Whoever said that troubled times often call for change in survival strategies was absolutely right - and, in the case of companies, the more prudent the marketing strategies at such times, the easier it becomes for them to weather the storm!

Probably with that logic in mind, Apple Tuesday announced its decision to update its iMac and Mac mini desktop line up of personal computers, beginning with its 2.0 GHz Mac mini for a suggested retail price of $599. Another new 2.0 GHz Mac mini, with the same measurements of 6.5x6.5 inches by 2 inches, would most-likely cost $799.

While Apple's new 20-inch 2.66 GHz iMac would be priced at $1,199; the three new 24-inch iMacs - 2.66 GHz; 2.93 GHz; and 3.06 GHz would be available at suggested price of $1,499; $1,799; and $2,199 respectively.

At the higher end, the new quad-core Mac Pro would come at a suggested retail price of $2,499; the new 8-core Mac Pro would be available at a retail price of $3,299.

Whether Apple's new 'strategy' is intended or accidental, there could be nothing better than revealing a few cues about the to-be-launched products to some obscure bloggers, and leave the Internet rumor-mills do the needful! Such a strategy helps save the paraphernalia costs - including those on special events, promotional media, and keynote speeches - of a high-profile product roll-out!