screen shot 2011 08 10 at 8 13 36 pm
Apple has begun shipping Lion USB Recovery Media to some customers, reports 9to5Mac.com.

However, we don't think these aren't the $69 thumb drives that Apple plans to put on sale at some point this month. These are likely the keys available free to certain users via AppleCare.

We spoke to an Apple representative on Apple's sales line at 800-MY-APPLE. He told us that the $69 Lion USB Keys aren't for sale yet and would be available later this month, but there is no concrete date for their release.

Top Rated Comments

shartypants Avatar
189 months ago
Apple should sell those USB keys blank as a product, they are cool looking.
Score: 7 Votes (Like | Disagree)
*LTD* Avatar
189 months ago
I have absolutely no need for this since I already created an SD card with Lion on it.

But now I want one. :o
Score: 7 Votes (Like | Disagree)
tkermit Avatar
189 months ago
Buy a Verbatim "Tough and Tiny" from newegg.

Not really the same thing, is it?

apple shipping lion recovery usb keys not available for purchase yet image
Score: 6 Votes (Like | Disagree)
justinfreid Avatar
189 months ago
I heard if you insert them properly a micro-speaker releases a "roar".
Score: 6 Votes (Like | Disagree)
ntrigue Avatar
189 months ago
I'm considering buying one and then just wiping it and using for my flash drive :)

Must be nice. I suppose it's only logical to pay $62 for an Apple logo.
Score: 3 Votes (Like | Disagree)
weckart Avatar
189 months ago
Call me old school but I don't even want to think about installing Leopard unless I have some kind of physical media.

If you are thinking of installing Leopard then I would be inclined to call you old school.
Score: 3 Votes (Like | Disagree)

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