Submitted by Marshall Walker on
Apple today unveiled its redesigned MacBook Pro at its home campus in Cupertino, California. As rumored, the new MacBook is equipped with an OLED strip that replaces the function keys at the top of the keyboard. The "Touch Bar" shortcuts automatically change based on what app you're currently using, and it includes a dedicated Siri button, plus intelligent typing features, such as autocorrect and emojis. The MacBook is also equipped with Touch ID for easy logins and Apple Pay support.
The 13-inch model is a half a pound lighter and seventeen percent thinner than its predecessor. The 15-inch model weighs in at 4 pounds, and is fourteen percent thinner than the previous model. Both models also offer faster graphics and flash storage than the last generation models.
The new MacBook sports the "best ever" display in a Mac notebook, according to Apple. It is is 67 brighter with a an increased contrast ratio that promises to deliver "deeper blacks and brighter whites." The new Retina display is also more power efficient than previous models.
Other features include four Thunderbolt 3 ports compatible with USB-C, redesigned speakers with twice the dynamic range and up to 58 percent more volume, a more responsive keyboard with a new, second-generation butterfly mechanism and a larger TrackPad.
The 15-inch model is powered by a sixth-generation Intel quad-core Core i7 processor, and the 13-inch model is available with either a Intel Core i5 or i7.Both MacBook Pro models are available starting today through apple.com starting at $1,799 for the 13-inch model, and $2,399 for the 15-inch model. Apple is also accepting pre-orders for a13-inch model without the new Touch Bar for $1,499. The Touch Bar-equipped models will begin shipping in 2-3 weeks, and the non-Touch Bar 13-inch model is available now.