New iMac desktop computers with quad-core processors and Thunderbolt launched

Apple updated its all-in-one iMac desktop computers with next generation quad-core processors, powerful new graphics, high-speed Thunderbolt I/O technology and a new FaceTime HD camera. The company said the new machines are up to 70 per cent faster and new graphics deliver up to three times the performance of the previous generation.

The new iMac features quad-core Intel Core i5 processors with an option for customers to choose Core i7 processors up to 3.4 GHz. These next generation processors feature an integrated memory controller and a new media engine for high-performance video encoding and decoding. With new AMD Radeon HD graphics processors, the new iMac has the most powerful graphics ever in an all-in-one desktop, according to Apple.

iMac is the first desktop computer on the market to include groundbreaking Thunderbolt I/O technology. The 21.5-inch iMac has a single Thunderbolt port while the 27-inch model features two ports. Developed by Intel with collaboration from Apple, Thunderbolt enables transfer speeds up to 10Gbps, much faster than USB or Firewire, and is expected to be widely adopted as a new standard for high performance I/O.

iMac includes a built-in FaceTime HD camera and FaceTime software for crisp, widescreen video calling. The new camera supports high definition video calls between all FaceTime HD-enabled Macs and standard resolution calls with iPad 2, iPhone 4, the current generation iPod touch and other Intel-based Macs.

The iMac continues to feature its signature aluminum and glass design, IPS LED-backlit high resolution display, SD card slot and comes with Apple’s Magic Mouse or Magic Trackpad.

Every Mac comes with Mac OS X Snow Leopard and iLife, Apple’s suite of applications for creating and sharing photos, movies and music.

The iMac range is available from the iCentre, Apple’s authorised services provider in Malta.

www.icentre.com.mt