Apple MacBook Pro Review: Ivy Bridge and Nvidia GPU

For the first time, Apple has integrated its Retina Display on a non-iOS device on its 2012 MacBook Pro 15-inch. The tech world has accepted the news of Retina Display’s introduction of MacBook Pro with much fervour. The Cupertino tech giant announced the new version of its flagship professional notebook at WWDC 2012.

The new MacBook Pro, apart from the revolutionary Retina display, shows off many other incredible features. The machine is powered by Intel’s latest Ivy Bridge chips and it is to run on the imminent OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion OS.

Retina Display

As per Apple, the new MacBook Pro has “the world’s highest-resolution display.” This is certainly the most important feature of the notebook. The advanced display technology generates a high clarity screen that shows everything remarkably vibrant, detailed and sharp. Indeed, it is the “most jaw-dropping Retina display yet” thanks to its uncompromising display clarity and perfection.

Retina Display works quite marvellously on the MacBook Pro. The device packs over 5 million pixels into a 15.4-inch display; that is you will get stunning image clarity. The display features a resolution of 2880 x 1800 pixels. When it comes to contrast ratio, the Retina MacBook Pro is 29 percent better than a standard MacBook Pro screen. Rich IPS panel technology, 178-degree viewing angle and other features make the notebook an amazingly wonderful product, indeed.

Intel Core i7 processor

The entire MacBook Pro and MacBook Air 2012 upgrades come with the fastest mobile quad-core processor, Intel Ivy Bridge Core i7. It is the chip that provides strength for the new MacBook Pro 15-inch as well. The state-of-the-art 22nm Ivy Bridge processor delivers dazzling performance for the notebook. The processor promises speeds up to 2.7GHz and 6MB of shared L3 cache for the notebook. Running high-end programs like Final Cut Pro, Aperture and others will be not a task with the powerful processor inside the machine.

Next generation Nvidia graphics

To match with the Core i7 CPU, Apple has integrated next-gen Nvidia GeForce GT 650M GPU inside the notebook. The graphics card is based on the next version Kepler architecture with 1GB of video memory. Thanks to the advanced specs, the Retina notebook has 60 percent faster graphics performance than the former version of the notebook. The GPU is also able to provide sufficient power to drive the astonishing 5-million-pixel Retina display. Well, the Pro becomes a powerful machine for gaming and enjoying HD videos with thanks to the power graphics.

OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion

Apple demoed the new version of its operating system for Macs at WWDC 2012. The Mountain Lion is anticipated to go public sometime late this year. The Retina MacBook Pro and other Pro and MacBook Air versions have gone on sale with the current OS X 10.7 Lion. When the new version comes out, it will be available for free for the owners of the notebooks. The Mountain Lion will be known for its introduction of lots of iOS-inspired features such as an advanced Notification Center, Messages app, AirPlay Mirroring, iCloud and more.

Ports and connections

The Retina MacBook Pro sports an array of rich and high-performance ports for connectivity. It has two Thunderbolt ports, three USB 3.0 ports, an SDXC card slot and a HDMI port. Thunderbolt port is the fastest way to transfer data between two devices using a cable. For internet connectivity, you have Wi-Fi 802.11n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.0 for wireless connectivity.

Final thoughts

In weeks after its announcement at WWDC 2012, Apple has brought the Retina MacBook Pro into stores. Apple sells the notebook with a huge price, however. Well, the Retina Display mounted MacBook Pro doesn’t come cheaper; you have to spend a minimum of $2,199 to get even the entry-level version of the machine. The Retina MacBook Pro certainly boasts the name that it is the first Apple computer to get the Retina Display, which is already on iPhone 4, 4S and the new iPad. Maybe, in future, we can expect Retina display on many more Apple products including MacBook Air series.

Source: Nvonews

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MacBook Pro Retina Display In India model starts at Rs. 1,52,900

At the Worldwide Developers Conference in San Francisco, Apple proved that post Steve Jobs, the brand still managed to have a trick up its sleeve. After announcing an upgrade to their MacBook Air and MacBook Pro line-up of notebooks, Apple wowed the world when they unveiled their next generation.

MacBook Pro with Retina Display. These notebooks had been available in stores in the U.S. from the date of the announcement and those looking to upgrade to this high-res notebook in India will be pleased to know that they have finally made their way on to shelves in India with the base version starting at Rs. 1,52,900.

The price may come as shocker to most. as the price of the base version in the U.S starts at $2,199, which would roughly translate to Rs. 1,22,732. The Indian price is a steep jump in comparison to the U.S pricing and though the MacBook Pro with Retina Display is flying off the shelves in the said country, it is difficult to ascertain at this point if this hot selling notebook would achieve a similar response in India. The pricing of the product in India is around Rs. 30,000 more than what it is selling at the U.S. The reason that Apple is pricing these notebooks in India such could be due to the decline in the Rupee, in comparison to the Dollar and this may be the main reason why it costs more than a lakh and a half.

For those who are in the dark regarding this notebook, this new Macbook Pro with Retina Display comes configured with a solid state drive. The notebook comes with USB 3.0 and is far thinner than its predecessors with the same screen size, with the casing measuring 0.71 inches thin. The Macbook Pro received an Ivy Bridge update, and the 2.7GHz Ive Bridge processors can be turbo boosted to 3.7 GHz. Furthermore, the device utilized NVIDIA GeForce GT 650m graphics. Coming to the main selling point of the device, the Retina Display, the screen resolution on the new Macbook Pro is 2880 x 1800 (or 220 ppi). Apple also promised at the keynote that this improved screen would have better viewing angles, reduced glare and better contrast ratios.

Other highlighted features of the new MacBook with Retina Display include 16GB of RAM, Nvidia Kepler GT 650M graphics, a quad-core 2.7GHz Core i7 processor, a maximum 768GB of storage (SSD, naturally), and a battery life that can be pushed up to seven hours and a standby time of 30 days. Apple has also added the thin MagSafe connector and a new fan. The Macbook Pro ships with OS X Lion, however, those who purchase the notebook now will be eligible for a free upgrade to OS X Mountain Lion when it becomes available.



