No press conference or mysterious invitations this time. Instead, Apple simply added the new MacBook to its Web site. Replacing the 12- and 14-inch iBook models, the new MacBook is available in but a single size, splitting the difference between the previous iBooks with a 13.3-inch screen.
It's available in three models and, in a new twist, a color other than white. Borrowing a line from the iPod Nano, the MacBook now offers a black version in addition to the traditional glossy white. It'll cost you, though; the black MacBook is $200 more expensive than the white version. Aside from color, the only difference between the two models is the black MacBook's slightly larger 80GB hard drive--only a $50 upgrade from the white model's 60GB drive.
The entry-level MacBook costs $1,099 and comes with a 1.83GHz Intel Core Duo processor, 512MB of memory, a 60GB hard drive, and a DVD-ROM/CD-RW combo drive. For $1,299 you can upgrade to a 2GHz Core Duo chip and a SuperDrive DVD burner (read our review here). The black model costs $1,499.
Like the MacBook Pros, introduced back in February, the new MacBooks come with Apple's MagSafe quick-release power adapter to prevent fatal cord snags. All three new models also come with a built-in iSight camera and Apple's now ubiquitous Apple Remote and Front Row media management software. It's also worth noting that the new 13.3-inch display has a wide-screen resolution, making these midrange laptops as movie-friendly as their MacBook Pro counterparts.
For coverage of Apple's current MacBook models, read our overview of the 2007 MacBook models.
Product Specifications:
Product Description:
Apple MacBook Core 2 Duo 1.83 GHz - 13.3 in TFT active matrix
Dimensions (WxDxH):
12.8 in x 8.9 in x 1.1 in
Weight:
5.3 lbs
System Type:
Notebook
Built-in Devices:
Stereo speakers
,
Bluetooth antenna
,
Wireless LAN antenna
Processor:
Intel Core 2 Duo 1.83 GHz ( Dual-Core )
Cache Memory:
2 MB - L2 cache
RAM:
512 MB (installed) / 2 GB (max) - DDR2 SDRAM - 667 MHz - PC2-5300 ( 2 x 256 MB )
Floppy Drive:
None
Hard Drive:
60 GB - Serial ATA-150 - 5400 rpm
Optical Storage:
CD-RW / DVD-ROM combo - Integrated
Optical Storage (2nd):
None
Storage Removable:
None
Display:
13.3 in TFT active matrix 1280 x 800 ( WXGA )
Graphics Controller:
Intel GMA 950
Audio Output:
Sound card
Telecom:
None
Networking:
Network adapter - Ethernet
,
- IEEE 802.11b
,
- IEEE 802.11g
,
- Fast Ethernet
,
- Gigabit Ethernet
,
- Bluetooth 2.0 EDR
Notebook Camera:
Integrated - 0.3 Megapixel
Input Device:
Keyboard
,
Trackpad
Voltage Required:
AC 120/230 V
Battery:
Lithium polymer
Run Time (Up To):
6 hour(s)
OS Provided:
Apple MacOS X 10.4
Manufacturer Warranty:
1 year warranty