Brand: MacNews

Apple will not be debuting a flat-panel iMac at next week’s Macworld Expo, according to MacUser UK — echoing our report from Wednesday. Instead, the company will roll out speed-bumped iMacs in their current form factor at speeds of 650 to 750 MHz, as well as two new colors to replace Blue Dalmatian and Flower Power. Additionally, Apple will offer sizable rebates on printers and digital cameras to entice customers.

Dr. Bott today introduced three new carrying cases designed specifically for Apple’s new iBook. The IceBook Sleeve provides basic protection and sells for US$34.95, while the Deluxe version adds a strap and storage for accessories for $49.95. The IceBook Tote is a more conventional case and sells for $64.95. All the cases can also be purchased together for $144.95, if desired.

ZDNetNews is the latest media outlet to publish a glowing review of Apple’s new iBook, calling the 4.9 lbs. laptop “better than the TiBook.” The review, as noted by MacSurfer, also states that the iBook is “the first Apple system in a long time that hasn’t immediately evoked the need to wait for Rev B.”

Metrowerks CodeWarrior Pro 6.3, as noted by VersionTracker, is a maintenance update to the development environment. The update consists of a new PPC Plugin Compiler, and requires CodeWarrior 6.2.

Kevin Steele has put together detailed technical support pages for Mac users who wish to use an Internet connection provided by STSN — a high-speed connection found in many hotels, including the Marriott and Ritz Carlton. Using an STSN connection with a Mac is generally painless, but the support pages should address any issues that could crop up.