Here is a Quick look at the highlighted specifications of the MacBook Pro with Retina Display:

• 15.4-inch LED-backlit display with IPS technology; 2880 x 1800 resolution at 220ppi
• 2.3GHz or 2.6GHz quad-core Intel Core i7 processor with 6MB shared L3 cache
• 8GB of 1600MHz DDR3L onboard memory
• 256GB or 512GB Flash Storage
• Intel HD Graphics 4000
• NVIDIA GeForce GT 650M with 1GB of GDDR5 memory and automatic graphics switching
• 720p FaceTime HD camera
• MagSafe 2 power port
• Two Thunderbolt ports (up to 10 Gbps)
• Two USB 3 ports (up to 5 Gbps)
• HDMI port
• Headphone port
• SDXC card slot
• Apple Thunderbolt to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter (sold separately)
• Apple Thunderbolt to FireWire Adapter
• 802.11n Wi-Fi wireless networking; IEEE 802.11a/b/g compatible
• Bluetooth 4.0 wireless technology
• Stereo speakers
• Dual microphones
• Headphone port

The new MacBook Pro with Retina Display is available in two configurations which are 2.3GHz and 2.6GHz. The 2.3GHz model is available for Rs. 1,52,900 and the 2.6GHz model is up for grabs with a price in India of Rs. 1,92,900.

Source: Tech2.in

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New MacBook Pro & Air Get Discount Offers On Best Buy

Best Buy offered amazing discounts on the new MacBooks, offering upto $140 off. The offer was on over the weekend. The discount offered on the Retina Pro MackBook with 8GB memory, 512 MB solid-state drive priced originally at $2,799.99 was $140 to $2,659.99.

While the price for the least expensive Retina Pro dropped to $2,089.99, with savings of $110. The new MacBook Air fell to $949.99 from the original $999.99.

The latest MacBooks offer Intel's new "Ivy Bridge" third generation i series processors with upgraded HD 4000 graphics silicon and USB 3.0 ports. The hottest addition to the MacBook Pro family is 2880 by 1800 pixel density Retina display and an Nvidia GeForce GT 650M graphics chip along with other new features.

Even though Apple has recently launched these new products and MacBook Air and MacBook Pro with the Retina display have been in the market only a few weeks, Best Buy has offered very lucrative prices on them. The discounted models are only available for in-store pickup. The discounts however are changed frequently by Best Buy and could vanish at any time.

With reported problems in image resistance in the new MacBook Pro with Retina display, where the outline of the image still remains on screen even after the program has been closed. "I first noticed this after my MBP [Retina] had gone to sleep, but: when returning to the login screen (since I have it set to require a password whenever the computer is idle long enough) I noticed what appeared to a very faint ghosting primarily noticeable on darker backgrounds," a user wrote on the Apple forums. The company's 14-day return policy could be helpful for some new MacBook Pro buyers, who can simply ship the machine back to Apple or bring it to any U. S. Apple Store for a complete refund. Also, the one-year limited warranty comes with 90 days of free phone technical support.

Source: Topnews.net

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Apple 2012 MacBook Pro 15 Review

Apple 2012 MacBook Pro 15 While Apple made a huge number of design element changes with the new MacBook Pro 15 with Retina, the majority of the MacBook Pro lineup remains relatively unchanged including the base MacBook Pro 15.

Instead, it is much more a refresh of the internals than any sort of major redesign. This is disappointing as the design is really starting to show its age with more and more competition offering much closer levels of quality and designs. It is still quite good just not as outstanding as it once was.

The major change is the update of the platform from the Intel Sandy Bridge or second generation Core processors to the new Ivy Bridge or third generation processors. For the base $1799 version of the MacBook Pro 15, this is the Core i7-3610QM quad core processor. In terms of performance, it is just slightly faster than the Fall 2011 update of the MacBook Pro 15 with its i7-2670QM processor. Much of this is likely due to the fact that the Ivy Bridge update is more about efficiency changes than in speeds. The base memory also remains unchanged at 4GB but it has been moved to be the faster 1600MHz version. It would have been nice to see it be upgraded to 8GB like what most competing laptops offers at this price point.

Storage features remain completely unchanged in the 2012 version of the MacBook Pro 15. This is disappointing as the standard 500GB hard drive with its 5400rpm spin rate feels uncomfortably slow when compared next to the Retina version with its solid state drive. Sure, this offers more storage but it is below what most of the competition offers and is even slower. This is one aspect that Apple really should have looked at changing in the default offering rather than relying on customized orders. It does retain the DVD burner drive which is becoming less and less important in the computing world. Apple has pretty much phased this out of most of their computers save the iMac. At least the update did move the peripheral ports to the new faster USB 3.0 rather than the aging 2.0 version. The Thunderbolt port is also a bit more useful than when it was first released.

The only other significant change on the MacBook Pro 15 internals is the move from the AMD Radeon graphics processors to the new NVIDIA GeForce GT 650M. This is the first of the new Kepler based mobile processors and offers improved acceleration. Much of this can be attributed to the 512MB of graphics memory instead of the paltry 256MB in the past version. This is still very small level of graphics memory that does impact performance especially in non-3D applications that rely more heavily on the memory than the graphics processor. It would have been nice to see it come with a 1GB version of the GPU like is found in the Retina version. Of course, the graphics have no problem driving the still standard 15.4-inch display that features a 1440x900 resolution that is one quarter that of the new Retina model. This is slightly higher than most 15-inch laptops but for this price range is much lower than the typical 1920x1080 resolution. At least it offers some decent color and viewing angles but does have the very glossy coating that can be problematic outdoors and in certain light.

As with the rest of the chassis, the battery for the 2012 version of the MacBook Pro 15 remains the same with an internal 77.5 WHr capacity battery pack. While previously I measured the running time based on DVD playback if the laptop had one, I have switched over to using just a digital video file playback loop method. Using that test, the 2012 MacBook Pro 15 was able to run for seven hours. This is roughly on par with Apple's claims for seven hours of wireless web usage but that task will likely offer more than that. The disappointing part is that the new thinner and lighter Retina version with its higher capacity battery pack offers two more hours of video playback. The laptop still offers some of the best running times, it has just been eclipsed by Apple's new design.

