Let's remember why the full name is Apple Computer (NASDAQ:AAPL). Though it's recently been known more for the raging popularity of its musical offerings, today Apple announced its launch of a faster Power Mac G5, which it says is for "the creative class."

Recently, portables have been where it's at for Apple, when it comes to the average buyer. In the second quarter, portables represented 48% of Apple's sales. As Fool contributor and fellow Mac enthusiast Tim Beyers noted not too long ago, wireless connections available at a steadily increasing selection of venues have helped create an environment where portables are going to gain popularity.

The new Power Mac G5 computers will have plenty of giddyap -- they include two microprocessors, with some models able to speed along at 2.5 gigahertz, or 2.5 billion cycles per second. (However, some Apple watchers tap processor supplier IBM (NYSE:IBM) for the fact that the machines don't hurtle along at 3.0 gigahertz.)

While Apple's computer sales have lagged the rest of the computer market, it's picked a good time to upgrade. An improving job market may be the extra nudge that convinces some computer users to buy a new system with processing muscle. Plus, when there's more business (and more marketing and other creative materials being generated), there's more reason for those "creative" types -- Apple's traditional bread and butter -- to start creating.

However, those creative types had best not be starving artists. Mac users can expect to shell out from $2,999, $2,499, and $1,999 up for the dual 2.5 GHz, 2.0 GHz, and 1.8 GHz Power Mac G5 machines, respectively.

Meanwhile, the occasional theory that gets batted around -- that the widespread popularity of the iPod and iTunes might actually boost esteem of Apple's computer lines -- doesn't sound so crazy. (Plus, anybody venturing into an Apple store for iPod gear is instantly exposed to its computer wares.) Also, in recent months, Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) and its OS certainly haven't seemed infallible.

It seems Apple's moving aggressively according to many trends. This week, it also launched AirPort Express, a device that will allow users of both Macs and PCs to wirelessly stream music from iTunes to their home stereos, but it also hinted heavily at the imminent launch of iTunes in Europe.

The question remains whether the Power Mac G5 might still struggle, faster or not, considering the strong interest in laptops right now. However, an attempt to jump-start the computer line while Apple's positive buzz is at a fevered pitch is a savvy, strategic move. As they say, strike while the iron's hot.

Apple stockholders, unite! On the Apple discussion board, that is. Or, if you're a Mac aficionado of any type, consider keying up the Apple Users discussion board, where many Fools are already talking about the new G5 models.

Alyce Lomax does not own shares of any of the companies mentioned. When she finally replaces her iMac, she'll likely shell out for an iBook.