A laptop with a notch. Yep, Apple has innovated design once more.


Great, now every OEM will follow.

Welp, the inevitable has arrived, with every laptop bezel getting smaller and narrower every year, manufacturers have to find a way to fit all that screen along with the webcam. Apple has brilliantly decided to add a notch just like what they did back in the iPhone X. And to tell you, it’s not pleasing (but eh, we’ll somehow get used to it). We’re a little afraid that other OEMs will follow suit. Or mock them first before going full clown.

Processing/Performance:

The new MacBook Pro comes in two sizes: 14in. and 16in. These laptops feature a number of improvements compared to its predecessor. Most noticeably, its newer M1 Pro and Max chipsets.

These two chipsets have been improved from the base M1 seen on the iPad Pro and the latest Mac.

The M1 Pro features up to deca-core CPU and up to 16 core GPU, which outmatches even some of the highest-performing CPUs released today. While the M1 Max features a fixed decacore CPU and up to 32 cores of GPU. Both of these system-on-a-chip (SoC) processors feature a 16-core neural engine for its AI that helps it recognise certain scenes and help it respond faster to even the heaviest of tasks. According to Apple, these processors consume 70% less power in comparison to the typical octacore laptop chips (most notably, Intel’s Core i7 or i9 processors).

On Apple’s website, the 14 inch MacBook Pro has two variants both of which are using the M1 Pro chipset. The first package has the 8-core variant of the M1 Pro while the second package offers the full-spec M1 Pro with a decacore CPU. In addition to that, the highest retail package offers users a 96W USB-C power adapter in comparison to the base variant’s 67W. Both of these charge fast but of course, the higher the rating, the faster the charging, but also the faster your charger heats up.

The 16in. MacBook Pro comes in three options: The first two uses the M1 Pro SoC while the last option offers you the highest-end M1 Max SoC. All these laptops have the same offering, apart from the storage. The basic offer gives you 512GB of SSD storage while the most expensive offer gives you 32GB unified memory as well as 1TB SSD storage. While the options only give you up to 1TB, Apple actually gives users the chance to configure their storage for up to 8TB SSD, of course, it might cost you an entire life’s savings just for that option.

Display and Design:

Apple introduces new MacBook Pro in 16-inch and 14-inch sizes

When it comes to the build, the MacBook Pro has noticeably curvier sides like the older Polycarbonate MacBooks. It’s build on an aluminium frame, which should come off as premium.

Apple introduces new MacBook Pro in 16-inch and 14-inch sizes

When it comes to the keyboard, you may notice something different about this new MacBook. Something is missing here…. That’s right! Apple ditched the controversial touch bar and the function keys are back once more. The touchpad is also noticeably larger. Traditional to MacBooks, the 16in. version lacks a numpad, so while the keys are larger and easier to type on, it may be harder for you to type special characters. The TouchID is located on the top right

For the display, both laptops use a Liquid Retina XDR IPS LCD panel (of course not AMOLED). The 16in laptop has a resolution of 3456×1964 pixels while the smaller 14in has a resolution of 3024×1964. In addition to the 2K resolution, both models offer 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate (and yes, both have a notch, the ugly notch nobody wanted since the iPhone X). Both also have 1600nits peak brightness, HDR support, DCI-P3 colour gamut, and 1000nits of sustained brightness. The displays are backlit by 10,000 mini-LEDs for accurate brightness and contrast.

In order to accomodate the notch, the OS the notebooks come with adapt with this display. Inside the notch is the FHD+ webcam… what, were you expecting anymore sensors? The notch is unnecessarily long however this does provide implementations for a future facial recognition camera.

Sounds/Ports:

The MacBook Pro, regardless of size, comes with a total of 7 ports. On the left is the MagSafe 3 port intended for fast charging, you also have two Thunderbolt 4 ports here, which makes transfer super fast, as if instant. Unlike Apple’s phones, Apple has the courtesy to add the 3.5mm port so you don’t need to plug a dongle.

On the right side, you have your SD Card slot, another Thunderbolt 4 port as well as HDMI. The reason for having three USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports is for seamless connection to your other devices, be it another computer or another TV. The MacBook Pro can support up to two 6K resolution Pro Display XDR for the M1 Pro variant or up to three with M1 Max.

For the sound, Apple has implemented a newer sound system which consists of a six-speaker system that can fill a room for up to 80% more bass, complemented by two tweeters and four “force-cancelling” woofers. Like most of Apple’s recent products, the new MacBook Pro now supports Dolby Atmos with spatial audio so you can really feel the sound as if you’re in theaters, that’s an immersive experience.

Battery and Endurance:

The MacBook Pro’s battery has also been improved in contrast to the previous models. The 14in. can last up to 17h on video playback while the larger 16in model can last up to 21h. This battery is charged either through
USB-C or through the Magsafe port. You may refer to Apple to determine which type of charger comes in the box once you order.

The new notched MacBooks will be available starting 26th October in the US, with a starting price of USD1999 (~Php 101.5K). Please click these links that will redirect you to Apple’s MacBook purchase page and let us know if you still can eat after buying the MacBook ;). There’s no official PH release yet, not at least in authorised stores, but Apple has already set their prices. Let us know if you’re as shocked as we are.

Source: Apple