Finally, we come to the price of $1799 which remains unchanged from past versions. It is certainly much more affordable than the $2199 price for the starting Retina version. On the other hand, Apple dropped the base MacBook Air 13 by $100 making it much more attractive option. They should have done the same with this version of the MacBook Pro 15 as there just isn't enough change from last years model and the competition is offer much more competitive systems for the same or less now.

The Bottom Line

- Apple's 2012 refresh of the aging MacBook Pro 15 design is pretty much underwhelming when compared to the new Retina Display version. Sure, this model is $400 cheaper and offers more storage space and an optical drive but it is heavier, thicker, slower and frankly dull compared to the new display. It is still a competent laptop for those looking at a performance laptop with high quality but it would have been nice to see a price drop or a few more changes beyond a new CPU, graphics and USB 3.0 ports.

Pros

• Strong Performance
• Long Battery Life
• USB 3.0 and Thunderbolt Ports

Cons

• Aging Design Not As Innovative As It Once Was
• Expensive
• Glossy Display Hard To Use In Certain Light

Description

• Intel Core i7-3610QM Quad Core Mobile Processor
• 4GB PC3-12800 DDR3 Memory
• 500GB 5400rpm SATA Hard Drive
• 8x DVD+/-RW Dual Layer Burner
• 15.4" WXGA+ (14400x900) Display With 1.3 Megapixel Webcam
• NVIDIA GeForce GT 540M Graphics With 512MB Memory
• Gigabit Ethernet, 802.11a/g/n Wireless, Bluetooth
• Two USB 3.0, FireWire 800, Thunderbolt, SDXC Card Slot
• 14.4" x 9.8" x 1" @ 5.6 lbs.
• Mac OS X 10.7, iLife

Source: Compreviews.about.com

Tags: Apple, Laptop, MacBook Pro, Notebook

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Apple chose its new Kepler GPU for the MacBook refresh

With the rise of tablets and smartphones in the past few years, the landscape has changed quite a bit when it comes to traditional desktop computer manufacturers, especially those not named Apple Inc.

However, prospects for specific technology manufacturers such as Nvidia Corp. appear bright, in part because Apple has picked the graphics chip maker for its latest MacBook Pro refresh.

The company, a global leader in graphics processing units or GPUs, the microchips that allow computers and other devices to produce images on a screen, looks set to capitalize on strong demand in its Tegra mobile chip technology and new Kepler graphics products for desktop and PC.

Bobby Burleson, analyst with Canaccord Genuity, has upgraded Nvidia to a buy from hold while also raising his price target to US$16 from US$13 on both near and medium-term drivers.

Shares of Nvidia are down 2.7% to US$12.64 on the Nasdaq at midday on Monday.

“While most PC-weighted semis are likely to see number cuts near term based on weak notebook production ahead of the back-to-school period, we expect Nvidia to hit guidance,” Mr. Burleson said. “Nvidia appears positioned to offset near-term PC weakness through Tegra strength and Kepler revenues that were guided by limited 28nm wafer supply not PC demand.”

The new flagship Kepler line of GPUs for desktops and PCs, first launched earlier this year, scored a major coup when Apple chose the GeForce GT 650M to drive the Retina displays on its new MacBook Pros.

The last generation of MacBook Pros had used chips from Nvidia’s rival Advanced Micro Devices Inc. (AMD).

As well, Mr. Burleson sees Nvidia’s guidance on the Kepler line as determined more by supply considerations than on consumer PC demand.

Meanwhile Tegra, a so-called “system-on-a-chip” technology designed specifically for smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices, will benefit from it selection in products such as the HTC One X phone and upcoming Microsoft Corp. Surface tablet.

Mr. Burleson expects 2012 Tegra revenues to hit or even exceed US$500-million, up 39% from US$360-million in 2011. Management has guided US$540-million, although Street expectations have dipped below the US$500-million level completely.

“While Nvidia appears to have significant share on first-generation non-iPad tablets and numerous smartphone design wins, it is unclear which models will be successful,” he said.

Overall, Mr. Burleson forecasts second-quarter revenues of US$1.02-billion and full-year revenues of US$4.225-billion.

Source: Theprovince.com

Tags: Apple, MacBook, MacBook Pro, Nvidia, Nvidia Keplar

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The First Notebook MacBook Pro with Retina Display Review

Apple’s new MacBook Pro with Retina Display is hogging the limelight across the technology world.

The new laptop has finally brought the company’s much appreciated high-definition screen-retina display –to its line of professional notebooks. As of now, we have the 15-inch version of MacBook Pro with Retina. In future, we will possibly get other versions, especially the 13-inch version with the Retina Display. Apple introduced the new MacBook Pro at its WWDC concluded recently.

After introducing Retina Display on iPhone 4, 4S and iPad 3, Apple has now integrated it in its laptops. Apart from MacBook Air, Apple has chosen its Pro line to bring up Retina on a notebook. It might be a move with a goal to primarily steal the heart of professional and business users. Indeed, a great display with superb clarity will always thrill enterprise users. However, apart from Retina Display, Apple has introduced a more powerful Ivy Bridge processor, Thunderbolt on the new MacBook Pro.

“Bringing the iPhone 4S and the new iPad 3′s much-vaunted killer feature – their nonsensically high-definition screen -– to the Cupertino crew’s notebook line, rather than the iMac desktops as many had suspected, it stood alone as an all-new product alongside refreshes of the MacBook Air and standard MacBook Pro lines,” says T3. Beyond everything, the 2012 MacBook Pro 15-inch will be known for its Retina display. That does never mean that Apple has not brought on any significant change to the device’s specs and other features.

2012 MacBook Pro: Form factor
The new MacBook Pro has stunning look and style. It is made of an aluminum unibody with modest curves and minimalist beauty. The machine is 1.8cm thick in spite of integrating an intensive Retina Display. Indeed, you can have a robust experience with the new MacBook Pro with Retina. When it comes to the weight, the MacBook Pro is at just 2.02kg and so is highly portable. It has a highly responsive and tactile trackpad, which is made of solid and durable material.

