Apple to launch Intel-based iMac and PowerBook by January?

New systems from Apple with x86 Intel-based processors may arrive as early as January. This is a lot earlier than expected as Apple originally said these systems would only be introduced somewhere by mid-2006.

But reliable sources now claim the iMac and PowerBook will be the first two models to receive Intel processors in January. It's believed these systems are Apple's most popular computers and that the company wants to avoid any potential sales slow down in the first half of 2006.

While it's too early to be certain if the Intel-based 15-inch PowerBook will be completed for its targeted introduction during the second week of January, a company roadmap described to AppleInsider lists both a 17- and 20-inch Intel-based iMac as being "on track" to debut at the annual Macworld Expo conference planned for the same week.

According to sources familiar with Apple's plans, the first Intel iMac won't usher in a slew of new bells and whistles, and instead will be based largely on the design and feature set of the current iMac. In fact, recent rumblings reveal that Apple will reuse the 'media center' iMac enclosure introduced at last month's special event in San Jose, Calif.

More info over at Apple Insider.