Apple’s New iMac G5 Is Now A Media Center Mac.

Just when you thought the iPod was the center of attention, Apple shows a new wrinkle in the iMac G5. Now with remote control.

Windows Media Center has received all the PC attention in the past year. Now Apple responds with an upgrade to the iMac G5.

The latest version features more, well, uh, features at about the same price point as the previous G5 models.

The new iMac G5 comes with a built in iSight video camera at the top of the iMac screen. This iMac, which may get dubbed ‘the Media Center’ iMac is also thinner than the previous versions.

Also included is a special six-button remote control, Mighty Mouse, and new applications which make onscreen text larger and more legible when viewed from a distance.

Notably absent is a TV controller. Apparently Apple expects the iMac to become another television but only for music videos, DVDs, and music.

The new iMac G5 comes in two flavors: the 17” inch with SuperDrive, and the 20-inch with SuperDrive. Both models also have AirportExtreme and Bluetooth built in.

Applications included in the box are the standard AppleWorks, Quicken, WorldBook, and test drive applications for Microsoft Word and iWork. iLife ‘05 is also included.

Two new applications are also included.

Photo Booth is a Mac application which creates the old ‘photo booth’ fun photo features, and Front Row, which allows you to browse your music, photos and videos on
your iMac from a distance with the included remote control.

The built-in iSight camera will be a welcome addition as Apple’s iChat AV is considered the best video conference/audio conference application available.

Estimated ship times at the Apple Store indicate 7 to 10 business days before the first orders will arrive.

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