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The iBook range has been slimmed down, with two models where three used to be. The 12in iBook gets a speed bump from 1.2GHz to 1.33GHz plus an extra 256MB of RAM to bring the total to a more Tiger-friendly 512MB. There is also a larger hard drive at 40GB and a Combo drive for playing DVDs and burning CDs.

The 14in model is accelerated to 1.42GHz (from 1.33Ghz) and also gets the extra RAM to take it to 512MB. The hard drive remains at 60GB and sits alongside a DVD and CD burning SuperDrive. The Combo version of the 14in has been dropped, though it is still available as a build-to-order option (saving £70).

In addition to AirPort Extreme wireless networking, the iBooks also get the latest version of Bluetooth (2.0+EDR) built in. They also acquire two popular technologies from Apple's PowerBook range: the scrolling trackpad and the Sudden Motion Sensor, which protects

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the hard drive if the machine is dropped.

Contrary to some predictions, the new portables are not widescreen but a standard 1024x768 format; however graphic performance has been improved with the inclusion of a ATI Mobility Radeon 9550 card with 32MB of memory.

The upgrades coincide with the beginning of the buying season for the next educational year, a fact not lost on Apple.

'The new iBook is the perfect portable for the go anywhere, do anything digital lifestyle of consumers and students,' said David Moody, Apple's vice president of Mac Product Marketing.

The 12in model costs £699 (inc. VAT) and the 14in is £899.

In addition to doubling the amount of RAM to 512MB, the Mac mini revamp adds built-in wireless networking and Bluetooth. As a result prices have gone up slightly, with the 1.25GHz model now costing £359 and two 1.42GHz configurations, one with Combo drive and one with SuperDrive at £429 and £499 respectively.

'Mac mini has been a popular choice for consumers getting started with Mac OS X and iLife 05,' said David Moody, Apple's vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing. 'With double the memory and new features like built-in wireless networking and DVD burning, the new Mac mini delivers an even greater value in an innovative compact design.'

The compact computer, sold without a keyboard, mouse or monitor, has been credited with playing a major part in the recent upturn in Apple's hardware sales.