Apple won't deny portable iMac reports

Apple Computer isn't denying published reports that it plans to introduce a low-cost notebook PC for consumers early next year that will mimic the design of its popular iMac desktop computer.

Apple said last year that it plans to introduce a notebook for consumers early in 1999, but the Cupertino, California-based computer maker has kept mum so far about any specifics of the product.

According to published reports cited by Reuters, Apple plans to introduce a portable system called the WebMate, which will be made of the same translucent plastic that helped the iMac garner so much attention.

"I can't confirm or deny that is the case," Apple spokeswoman Natalie Welch said.

Apple, based in Cupertino, California, can be reached at http://www.apple.com/.