In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, certain milestones stand out as revolutionary, and one such groundbreaking moment occurred on May 1st, 2001, when Apple introduced the iBook Mid 2001 also known as “Dual USB”, “Snow”, or “Translucent White”.
In 2001, Apple unveiled an all-new iBook that not only redefined the consumer and education notebook market but also set a new standard for compact design and functionality. Priced at $1,299, the iBook with Dual USB boasted impressive features that catered to the active digital lifestyle of the time.
Gone were the bold colors and bulky form factor of its predecessor. Apple embraced a minimalist approach, offering the iBook in a pristine white casing crafted from transparent polycarbonate. This sleek design not only earned it the moniker “Snow” but also marked a departure from the handle, latch-less design, and additional power connectors on the bottom surface.
The Snow iBook G3 was not just a visual upgrade; it was a marvel of engineering. A 30% reduction in weight and a smaller footprint in all dimensions made it incredibly portable. Despite these changes, Apple assured users of its durability, claiming it to be “Twice as durable” as the previous model.
At the heart of the iBook with Dual USB was its 12.1-inch display, a pioneer in its class with a remarkable 1024-by-768 resolution. This high-resolution TFT display packed as many pixels as a typical 14-inch notebook display, offering users a visual treat in a compact form.
The new iBook G3 wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was a powerhouse of features tailored to meet the demands of both students and consumers.
Every iBook G3 Translucent White was equipped with a 500 MHz PowerPC G3 processor, delivering fast and efficient performance. The 256K backside level 2 cache ensured smooth operations, making it a reliable choice for various computing needs.
In a significant leap forward, the iBook offered twice the onboard memory, memory expansion, and storage compared to its predecessors. With options for 64- or 128 MB onboard memory and RAM expansion up to 640 MB, users had the flexibility to choose a configuration that suited their requirements.
One of the standout features was the choice of a CD, DVD, or CD-RW drive. For those seeking versatility, the “Combo” DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive allowed users to both burn CDs and enjoy movies on DVDs, catering to diverse multimedia needs.
The iBook with Dual USB didn’t compromise on connectivity. With one FireWire and two USB ports, users had ample options for peripherals. The inclusion of AGP 2X Rage Mobility 128 with 8 MB SDRAM, built-in 10/100 Ethernet, and 56K modem ensured seamless connectivity in various environments.
In a forward-looking move, the iBook was AirPort ready, featuring integrated antennas for cable-free internet access. Paired with Apple’s unique suite of free internet services, iTools, and support for AirPort, the iBook offered a comprehensive internet experience.
Equipped with iTunes and iMovie 2, the iBook catered to multimedia enthusiasts. The 12.1-inch TFT display complemented the digital video editing capabilities, making it an ideal choice for creative endeavors.
Steve Jobs, Apple’s CEO, aptly captured the essence of the iBook with Dual USB, stating, “The new iBook builds on the incredible success of the original iBook and is designed to fit today’s digital lifestyle.” Even after 23 years, the iBook Mid 2001 is fondly remembered as a remarkable piece of technology that left an indelible mark on the world of laptops.
Despite its popularity, the iBook G3 Mid 2001 had a relatively short lifespan, discontinued on October 16th, 2001. It made way for the iBook Late 2001, marking the end of an era. However, its legacy lives on in the memories of users who experienced the magic of this pioneering laptop.
As we reflect on the iBook G3 Snow, it becomes evident that its impact transcends its time. With a focus on portability, innovation, and a design that stood the test of time, this laptop remains a symbol of Apple’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology. The iBook Translucent White will always hold a special place in the hearts of those who witnessed its unveiling, leaving an enduring legacy in the ever-evolving world of computing.
