In the realm of computing history, certain devices stand out not just for their technical specifications, but for the impact they had on the industry and the memories they evoke for users. One such device is the first iBook G4 12-inch, introduced by Apple on October 22, 2003, as part of the iBook G4 series of Macintosh computers.
In 2003, Apple captured the attention of consumers and tech enthusiasts alike with the introduction of its new iBook lineup. Boasting PowerPC G4 processors, these sleek notebooks were designed to offer both performance and affordability. The 12-inch display model, priced at just $1,099, and the 14-inch display model, starting at $1,299, promised advanced connectivity, innovative features, and the latest operating system—Mac OS X version 10.3 “Panther.”
The iBook G4 series was not just about style; it was about substance too. These notebooks were equipped with 256 MB of DDR memory, slot-load Combo drives for CD burning and DVD watching, and ATI Mobility Radeon 9200 graphics for impressive visual performance. The introduction of AirPort Extreme and Bluetooth connectivity added a new dimension to wireless capabilities, making these iBooks versatile companions for work and play.
Philip Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing, aptly dubbed 2003 as the ‘year of the notebook.’ He highlighted Apple’s commitment to providing the best notebook lineup in the industry, a sentiment echoed by the doubling of Apple’s notebook sales compared to the industry average. The iBook G4 series, with its powerful processors and affordable price points, was positioned as the ideal choice for consumers, especially during the holiday season.
Under the hood, the iBook G4 12-inch Late 2003 boasted a re-engineered architecture centered around the PowerPC G4 processor and DDR memory. This resulted in improved speed, efficiency, and overall system performance, crucial for tasks ranging from gaming to multimedia editing. The lightweight yet durable design, encapsulated in sleek polycarbonate plastic, made it a portable powerhouse for both consumers and education customers.
The integration of AirPort Extreme and Bluetooth technology ushered in a new era of wireless connectivity, offering faster data rates and seamless compatibility with a myriad of peripherals. Paired with Mac OS X 10.3 “Panther,” users enjoyed over 150 new features, including enhanced security with FileVault, intuitive file management with the new Finder, and seamless networking capabilities.
Despite being discontinued on April 19, 2004, the Original iBook G4 12-inch left an indelible mark on Apple’s history and the hearts of its users. Its affordability, combined with robust features and stylish design, made it a beloved choice for students and professionals alike. While subsequent models may have improved upon its features, the iBook G4 12-inch Late 2003 remains a nostalgic symbol of Apple’s innovation and dedication to enhancing the digital lifestyle.
Today, 20 years later, as we reflect on the first iBook G4, we’re reminded of more than just its technical specifications. It represents a bygone era of computing—a time when sleek design met powerful performance, and innovation was within reach. While the iBook G4 12-inch may have been replaced by newer models, its legacy lives on in the hearts of those who experienced its magic firsthand.
Original iBook G4 12-inch Details
| Introduced | October 22, 2003 |
| Discontinued | April 19, 2004 |
| Model Identifier | PowerBook6,3 |
| Model Number | A1054 |
| EMC | N/A |
| Order Number | M9164LL/A |
| Original Price | $1,099 |
| Colors | Opaque 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 G4 Late 2003 Tech Specs
Processor
| Processor | PowerPC 7455 G4 |
| Processor Speed | 800 MHz |
| Architecture | 32-bit |
| Number of Cores | 1 |
| System Bus | 133 MHz |
| Cache | 64 KB L1 256 KB on-chip L2 |
Storage & Media
| Storage | 30 GB |
| Media | 1 – 8x DVD-ROM/CD-RW “Combo” slot-loading drive |
Memory
| Built-in Memory | 256 MB |
| Maximum Memory | 1.12 GB |
| Memory Slots | 1 – PC-2100 3.3V 200-pin SO-DIMM* |
| 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 Mobility Radeon 9200 |
| Graphics Memory | 32 MB |
| Display Connection | 1 – Mini-VGA (Composite and S-Video with adapter) |
| Display Modes | Video mirroring only |
| External Resolution | None |
Expansion
| Expansion Slots | None |
| Hard Drive Interface | Ultra ATA/100 (ATA-6) |
| Bays | None |
Connections
| Wi-Fi | AirPort Extreme Card 802.11b/g (Optional) |
| Ethernet | 10/100BASE-T (RJ-45) |
| Modem | 56k |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 1.1 (Optional) |
| Infrared | None |
| FireWire | 1 – 400 Mbps |
| SCSI | None |
| USB | 2 – 480 Mbps |
| Audio In | 1 – Built-in microphone |
| Audio Out | 1 – 3.5-mm analog output jack 2 – Built-in speakers |
| Display | 1 – Mini-VGA (Composite and S-Video with adapter) |
| 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 X 10.3 |
| Maximum OS | Mac OS X 10.4.11 |
| Firmware | Macintosh ROM |
| Bundled Software | Mac OS X 10.3 QuickTime iCal iChat iLife (includes iTunes, iPhoto, and iMovie) iSync DVD Player AppleWorks Mac OS X Mail Microsoft Internet Explorer EarthLink AOL Quicken 2003 Deluxe World Book 2003 Edition Mac OS X Chess Otto Matic Deimos Rising Microsoft Office Sound Studio FAXstf Acrobat Reader Apple Hardware Test CD |
Power
| System Battery | 50 Wh Lithium-Ion |
| Backup Battery | None |
| Battery Life | Up to 6 hours |
| Maximum Continuous Power | 45 W |
| Line Voltage | 100-240 V AC |
| Power Adapter | 45 W Apple Power Adapter |
Further Reading and References
- iBook G4: Technical Specifications – Apple Support
- Apple Unveils New Generation G4 iBooks Starting at Just $1,099 – Apple Newsroom
- iBook – Wikipedia
- 12″ 800 MHz iBook G4 (Late 2003) – Low End Mac
- iBook G4 – Apple History
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: February 23, 2024
