Apple may be preparing to launch the first Intel based Macs as early as January, starting with its entry-level iBook laptops, according to a report by Think Secret. The site cited sources who say Apple will introduce a third iBook model and lower prices by up to $200 to attract Windows users.

The January launch would coincide with Macworld Expo, scheduled to begin January 10 in San Francisco. Think Secret notes that other Intel-based Macs could possibly be showcased at the event, but it did not receive confirmation.

Apple had previously indicated it would start the Intel migration with its consumer Macs, such as the iBook and iMac, rather than its professional-level PowerBook and Power Macs. The company wasn't expected to debut systems with the new architecture until June, but analysts say Apple wants to make an early splash.

Software applications optimized for Mac OS X on Intel aren't likely to be ready for a January launch, but Apple's Rosetta software will translate programs on the fly to make them compatible. Performance will be affected by such emulation, but iBook users aren't likely to run demanding applications such as Adobe Photoshop.

By bringing the price down, Apple may be positioning itself to better compete with PC giants Dell and Hewlett-Packard. Mac OS X systems have historically been more expensive than equivalent Windows systems, but Apple has endeavored to lessen the differential. The company launched the Mac Mini at $500 for just that purpose, while touting OS X as a superior and safer platform compared to Windows.

Apple sold 1.23 million Macs last quarter -- the second highest amount in its history. According to company data, approximately 45 percent of new Mac owners were first time buyers, up five percent from last quarter.