Buying an IMAC Internationally

[Gregger]

Just about to by my first Mac. Very excited.

I live in Thailand about 9 months out of the year. I'd like to buy my new IMAC in Thailand for a variety of reasons.

2 Questions:

1) Are there any differences in the products? Many other computer manufacturers will "regionalize" their products based on a variety of factors. I already noticed that (of course) the keyboard in Thailand is different, and some of the language settings. Does anyone know any other standard differences in the product itself when buying outside the U.S.?

2) Are there any differences in service? For instance, if I come home to the U.S., can I get service from my Apple Care plan in the United States? The Apple Store clerk in Thailand assures me there would be "no problem", but I wanted to be sure. For instance, Hewlett Packard differentiates between warranties within the U.S. and warranties outside the U.S. (bastards).

Thanks for all your help!

 

[SaSaSushi]

1) Are there any differences in the products? Many other computer manufacturers will "regionalize" their products based on a variety of factors. I already noticed that (of course) the keyboard in Thailand is different, and some of the language settings. Does anyone know any other standard differences in the product itself when buying outside the U.S.?

Aside from the keyboard (as you've already mentioned) and the initial language settings in Leopard, there should be no difference whatsoever.

2) Are there any differences in service? For instance, if I come home to the U.S., can I get service from my Apple Care plan in the United States? The Apple Store clerk in Thailand assures me there would be "no problem", but I wanted to be sure. For instance, Hewlett Packard differentiates between warranties within the U.S. and warranties outside the U.S. (bastards).

No difference at all. See here.

Enjoy your new iMac.