Apple Launches Cheaper iMac Computer for Education

A new version of the Late 2012 iMac is now available for purchase by education customers. The computer is a 21.5-inch configuration with slightly toned down specs for a more affordable $1,099 (€840) price tag.

The “iMac 21.5-inch: 3.3GHz Dual-core Intel Core i3 (Education only model)” was originally spotted by MacRumors, which notes that the Product Number ME699LL/A is new.

Although it is unclear when exactly Apple introduced this new computer for educational institutions, it's fair to assume this is a recent move.

Specs-wise, the new iMac boasts a 3.3GHz Dual-Core Intel Core i3 processor, a 21.5-inch (diagonal) display with 1920 x 1080 resolution, 4GB (two 2GB) of memory, a 500GB hard drive, and Intel HD Graphics 4000.

This iMac is only available for purchase by educational institutions. Customers making purchases through Apple's educational discount program will not be able to score the same deal, according to MacRumors.

Notably, the system ships with a wired keyboard (with numeric pad), instead of the standard wireless keyboard supplied by Apple with each iMac purchase. The computer ships in 5 - 7 business days, according to the company.