And yes, the old swingarm G4 was cool too--a classic! :) But now you can put a VESA arm on this one anyway (or simply rotate the stand on your desk--the new iMac's lighter after all).

BTW while I'm thinking of it... I like the new game bundle better. Marble Blast is a great game, and Nanousaur II looks great as well. Tony Hawk and Deimos Rising weren't much to offer, but these are actually good games!

[AppleJustWorks]

Too expensive and too ugly.



Too Expensive? You are the first and probably the last to say this!!! Those prices are superb! 1299 for a widescreen 17" LCD with a G5!!!!! :D

[Warbrain]

It's ugly. There's not much to it. And I really do think it lost it's "cool" factor that the iMac G4 did. It's nothing more than everything crammed into an Apple Display. I don't like it at all. And another thing that makes me angry (and I don't really know why) is that there's no FireWire 800. You think they could've at least put one FW800 port on there, but they didn't. Oh well, maybe in the future.

But yea, to me, the iMac G5 is cheasy and lame. It looks like crap with the big white space with the gray apple on it underneath it (kinda looks like a toy) and the back is just hideous, too, with the huge 'iMac' on the back.

I feel Apple dropped the ball on this one. Let's hope for improvements.

[Frump]

To the handful who say this has been done before. A link, please? Because it really hasn't. Find me an all-in-one that's even remotely so thin and elegant.

And yes, the old swingarm G4 was cool too--a classic! :) But now you can put a VESA arm on this one anyway (or simply rotate the stand on your desk--the new iMac's lighter after all).

BTW while I'm thinking of it... I like the new game bundle better. Marble Blast is a great game, and Nanousaur II looks great as well. Tony Hawk and Deimos Rising weren't much to offer, but these are actually good games!

I dont have a link but I do have an HP all in one LCD/computer and it is touch screen. And it looks to be about the same thickness.

Frump.

[Warbrain]

Too Expensive? You are the first and probably the last to say this!!! Those prices are superb! 1299 for a widescreen 17" LCD with a G5!!!!! :D

with some fairly crappy specs?

[aussie_geek]

I would have been quite impressed if they had done a limited edition 20" with 128 meg vram, 1 gig ram, and with a metal not a white shell, for the 20th anniversary of the Mac.

Don't worry mate, the 20th anniversary item is yet to come!!

I wonder what it would be??

aussie_geek

[sebisworld]

To the handful who say this has been done before. A link, please? Because it really hasn't. Find me an all-in-one that's even remotely so thin and elegant.

I'm not saying this has been done before. I'm just saying that anyone with an IQ above Bush's could think of putting a computer in a box. Nonetheless, I do acknowledge the fact that Apple managed to make it so small, even though this is just a reason to buy a PowerMac.

[old_man]

I waited for a silver version before buying an iPod, and will wait for an aluminum/silver iMac before planning any purchase of this new toy. And maybe that in the meanwhile either a smaller PowerMac will become available or, if I'm lucky, a G5 Powerbook too...

[Perdix]

I like the look. I like the possibility of a 250GB hard drive. BUT ... the price of Apple-installed 2 GB RAM ... and the same graphics card as on my G4 iMac. It won't feel like progress.

But then do we really need anything better than a NVIDIA 5200? I don't play computer games much. I iLife and work. But what will I think in a year's time? Does anyone know?

[smorr]

i think that it looks grate but the front is a little empty.


That not a grate -- That a STICKY PANEL!!!! :) :)

[JustinChaloner]

Someone else might already have mentioned this, but it looks like it would be so easy to knock over! Think about when you're trying to put those USB cables in - CLANG!!!
I thought the same about new pro displays. That base looks way to small.

Other than that, i think it looks cool. They had to do something different to the lampstand iMac (which, personally, i think will always be known as the most beautiful Mac ever made), just to spark interest. Where else can they go? The only realistic step forward is holographic displays that are projected into midair (like in minority report) and that's years away. C'mon guys, give Apple some credit!

