CUPERTINO, Calif. — Apple Inc. updated its iMac computers Tuesday with a slimmer design, faster chips and glossy screens, hoping to further propel sales that already outpace the rest of the PC industry.
The all-in-one desktop computers now have aluminum casings, replacing the white plastic facade that has defined the computer lineup for years. Apple also eliminated a 17-inch display option, and will have only 20-inch and 24-inch versions.
Priced at $1,199 and $1,799, respectively, the computers are also $200 to $300 cheaper than their predecessors.
Analysts have been anticipating an iMac revamp for some time from the trendsetting company. Apple last introduced a new iMac in September 2006 when it debuted the large 24-inch model.
The success of the iPod, Apple’s retail stores and the company’s switch to Intel-based computer chips have all helped propel the Macintosh maker’s computer sales and profits to record levels. In recent quarters, Apple’s sales have been growing three times faster than the rest of the PC industry.
“The iMac has been very successful for us and we want to make it even better,” Apple CEO Steve Jobs said in announcing the new products.
Shares of Apple fell $1.74, or 1.3 percent, to $133.51 in afternoon trading.
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