Type of Article: MacMinute Web Site

Metrowerks has begun shipping CodeWarrior for Palm OS 8.0, a new version of its development tools for creating Palm OS applications in either Mac or Windows environments. Among the features new to this version are project wizards that automate the creation of new applications, an enhanced C++ compiler, enhanced debugger, and a 100-page tutorial. CodeWarrior for Palm OS 8.0 sells for US$499.

Along with new PowerBooks and iBooks, Apple today also began quietly shipping dual-800MHz Power Mac G4 Server configurations, notes The Register. At US$3,799, the entry-level model commands a $300 premium over the Power Mac G4 (non-server) configuration, but features a CD-RW drive in place of the SuperDrive and a standard GeForce2 MX video card instead of the TwinView model. Otherwise, the specs between the two models are identical (256MB RAM, 80GB ATA HD).

Sony has dropped the price of its Clie PEG-S320 handheld from US$199 to $169. The new price allows the Clie S320 to better compete with Palm’s $149 m105, although with its built-in Memory Stick slot, the S320 offers expansion capabilities that rival Palm’s $249 m125.

America Online today debuted AOL 7, an upgraded version of the number one online service. AOL 7 features a new look, improves several existing features, offers a new focus on local content, and adds new features, including Radio@AOL, an online radio tuner, and AOL Box Office, which allows users to purchase tickets for virtually any event. The new version is not yet available to Mac users, however.

Apple has updated its PowerBook G4 and iBook configurations, improving performance and value across the board. The new PowerBook G4 is available in 550MHz (US$2,199) and 667MHz ($2,999) configurations, with 128MB and 256MB of RAM, and 20GB and 30GB hard drives, respectively. Apple has also upgraded the video card to a 16MB ATI Mobility Radeon and added Gigabit ethernet (an Apple-first, apparently), although both models continue to feature just a DVD-ROM drive (a CD-RW drive can be configured via built-to-order, but no combo drive is available).