After launching the first M1 MacBook Pro in November, all eyes were on the next releases. According to two reports from the most accurate business analysts, they can deliver everything we want.
TFT Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reiterates rumors that a new 14-inch MacBook Pro is coming alongside an updated 16-inch model, both featuring Apple’s next generation silicon with “more cores and enhanced graphics” , according to a similar report by Mark Gurman of Bloomberg.
They can also bring a new design. According to MacRumors, Kuo says that the new models “cancel the curvy design of the upper and lower parts of existing models and adopt a flat design similar to iPhone 12.” Presumably, this refers to the corners of the case, but Kuo offers no other clue. Gurman says the new MacBooks “will be similar to the current versions, albeit with minor design changes”.
Kuo and Gurman also agree that MagSafe will return. Apple eliminated the MagSafe quick-connect magnetic in favor of USB-C several years ago, but brought back the name and the magnetic concept with the iPhone 12. Kuo does not provide any additional details other than saying that the technology will be “restored” , although Bloomberg sheds some additional light on the rumor: “The connector will be similar to the elongated pill-shaped design of the older MagSafe port. Despite moving away from USB-C for charging, Apple will still include several USB-C ports on its future Macs. ”The report also says that the MagSafe report will allow MacBooks to load“ at a faster rate ”.
Even more surprising are the claims that Apple will be killing the Touch Bar. A somewhat controversial decision that arrived in 2016, the Touch Bar is a small display above the number key that brings additional functionality beyond the usual function keys. In his report, Kuo states that “the OLED touch bar has been removed and the physical function buttons have been restored”, while Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reports that Apple “has tested versions that remove the touch bar”.
With regard to monitors, Bloomberg reports that they will not only be bigger, but also brighter with “high-contrast panels”. Apple could turn to the mini LED for the new screens, as previously rumored.