2012 MacBook Pro: Screen
The 15.4-inch display of MacBook Pro Retina is a backlit LED screen that packs a resolution of 2880 x 1800 pixels at 220 pixels. Thanks to the Retina technology, the display output is so crisp that you can even read 10-point text on the screen if you sit on the other side of the room. Color brightness and contrast are greater, which will be a plus for your experience with the machine. Further, the notebook features less reflection and provides a wide viewing angle.

The new MacBook Pro certainly shines when you deal with HD recording and other large file-size images. Similar to iPad 3, you get a great and concentrated view of the content on the device’s display. However, “much like the iPad 3′s Retina Display, it does make any app or service not optimized for its new technology – we’re looking at you, 72dpi internet image files – appear rather shabby,” comments T3.

2012 MacBook Pro: Performance
Besides Retina Display, MacBook Pro 15-inch is featured for its Ivy Bridge processor. Apple has utilized Intel’s third generation display technology to increase the performance of Pro with Retina Display. The premium version of the MacBook Pro comes with a 2.3GHz quad-core Intel Core i7 processor, which will make things perform quite superbly. The machine’s performance is further bumped by 8GB of RAM and Intel’s HD Graphics 4000 and other features. Various versions of the MacBook Pro offer other specs.

Price and availability
Apple sells the entry-level MacBook Pro for £1,799 in the U.K. The device is a 2.3GHz version with 256GB HDD. The premium version with 2.6GHz processor and 512GB HDD comes for a huge price of £2,299. That is, the upgraded MacBook Pro Retina doesn’t come cheap. In line with its high end features and specs, it is priced high.

Source: Nvonews

Tags: Apple, Laptop, MacBook Pro, Notebook

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Apple Reveals cheaper MacBook Air Powered with Ivy Bridge

Apple has chosen WWDC week to announce an update to its MacBook Air line. It may lack the Retina display of its newly upgraded, headline-grabbing cousin, the MacBook Pro, but the 2012 Air sees significant advances too. An upgrade from Sandy Bridge to Ivy Bridge processors with improved integrated graphics is chief among the upgrades, and onboard memory has also received a boost.

What hasn't changed is the ultra-thin form factor and (with the thick end of the wedge maxing out at 0.68 in or 17 mm), weighing in at 2.38 pounds (1.08 kg) for the 11-inch model and 2.96 pounds (1.35 kg) for the 13-inch. Battery performance remains as is (which is no bad thing), with a touted 5 and 7 hours for the smaller and larger models respectively while wirelessly browsing the web.

What's new is an upgrade from Sandy Bridge to the faster Ivy Bridge processor, which brings with it a switch up from Intel HD Graphics 3000 to Intel HD Graphics 4000. This should bring with it a noticeable performance boost, though its doubtful that hardcore gamers will be rushing to buy the new Airs as portable gaming rigs this year.

The included random access memory allowance has doubled from 2 to 4 GB (configurable to 8 GB), and has been upgraded to lower voltage 1600-MHz DDR3L SDRAM. Flash storage remains at 64 GB and 128 GB in the entry-level 11- and 13-inch models respectively, though this is now configurable up to 512 GB.

Connectivity sees a significant boost with the inclusion of two USB 3.0 ports in addition to the Thunderbolt port. The USB 3.0 standard allows data transfer more than ten times the speed of USB 2.0. The power connection has been upgraded to Apple's MagSafe 2, which is simply an even smaller version of the MagSafe port that lets the power cable disconnected safely in the event of jarring cable snag, preventing unwelcome MacBook/floor interface scenarios.

Though the 11-inch Air still starts at US$999, the 13-inch has dropped $100 to $1199, making it all the more compelling to laptop-hunters on the prowl for an ultrabook.

Source: Gizmag

Tags: Apple, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, Ivy Bridge, Laptop, Notebook, Latest Tech

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Nvidia GT 650M GPU & 2.7GHz Ivy Bridge CPU in New MacBook Pro

The big question surrounding the next refresh of the MacBook Pro laptops is whether Apple has opted for a significant redesign or just upgraded the internal spec. There’s increasing evidence to suggest the latter.

A leaked spec sheet last week suggested there is no redesign. Apple is planning to keep the MacBook Pro pretty much the same except for an update to an Ivy Bridge range of processors. Now we have more evidence to suggest that this is the case, but also that Apple has opted to use a Nvidia GeForce GT 650M GPU.

Leaked images have appeared that claim to be shots of the revised 15-inch MacBook Pro components. There’s two things to note in the shots. The first is the use of the new Nvidia GPU, but also that the layout of the board is very similar to the existing MacBook Pro. If the shots are real, it confirms Apple isn’t messing with the overall design of the laptop too much.

What Apple will offer is a new range of MacBook Pros with some serious performance on offer. Intel Ivy Bridge processors including 2.3GHz, 2.5GHz, and custom 2.7GHz parts will be coupled with a GeForce GT 650M GPU using 1GB of dedicated GDDR5 memory.

These Pros certainly won’t struggle running anything the Mac App Store or Steam has to offer. All we need now is confirmation from Apple, which could happen as early as today if they intend to use WWDC to make the refresh announcement.

Source: Geek

Tags: Apple, Intel, Ivy Bridge, Laptop, Mac Pro, MacBook Pro, Notebook, Nvdia

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Possibly Fake Copy of MacBook Pro specs show USB 3.0, Ivy Bridge, no Retina display

An image claiming to show specifications for an unreleased 13-inch MacBook Pro shows it equipped with an Ivy Bridge processor and USB 3.0 ports, but without a high-resolution Retina display.

The image, published on Tuesday by Macotakara, could easily have been faked. But the questionable image shows hardware specifications as they would usually appear on the box of an Apple notebook.

The image claims the computer will feature a 2.5 gigahertz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor with 3 megabytes of L3 cache and Turbo Boost up to 3.1 gigahertz. It also features 4 gigabytes of 1600 megahertz DDR3 SDRAM, a 500 gigabyte 5400-rpm hard drive, and the new Intel HD Graphics 4000 found in the latest Ivy Bridge processors.

