[SuperJon]

What exactly does iLife have with it?

[mrmacphisto]

The short list: iPhoto, iMovie HD, iDVD, GarageBand and iWeb.

Because my computer isn't properly equipped to use iMovie and iDVD, the only thing I really use is GarageBand, but that alone is worth hundreds. You'd probably enjoy iMovie HD and iDVD until you could afford something more high-end like Final Cut.

For more details: www.apple.com/ilife/

[El Scorcho]

Yes, the iLife software bundle is a huge part of buying a Mac. Microsoft (and many others) have tried to come up with equivalents for Windows, but they're not even close. iTunes started it, and the newer apps like Garage Band and iWeb are nice. iPhoto is still my favorite though. It's the slickest photo transfer/library application I've ever seen.

[SuperJon]

Ok, explain what those programs do. I have an idea but don't know for sure.

[El Scorcho]

iPhoto - Photo importing, editing, storing and archival software. In addition, you can order prints (cheap), books (hard and softcover), cards and calendars right from the software.

iMovie HD - Basic video importing and editing. The HD designation came this year since it can now (obviously) handle high-def video. Best basic video editing app out there.

iDVD - Put your movies on DVD with pre-done (very nice) themes for menus and such. Makes building a DVD very easy.

Garage Band - Music recording, editing and exporting. Multi-track with software effects and loops built-in. Additional loops and software instruments available as add-on packs.

iWeb - Apple's easy as pie blogging software.