Up until very recently, Apple has been taking orders for the color laptops, which are available in two configurations — an Indigo or Key Lime-colored base model powered by a 366MHz PowerPC G3 processor, for $1,499; and a Key Lime or Graphite-colored Special Edition model for $1,799, which sports a faster processor and DVD-ROM.
The iBook was first unveiled to crowds at Macworld Expo New York in July, 1999. The original systems sported a case design that recalled Apple’s popular iMac computer, available in either Blueberry or Tangerine. While slower than their PowerBook G3 counterparts, iBooks sported an array of consumer-friendly features that set them apart, such as support for AirPort, Apple’s wireless networking technology; a rubber-coated edge designed to help absorb shocks and reduce wear and tear; and an integrated handle.
The most recent changes to the iBook were introduced to Mac users at last fall’s Apple Expo Paris. The new iBook models sported a different color scheme from their predecessors, faster processors, and incorporated FireWire ports as a standard feature, along with Apple’s iMovie 2 digital video editing software.
Regardless of what reason the Apple Store finds the iBooks temporarily unavailable, one thing is clear — with the introduction of new Power Mac G4s and the new PowerBook G4 at Macworld Expo in San Francisco and new iMac models and Cube configurations at Macworld Expo Tokyo, the iBook is the final Mac model on Apple’s list that’s due for an overhaul.
Apple could not be reached for comment as MacCentral went to press with this article.