The purported specifications also show the MacBook Pro with a 13.3-inch LED backlit glossy widescreen display with a resolution of just 1,280 by 800 pixels. That resolution would not qualify as an Apple-branded Retina display, as the company is expected to debut new MacBook Pros with higher resolution screens at next week's Worldwide Developers Conference.

In addition to having a traditional spinning hard drive, the list of features also suggests the 13-inch MacBook Pro will have an 8x slot-loading SuperDrive for CDs and DVDs. Apple's next MacBook Pros are instead expected to be a significant redesign that will ditch the optical drive for a thinner design like the MacBook Air.

However, the alleged MacBook Pro update does feature two high-speed USB 3.0 ports, in addition to a Thunderbolt port, SDXC card slot, and FireWire 800 port.

The size and weight shown on the spec sheet has the MacBook Pro sized at 12.78 by 8.94 by 0.95 inches and 4.5 pounds. Those are identical to the current 13-inch MacBook Pro sold by Apple.

If legitimate, it's possible the specifications could show a low-end 13-inch MacBook Pro that Apple intends to release. That model could lack some of the features of the higher end models, like a thinner design and Retina display.

Source: Appleinsider

Tags: Apple, Ivy Bridge, Laptop, MacBook, MacBook Pro

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Apple MacBook Pro 2012 revamp possible coming next month

We’ve been bringing readers news about the new upcoming Apple MacBook Pro for 2012, rumored to be appearing next month. Today we have further news that seems to back up that the revamp will release in June and also a release period for the iPhone 5.

In a note to investors, analyst Amit Daryanani of RBC Capital Markets gave the news widely speculated by other sources. Daryanani believes that the updated MacBook Pro line will arrive late in the second quarter, so that’s late June of course. He also appeared confident in his launch time for the iPhone 5, in September or October, again tying in with widespread belief.

RBC Capital Markets repeated its Outperform rating with a price target for Apple shares set at $700. The investment bank also referred to new MacBooks, the forthcoming iPhone 5 and also a possible ‘iTV’ as reasons why it believes Apple company stock might reach $700 within the next 6 to 12 months. Along with the possible release of the new MacBook Pros in June, Daryanani also expressed that a new MacBook Air update for 2012 looks likely inside six months, according to Apple Insider.

It appears that Apple has held back the new MacBook Pro line until the new Intel Ivy Bridge processors were readily available so hopefully that June release is now highly likely. Apart from a modest speed increment in October last year the MacBook Pro hasn’t seen a major upgrade since February 2011 so the new line is avidly awaited. RBC expects that Apple’s complete Mac lineup will grow by 10 to 15% annually and there’s no doubt that the new MacBook Pros will be a prominent part of this.

We’d like to hear your comments on the MacBook Pro for 2012. If you have been waiting for the new lineup for a while, how much longer will you wait? Maybe you’ll wait indefinitely as you won’t consider anything other than this notebook?

Source: Cheaplaptops

Tags: Apple, MacBook Pro, Ivy Bridge, Laptop, Notebook

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Apple MacBook Air Vs. Asus Zenbook Prime: Battle of Ivy Bridge-Powered Notebooks

Notebook computers have been attracting a fair amount of press in recent weeks, thanks largely to Apple’s new MacBook Pro, which is likely to be announced next month. However, the MacBook Air line is likely to undergo some changes, as is one of its top rivals – Asus’ Zenbook series of ultrabooks.

Some of the key features to be found on the new 13-inch Asus Zenbook Prime UX31A include a 1920 x 1080 in-plane switching HD display, backlit keyboard and solid-state drive options of 128 GB and 256 GB. Also expected on Asus’ new ultrabook is a revamped audio system courtesy of Bang and Olufsen and a new wireless network card that promises faster-than-ever WiFi connection speeds.

The aforementioned storage units both run on 6G SATA 3 speeds and most are expecting great things out of the HD matte display. The Asus Zenbook Prime reportedly weighs just 3 pounds, giving it an ever-so-slight edge over the current MacBook Air.

Apple, on the other hand, has long been mooting a price reduction for the new MacBook Air, which is likely due in the third quarter of the year. Tech and business blog site Digitimes reported that Apple might reduce the price of the MacBook Air from $999 to $799, a significant price reduction but probably timely, given Intel’s emphasis on the ultrabook market.

The new MacBook Air will likely boast its own improved display, thanks to Retina Display technology. However, not much else is known about this device at this point.

It will be an interesting battle of ultrabooks, though we may need a few more weeks before we glean more information on both devices, particularly the new MacBook Air.

Source: Easternmorningherald

Tags: Apple, Asus, ASUS Zenbook, Ivy Bridge, Laptop, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, Notebook, Ultrabook

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Ivy Bridge MacBook Pro 2012: “beats” Mac OS X Mountain Lion

Ahead of its possible June or July release date, Apple’s upcoming Mac OS X Mountain Lion is not the “much anticipated” feature of the new MacBook Pro, says the new poll. Intel’s Ivy Bridge Processors takes spotlight.

Sorry software fans, but Intel’s Ivy Bridge processor is reportedly the star of the next MacBook Pro, whether you like it or not.

According to MacWorld Australia’s unscientific poll, Intel’s new chipsets leads the unofficial popularity race of the rumored MacBook Pro features. With nearly 40 per cent of the poll’s respondents, it shows that customers are waiting for the new laptops because of Intel’s processors which are not “exclusives,” and are also present in other ecosystems, like the upcoming Windows 8 for example.

Apple’s software with the combination of the quad-core Intel chips could be the reason behind the landslide victory in the small poll, and apparently, the hardware, especially the processor, affects the overall performance of the desktop’s user interface.

One of the models of the new MacBook Pro is expected to include Intel’s Ivy Bridge Core i7-3820QM quad-core running at 2.7GHz, based on a leaked benchmark results.

According to BBC News, quoting an industry analyst, Intel will continue to lead the processor race. With the help of upcoming Windows 7 and 8 PC and laptops, and the possible MacBook Pro 2012, Intel will reportedly maintaining its slow growth until the release of its next-gen chipset, Haswell.

