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Apple is prepping a SuperDrive iBook model, AppleInsider reports. The SuperDrive will only be available with the 14" model, and will run a 1.2GHz G4, the article says. Previously, customers could order a SuperDrive iBook at the AppleStore, but it was a custom, built-to-order option only. The high-end iBook SuperDrive will make the DVD burner standard equipment, and it will be available at retail and third-party Apple Authorized resellers. AppleInsider also notes that initial units may be custom AppleStore iBooks with SuperDrives. However, it does not appear that, at present, Apple will make a SuperDrive option available for the 12.1" iBook model. AppleInsider says $1,699 is the likely retail price. Analysis; With the G4 iBook released some time ago, the inclusion of a SuperDrive was almost an inevitability, particularly given rapidly-falling prices of notebook DVD burners. But what of the 12.1" PowerBook, aka 'Mini-Me'? Is there really a justification for it, except for the small form factor, given it adds virtually nothing but a new skin to an iBook (although it may be cheaper to max out a 12.1" PowerBook's RAM). Unless, of course, Apple's PB G5 isn't too far away - but given comments from Apple execs and the recent refresh of the PowerBook line, the staggering of model refreshes looks slightly haphazard this year.
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