The new Mac mini is available in two models that feature a 2 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, up to 4GB of DDR3 1066 MHz memory, up to 320GB Serial ATA hard drive, five USB 2.0 ports, FireWire 800 and a SuperDrive. The new Mac mini features NVIDIA GeForce 9400M integrated graphics for up to five times better graphics performance than before and now with dual display support can drive two Apple or third-party displays with Mini DisplayPort or DVI connections.

The new 2.0 GHz Mac mini has a suggested retail price of $599 (US) and includes:

• 2.0 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor with 3MB shared L2 cache;
• 1GB of 1066 MHz DDR3 SDRAM expandable up to 4GB;
• NVIDIA GeForce 9400M integrated graphics;
• 120GB Serial ATA hard drive running at 5400 rpm;
• a slot-load 8x SuperDrive with double-layer support (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW);
• Mini DisplayPort and mini-DVI for video output (adapters sold separately);
• built-in AirPort Extreme wireless networking & Bluetooth 2.1+EDR;
• Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000 BASE-T);
• five USB 2.0 ports;
• one FireWire 800 port; and
• one audio line in and one audio line out port, each supporting both optical digital and analog.

The $799 model, includes 2GB of 1066 MHz DDR3 SDRAM expandable up to 4GB and a 320GB Serial ATA hard drive running at 5400 rpm.

Build-to-order options include a 2.26GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, up to 4GB RAM, 120GB, 250GB or 320GB hard disk drives.

Here are the two updated configurations…

1.83GHz: Combo Drive Model

• 1.83GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
• 1GB memory
• 80GB hard drive
• $599.

2.0GHz: SuperDrive Model

• 2.0GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
• 1GB memory
• 120GB hard drive
• $799.

Both models are available now.

The Mac mini comes bundled with the amazing new iLife ’08, Front Row and includes the Apple Remote (a nice little companion for controlling a Mac’d Ride). Another sweet accessory, just announced by Apple is the new ultra-slim, anodized aluminum wireless bluetooth keyboard. The keyboard features special function keys for one-touch access to Mac features like play/pause, volume, etc. The keyboard looks sleek and compact for stashing away under a car seat when not in use. The new wireless keyboard retails for $79.

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Thanks,
Dana Rockel
Publisher, MacVroom.com

1.66 GHz Intel Core Duo Mac mini
1.5 GHz Intel Core Solo Mac mini

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The systems come bundled with Mac OS X v10.4 Tiger, iLife ’06, iWork ’06 (30-day trial), Front Row, Big Bang Board Games, Comic Life and OmniOutliner. The base price of the new Mac mini has been increased $100, bringing the price up to $599 for the Solo and $799 for the Duo.

Thankfully the design and footprint of the Mac mini have not changed and will continue to be an idea in-car media solution – we can’t wait to get our hands in one of these powerhouses. It’s great to have FrontRow and the Apple Remote officially supported and included with the Mac mini. The additional two USB ports will help to simplify our installs by taking a USB hub out of the equation. Overall an excellent upgrade for the already capable Mac mini. Both new models are available today.

We also had the opportunity to chat with Matt about his new company 2point5 which is manufacturing the spec.dock, a collection of custom iPod docks that are easily installed (typically in the ashtray location) and provide a stealthy and factory-installed appearance. You can read more about the spec.dock and all the other various iPod solutions on our sister site TuneVroom.com.

You can view higher resolutions images from the Macworld Auto Show here.

Uneasysilence
Spy Mac
Mac Daily News
MacNN
MacRumors

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