What can we expect from Apple’s new MacBook Pro?

Isn’t it about time for a new MacBook Pro? Apple is expected to replace the 13-inch laptop with a 14-inch model, and release a new 16-inch MacBook Pro. So what’s in store for the Mac enthusiasts out there? Well, there are plenty of new features to get excited about, the new MacBooks will include the M1X (an improved model of the M1 chip), plus revamped a mini-LED screen.

Apple set out on improving the new MacBook Pros by removing the Touch Bar and bringing back MagSafe. Some of you mac fans out there may have heard these tech rumors already. In April one of Apple’s suppliers was hacked by the infamous ransomware group ‘REvil’. The attack resulted in leaked data and images of the new MacBook Pros.

What is MagSafe?

MagSafe is a type of magnetic tech. It was originally used for MacBook chargers. However, the safety feature was later discontinued and replaced with a USB-C port. The new iPhone 12 features a magnetic ring to support Magsafe charging, and it’s rumored that these new MacBooks will feature something similar. 

According to MacRumours, ‘The switch back to ‌MagSafe‌ is likely to be popular with MacBook Pro owners who have been missing the feature since Apple transitioned to USB-C.’ Reportedly, Apple made this decision by listening to MacBook user feedback.

Why is Apple getting rid of the Touch Bar?

The Touch Bar was first introduced in 2016. Many viewed the intro of the touch bar as a controversial move, (along with the butterfly keyboard, and removal of most ports). The Touch Bar was supposed to be useful for daily tasks, whether typing prediction, adjusting settings, or editing a video. So what was the issue? A lot of users viewed the Touch Bar as something of a gimmick as opposed to a useful or innovative feature.

How much will the new MacBook Pro cost?

It’s not yet confirmed how much the new MacBook Pro will cost, however, there has been some speculation. For several years Apple has kept the 13-inch MacBook priced at $1,299. Tom’s Guide predicts that ‘if the current 13-inch MacBook Pro disappears, then we’d expect Apple to keep the $1,299 entry-level price.’ However, if the 13-inch stays on the market, as well as the new 14-inch, we might expect to pay around $300 more for the 14-inch MacBook Pro. The 16-inch MacBook is priced at $2,399, many predict that the new machines will arrive with a similar price tag.

Revolutionizing the laptop market

According to Ming-Chi Kuo, a highly respected tech analyst, ‘Apple’s involvement with mini LED production could have a knock-on effect with other laptop manufacturers, potentially pushing adoption of mini-LED displays to become an industry-standard.’ Ming-Chi Kuo predicts that the demand for MacBooks will soar, as a result of the mini LED panels, the redesign, and Apple Silicon, (Tech Radar, 2021).

Mini LED vs LCD Display?

There’s a lot of hype around the new mini-LED display, but what exactly are the advantages? The standard LCD relies on LEDs that are positioned beneath the LCD substrate. The glass can allow light to pass through, filter colors, or block the light. The display can do this for every pixel, resulting in the image on the screen.

As you can probably imagine, Mini-LEDs are a fair bit smaller than normal LEDs. A Mini LED is approximately one-fifth of a normal LED. As a result, manufacturers can fit more Mini LEDs behind a screen than the standard LEDs. Mini-LEDs can be illuminated or dulled in incredibly precise areas, the benefits for the display include brighter colors, more contrast, deeper blacks, and are more efficient in power.

When can we expect the new MacBook Pro?

Mark Gurman of Bloomberg stated in a June report, suggesting the new MacBook Pro should be available this fall. Originally the MacBook Pro was set to be released in the summertime. However, the due date was delayed. According to MacWorld, this was because of ‘global chip and component shortage, the shortage of chips has led to difficulties getting the circuits mounted on the motherboard on the MacBook model.’

Apple continues to offer us improved machines, exceeding our performance expectations every time. Even if your old machine has started running slowly there are plenty of ways to speed up old Mac computers with basic troubleshooting. Apple has such a huge market share due to the performance and durability of its devices. It’s fair to say that many Mac fans are excitedly awaiting the release date in the autumn.