Apple releases trio of new products

The Magic Mouse supports multi-touch finger gestures

Apple has announced updated versions of its iMac and MacBook systems, along with a new multi-touch mouse.

The new iMacs will sport 21.5in or 27in displays, and will range in price from £949 to £1,599. The machines feature a new backlit LED display and case design, along with Intel Core i5 and i7 quad-core processors.

The 'Magic Mouse', meanwhile, is the first to support multi-touch finger gestures rather than clicking on buttons or scroll wheels.

Phil Schiller, senior vice president of worldwide product marketing at Apple, explained that the Magic Mouse traces its roots back to the company's work with portable handsets and media players.

"Apple is the multi-touch leader, pioneering the use of this innovative technology in iPhone, iPod touch and Mac notebook trackpads," he said. "Apple's multi-touch technology allows us to offer an easy-to-use mouse in a simple and elegant design."

Apple has also updated its line of MacBooks. The new models will also sport an LED backlit display, and feature an extended battery life which Apple claims will last up to seven hours. The company is offering a flat £99 fee to replace depleted batteries on the new models.

The new product releases follow a hugely successful financial quarter for Apple. The company defied industry and economic trends by posting record figures for both revenue and profit.