Apple goes with Core 2 Duo for new MacBooks

Cupertino (CA) - Furthering its recent partnership with Intel, Apple today unveiled its latest line of MacBook notebook computers, highlighting the fact that they now include Intel’s Core 2 Duo processors.

According to Apple, the new notebooks are just one inch thin and can run up to 25% faster than the previous generation of MacBooks thanks to the inclusion of one of the latest processors available from Intel. The new models also include a built-in iSight video camera and Apple’s trademark MagSafe Power Adapter, which helps to ensure that Apple computers don’t shut down unexpectedly as much as PCs do.

"MacBook has helped drive Apple’s notebook market share to over 10% in US retail, and the new MacBooks will be among this holiday season’s most exciting new products. With Intel Core 2 Duo processors across theentire line, these new MacBooks are up to 25 percent faster than their predecessors," said worldwide produce marketing VP for Apple, Philip Schiller.

The new slate of MacBooks have three performance models - one at 1.83 GHz, and one at 2 GHz, both with a "sleek white" color, as well as a black version of the 2 GHz model. Prices start at $1100, according to Apple.

The new MacBook computers feature a 13" widescreen display, dual-layer DVD player/burner, and an included copy of iLife 06, Apple’s famous entertainment and "digital lifestyle" software suite.

Apple used to rely on PowerPC processors, with Intel forming a close bond with Windows-based computers. However, last year, Apple and Intel announced a new joint partnership that would bring Intel’s advance microprocessor technology to Apple computers as well.