This year, Apple is expected to compete with at least a dozen new Windows laptop computers and ultrabooks with Intel’s chips, but according to the poll, at least 10 per cent of respondents are hoping for a bigger battery.

The most popular MacBook Pro rumor available online is the MacBook Air-like design rumor, reportedly without the optical drive, with a larger solid state drive, and possibly with the bigger battery, and 6.5 per cent of the poll participants said they want to see “that kind” of MacBook Pro, and if the rumor is correct, then the next-generation MacBook Pro laptops could be the lightest of its kind ever, beating previous versions that offered the large and heavy optical drive.

Liquidmetal, the rumored technology of the upcoming computers, is also a popular feature, the new poll revealed. However, some experts believe that this year’s MacBook Pros will not include Liquidmetal technologies on its cases.

Surprisingly, at least for me, is the lack of anticipation on the next version of the Mac OS X, the Mountain Lion. Apple is expected to distribute the new software with iOS-like features via its Mac App Store beginning this summer, and if the new MacBook Pro will hit stores next month, then it is expected to ship with the new OS X 10.8 pre-installed.

One analyst told a stock market-centric news agency this month that Q2, or the second quarter of this year, is the Mac-quarter and the next line of Apple laptops will attract more customers than other PCs running the open platform Windows. But next quarter, Apple will face rivals with Redmond’s new operating system, Windows 8, an OS that is trying to hit two birds using one stone–the two birds: the Mac and the iPad.

I should note that iPad is attracting more customers than MacBook Pros, and the price and portability of the tablet PC drive sales, says experts. Also last quarter, the new iPad 3 introduced LTE or Long Term Evolution making it the first Apple product with such feature that offers faster data uploads and downloads. One analyst said the 4G LTE, at least in the United States, was the product’s key feature.

So, what will be the key feature of the new MacBook Pro?

Source: Popherald

Tags: Apple, MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, OS, X Mountain Lion, Ivy Bridge, Laptop

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Ivy Bridge a ‘killer feature’ in Apple’s new MacBook Pros

Apple could be launching new MacBook Pros at its Worldwide Developers Conference in June, so we asked Mac users what they think the ‘killer feature’ of the new MacBooks will be when they are unveiled.

Of the 836 people that voted, 38.2 percent said that they were most excited about the Ivy Bridge processors making their way into new MacBooks.

Intel released its Ivy Bridge processors in April, and it is expected that Apple will be the first to manufacturer to launch an Ivy Bridge-equipped laptop. The Ivy Bridge processor family is the third generation in the company’s line of Core processors. The set of quad-core processors are made for desktops, all-in-ones, and high-end laptops.

Benchmarks for a new 2012 MacBook Pro have emerged on Geekbench, despite new models being unreleased. These benchmark results show a MacBook Pro with an Ivy Bridge Core i7-3820QM quad-core running at 2.7GHz.

Intel’s Vice President Kirk Skaugen revealed that the new processors are built for Retina displays.

Adding Retina displays to the MacBook Pro could cost Apple an extra £63, possibly increasing the price of the laptop. Some users think the killer feature of the new MacBook Pros would be an aggressive price, while others don’t expect Apple to reduce the price of the new models. However, an increase in price doesn’t seem to be deterring potential new MacBook Pro buyers.

One of our poll participants, Xhris2210, wrote that he believes Retina displays and/or Air-style cases are on the way in the new MacBook models.

MacBook Air-style cases for the MacBook Pro have been hot topic recently, with reports that the new generation of Pros will be thinner and radically redesigned. 28 per cent of our poll participants are hoping for a MacBook Air style case in the new launch.

The Air-like Pro could use solid-state drives rather than optical drives, and traditional hard disk drives will be scrapped altogether. This would enable the MacBook Pro to be much thinner than before, but also reducing the number of moving parts – the result of which should be a much more durable MacBook that is less likely to break.

6.5 percent of our participants said that the lack of optical drives could be the killer feature should Apple decide to scrap them.

Poll participant Mark Hattersley wrote: “I imagine the speed boost from having integrated Flash storage and a much lighter case (if it goes down the Air route) will both be huge benefits.”

Other rumours, however, have gone against the Air-like speculation, claiming that the next MacBook Pros could gain a bigger but longer lasting battery. The MacBook Pro may still lose its optical drive, making space for two 2.5in SSD drives.

10.3 percent of the poll’s participants said that they are hoping for a better battery in the next generation of MacBook Pros.

We’ve also heard speculation that Apple could use Liquidmetal in the new MacBooks, an addition that 9.4 percent of Mac users say would be their favourite new feature.

The benefit of using Liquidmetal over aluminium would be damage resistance. Liquidmetal will acquire less bumps and scratches than aluminium does. This, along with its lightweight qualities, would mean added portability to the device.

However, one of the inventors of the Liquidmetal alloy, Atakan Peker, has recently said that Apple is ‘unlikely’ to use the alloy in its next MacBook range, but he does expect the company to use the technology in a ‘breakthrough product’.

2.9 percent of our poll’s participants voted that a new Thunderbolt connector would be the best feature in the next-generation of MacBook Pros. Intel is reportedly working on the next generation of Thunderbolt controllers, which could appear in new Apple devices.

The final 4.8 percent of voters in our poll chose ‘other’, indicating that they are hoping for a new feature that we hadn’t listed.

One of these ‘other’ features would be “to confound the rumours and still have a 17in MacBook Pro,” said participant Jaded. Apple is rumoured to be dropping the 17in MacBook upon the arrival of the new models. “It will become impossible to do high-end video and imaging work on the road if the 17in goes,” said Jaded.

What is on your wish list as top killer features that Apple might include in its new-model MacBooks? Share your suggestions with us in the comments section below.

Source: Macworld

Tags: Apple, Ivy Bridge, MacBook Pro, MacBook, Laptop

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New MacBook Pro 2012 Rival to have same Width & Height like Design

Ahead of the rumored new MacBook Pro 2012 release date this quarter or early next quarter, Asus introduces a new lineup of slim and exciting new laptop computers that might join the upcoming Windows 8 ecosystem.

