We had a lot of expectations for this year’s Apple Special October Event – and they really didn’t fail to deliver. As predicted, the event centred around the much-anticipated release of the new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros. What’s more, we were surprised with two fresh silicon processors: the M1 Pro and M1 Max chips.
Read on to discover all the details of these devices and processors – along with other announcements from the ‘Unleashed’ Apple event.
New processors
It seems that the next chapter of the transition to Apple silicon is now here. Both the M1 Pro and M1 Max chips are available on the new MacBook Pros. The M1 Pro boasts up to 10-core CPUs (8 power cores and 2 efficiency cores) and 16 cores GPU plus the option for up to 32GB of unified memory and support for two external displays.
As for the M1 Max chip, it holds a 10-core CPU and up to a 32 core GPU. It can support as many as four external displays, and has up to 64GB RAM, respectively.
These are definitely a step up from the M1 chips released last year. Apple revealed the CPU is as much as 70% faster, and the graphics up to four times the speed. The processors have a 16-core Neutral Engine and extra Thunderbolt 4 controllers too.
Fresh MacBook Pros
Instead of releasing a new 13-inch device, Apple upgraded the Intel based 13-inch MacBook Pro to 14 inches – unsurprising given it’s been on its last legs for a while. Both the 14-inch and 16-inch machines have had a complete makeover, and many of our predictions came true. There are thinner bezels, extra ports (HDMI and an SD card slot), and a stunning XDR display. We’ve said goodbye to the Touch Bar, and welcomed back the MagSafe too.
The 16-inch machine has twice the CPU performance as its predecessors, and is four times as fast. Meanwhile, the 14-inch MacBook Pro has a GPU that’s up to thirteen times the speed when compared with the 13-inch version. With the entry-level model for this device, it has a 67W USB-C power adaptor, though it can be upgraded to 96W. There’s a 140W USB-C power adaptor across the board for the 16-inch MacBook Pro.
Apple even swapped the 720p FaceTime camera with a brand-new 1080p FaceTime HD camera, which will produce better quality photos. As for the colour options, while there isn’t the same variety we got with the overhauled Macs in early 2021, these may follow suit at a later point. Until then, the standard silver and space grey are still available.
Other updates
Our predictions also included the new AirPods, which finally came to fruition. They’ve been revamped with a fresh design, new audio features, shorter stems, plus enhanced sound and battery life. What’s more, they can be kept in a new case which supports MagSafe through the iPhone magnetic charger.
That’s not all. It’s been revealed that macOS Monetary, the latest version of the Mac operating system which was first announced back at the WWDC event in June, will be released on October 25th.
This OS will be available in the new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBooks. Its key features are Universal Control, where users can control multiple Macs or iPads with the Mac’s keyboard and trackpad, plus a Focus mode which allows for a more detailed approach to the Do Not Disturb feature.
Mac business leasing
So, the Apple Special October Event delivered on its promises. Even though we were disappointed that our prediction of a refreshed Mac mini didn’t come good, there’s always next time. There are rumours about a November event, but as always, we’ll have to wait and see.
If you’re thinking about adding any of these new devices to your equipment, you might, like many, be slightly put off by the premium price. How can you ensure a positive cash flow, whilst maximising on the power of high-quality devices? Easy, you can lease.
With Lease Loop, you’ll be able to spread the cost over time, enabling you to focus on your growth goals. For us, it’s not about a lease, it’s about helping ambitious businesses achieve their aspirations – that’s why we’ll be there to support you at every step.
Let’s talk. Get in touch with our friendly team today.