iBook Mid 2001 Details
| Introduced | May 1, 2001 |
| Discontinued | October 16, 2001 |
| Model Identifier | PowerBook4,1 |
| Model Number | M6497 |
| EMC | 1875 |
| Order Number | M7698LL/A M7692LL/A M7699LL/A M8520LL/A |
| Original Price | $1,299 $1,499 $1,599 $1,799 |
| Colors | Translucent White |
| Weight | 4.9 Ibs. 2.222 KG |
| Dimensions | 11.2” H x 9.1” W x 1.35” D 28.44 cm H x 23.11 cm W x 3.42 cm D |
iBook G3 Snow Tech Specs
Processor
| Processor | PowerPC 750cxe G3 |
| Processor Speed | 500 MHz |
| Architecture | 32-bit |
| Number of Cores | 1 |
| System Bus | 66 MHz |
| Cache | 64 KB L1 256 KB on-chip L2 |
Storage & Media
| Storage | 10 GB |
| Media | 1 – 24x CD-ROM or 24x CD-RW or 8x DVD-ROM or DVD-ROM/CD-RW “Combo” tray-loading drive |
Memory
| Built-in Memory | 64 MB 128 MB |
| Maximum Memory | 576 or 640 MB |
| Memory Slots | 1 – PC-100 3.3V 144-pin SO-DIMM |
| Minimum Speed | 10 ns |
| Interleaving Support | No |
Display
| Built-in Display | 12.1″ Color TFT XGA Display |
| Resolutions | 640 x 480 800 x 600 1024 x 768 (native) |
Graphics
| Graphics Card | ATI Rage Mobility 128 |
| Graphics Memory | 8 MB |
| Display Connection | 1 – VGA or Composite via A/V port |
| Display Modes | Video mirroring only |
| External Resolution | None |
Expansion
| Expansion Slots | None |
| Hard Drive Interface | Ultra ATA |
| Bays | None |
Connections
| Wi-Fi | AirPort Card 802.11b (Optional) |
| Ethernet | 10/100BASE-T (RJ-45) |
| Modem | 56k |
| Bluetooth | None |
| Infrared | None |
| FireWire | 1 – 400 Mbps (7W) |
| SCSI | None |
| USB | 2 – 12 Mbps |
| Audio In | 1 – Built-in microphone |
| Audio Out | 1 – Output through the A/V port 2 – Built-in speakers |
| Display | 1 – VGA or Composite via A/V port |
| Security Slot | 1 – Kensington cable lock |
Keyboard and trackpad
| Keyboard | Built-in Full-size 77-key (U.S.) or 78-key (ISO) incl. 12 function and 4 arrow keys |
| Trackpad | Built-in Solid-state trackpad (Tap, double-tap, and drag) |
Software
| Original OS | Mac OS 9.1 |
| Later OS | Mac OS X 10.0.3 |
| Maximum OS | Mac OS X 10.4.11 |
| Firmware | Macintosh ROM |
| Bundled Software | Mac OS 9.1 or Mac OS X 10.0 Cheetah QuickTime iMovie 2 iTunes AppleWorks Microsoft Internet Explorer Microsoft Outlook Express Netscape Communicator Palm Desktop FAXstf Cro-Mag Rally Bugdom Nanosaur Acrobat Reader software Apple Hardware Test CD |
Power
| System Battery | 42 Wh Lithium-Ion (M8433G/A) |
| Backup Battery | None |
| Battery Life | Up to 5 hours |
| Maximum Continuous Power | Unknown |
| Line Voltage | 100-240 V AC |
| Power Adapter | Apple Power Adapter (M8457LL/A) |
Further Reading and References
- iBook (Dual USB): Technical Specifications – Apple Support
- Apple Unveils All New iBook – Apple Newsroom
- iBook – Wikipedia
- 12″ iBook G3 (Mid 2001) – Low End Mac
- 2001 Revisited: The iBook Settles Down – 512 Pixels
- 12-inch Powerbook & iBook – Sound on Sound
- Apple launches thinner, lighter iBook – CNN
- Apple unveils all new iBook – The Guardian
Disclaimer: The data presented in this article is under continuous development and has been manually collected from various sources based on their availability. The author of this article may revise this dataset as additional research is conducted and reviewed. Please note that the information is provided “as is” and “as available” without express or implied warranties. The author cannot be held responsible for any omissions, inaccuracies, or errors in the published information. Any warranties relating to this information are hereby disclaimed.
Last updated: January 27, 2024
