Apple as expected today unveiled its 2011 iMac. The new models are all based on the Sandy Bridge architecture and are the first to go entirely quad-core, starting with the 2.5GHz Core i5 and scaling up to the 3.4GHz Core i7. Each now uses the same 10Gbps Thunderbolt port from the MacBook Pro that also doubles as a mini DisplayPort output.
FaceTime HD cameras are also new and give conversations between newer Macs a true widescreen conversation. AMD’s Radeon HD 6000M series graphics define the line and give them more efficient graphics than before.
A 21.5-inch model starts the line and comes with the 2.5GHz Core i5, a Radeon HD 6750M, and a 500GB hard drive for $1,199; a 2.7GHz Core i5, a Radeon HD 6770M, and a 1TB drive raise the price to $1,499. Buyers of 27-inch models can start off with a 2.7GHz Core i5, a Radeon HD 6770M, and a 1TB disk for $1,699, while the 3.1GHz Core i5, a Radeon HD 6970M, and a 1TB drive cost $1,999.
Build-to-order options include the 3.4GHz Core i7, up to 2TB of disk space, a 256GB SSD (separate from main storage), up to 16GB of RAM, and AppleCare.
The new iMac is shipping immediately from the online Apple Store.