[appleface]

It's not a head turner.

isn't that what they were aiming for?
from www.apple.com/imac/specs.html

"But you’ll actually find that the computer just fades away as you organize music and photos, or compose tunes and edit movies with the iLife suite of integrated applications for your digital lifestyle."

[CmdrLaForge]

It's ugly. There's not much to it. And I really do think it lost it's "cool" factor that the iMac G4 did.

I don't think so. For me the new iMac looks perfect. As I said, the 20" is more balanced, but the 17" looks really good as well, and wait for some real pictures. Somehow Apple manages it that their pics don't look as good as the ones from users.

[Poff]

Definately the most beautiful computers in Apple history.

[Gromit]

I remember that some IT departments could not buy the original iMac because it didn't comply with EU Health and Safety regulations because it wasn't properly adjustable. The second generation iMac addressed this with the arm. Is the new iMac at all adjustable? If not, does anyone know what the law is regarding adjustment and will this mean it is technically illegal in the EU?

[sockeatingdryer]

Oh, man am I jealous! LOL
They look so awesome! And the power... they're only $100 cheaper than my BTO eMac! I should have waited... :(

Oh well, that said, they are some great-looking machines.

[keysersoze]

Beautiful. I'm glad it's finally here, and the design makes sense. I'm going to miss the whole rotation thing though.
–Chase

I'm wit you. I really like it! :)

[Poff]

I remember that some IT departments could not buy the original iMac because it didn't comply with EU Health and Safety regulations because it wasn't properly adjustable. The second generation iMac addressed this with the arm. Is the new iMac at all adjustable? If not, does anyone know what the law is regarding adjustment and will this mean it is technically illegal in the EU?

See pic, but have a little patience.
http://images.apple.com/imac/images/indexangles20040831.gif

[jasonbuss]

is it just me... but in the middle left of the "minus back" picture. the slot is of a airport sans extreme... you know, the ones going for 150 bucks on ebay now since they were discontinued....

i downloaded the highres pres photo from: http://www.apple.com/pr/photos/imacflat/04imac.html

and walla. it is an old airport card... so does this mean apple is going to start manufacturing these again?

my eyes may be deceiving me.... must check airportextreme card in g5 at home after work... since i recall the old cards had the antenna port in the middle...

and if the stand is removable... i now have a new portable gigging machine!

jasonbuss
foundationdeckstands.com

[autrefois]

Great design, great marketing. With reports of lots of students tempted to switch over to Macs thanks to the iPod, this has the possibility of really taking off. If only it had come out 2 week earlier, it could have been a really big hit for back-to-school. But I am impressed

And the eMac is still available on the Apple Store for people who can't pay that much for a computer. So everyone should be happy.

I hate to bring this up (it didn't look like anyone else did)—is this the only new thing announced?? It seems like the "One More Thing" was actually just "One Thing." :)

[thatwendigo]

Did you include the iMac G4s monitor volume as well? Otherwise one could argue that the new iMac uses 0 cubic inches.

The figures are unclear, but I figured the volume based on the formula of (2/3)(pi)(r^3) for a hemisphere.

As for G5 in a small unit, I seem to remember that in the discussion that went on you argued that they´d have to clock it down to 1,4GHz and a that the G4 at that speed would outperform the G5. Also, even though they´ve cut the bus speed to 600MHz, it´s still higher than the 400MHz bus supported by the not yet seen Freescale G4.

Yes, I did originally claim that, but I also clarified that the removal or simplification of other systems might mitigate the heat. Most of that was aimed at the keeping of a system in the dome enclosure (which didn't happen) or putting it in a laptop (which also didn't happen). This is a different product with a purpose-built cooling system.

That being said, I'm not surprised that Apple managed to put a G5 in a system, because they did what I said would have to be done for it to happen. I'm just a little disappointed that they would cripple the few advantages that it does have over the G4 in order to cram it in.

Also, I still want one. :D

I think it´s safe to say that Apple has come out with a product that not even you would have thought possible.

