Apple gives iMac chips a boost

Following rumors last week that Apple would soon be releasing a new iMac, the Mac maker on Monday started selling an updated version of the computer, featuring a faster processor and an option for a souped-up graphics chip.

The lowest-end new iMac, which retails for $1,199, features a 2.4GHz Intel Core 2 Duo Penryn processor with up to 6MB of cache memory and a 1,066MHz front-side bus. Most models offer 2GB of memory.

These features are similar to those found in the February MacBook and MacBook Pro updates.

"With the latest Intel processors, a faster new graphics option, and more memory, customers now have even more reasons to love the iMac," Philip Schiller, Apple Worldwide Product Marketing senior vice president, said in a statement.

Apple's 24-inch iMac, which sells for $1,799, features such options as a 3.06GHz Intel processor and speedy Nvidia GeForce 8800 GS graphics.

While the update offers faster processing speed, the overall design remains the same.