17-Inch iMac Resurfaces - $899

SetteB.it reports that Apple's latest Educational update contains references to a certain 17-inch iMac, which Apple discontinued in 2006 but apparently keeps selling for educational purposes. Apple previously introduced updated / changed models of its Macs without warning, so it begs the question: is this the old (plastic, white) 17-inch iMac or a new model ready to be used by students?

Apple introduced the new $899 configuration of the 17-inch iMac as “designed specifically for education customers.” The 17-inch iMac and its complete line of products and solutions for education were showcased at the National Educational Computing Conference in San Diego, California from July 5-7, 2006. The system featured a 1.83 GHz Intel Core Duo processor, a built-in iSight video camera and iLife ‘06, the latest version of Apple’s suite of digital lifestyle applications at the time. The 17-inch iMac for education became immediately available as it replaced the eMac, Apple’s last CRT-based computer. The 17-inch iMac would be providing students and teachers with “everything they need to learn and create in today's digital classroom, all in the ultra-efficient iMac design,” Apple said.

“The iMac is ideal for the space saving needs of both the classroom and the dorm room with the entire computer built right into a two-inch thin display,” the company added in an official report three years ago. “The iMac design has continuously improved generation after generation, resulting in increased material efficiency, decreased packaging mass and volume, and decreased energy consumption - all of which lead to a smaller environmental footprint.”

Back in 2006, education customers could acquire the new Mac through the Apple Store for Education (www.apple.com/education/store) or by calling an Apple education sales representative at 800-800-APPL. While announcing the immediate availability of this new iMac model, Apple revealed that the eMac would no longer be in production and that it would only be available for as long as the system was in stock.