No, I thought it was possible, and anyone who believes otherwise didn't understand what I was saying. I said that certain things were likely impossible, which has been proven at least somewhat true. Apple made a consumer G5 machine and did it reasonably economically, but had to make cuts and workarounds.

I still think it's a good machine, though. It's just not as amazing as it could have been.

[appleface]

Sure, it['s] not $599 with instant rebate! But people buying that aren't going to look at Apple to begin with.
and apple is marketing these to people who have already shelled out 300 bones for an mp3 player.

[nagromme]

Someone else might already have mentioned this, but it looks like it would be so easy to knock over! ... I thought the same about new pro displays. That base looks way to small.

I thought the same thing. Nobody seems to think it's a problem with the pro displays in person, so I guess it's just an illusion... but they do LOOK tippy.

[CmdrLaForge]

I thought the same thing. Nobody seems to think it's a problem with the pro displays in person, so I guess it's just an illusion... but they do LOOK tippy.

I guess they are just heavy enough to stand without problems.

[CmdrLaForge]

I hate to bring this up (it didn't look like anyone else did)—is this the only new thing announced?? It seems like the "One More Thing" was actually just "One Thing." :)

Unfortunatly, yes: nothing else was announced today. A 2 hours keynote and only one new product, but a great one. I hope it really takes off.

[Dr. Pookey]

STUNNING! Yay, that made my day. :D

[iMeowbot]

I remember that some IT departments could not buy the original iMac because it didn't comply with EU Health and Safety regulations because it wasn't properly adjustable. The second generation iMac addressed this with the arm. Is the new iMac at all adjustable? If not, does anyone know what the law is regarding adjustment and will this mean it is technically illegal in the EU?
The machine is adjustable as shipped (and essentially infinitely adjustable if you go with a VESA bracket), but I don't see TCO 95 in the specs for this model. Maybe it does comply with the included stand, but testing wasn't completed brefore the specs were published?

[SiliconAddict]

OK. Not to bad but WTF is with the anemic RAM amounts especially for $1899. Apple's being cheap again. :rolleyes: IMHO anything less then 384MB of RAM is er...sucky.

[appleface]

i think that apple's design goals with the G5 imac are different than the goals of the G4 imac.

the G4 was supposed to make you say, "pretty," "i like the shiny arm," and "this is fun to play with."

the new imac isn't supposed to draw attention to itself except in its simplicity.

i'll quote apple's site again:
"you’ll actually find that the computer just fades away as you [work]"

[nottsp1]

wouldn't it be great if the previously discussed 'double hinge' from the patent sketch could be used as a wall mount? Ie: bolt one end to the wall, and stick the other end into the back of the new iMac? :rolleyes:

[wjdennen]

A question - are the picso n Apple's site "real"photos? They look like renderings.

[phonic pol]

Small footprint and a capable machine but very ugly! I much prefer the older design. Looks like apple were determined to get all into one enclosure, even at the expense of form & beauty...

[nagromme]

Why do all the Positive votes have me thinking of Mikey in the Life cereal ads :D (Considering the usual waves of "nooo appel y no antigravity?!?" whining at MR :p )

(RE renderings--yes, lots of Apple images are. I think it's odd myself.)

[SiliconAddict]

PS- And we need a wall of shame for all those who were screeching about how fugly the pyramid was. Common sense is a good thing. :)

[wPod]

cool. . . very cool. .. . i want one i want one i want one. . . but thats not happening :-/

[iMeowbot]

wouldn't it be great if the previously discussed 'double hinge' from the patent sketch could be used as a wall mount? Ie: bolt one end to the wall, and stick the other end into the back of the new iMac? :rolleyes:
Apple do have a pending patent application for VESA-type arms very much like that. It's anyone's guess if they'll actually manufacture them.

[GroundLoop]

I think that the new iMac looks pretty nice. Not exactly my style, but I can see that it is going to be a hot seller. The price is dead on as well. I can see this computer appearing on many parents' desks. I am more of a power user that is why I need the expandability of a PowerMac. What I do like is that the form factor is down to 2" thick. This means that we are getting closer to a PowerBook G5. Looks like WWDC 2005 at the latest or a HUGE surprise at MacWorld in January.

