Apple laptops to get upgraded in 2006?

Apple will introduce in the first half of 2006 new industrial designs for both of its laptop offerings.

Apple currently offers iBooks with either a standard 12- or 14-inch screen, but looks to introduce a completely new model built around (what appears to be) a 13-inch widescreen.

Expected to make its debut even earlier than the new iBooks is Apple's first Intel-based PowerBook. The new 15-inch portable system will carry over many of the design elements and styles, but will be about 20- to 25-percent thinner than the current models.

Following a trend that began with Apple's new iMac desktops launched last month, both the new 15 and 17 inch laptops are scheduled to include a built-in iSight video camera. Similarly to the iMac, the cams will be centered in the PowerBook's upper display bezel.