New IBM Aptiva Home PCs Deliver Lifelike Multimedia and True Expandability
New Aptivas with Windows 98 Feature Hot Technology at a Great Price
RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. (June 23, 1998) – IBM(R) today announced two new home PCs that deliver the innovation of Windows 98, lifelike multimedia and excellent expandability for a superior home computing experience. The new Aptiva(R) E85 and E96 models are equipped with the hottest technology at affordable prices.
The new Aptiva E85 incorporates the latest AMD K6-2 processor with 3DNow! technology. This new chip from AMD delivers a new level of multimedia capabilities to Aptiva, such as razor-sharp graphics and crystal clear audio, for applications designed to take advantage of the 3DNow! technology. IBM is also proud to introduce the Aptiva E96, the latest system with Intel’s powerful 333 MHz(1) Pentium II processor, packed with the latest technology and prepared for the future. Both systems provide users with a realistic 3D experience and offer consumers the ultimate combination of performance, expandability and affordability.
”Our new Aptivas are ready to run with Windows 98, giving consumers peace of mind,” said Brian Connors, vice president, IBM Aptiva brand. ”This announcement reaffirms IBM’s commitment to aggressively deliver new technology, combined with award-winning service, reliability and room to expand. This is the enduring value that customers have come to expect from Aptiva.”
Expandability with Multimedia Intensity
These Aptivas offer convenient expansion through an easy-to-open, full-size tower design loaded with several open slots and drive bays, as well as plug-and-play-ready USB ports.
Amazing multimedia features such as arcade-level 3D graphics with ATIO Rage Pro graphic accelerators, ActiveMovie software MPEG and SRS 3D Surround Sound create an intense computing experience for the Aptiva user. Aptiva desktop speakers are included with every system unit and are designed to accommodate a subwoofer for the ultimate sound experience.
Get to the Net — Fast
The new IBM Aptivas are equipped with numerous ways to access and enhance a user’s Internet experience. These features include: K56 Flex(2) modems for high-speed Internet access, a choice of web browsers, and trial Internet Service Provider subscriptions of 100 free hours to AOL and 50 free hours to IBM Internet Connection(3).
IBM recently announced a multi-year agreement defining a long term strategic relationship with AOL. AOL will be featured on all IBM Aptiva systems. IBM, together with AOL, is bringing easy access to the Internet through the most widely recognized Internet Service Provider.
IBM Aptiva PCs uniquely provide automated identification and downloading of the latest system updates, select software files, drivers, utilities and solutions over the Internet through Update Connector(4). With ”Aptiva on the Net,” IBM Aptiva owners can also surf the IBM website for information, news, tips, help and support, at no charge during the warranty period (no ISP account needed)(5).
Price and Availability
The Aptiva E85 is priced at $1,099(a) with an AMD K6-2/300 MHz(1) processor, 64MB of RAM (expandable to 256MB)(6) and a 6.0 GB(7) hard drive. At $1,799(a), the Aptiva E96 is equipped with a 333 MHz Intel Pentium II processor, 96MB of RAM (expandable to 384MB) and an 8.0 GB hard drive. Both systems are preloaded with Windows 98, top-rated Norton AntiVirus(8), a 32X-14X CD-ROM drive(9) and Lotus SmartSuite(10) software, which includes Lotus 1-2-3, WordPro, Freelance Graphics, among others. The E85 and E96 are available at select retailers across the country, as well as through IBM Consumer Direct (1-800-426-7235, ext. 4340).
To further enhance the home PC computing experience, IBM recently introduced a new IBM flat panel monitor that requires approximately 60% less desk space than traditional monitors. This 14.1 inch (viewable size) monitor, which is optimized for viewing at 1024×768 resolution, delivers crisp, flicker-free images that are viewable from wide angles. In fulfilling its commitment to provide consumers with access to the latest technology innovations at affordable prices, IBM is offering a $100 rebate on select monitors (model numbers 2124-001, 2127-001 and 2127-005) from June 1 through July 14, 1998.
IBM Extends its Windows 98 Upgrade Offer for Select Aptiva Models
IBM continues to deliver the latest technology to consumers by extending its offer of a special upgrade to Windows 98 on select Aptiva models through August 31, 1998. IBM Aptiva customers will enjoy the peace of mind in knowing they can take full advantage of the benefits Windows 98 offers, at no additional cost.
About IBM Owner Privileges Membership
Aptiva customers will enjoy great deals on accessories and software, preferred service and helpful advisory articles through IBM’s Owner Privileges program(11). The first year of membership in Owner Privileges is included with a new Aptiva purchase and consists of:
Service Privileges: preferred call handling(12) to IBM’s Help Center and e-mail messages to provide users with tips on how to efficiently use their Aptiva.
Protection Privileges: e-mail messages to alert users about downloads for new system BIOS, drivers and other enhancements that are located on IBM’s Update Connector. In addition, information is provided on products that have been tested for compatibility with the Aptiva(13).
Discount Privileges: information on downloadable software samples(14) available at no charge and quarterly mailings with special discounts and offers.
Advisory Privileges: a ”cyber library” of articles covering education, training, exploring the Internet and more.
Source: IBM