For now, I am happy with my PowerMac and PowerBook. But I will be upgrading them both in the next year to year and a half. This new iMac is telling me that the heat issues are all but resolved. Now, if IBM can just get the yields up, then the next 18 months should be very exciting.

Hickman

[crazyu]

I think they got the vowel wrong, its 'e' not 'i' -mac!

I can't believe this has been designed by Jonathan Ives (3G ipod & G4 iMac designer), its says the ipod team on Apple's website - but look what happened to the 4G ipod!? Not sure who is in this err 'team'

The G5 iMac is truly awful (design wise), its actually appalling compared with the G4, its about 20 steps back. It looks like a cheap windows PC.

It doesn't complement any of the 'i' series of products - ibook,ipod etc. no upgrades for me just yet.

Its just plain ugly!



_________________________________________________________________________________________________

G4 17" iMac, G4 iBook, 3G & 4G iPod.

[aswitcher]

I wonder what sort of volume they have to go and what delays BTOs will be...

[iGary]

Two RAM slots?

Do you have to match this one in pairs like the G5 Powermac?

They don't mentions 64-bit anywhere on the website.


Hrmm.

[iShater]

Me want one!!! :D

I will miss the old design, but I love the specs, the prices and well... the new design!

[SiliconAddict]

Too Expensive? You are the first and probably the last to say this!!! Those prices are superb! 1299 for a widescreen 17" LCD with a G5!!!!! :D


Prob the second to last then because I agree. Once again a PC switcher is forced to buy a new monitor and the reality is the price isn't $1299. Its $1299 + another 256MB stick of RAM + Applecare (Since no one in their right mind buys a Mac without Apple care) = Around $1500

Sorry for a baseline device that is too expensive. IMHO baseline price should be $999.

Oh the thing will sell alright but once again the potential isn't near what it could be because Apple has priced themselves out of the average consumer range.

[wcj912]

only problem is:
1) graphics card - gaming should one of the priorities of this computer, I think the card's specs are below market demand. ATI 96/9700 should be more like it.
2) RAM - come on!! I'd use 256MB just idling!!
3) bus speed - this could slow things down, only tests will tell. HOWEVER this may be good for the heat factor.
4) Superdrive - I don't understand why they put a 4X drive in there - 8X is pretty much standard now - my advice - get the combo drive and get an external burner - better off in the long run.
Other than that it's expected... nice to see they can fit a G5 in that small space!! At least there's PLENTY of storage!
That G5 Powerbook is looking alot healthier.........but i think it depends on how the iMac goes first.

[xsnightclub]

Two RAM slots?

Do you have to match this one in pairs like the G5 Powermac?

They don't mentions 64-bit anywhere on the website.


Hrmm.

Technology Democratized


The iMac G5 brings the same innovative system architecture in Apple professional desktops to the home. The G5 processor makes everything zippier — connecting to email or the web, creating movies, songs and DVDs, arranging photos or playing music. Choose a 1.6 or 1.8GHz G5 processor that’s ready to run modern 64-bit applications under the secure and stable Mac OS X operating system.

[shaft73]

The Arm is removable and can be wall mounted like the new apple monitors. I'm sure people will find other ways to mount it up as well. The damn thing only going to be 30 lbs. ! A portable Desktop.

[coggie355]

Like the design, not sure wether or not it beats the old one but anyways it says on the website that its going to be able to play " World of Warcraft and Doom III" just fine.
But im not sure, the graphics card is not THAT good...

[AmigoMac]

A question - are the picso n Apple's site "real"photos? They look like renderings.

I don't see apple rendering something that is already done ;) ... it has been photoshoped, of course, to match the apple site style or whatever reason... the best pics we're waiting for are those when someone has the mac already on his/her desk ... I know, but it will take weeks...

[diehlr]

The FX 5200 they built into this thing is a total dog! Nice way to cripple a machine.

