In a widely expected move, Apple said Wednesday that it had begun shipping its MacBook laptop with Core 2 Duo processors. The entry-level laptop is largely credited with helping the Cupertino company regain lost momentum in the portable market.

"MacBook has helped drive Apple's notebook market share to over 10 percent in US retail, and the new MacBooks will be among this holiday season's most exciting new products," said Apple marketing senior vice president Philip Schiller.

Apple has introduced three Macbook models with the upgraded processor: a 1.83 GHz and 2.0 GHz version in white, and a 2.0GHz black model. All would include a 13-inch widescreen display, with built-in iSight and integrated iLife '06 and Front Row software.

Build-to-order options include larger hard drives up to 200GB, up to 2GB of SDRAM, Apple USB Modem, Apple Mini-DVI to DVI adapter, Apple Mini-DVI to VGA adapter, and Apple MagSafe Airline Adapter. Additionally, customers can request software such as iWork '06, Final Cut and Logic Express, as well as Aperture be pre-installed.

The white models would retail for $1,099 and $1,299 USD, while the black model retails for $1,499 USD. All Macbooks would be available immediately through Apple retail and online stores, and authorized resellers.