Mac Mini goes Intel

Apple has launched a version of its compact Mac Mini desktop using the dual-core Intel Core Duo processor and claiming a performance up to four times that of previous models.

Even those were seen as a major assault to Microsoft's dominance of the desktop market, as they offered Mac elegance at prices previously available only in the PC market.

The new Intel-based models offer a choice of only the two slowest and cheapest Core Duo processors – the 1.5GHz and 1.6GHz - with system prices (without monitor) at £449 and £599 inc VAT respectively.

It is unclear whether this is because Apple wanted to keep prices down, or because faster processors would overheat or require noisy cooling in the cramped Mac Mini case.

Both models pack Gigabit Ethernet, 11g Wifi, Bluetooth 2, four USB 2 ports and come with the ILife 06 suite of 'digital lifestyle' applications.

- Apple has also launched a £249 (inc VAT) hifi speaker system for the Ipod which can be operated by a remote control.