iMac

While the standard-configuration models of Apple's iMac offer impressive performance, if you choose a couple of build-to-order (BTO) options, you can have the fastest Mac to date that you can order from Apple--a 27-inch iMac with a 3.4GHz Core i7 quad-core processor and a 256GB SSD.

When Apple released new iMacs in early May, the company also made available new build-to-order (BTO) options in addition to the standard-configuration models. Macworld Lab tested two iMacs with BTO processor upgrades that offer faster speeds and more processing power, and the results show that the additional cost for the upgrades are worth it--if you run software that takes advantage of the technology.

On Tuesday, Apple released an updated line of iMacs, featuring quad-core Sandy Bridge Intel processors and Thunderbolt ports. Macworld Lab has all four standard configuration models, and the results for the $1999 27-inch iMac are in. The results do not disappoint, with the new iMac besting the previous generation of standard-configuration iMacs. The new 3.1GHz iMac even bested the performance of some impressively-equipped build-to-order models we've tested previously.

On Tuesday, Apple announced a new generation of iMac models, running at speeds up to 3.4 GHz and powered by the next generation of Intel Core i5 and Core i7 processors. The models also build in support for the new Thunderbolt, high-speed peripheral connection interface that debuted in Apple’s MacBook Pro line earlier this year.

Ladies and gentlemen, the fastest Mac we've ever seen is currently sitting in the Macworld Lab. It's the 27-inch 2.93GHz quad core Core i7 iMac, equipped with a solid-state drive (SSD). This built-to-order (BTO) model posted the highest Speedmark 6 score of any iMac we've tested--for now.

If you already rushed out to purchase a Magic Trackpad or one of the brand new iMacs Apple announced on Tuesday morning, then it's time to do the Software Update dance. The company has rolled out a pair of updates for Mac OS X 10.6.4 and Mac OS X 10.6.4 Server installations running on the new desktop models, as well as software updates for those who want to use the Magic Trackpad with their existing Mac.

Speedy all-in-one PC runs Windows 7 and OS X, but lacks extras like multitouch, Blu-ray, and a TV tuner.

Well, something is coming on the 27th. Probably a tablet thingie! PROBABLY.

When Apple announced new iMacs last month, it included a major step forward amid the subtle-but-welcome refinements in most of the models: the first ever iMac to offer a quad-core processor.

Amid the flurry of brand-new Apple products -- including new iMacs, updated MacBooks and Mac Minis, plus more -- sometimes details go unnoticed and slip through the cracks. One such detail was Apple's decision to change the display ratio on its new iMacs to 16:9 -- which would then allow Macs to play 1080p, the Blu-Ray dimensions. Was this slight modification a tease of what's to come with next year's possible reworking of Apple's line?

Google posted ads on its search results over the weekend that hinted Apple will soon refresh its iMac, Mac mini and MacBook lines.