By Tess Stynes
Apple Inc. (AAPL) unveiled an updated version of the iMac, which
the company said features faster performance, expanded video memory
and up to 32 gigabytes of memory and a slim design.
The announcement comes a day after Apple reported that it sold
nine million of its latest iPhones in their first three days in
stores, a new company record, and said quarterly revenue and
margins should be near the high end of its previous forecast.
The all-in-one desktop computer also includes the lastest Intel
Corp. (INTC) quad-core processors, new Iris Pro graphics, next
generation Wi-Fi and faster flash-storage options. Customers also
can upgrade to a faster Intel processor and Nvidia Corp.'s (NVDA)
latest graphics series.
The iMac starts at $1,299 for the 21.5-inch, 2.7 gigahertz iMac.
The largest model, the 27-inch, 3.4 gigahertz model, starts at
$1,999.
The iMac now supports next generation WiFi technology that can
perform as much as three times as fast as the previous
generation.
Also on Tuesday, rival Dell Inc. (DELL) unveiled its updated
Inspiron laptops and all-in-one desktop computer, touting a slim
design as well as affordability. The laptops feature Corning Inc.'s
(GLW) gorilla glass for durability and Intel processor options. The
laptops start at $699 and become available Thursday, while the
all-in-one starts at $999 and will be available Oct. 1.
Dell, once the world's largest personal-computer maker, has
largely been sidelined as tablets and smartphones became the more
popular devices and PC sales shrank. In recent years, the company
has looked to move beyond its core PC business and expand into more
lucrative and high-margin businesses.
Dell stockholders recently approved its $25 billion buyout by
founder and Chief Executive Michael Dell and investment firm Silver
Lake Partners, ending a bitter contest to take the PC-maker
private.
Write to Tess Stynes at tess.stynes@wsj.com
Subscribe to WSJ: http://online.wsj.com?mod=djnwires