Macbook updates

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Is it fairly safe to be considering buying a macbook fairly soon? Are there updates to Penryn's expected at any point in the near future? I know there are many rumours about MBP updates but was just wondering the situation with Macbooks.

 

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http://buyersguide.macrumors.com/#MacBook

Product MacBook
Recommendation: Neutral - Mid product cycle
Last Release November 01, 2007
Days Since Update 95 (Avg = 199)

nice info there, looks like I am just going to go for it then.

 

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Another question, how does a 'refurbished' model from apple differ from a normal one, they are a nice bit cheaper especcially with a education discount, worth going for? Dont want to end up with something that isn't all new and shiny!