Apple added a PowerPC G4 chip to the iBook line on October 23, 2003—finally ending Apple’s use of the PowerPC G3 chip. A slot-loading optical drive replaced the disc tray. The iBook G4 also features an opaque white case finish and keyboard, and a plastic display hinge.
Expandability and upgrades
The iBook keyboard lifts up, allowing installation of the AirPort (wireless) card and additional memory. This gives the keyboard a "spongy" effect, especially in PowerPC G3 models with the translucent keyboard. The "sponginess" was corrected in the PowerPC G4 models.
Accessing the hard disk drive is complex and time-consuming, involving partial disassembly of the unit and the removal of over 20 different-sized screws.
The memory in the iBook G4 is covered by a removable Airport card, and accessible by removing the RAM shield with a Phillips 00 screwdriver. While some of the earlier models (e.g., 800 MHz and 933 MHz) have a specified 640 MB RAM limit, it is possible to have a total of 1.12 GB of RAM installed (128 MB built-in, plus a 1 GB SO-DIMM ), or 1.25 or 1.5 GB in the later models with 256 or 512 MB of ram soldered to the logic board.
Quality issues
In late November 2003, a number of iBook G3 users reported display problems with their laptops. In December 2003, a group of users headed by Michael Johnson and Bill Owen sought to file a class action suit against Apple. In response, Apple initiated the "iBook Logic Board Repair Extension Program" in January 2004, which covered the expense of repairing affected iBooks for three years. In June 2004, the Repair Extension Program was expanded to cover "all White G3 iBooks".
The iBook G4 seemed to suffer from display problems similar to those of the iBook G3, but was not covered by the repair extension program. Owners of iBooks that required expensive repairs for these problems submitted new class action lawsuits in December 2006.
On May 2, 2007, the Danish Consumer Board published an extensive report made by an external party concerning the Apple iBook G4 logic board issue. A press release referred to the global consequences this could have for possible guarantee claims.
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