AppleStore Watch: iMac 17" Surprises with Strong Performance


In recent weeks, we've not been surprised to see either the DP PowerMac G5 or Mini-Me, the PowerBook 12.1, topping the AppleStore sales charts for Mac hardware. But the iMac 17" coming in at # 5 is a bit unusual.

A few words of explanation: for the last couple of quarters, the iMac has been selling solidly, but unspectacularly - certainly not like its illustrious predecessor (which has turned 5 years old this week). Second, the iMac 17" isn't exactly a cheap piece of kit.

But more consumers must be recognizing the iMac's value proposition. Although 17" LCDs are getting cheaper, the built-in DVD-R SuperDrive and innovative design must be getting them in. As a package, it's good value, although $1,799 ain't exactly chump change, although it gets you a passably-quick 1GHz G4.

As expected, the iPod heads the AppleStore top-sellers list, while Belkin's iPod auto charger is a brisk-selling item as well.

Apple's unbundled-from-FinalCutPro SoundTrack debuts at # 17, while MS's cut-price Office v.X retains the steady-sales tag, although it'll be interesting to see if the recent Ed, Pro and Standard editions of Office get a sales kick from the discounting spree. Entourage's recent support for Exchange Servers might help a little too.