Despite claims by analyst Jon Prosser that Apple will unveil new MacBook Pros at WWDC 2021; no hardware products were announced at the event. The latest data states that the new 14 and 16-inch MacBook Pros will launch in the third or fourth quarter of this year.
DigiTimes reports that Apple partners will begin shipping new MacBook Pros in the third quarter, but it is unclear whether this is a supply of ready-made computers, or individual components for their production. It is worth noting that before Nikkei Asia and DigiTimes have repeatedly reported that the mass production of the new 14 and 16-inch MacBook Pro based on Apple’s branded ARM chips will begin no earlier than the third quarter. So, at WWDC, one could only expect a “paper” announcement.
The updated MacBook Pro is expected to receive Mini-LED displays and new ARM processors that are further developments of last year’s Apple M1. In addition, the devices will receive an expanded set of physical ports, including a magnetic MagSafe charging connector and HDMI video output. Rumors also say that Apple will ditch the Touch Bar in favor of the familiar function keys.
Gizchina News of the week
Apple unveils macOS Monterey with new features from iOS 15 and improved interoperability between Mac and iPad
Traditionally, at the WWDC developer conference, Apple presents updated versions of its software platforms. This year, the company unveiled iOS 15 and iPad OS 15, watchOS 8; and, of course, the next generation of macOS, dubbed Monterey. The new desktop operating system has become even more user-friendly and includes key features introduced in iOS 15.
macOS Monterey boasts significantly enhanced functionality of the FaceTime video conferencing service. As in iOS 15, it will allow users to share their screen content with other people; listen to audio from Apple Music or watch videos from popular streaming services thanks to Share Play.
With macOS Monterey, the connection between different Apple devices will be even deeper. Now the mouse, touchpad and keyboard can be used simultaneously with Mac and iPad. To do this, you just need to place the tablet next to the computer. In this case, the user will be able to move the cursor between the Mac and iPad as if it were two displays; but at the same time the tablet works as a stand-alone device, and not an external screen for the computer. It is also as easy as possible to transfer files between nearby devices; you just need to drag them with the cursor.
In addition, with the new macOS Monterey; users will be able to use their computer as a wireless speaker for the iPhone or iPad; from which sound can be output via AirPlay. Also, the new operating system has the ability to create shortcuts to quickly perform selected actions.
MacOS Monterey will be compatible with late 2015 iMacs and newer, early 2015 iMac Pro, MacBook Air and Pro, late 2013 Mac Pro and newer, and early 2016 and newer MacBooks.