Apple shifts to dual-chip Power Macs

Apple has discontinued its single-processor Power Mac G5 system in favour of an all dual-chip lineup, the company confirmed on Monday.

Late last week, Apple customers noticed that the 1.8GHz, single-processor machine had disappeared from Apple's online store. On Monday, Apple said it was in the process of selling off the last of the machines.

In a statement provided to CNET News.com, the company said: "The 1.8 GHz Power Mac G5 is no longer available at the online Apple Store but is available in other channels while supplies last. The Power Mac G5 line is now all dual processor and delivers the ultimate in performance for our most advanced customers."

The company noted that for those looking for a single-chip machine, "the new iMac G5 is a very popular solution".

Apple announced earlier this month that it plans to shift away from PowerPC chips in favour of Intel processors. However, the transition to Intel chips is not expected to start until sometime in the first half of next year.

The company last upgraded the Power Mac G5 line in April, adding dual-processor machines ranging from 2GHz to 2.7GHz in clock speed. At the time Apple said it would continue selling the single processor, 1.8GHz machine.

Ina Fried writes for CNET News.com