Apple might be on the cusp of releasing fresh iterations of its popular MacBook Pro laptops in both 14-inch and 16-inch variants, according to recent rumors circulating in the tech sphere. MacRumors has highlighted a DigiTimes report that suggests these new MacBook Pro models could make their debut before the close of this year. While it’s crucial to approach these rumors with a grain of skepticism, they do provide intriguing insights into Apple’s potential plans.
The report from DigiTimes posits that the forthcoming MacBook Pros will continue to utilize mini-LED displays, with a notable focus on enhancing power efficiency for these screens. Specifically, the rumor suggests that the new mini-LED panels will be approximately 10% brighter while consuming the same amount of power as their predecessors. Apple’s strategy appears to be centered on preserving image quality while reaping the benefits of extended battery life. In simpler terms, these next-generation screens will maintain the same brightness levels but will draw less power, resulting in laptops that can last even longer on a single charge, away from a power source.
According to DigiTimes, these revamped MacBook Pro models are expected to start shipping in the fourth quarter of 2023, implying that their release is imminent—though it’s essential to exercise caution when dealing with release timelines in the tech industry.
Another notable point raised in the DigiTimes report is Apple’s commitment to using mini-LED screens until at least 2026. This suggests that there are no immediate plans to adopt OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) displays for MacBook Pros. Rumors of an OLED transition had circulated, but it now appears that consumers might have to wait until 2027 or later to see OLED technology in MacBook Pro devices. Concerns regarding burn-in, particularly when laptops are left with screens on for extended periods, are reportedly a key factor influencing Apple’s cautious approach to OLED adoption.
Interestingly, the DigiTimes report does not mention whether these updated MacBook Pro laptops will be equipped with the rumored M3 chip. It is plausible that these devices will continue to feature the current-gen M2 System-on-Chip (SoC), as no mention of an M3 upgrade is made in the report. This aspect raises intriguing questions about Apple’s processor plans for the upcoming MacBook Pro lineup.
