First Impression: A MacBook?

Apple’s announced its first Intel-based computers at the MacWorld Expo. The computers include an upgraded iMac at the same price and a MacBook Pro. I’m impressed by the announced specs for the MacBook, but the name leaves something to be desired.

On first blush, the name “MacBook” doesn’t seem to roll over the tongue. It seems less sexy or impressive than “Powerbook” or even “iBook.” I don’t know why Apple wants to abandon the Powerbook name. Aside from some gaffes with the first Power PC-based ‘books (silly overheating batteries), Powerbook has had a pretty strong reputation for more than 10 years.

Time will tell if “MacBook” will catch on, but I wonder if it’s the best name out there.