Next-Generation iMac to Offer Two 'Compelling' New Features?

AppleInsider reports that the next-generation iMac will see the inclusion of two "compelling" new features, although sources refuse to provide anything more than suggestions as to what those features might be.

One of those features is said to have long been on the wish-lists of many Mac users while the other is expected to cater to the semi-professional audio/video crowd. This is according to cryptic tips from people often familiar with the Mac maker's future product initiatives, but who declined to elaborate because they were not authorized to discuss the matter in detail.

The report speculates that one of those features may relate to Blu-ray, a technology that Apple CEO Steve Jobs has in the past referred to as a "bag of hurt", although recent licensing changes may result in Apple taking a closer look at bringing the technology to its computers.

The report also echoes previous assertions that Apple is likely to bring price reductions to the next-generation iMac line similar to those seen for its notebooks at WWDC earlier this year. Finally, sources suggest that Apple may be undertaking a redesign of the iMac enclosure, possibly patterned after the 24" LED Cinema Display introduced last October. It is unclear, however, whether such a redesign would be ready for the next-generation iMac or if it would be deployed as part of a subsequent update to the line.