[Poff]

Noone has a comment to the theory that they are using their chimney-design from the Cube?

http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?p=1014002#post1014002

[Les Kern]

Beautiful. I'm glad it's finally here, and the design makes sense. I'm going to miss the whole rotation thing though.
–Chase

I Agree there.
I just outfitted our school with 17" "old" iMacs, and the fact they rotate is actually extremely useful as related to collaborative classrooms. One particular lab works on newspaper, yearbook and web design. "Sharing" screens with other classmates is incredibly useful there. But these new iMacs are not really designed for edu, I believe, although they still have a place. They are what I call "walkable" (STEAL ME!)
Wish I would have bought more of the domes!
The G5 chip is important, and I like the overall design. It's evolutionary, but not revolutionary. I have a Vaio that looks a lot like it or at least the form is similar enough.
Looks like a trip to the Apple Store is in order. I was there when they unveiled the G4 iMac, and I thought "huh?" Then I played with one and was impressed.

[Les Kern]

only problem is:
2) RAM - come on!! I'd use 256MB just idling!!


Agree! What is it with computer companies and ram? As cheap as it is, they should cram at least a GB in it. Of course, keeping the price point low is important, but RAM?

[Jeff Harrell]

I'd love to see how it would be bad marketing to have a single-processor 2.0ghz machine, though. Enlighten me.

$

(This really isn't that complicated, y'all.)

[xsnightclub]

But these new iMacs are not really designed for edu, I believe, although they still have a place. They are what I call "walkable" (STEAL ME!)


It appears to have a kensington lock under the power attachement

[Les Kern]

wouldn't it be great if the previously discussed 'double hinge' from the patent sketch could be used as a wall mount? Ie: bolt one end to the wall, and stick the other end into the back of the new iMac? :rolleyes:

Why the heck are some folks hung up on wall mounts? That's the last thing I'd want, and I really think it's a feature that very few would want. Although, since it WILL wall mount, that group is serviced.

[wcj912]

Two RAM slots?

Do you have to match this one in pairs like the G5 Powermac?

They don't mentions 64-bit anywhere on the website.


Hrmm.

Interesting point... I never even thought..is the G5 64 bit or 32-bit - the website only mentions that its 'futureproof' - if that's the case - it should be 64-bit.

I think this requires some research!!!!

[davegoody]

That is SO goregous! I am really glad the iMac is not aluminum and boxy like the new displays. It really keeps the look and feel of the "i" lineup, and makes me think iPod.

I wonder if the foot will be detatchable? It looks like there is a slot on the back for wall mounting (long thin slot on the upper back side).

I am placing an order now! Sweetnees!

It does say that a VESA mount is available - this means that it can go on the wall and the stand is detachable - WELL COOL ! :)

[gooddog]

Beautiful. I'm glad it's finally here, and the design makes sense. I'm going to miss the whole rotation thing though.
–Chase

******************************

I agree. Now we have to hound Apple to make an Apple-designed VESA arm that swings this puppy all over the place as well
as rotate to portrait aspect.

One thing concerns me : as a teacher, it seems that the upper ventilation slot is too
tempting for vandalism ( the dread Pepsi Syndrome ) . I hope it is ducted to drain liquids out the bottom without contacting any electronics. I would stick with the eMac for schools.

Does it look to you-all like the RAM sockets are both accessible ? --- I hate having to order special for 2 GB . It would be great to have it with no RAM and buy two
third-party 1 GB sticks .

Same with BlueTooth built in.

I know a retailer that has a no-questions return policy. I would return it if I got a bad pixel. But can't if I order "built-to-order" from Apple,

---gooddog

[xsnightclub]

Interesting point... I never even thought..is the G5 64 bit or 32-bit - the website only mentions that its 'futureproof' - if that's the case - it should be 64-bit.

I think this requires some research!!!!

Technology Democratized


The iMac G5 brings the same innovative system architecture in Apple professional desktops to the home. The G5 processor makes everything zippier — connecting to email or the web, creating movies, songs and DVDs, arranging photos or playing music. Choose a 1.6 or 1.8GHz G5 processor that’s ready to run modern 64-bit applications under the secure and stable Mac OS X operating system.

You can do the research for this at http://www.apple.com/imac/

[GroundLoop]

Agree! What is it with computer companies and ram? As cheap as it is, they should cram at least a GB in it. Of course, keeping the price point low is important, but RAM?

You should be happy that Apple isn't forcing you to buy their overpriced RAM. Go get it from Crucial.

Hickman

[gatorron]

Order for 20" model accepted at 3:04 a.m. PST :)

Beauty is in the eye of the beerholder, and I think it is a fantastic design, exceeding my expectations.

With the right options (as I ordered it) a single wire connecting to power. This means it can be moved around the house and simply plugged in. Not quite the PB so many of you want, but pretty close.

I'm SO glad I waited all summer for this. Thank you, Apple...and the price is superb, imo. Still have money to buy more options and software.

Whoo hoo! Will be making the Switch in 3-4 weeks! Can't wait.

[Poff]

Interesting point... I never even thought..is the G5 64 bit or 32-bit - the website only mentions that its 'futureproof' - if that's the case - it should be 64-bit.

I think this requires some research!!!!

I don't think 32bit G5's exist. Then it wouldn't be a G5, right?

[CmdrLaForge]

I don't see apple rendering something that is already done ;) ... it has been photoshoped, of course, to match the apple site style or whatever reason... the best pics we're waiting for are those when someone has the mac already on his/her desk ... I know, but it will take weeks...

I really don't hope that it takes weeks before we see some real pics. My guess is that they have the iMac on the Expo and that we see some real pics today.

[1macker1]

This thing will have to grow on me. I'm sitting here lookin at my G4 iMac, and i'm seeing that the new G5 doesn't have the ability to move the monitor around with just a slight touch.

[SiliconAddict]

You should be happy that Apple isn't forcing you to buy their overpriced RAM. Go get it from Crucial.

Hickman


That isn't the point. For close to 2 grand it should be around 500MB of RAM. Apple's being cheap.

[xsnightclub]

I don't think 32bit G5's exist. Then it wouldn't be a G5, right?

WTF is up with the post first, read later mentality for some people?
http://www.apple.com/imac/ <--- read this page, answer your question

[coggie355]

Does anyone know whether or not the G5 iMac will be upgradable apert from the RAM, such as the Graphics Card?
Or is it all closed in and untouchable??

[SilentPanda]

Two RAM slots?

Do you have to match this one in pairs like the G5 Powermac?

They don't mentions 64-bit anywhere on the website.


Hrmm.

You don't have to pair them. At least, on the BTO screen you can just get one 512 stick. That'd be crappy of them to send you a half working computer... :)

[wcj912]

Technology Democratized


The iMac G5 brings the same innovative system architecture in Apple professional desktops to the home. The G5 processor makes everything zippier — connecting to email or the web, creating movies, songs and DVDs, arranging photos or playing music. Choose a 1.6 or 1.8GHz G5 processor that’s ready to run modern 64-bit applications under the secure and stable Mac OS X operating system.

You can do the research for this at http://www.apple.com/imac/

Guess I didn't look hard enough!! Apple sure doesn't want to elaborate on the fact that its 64-bit!!

[xsnightclub]

Does anyone know whether or not the G5 iMac will be upgradable apert from the RAM, such as the Graphics Card?
Or is it all closed in and untouchable??

Read:http://www.apple.com/imac/graphics.html

[GroundLoop]

That isn't the point. For close to 2 grand it should be around 500MB of RAM. Apple's being cheap.


It appears to me that for $1974 you DO get 512MB of RAM. Last I looked $1974 is close to 2 grand. ;)

Hickman

[mrougeux]

My first impression is: man, that's ugly. Don't like the white, wide band across the bottom. ditto's on the eMac look. And the display is not nearly as maneuverable as the prior model. It's more like the current Cinema Displays, which I have, which can only be tilted. You cannot adjust the height, which is unfortunate. With that wide band of material across the bottom, the display itself will now be at a higher viewing angle, which is not good ergonomically.

