"Apple computer will adopt Intel processor next year. According to the understanding, the ODM order of new Apple notebook has been obtained by Quanta and Asustek," reports EMSNow.

The contracting of an Original Design Manufacturer (a company that designs and manufactures a product that is then sold under other brand names) would help increase the production of the new models in the first quarter of the next year but, so far, there has been no official comment from either of the two companies.

"Apple computer stated it would exhibit its desktop and notebook with Intel processor at Mac World Expo in San Francisco, USA from 9th to 13th January next year," EMSNow adds.

Exactly when, where and to whom Apple made such a statement remains unclear. If Apple has made such a statement it was definitely not a public one.

"Quanta and Asustek are the main ODM notebook partners of Apple. Quanta is responsible to high level model, Power Book and Asustek is in charge of entry level model, i-Book. This working module for Intel ODM will maintain for next year. Asustek will work on the consumer type of products and Quanta will be in charge of high-level model M1."

If nothing else, it is clear that Apple is right on schedule, and that the new Mini and laptops will be out before June 2006. This does not mean that the new models will be available for purchase as you leave MacWorld, and it may be some time before they actually hit the shelves.