Apple Product Line Info-Graphic -- With the Mac mini, Apple further expanded the old Macintosh model matrix that had once cleanly separated desktop from laptop, consumer from professional. The matrix, which Steve Jobs used to show how the iMac and iBook fit into Apple's product line, first grew with the short-lived Power Mac G4 Cube and later with the eMac. Technically, the Mac mini probably fits into the desktop consumer Mac slot, along with the iMac and eMac. But with the iPod becoming such an important part of Apple's strategy as well, the old product matrix is a less relevant tool for visualizing Apple's approach to the market.

Although it's not from Apple, a new info-graphic has appeared that aims to explain Apple's full product line of Macs and iPods. Created by Paul Nixon, the "Apple's Tipping Point: Macs for the Masses" graphic offers an Edward Tufte-inspired view of Apple's current products, complete with prices and suggested market niches. One can quibble with some of Paul's explanations and discussion, but as a quick way to understand Apple's product line, it's well worth a look. [ACE]

<http://www.nixlog.com/apple/>
<http://www.edwardtufte.com/tufte/>