MacBook Pro Fall 2021 Rumors: Release Date, Price & Everything We Know

This story is part of Apple event, our comprehensive coverage of the latest news from Apple HQ.

If you have waited looking for a new MacBook Pro outside of FOMO or indecision, this fall may contain the answers you’ve been waiting for. Not yet. Apple’s big event September 14 offers only a small chance that we will get any information on new models – although there may be clues buried in its presentation for the next one iPhone 13 and associated devices. Chances are, the company will launch its MacBook Pros or other new Macs at a follow-up event in October, as it tends to do. And based on reliable rumors, there could be some big changes, including a new, more powerful version of Apple’s M1 processor in all models, a new 14-inch MacBook Pro, new mini led screens similar to that of the 12.9-inch iPad Pro, the return of the connectors so missed and the abandonment of Touch Bar not very popular.

A more powerful Apple M1X (or M2) processor?

That’s pretty much a given. Apple’s M1 processor has gone as far as the MacBook Air, 13-inch MacBook Pro, 24-inch iMac, Mac Mini, and iPads, but so far we haven’t seen any of the silicones from Apple in systems for power users. Several sources agree that there will be a new version of the processor – and sources indicating that it is already in production – for the larger MacBook (currently a 16-inch screen version), and possibly for newer desktops to come.

There have also been rumors that there are two variants of the new chip, both with 10 cores (eight high performance and two energy efficient), but with different configurations of integrated graphics cores: 16 or 32. In contrast, the M1 has eight cores, evenly split between performance and power saving, and seven or eight graphics cores. Doubling or quadruple the number of cores promises significantly better performance which, combined with tight integration with MacOS, could rival the performance of a discrete AMD GPU. And it’s unclear if a discrete GPU remains an option.

Having two variants (with rumors of future versions with even more base options aimed at Mac Mini and Mac Pro) makes a lot of sense: In my testing, the M1 chip performed almost identically regardless of the device, giving the iPad as much power as the Mac Mini. This doesn’t make sense to buyers of high-end equipment, where going for a less powerful processor can potentially save you thousands of dollars or where a discrete GPU can be essential.

The two variants could explain why the assumptions about the name of the new processor, M1X or M2, haven’t leaned conclusively towards one or the other.

When it comes to Intel offerings, as early as last January we started hearing predictions that there would be no Intel versions of the MacBook Pros and to date there has been no indication otherwise.

When can we buy them?

Due to chip shortages, you probably won’t be able to get one right after they are announced. Earlier this month, it was reported that shortages will at least delay shipments until late October or early November. And these delays are independent of the obstacles to the production of the mini LED screens, which may result in only a limited volume of laptops available in 2021.

A new size, but at a higher starting price?

In addition to an improved model of a 16-inch MacBook Pro, we might consider a 14-inch replacement for the 13-inch MacBook Pro, which could mean a 14-inch display that fits into the chassis at roughly the bottom. same size as 13 – thanks to smaller screen bezels. This follows a similar trend we’ve seen in Windows laptops and the same approach Apple took when transitioning from 15in to 16in MacBook Pro models.

Unfortunately everyone thinks there will be a price increase for the 14 inch model on the 13-inch, starting closer to the top of the latter’s price range. Considering the more expensive screen technology and current shortages, I wouldn’t be surprised. One wonders if Apple will continue to offer the M1-based MacBook Pro 13 as a lower cost option.

A new awesome mini LED screen?

A mini LED-backlit display seems like another piece of news, and extremely welcome: it would allow MacBook Pros to better support HDR with higher brightness and better local dimming, essential for video editing or content production. for the 12.9-inch iPad Pro and its mini LED screen. Hopefully, it comes with an update that lets the MacBook Pro play HDR content in 4K.

A new aesthetic?

Rumors vary here. Almost every device Apple announced this year, from the iPad to the iMac, has adopted the flat-edged profile aesthetic reminiscent of the iPhone 4. But it remains to be seen whether Apple will adopt this for the MacBook Pro, given its clamshell design. And suggestions that MacBooks could be brightly colored iMac 24-style haven’t garnered much interest.

Goodbye, the touch bar?

I’ve never been a fan of the Touch Bar, especially as a replacement for fixed function keys, so I get these well-regarded rumors about the obsolescence of the Touch Bar and the return of real function keys with a bit of dancing. on chair – and will be very disappointed if they turn out to be wrong. Additionally, since mini LEDs typically generate more heat than other backlights, Apple could likely need less heat dissipation near the screen.

Return of old favorites?

Apple had stripped its MacBook Pro of connectors that many people relied on, including an HDMI connection, an SD card slot, and a MagSafe connector (not to be confused with the MagSafe charger for iPhone). There are rumors that we’re going to get them back, along with another pair of USB4 / Thunderbolt ports. Some news has also indicated a return of the MagSafe connection, but it is also possible that they are confusing them with the rumors of a new version of the recent one. FCC filing of a MagSafe charger for iPhone.

A 1080p webcam, but still no Face ID?

Since Apple first introduced an improved 1080p webcam with the 27in iMac (and ditched the iMac Pro) and then with the 24in iMac, it makes sense to incorporate one into the MacBook Pro. as widely usedbecause it is probably used more for video conferencing than many of its other systems. But while Touch ID is likely to stick around, there hasn’t been a welcome word about Face ID (or 5G) in high demand since we heard in January that it wouldn’t be included.