[dili]

I'm a newbie here on this forum. ...Sorry about that. :)
But, ... only 64MB video memory and no build to order option for 128 ...

In my opinion, ...sad! ...very sad.

What's the opinion out there?

dili

[wcj912]

That isn't the point. For close to 2 grand it should be around 500MB of RAM. Apple's being cheap.

I think this is Apple's objective.. sell the unit as cheap as possible and let the user upgrade.. pretty standard method of marketing these days...$1900 of Apple hardware in this package is pretty sweet.

[coggie355]

Read:http://www.apple.com/imac/graphics.html

So does that mean that the graphic card is connected directly to the CPUs Motherboard??

[GroundLoop]

I'm a newbie here on this forum. ...Sorry about that. :)
But, ... only 64MB video memory and no build to order option for 128 ...

In my opinion, ...sad! ...very sad.

What's the opinion out there?

dili

I would have to agree with you on this one. This is the biggest weakness in the latest iMac offering. A BTO option should be available. Luckily, I am not in the market for one of these, so I don't really care.

Hickman

[AmigoMac]

I really don't hope that it takes weeks before we see some real pics. My guess is that they have the iMac on the Expo and that we see some real pics today.

Yeah, Pics from the expo, but I mean when people start posting "My iMac G5 is here" ... and those photos we all expect to see, how it integrates in a real life situation... Mac from the expo are great but too over-organized to look good

[oingoboingo]

...that being said, I want one. :D

I'm also giving the iMac G5 second glances, even though the 1.6GHz model would almost certainly be slower than my current 1.6GHz PowerMac G5 (and with the single channel RAM and 600MHz FSB, it's possible that the 1.8GHz model may be slower too, but we'll have to wait for real benchmarks to see). However, the apartment where I am currently living is very low on free space, and an all-in-one 17" system that's less than 2" thick for only AUD $2199 (less with an educational discount) has definitely got me thinking (currently the setup is a 1.6GHz PowerMac G5 tower and a big'n'bulky 19" Philips CRT).


Pros for me:
-Less than half the weight of my current desktop.
-Better processor with 64-bit extensions that might, eventually, come in handy. (Yes, a 1.8ghz 970 is better than a 700mhz G4 on the desktop. I'll admit it. It better be, since it's more than twice the clock. ;))
-Faster RAM and a more capable support system to take advantage of it.
-SATA
-Optical audio out
-Reasonably priced for what you get. Quite so.


It's all good. I don't know if you noticed the Apple performance figures quoted on the iMac G5 page, but they are claiming a 56% speedup in Photoshop, 71% more tracks in Garage Band, 67% better rendering performance in Final Cut Express 2, and 46% faster in Keynote and iMovie for the 1.8GHz iMac G5 versus the outgoing 1.25GHz G4 model. It would be fairly safe to say that both the 1.6GHz and 1.8GHz models will both utterly crush your 700MHz system.

This may not be a sticking point for you, but for me at least the thing that is seriously standing in the way of swapping a PowerMac G5 for an iMac G5 is the nVidia GeForce FX 5200 GPU. With Tiger and CoreImage/CoreVideo around the corner, it looks like the GPU is going to be more involved in the everyday operation of OS X than ever. I would be hesitant at this stage of the game to buy a desktop system with a non-upgradable GPU with 64MB and based on the budget FX 5200 chip.

One other thing I noticed from looking around the iMac G5 web pages: it looks like Apple is really attempting to pitch the iMac G5 to the gaming crowd. Games are mentioned on the main iMac page, given feature billing on the 'G5 Processor' page, again on the 'Widescreen Graphics' page (Halo and UT2004 benchmarks! It's like a HardOCP review! :) ), and of course games are bundled and mentioned on the 'Software' page. Again...a shame that the FX5200 has been included with an apparent focus on gaming. Like I said, it may not be important to you, or to many others.