Apple is seeing strong sales for the new Intel based Macs, and the older PowerPC versions are being slowly phased out.

With the new Mac mini out, that can run Boot Camp, the older version is less appealing by far, except for those who need to run pre OS X, Classic applications, that are not supported on the new machines. In this light, it is little to no surprise that Apple is getting rid of the old minis at Costco, a store known for significant discounts.

Silicon Valley Sleuth reports that for $699 consumers get a 512Mb Mac Mini with a 80Gb hard drive, as well as a wireless keyboard and mouse, which originally weren't included with the Mac Mini. It also comes with a three year warranty, where the Apple stores only offer 1 year.

This is not the first time Apple has gotten rid of excess inventory at Costco, with a batch of G5 iMac being sent there in February, after the introduction of the new Intel based models. However, unlike the Apple Stores, which are built to house and show off Macs, the displays at Costco are less ideal for selling the sleek little boxes. This caged display Silicon Valley Sleuth came across speaks for itself… or perhaps they caught wind of the fact that Macs come with Tiger installed and wanted to take precautions.