The shift from desktop computers to tablets and smartphones isn't stopping Apple from updating its long-running series of iMacs. On Tuesday, along with the iPad Mini, the Cupertino, Calif.-based company unveiled two new versions of the iMac, with 21.5- and 27-inch screens.
The new iMacs, measuring only 5 mm thick at the edge, are 45 percent thinner than the previous version and a full eight pounds lighter. The 21.5-inch model has a 1920x1400 pixel display and the 27-inch as a 2560×1440 pixel display. The starting prices for the two computers are $1,299 and $1,799, respectively.
Apple also found a new way to make its computers look even more sleek and seamless. It used a special type of welding called friction stir to put the external components of the computer together.
"The molecules of the aluminum are actually merged together to make one piece," Phil Schiller said on stage while presenting the new iMacs.
The inside of the iMac, though, probably received the most significant upgrade. The new iMacs are powered by what Apple calls "fusion drives," a hybrid of a traditional hard drive and a solid-state drive that allows the machine to perform quickly while still having a lot of room for storage.
The iMacs also have upgraded speakers and a new full-lamination display that makes images appear as though they're sitting right on the screen.
Apple said the 21.5-inch version will ship in November, while the larger model will ship in December.
Read more about the new iMacs at Apple's website and take a look at the new iPad Mini unveiled today in the slideshow below:
