The first-generation Apple silicon-powered MacBook Pro was released less than a year ago, and now the firm is back with a follow-up. Of course, the 2020 version of the pro-focused laptop was a bit more difficult to market, with the distinctions between the M1 edition of the Pro and the Air not fully evident. Today’s news is an attempt to correct that. Apple just released a new version of the MacBook Pro that creates a much sharper line between the machine and its thin-and-light sister.
The new system is driven by the company’s new M1 Pro and Max chips, which are beefed-up versions of the chip that were presented today. According to the business, the 10-core CPU, when combined with a 16-core GPU, may provide up to 3x the memory bandwidth of the M1. The Max, on the other hand, increases the GPU’s core count to 32. What is evident is that the corporation is focusing on its core creative pro demographic in ways that the previous models did not.
The new versions, which are available in 14- and 16-inch screens, are completely redesigned in comparison to last year’s model. They also include built-in fans for high-performance applications, albeit the firm claims that they will only use seldom. The upgrade also sees the elimination of the Touch Bar, which met with mixed reviews, and the introduction of full-function keys in its stead. As one feature fades away, another returns. MagSafe is back (get it? released).
Although the third-generation charger has a proprietary connector, consumers will be able to charge their devices using Thunderbolt/USB-C interfaces. In addition, yeah, there are ports on this device. To be precise, there are three Thunderbolt 4 ports, HDMI, and an SDXC card slot.
The bezel has lowered, and the webcam is now housed in an iPhone-style notch at the top. The camera has been improved — fortunately — to 1080p (no 4k, regrettably, but an improvement over the previous generation) with a bigger sensor and wider aperture for these teleconferencing days. The resolution of the 16-inch (actually, 16.2′′) version is 3456 x 2240, while the 14-inch is 3024 x 1964. The maximum brightness is 1600 nits, with a 120 Hz refresh rate. Along with the new screen, the audio has been much enhanced. The grilles hide a six-speaker system with four woofers and two tweeters, occupying a large portion of the surface area.
According to Apple, the technologies offer quicker charging and longer battery life, with up to 21 hours of movie playback. A laptop is a “beast” that is not light. They weigh 4.7 lbs and 3.5 lbs, respectively. The 14-inch model costs $1,999, while the 16-inch model costs $2,499 The Max version of the M1 may be purchased as an upgrade for $200 for the 24-core GPU and $400 for the 36-core GPU. They are available for pre-order now and will begin arriving next week. For the time being, the 13-inch Pro will also be available, thereby filling the function previously held by the ordinary MacBook.
