Apple has posted software that will allow Macs with 802.11n-capable Wi-Fi adaptors to support the latest incarnation of the as yet non-standard next-generation wireless networking technology. And yes, the company wants $1.99 or £1.25 for it, depending on your location.

The update is being hosted by Apple's online store. According to the website, the patch will work with any Core 2 Duo-based Mac except the 1.83GHz 17in iMac but including the Mac Pro with an Airport Extreme add-in.

It's worth mentioning too that the update comes free with Apple's new, 802.11n-compatible AirPort Extreme Base Station product, so don't dash out and purchase the patch if you plan to buy this hardware in due course. Said access point hardware doesn't ship until next month, for £119 in the UK and $179 in the US.

Apple has claimed it's forced to charge for the software update by US accounting rules.