Apple Strengthens Portable and Mid-Range Macintosh Lines

Cupertino, California--October 19, 1992--Apple Computer, Inc. today introduced a broad range of new Apple Macintosh products that extends the company's leadership in portable computing and enriches its mid-range computer offerings.  The announcements include two new models of the company's award-winning PowerBook notebook computers; a new personal computing system that combines the convenience of notebook computing with the power of desktop computing; two new fast, flexible desktop systems; and a new color display that complements the advanced graphics capabilities of the Macintosh computer family.

Apple also announced shipment of Version 7.1 of its acclaimed System 7 operating system, and Version 1.5 of the QuickTime multimedia architecture.  With System 7.1, Apple is providing System 7 for the first time to customers in Japan, China and other Asian markets.

"The unique integrated design of the original PowerBook computers made it easier than ever for people to perform meaningful work with a computer whenever and wherever they chose," said Fred Forsyth, senior vice president and general manager of the Macintosh Systems Division.  "These products expand on that design by adding new features to this best-selling line and introducing an all-new system that offers customers the best of the notebook world and the best of the desktop world in one system."

"Today's PowerBook announcements underscore the innovative approach Apple takes to computer design, rather than the more common approach of simply offering shrunken down desktop computers," Forsyth added.  "We continue to listen to what customers want. And we continue to extend the usefulness of personal computer technology."

"We've also added capabilities to our mid-range Macintosh computers, giving more expansion, storage, and color capabilities to a broad range of customers--from small businesses and students to publishers and large organizations," Forsyth said.

Today's announcement included the following:

• PowerBook 160 and 180.  These new additions to Apple's fast-selling PowerBook line of notebook computers feature greater performance, more flexible video capabilities, and higher-quality displays.  Both systems use Motorola's 68030 processor, running at 25 and 33 MHz, respectively.  With a built-in video-out feature, they support a wide range of external displays, including VGA and SVGA displays as well as provide superior grayscale displays.
• Macintosh Duo System.  This innovative personal computer system combines the versatility of a desktop computer with the convenience of a notebook computer.  The system includes the PowerBook Duo notebook computer the Macintosh Duo Dock docking station, and PowerLatch docking technology, which delivers a smooth transition between the worlds of desktop and notebook computing.
• Macintosh IIvx and IIvi.  These two mid-range Macintosh II computers make it easy for users to work with sophisticated graphics, large files, and vivid colors.  Both systems incorporate Motorola's 68030 processor, running at 16 and 32 MHz, respectively.  Both support up to 32,000 colors and feature three NuBus slots.  A distinctive expansion bay that accepts mass storage devices such as a CD-ROM drive, a removable cartridge drive, or a high-capacity disk drive, is also a feature of both systems.
• Macintosh 14-inch Color Display.  This high resolution color display complements the sophisticated color and graphics capabilities of the Macintosh computer family.  It features high definition and sharp focus, and virtually none of the distortion common in displays of its class.  The display also includes advanced ergonomic features: its tilt and swivel stand lets users adjust the display to the most comfortable angle.
• System 7.1.  The new version of the Macintosh operating system incorporates Apple's WorldScript technology, which provides inherent support for most written languages.  WorldScript enables Apple to easily localize the Macintosh for a specific market, resulting in nearly simultaneous delivery of computer products throughout most parts of the world.  It also provides built-in potential for multi- language computing on the Macintosh computer, which can be realized with the addition of software modules that Apple plans to offer in the future.
• QuickTime 1.5. A system-software extension, QuickTime 1.5 is included with System 7.1 upgrade products.  This latest version of QuickTime enhances the user's ability to integrate dynamic data types--such as video, sound, and animation--into presentations, training materials, and documents.

With QuickTime 1.5, the video-playback area on the screen is four times larger.  In addition, it supports  Kodak's new Photo CD technology, and full screen/full motion video with available add-on hardware.

Combined with the remainder of its line, Apple believes these new hardware and software products will give customers the most versatile and feature-rich line-up of offerings available.

Pricing and Availability

The Macintosh IIvx, the PowerBook 160 and 180 and the Macintosh Duo System will be available through authorized Apple resellers worldwide.  The Macintosh IIvi will be available through authorized Apple resellers in selected countries outside the U.S.

In the U.S., the Macintosh IIvx will be offered in three configurations at a manufacturer's suggested retail price ranging from $2,949 to $3,219.  The Macintosh 14-inch Color Display has a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $589.  Five configurations of the new PowerBook 160 and 180 will carry an MSRP of between $2,429 and $4,469.  Three new PowerBook Duo models will also be available at MSRPs ranging from $2,249 to $2,969.  The Macintosh Duo Dock will carry an MSRP of $1,079. Pricing and availability may vary outside the U.S.

System 7.1 is shipping with all new Macintosh computers introduced today and will be available from Apple directly as part of a System 7.1 Update Kit.  The kit will carry an SRP of $34.95 and is available by calling (800-769-2775).  QuickTime 1.5 is available immediately as part of the System 7.1 Update kit and is being distributed via a wide variety of bulletin boards and user groups.

Apple has developed a video news release about the boom in notebook computer sales. It will be uplinked Monday, October 19, 1992 at 1:30 EST. Coordinates are Telstar 301, 10 vertical/audio 6.2, 6.8.

Apple, the Apple logo and Macintosh are registered trademarks; PowerBook, Macintosh Duo, PowerBook Duo, QuickTime and System 7 are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc.

Contact:
Kate Paisley
Apple Computer, Inc.
(408) 974-5453

Pat Kinley
Apple Computer, Inc.
(408) 974-2589