No, it is not an exo-planet, but a laptop computer, meet the new ASUS Zenbook Prime UX21A, a laptop computer with 11-inch display, joining other ASUS laptops, the Zenbook UX31A, the UX32A and the UX32VD, all with 13-inch screen. What’s with the letters and numbers combination ASUS?

Anyway, the new laptop computers appeared online courtesy of new reports posted by Engadget, The Verge, among others. The new laptop computers were introduced to tech sites with no price tag or release date, but additional reports with the twist of speculation say the new lineup will join the PC market later this year and likely before the official release date of the Windows 8 operating system.

So apparently, the new Zenbook Prime laptops are running Windows 7, the current version of Microsoft’s popular PC operating system, but if it will arrive after next month, then these laptops might be eligible for the rumored complimentary upgrade to Windows 8.

According to The Verge, the ASUS ZenBook Prime with the done UX32VD (note this name to get the exact PC model), will come with a full 1080P IPS LCD screen, and GeForce GT 620M graphics. The site’s prototype copy comes with no bootable OS to play with, so maybe, ASUS is planning the 13-inch ZenBook to use Windows 8 instead, though no word yet from them about the possibility.

Similar to the MacBook Air, and the rumored MacBook Pro 2012 (according to multiple news sites and some analysts), the new portable but powerful machine will ship with Intel’s Ivy Bridge processor, and similar to the Air’s design, the new Zenbook Prime sports a wedge-shape design that features a “bit of a chin,” mainly to differentiate itself from the crowd of new “cutting-edge” laptop computers, can this wedge-like shape also cut my Apple fruit?

The good news, according to the site’s source, the new laptop computer will hide inside a Core i5 ULV processor, and the bad news is, the laptop is reportedly getting a jaw-dropping, not credit card-friendly $1,299 price tag. The report’s author, Sean Hollister, said the release date is still not available at the moment.

Meanwhile, Engadget also presented one of the new ASUS laptops, the ZenBook UX21A, also with the “Prime” branding. The site revealed that the display of the laptop is 11-inch with an attractive 1080p IPS display too, all the new ZenBook Prime laptops actually.

Similar to its big brother UX32VD, the smaller Zenbook also features the wedge-like design with the little chin. Engadget reviewed the laptop, and the article’s author, Dana Wollman, said the keyboard and trackpad have shown improvements compared to last year’s Zenbook products. She also added that they’ll run a new test once the final, consumer-copy, Zenbook Prime UX21A is available.

Separate reports say the smaller Zenbook will be cheaper than Apple’s MacBook Air, with price tag reportedly starting at $799, each, not bad.

The MacBook Pro threat

The new MacBook Pro is coming. In fact, “stars are aligning” already according to Ars Technica, and the new product, with a similar MacBook Air-like design with no optical drive and with a new processor, is on the verge of starting the ultrabook fight night, and sources of various tech outlets said that Apple, more likely than not, is set to introduce the new laptop next month an event.

The new MacBook Pro will not only compete with the globally popular and cheaper iPad, but will also challenge the upcoming product of Microsoft, the new Windows 8.

With the rumored, yes read it again, rumored new design and with no optical drive, and with lighter component, it looks like the new MacBook Pro will focus mainly on the internet and its power to provide content like software products to movies and music than providing media coming from third-party sources like discs.

Can the Zenbook laptops compete with Apple? Of course, but I think the Taiwan-based tech company should wait for the Windows 8 first before retailing these devices.

Apparently, the MacBook Pro 2012, or the MacBook Air (if Apple will create a new one), is expected to ship with a new, iOS-like complex OS X operating system that adds new features to the product, like the Notification Center similar to smartphones, and other goodies that might attract more customers.

The Windows 8 is the latest version of Windows, and based on Microsoft’s teaser videos, it looks like the Redmond-based tech giant has been focused on polishing and redesigning the user interface, adding new color combinations that blend with software features that improves the quality of the operating system. If ASUS will retail the new Zenbook Primes with Windows 7, then it might not create a buzz that will catch the attention of consumers.

Source: Popherald

Tags: Apple, MacBook Pro, Laptop, ASUS Zenbook, Asus

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Apple MacBook Air vs MacBook Pro

Most manufacturers would be happy enough to have the top-selling laptop at retail; to also have the laptop that a whole category of systems is chasing might seem like overkill. But that's the happy situation in which Apple finds itself, with the MacBook Pro 13-inch putting up blockbuster sales figures while the MacBook Air 13-inch is taped to the dartboards of ultrabook vendors from HP to Dell, from Asus to Samsung.

While there's inevitably gossip about a single, slim-but-powerful Apple laptop that would split the difference between the two product lines, for now mobile Mac buyers have to choose sides, ultra-slim Air or powerful Pro. Which is better for you?

Apple's offerings span the spectrum of laptop computing, from the 2.4-pound MacBook Air 11-inch (Best Deal: $999.00 at Woodwind & Brasswind) at $999—really $1,199 since, as efficient as OS X is, we still think you'll be happier if you double the base model's skimpy 2GB of RAM and 64GB of solid-state storage—to the 6.6-pound MacBook Pro 17-inch at $2,499. Processing power ranges from the dual-core Intel Core i5 CPUs of the Airs to the quad-core Core i7s of the desktop replacement Pros.

The two lines overlap at the 13-inch screen size, with the MacBook Air offered in 11- and 13-inch and the MacBook Pro in 13-, 15-, and 17-inch flavors.

Each model features unibody chassis construction, machined out of a single piece of aluminum, and is packed with Apple's trademark technology—from Thunderbolt ports and FaceTime video chat cameras to the MagSafe breakaway power connector that won't yank the laptop off your desk if you trip over the cord.

The MacBook Air, despite its more sophisticated (and expensive) flash storage, is positioned as the company's entry-level or everyday notebook, light enough to go wherever you go and handy enough for any job that crops up, while the Pro is a more performance-oriented platform for power users of specific applications.
At the extremes, the choice is easy. The MacBook Air 11-inch is all about ultraportability, a take-it-anywhere note-taker or light-duty productivity partner, while Apple refers to the luggable MacBook Pro 17-inch as "the ultimate mobile studio" (preferring not to use the word "workstation") for media professionals or enthusiasts in video or music editing or publishing.

