Apple Slyly Updates Accessories

Yesterday, Apple issued a series of minor updates to a few of their Mac and iPod related accessories. The first of these updates involved the Universal Dock for iPod and iPhone. Apple updated the kit to include the re-designed aluminum Apple Remote, a USB power adapter, and a USB sync cable. The latter two items were previously sold separately, forcing dock owners to purchase them if they wanted to charge their device from a wall outlet. Also included in the package are a series of five redesigned dock adapters which bring compatibility with current generation devices. To account for the newly included accessories, Apple has raised the kit’s price from $49.99 to $59.99.

The second update comes in the form of a discontinuation. In an ongoing effort to “cut” wires from their desktop lineup, Apple has discontinued its shortened wired aluminum keyboard. First introduced with the second generation of 20 and 24-inch aluminum iMacs, the diminutive keyboard never saw tremendous success. Lacking a number pad, yet still restricted to the desk by its wire, many users opted for the full size wired keyboard instead which is likely the reason for its discontinuation. Apple currently includes a wireless version of the keyboard with many of its desktop models. For users seeking a full sized solution, an aluminum keyboard with number pad is available here for $49.99

The third and final product update is the most minor. Clearly based on the changes made to the Universal Dock kit, Apple has adjusted both its composite and component AV cables. Dropping the price by $10, each cable now retails for $39.99. As the Universal Dock now includes a USB power adapter, Apple has dropped the adapter–which was previously included at the $49.99 price point–from both sets of cables.