MacWorld Expo unveils several new developments
Paul Corkery
Issue date: 1/14/05 Section: Sci-Tech
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 Media Credit: Apple |
The most talked about of the new hardware items will certainly be the low-cost iPod Shuffle which had been rumored for months in internet discussion boards. Coming in two capacities 512MB (120 songs) and 1GB (240 songs) and priced at $99 and $149 respectively, the iPod Shuffle is a very slimmed down version of the highly popular and notoriously expensive iPod and iPod Mini. About the size of a cigarette lighter, the iPod Shuffle plugs directly into a computers USB port (similar to a USB jump drive) to download playlists from Apple iTunes. The low price also corresponds to a reduced feature set. The iPod Shuffle does not have any display screen, sporting only a limited number of controls for 'shuffling' your playlist, playing, pausing, skipping, and adjusting the volume. Despite its limited function, the Shuffle is bound to be a hit with the iPod curious not content to pony up for the 'real deal'. The iPod shuffle is available now in large quantities as to avoid the massive inventory shortage that followed the introduction of the iPod Mini.
A new budget Mac will also makes its way onto Apple Store shelves dubbed the Mac Mini. The Mac Mini starts at a low $499, but does not include a keyboard, mouse or monitor. More remarkable than the low price, perhaps, is the small-form-factor. Measuring 6.5" on each side and being only 2" tall, the Mini weighs in at a light 2.9lbs making it lighter than most laptops. This little cube is slim, not to mention sexy - you're going to want one. This device will probably appeal to the PC user seeking a low cost way to going the cult of Mac. Having to purchase input and output devices to accompany the cube may push it out of bargain pricing, but those with an empty set of KVM ports may take notice. The total cost is obviously more than the price tag, but will appeal to seeking tech with a sleek design.
Apple's AppleWorks productivity suite has been renamed iWork ($79). Including updated word processing program 'Pages' claimed to have a "sense of style." More significant than the work processor is the inclusion of Keynote 2, and updated version of Apple's presentation application. Keynote 2 will include a new set of themes and features including animated text and new export options.
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