The MacBook Pro 15-inch (Best Deal: $1,689.99 at MacConnection) has a fairly well-defined niche, too, as Apple's primary desktop replacement—light enough (5.6 pounds) that someone might at least occasionally take it on a plane or to the conference room to give a presentation, but muscular enough to tackle Final Cut Pro as well as Microsoft Office.
That leaves the tough Air-or-Pro decision to the 13-inch (actually 13.3-inch) segment, where the $1,199 MacBook Pro and $1,299 MacBook Air go toe to toe.

The Pro has more horsepower, with a 2.4GHz versus 1.7GHz Core i5 processor, and much more storage space, with a 500GB hard drive versus a 128GB SSD. While both have Thunderbolt and USB 2.0 ports, the Pro's thicker (1.0 versus 0.7 inch) chassis makes room for an optical drive—a slot-loading DVD±RW burner—and Ethernet port, two features not found in the Air.

But who needs Ethernet in this age of Wi-Fi? Who needs an optical drive in this age of app stores, movie downloads, and iCloud? The Air's snappy SSD gives it a responsiveness edge that almost equals the Pro's extra processing power, and besides, most people aren't going to be running Photoshop on a 13-inch screen (and if they are, the Air's 1,440 by 900 resolution tops the Pro's 1,280 by 800).

Most of all, while the MacBook Pro 13-inch is no bruiser at 4.5 pounds, you'll definitely feel the difference in your briefcase compared to the 3.0-pound Air. Mobile computing is all about, well, mobility, and we vote for the extra portability of the MacBook Air.

Source: PCmag

Tags: Apple, MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, Laptop

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MacBook Pro to come with Retina Display, USB 3.0: Thunderbolt remains

Apple’s MacBook Pro 2012 is set to come with many improvements including Retina Display and USB 3.0. Besides Thunderbolt will remain the part of the new 15 inch Mac

Apple’s MacBook Pro is just weeks away. After months of wait, the Apple laptop is going to be reality and with major upgrades and improvements. From display to processor and everything in between, the Macbook pro is undergoing a total transformation. And people are going to love the improvements in the Apple laptop.

Apple’s forthcoming MacBook series of laptop is going to be faster and thinner, thanks to Intel’s third-generation Core Ivy Bridge processors. It will ensure that the new MacBook Pro is thinner and a lot faster. Some say that the difference in speed is going to significant.

As per rumors, Cupertino based Apple is all set to introduce its new MacBook Pro during the next month’s World Wide Developers Conference (WWdc). People couldn’t be more excited than this.

People too want it to come with best specs and features. A reader has this to say, “Awaiting the newer Intel ivy bridge processor to be utilized in the upcoming Matchbook Pro. The chassis development is an Integral part of creating computer designs that Apple can be very proud of. I would be surprised if the Mackbook Pro series does not live up to its name in the upcoming WWDC. Touch and Gesture recognition capable products are the future. Siri is an example launched at Cellular Level. Keep wondering if Apple will decide to introduce Siri in direct competition to Google’s Voice Search. The Wow factor is right now being covered by Microsoft Windows 8. Touch the screen and its there! Would the new MacBook Pro act as device that is touch based?

Beside Intel Ivy Bridge processor, another thing that is making more headlines is the fact that new Pro line will come with retina display. To be true, for Apple this will not be something new. The Cupertino based tech giant already brought retina display in its latest tablet iPad 3 and there is no reason to discount the possibility of Macbook Pro coming out with it. When Apple launched its new line of laptop with retina display it means that its display quality will be several times better than the existing one. A retina display will provide Macbook Pro 2012 a resolution of 2880-by-1800. The resolution in its existing Macbook pro is merely 1440-by-900.

To be true, MacBook Pro OS Mac OS X Lion has the capability to back even higher resolution. The Mac operating system is capable to adapt user interface to higher resolutions without facing any glitch. World Wide Developers Conference may also announce the launch of the much more improved Mac OS being named OS X Mountain Lion. This will further give the new laptops a much needed boost in performance.

Another great news for Mac lovers is the fact that the new MacBook Pro will come with USB 3.0. One more good piece of news is the fact that Thunderbolt will still be there on MacBook Pro. Both USB 3.0 and Thunderbolt will be part of the MacBook Pro.

Source: Nvonews

Tags: Apple, Ivy Bridge, MacBook Pro, Laptop

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Apple MacBook Pro to Feature Both Ivy Bridge & Nvidia Chips

A few days ago, MacBook Pro rumor-hunters got a breakthrough when several details of the new MacBook Pro (or MacBook Pro 2012) were leaked, including Retina Display, Intel Ivy Bridge chipset, USB 3.0 and a thinner design due to the lack of a CD/DVD drive.

Now most of these leaked specs you may have known about for the past few weeks, but nonetheless it was nice to see all these specs listed in one article.

Now we’ve got more information on the laptop everybody seems to be talking about these days. Apparently, the new MacBook Pro will run on both Ivy Bridge and Nvidia chips. Intel, of course, will be behind the processor of the next-gen MacBook Pro, while Nvidia will take care of the graphics. Ivy Bridge is, in fact, an unusual turn for Apple, which has previously relied on AMD processors for under-the-hood power.

As for Nvidia, their GeForce GT650M graphics card should fuel the new MacBook Pro’s graphics, and we’re guessing it’s going to be a good deal better than the previous GT640M. As we mentioned above, the previous batch of MacBook Pro rumors pointed towards Retina Display. Retina Display, of course, will make images on the new MacBook Pro even more awe-inspiring to look at.

As the new laptop will run on OS X Mountain Lion, users can manipulate display size and quality without having to scratch their heads. Apparently, users simply have to choose from “big”, “small” or “optimal” instead of twiddling dials or struggling to find the right resolution size or quality.

We’re expecting the new MacBook Pro to be unveiled at WWDC 2012, to be held on June 11, so let’s hope the rumors keep coming. Be sure, though, to take ‘em all with a grain of salt until we hear it from Apple themselves.

Source: Easternmorningherald

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