Apple readying lightweight MacBook?

Apple is getting ready to introduce a slimmer, lighter MacBook, according to an Apple blog citing unnamed sources.

Apple's 13-inch notebook in currently undergoing an industrial redesign that will also feature new internal architecture, according to a report on AppleInsider. The redesign, which would be the entry-level machine's first overhaul in three years, is expected to be unveiled in the coming months, the site reported.

At its annual Worldwide Developer's Conference in June, Apple introduced new versions of its 13 and 15-inch notebooks that use the same battery technology found in the 17-inch models. The rebranding of the 13-inch unibody MacBook to the MacBook Pro line left the polycarbonate white plastic casing as the only true MacBook.

That move left many speculating on the lone remaining model's chances of survival. But the MacBook remains very popular with consumers. AppleInsider notes that Apple's online store says the white MacBook is the second best-selling model behind the iMac.

Indeed, Mac sales have been very impressive lately. Data provided by market research firm IDC showed the entire PC industry down more than three per cent for April, May and June, but Apple sold four per cent more computers that quarter than it did during the same quarter in 2008. The company's laptops were responsible for that surge: MacBook and MacBook Pro shipments were up 13 per cent.

However, Apple typically unveils new or redesigned products at media events, but apart from a music event on 9 September, Apple has no such events on the calendar for the rest of the year.

Original article: Apple readying MacBook makeover? from CNET News.com