Apple’s new MAC desktop

Apple Inc refreshed its line of Mac desktop computers, adding stronger capabilities and nudging some prices lower as consumer spending feels the pinch of the recession. Apple introduced on Tuesday new models of its iMac, Mac mini and Mac Pro desktops, following a refresh of its MacBook notebook PC last year.

The new line includes a flagship 24-inch iMac with twice the memory size and twice the storage of the previous generation 20-inch iMac, but is priced at the same $1,499. It also includes a 20-inch PC and two new 24-inch iMacs priced between at $1,199 to $2,199. Oppenheimer analyst Yair Reiner said the new desktop PCs did not break new ground on form or aesthetics , but the new iMacs offered much more bang for the buck.

“Nothing earth-shattering here but in a time when price and value are of increasing significance the refresh definitely puts Apple at the head of that comparison,” he said. Calyon Securities analyst Shebly Seyrafi said the new desktops should be able to contribute meaningfully to Apple’s March quarter, but he wondered whether their price points are still too high. “They increased the performance but didn’t lower the price. I question whether that is the right business move in today’s environment where I think customers want lower prices,” .