AppleInsider Staff
"The most beautiful computer we have ever made"
That's what Apple is calling the new Retina Display-toting MacBook Pro, and the company had an example on display at WWDC. The unit was protected by a plexiglass cylinder, but guests were able to get close enough to get a feel for the high-resolution display and redesigned port layout.
First look at the sleek outer design of Apple's new MacBook Pro.
Off-axis screen on the MacBook Pro's 15.4-inch 2,880 by 1,880 pixel screen jams in 220 pixels-per-inch and is quite impressive to the naked eye, though future tests will show just how it compares with current models. Note the deep blacks and reduced glare, which Apple claims is 75 percent less reflective than glossy displays on current machines.
The high-resolution Retina Display is the largest of its kind implemented by Apple and the first in a laptop.
Apple's newly-redesigned MagSafe 2 power connector looks to be physically similar to current offerings, though the revamped internals were not on display at the time of this writing.
Apple's new MagSafe 2 connector.
The uni-body chassis is packed with high-density batteries to accomodate the added draw from the Retina Display that will create a higher level of heat compared to current=generation models. As seen in the photo below, the new unit sports an interesting venting setup on its underside to handle the laptop's unique thermal properties.
Underside view of the next-gen MacBook Pro with side vents.
Upgraded connectivity options include USB 3.0 and a dedicated HDMI-out port along with a high-speed Thunderbolt port and SD card reader. With the nixing of an optical drive, Apple has moved three connector ports to the right side of the machine.
Re-arranged ports with USB 3.0, HDMI-out and SD card slot.
Marko Zivkovic
Wesley Hilliard
Oliver Haslam
Christine McKee
Malcolm Owen
William Gallagher
81 Comments
I'll take it!
I was really surprised that they included the HDMI port. On Apple's website they just say HDMI port but AI describes it as HDMI-out port. The only reason I mention this is that I routinely use my Mac Pro with an Intensity Pro card to capture HDMI in, It would be great if the built in port was bi directional.
Also what is up with the Magsafe 2 shouldn't it be the third generation? The new one looks more like the original out pointing MagSafe than the more recent rear pointing version.
Hmm, looks nice, but a step backwards in some respects. The new magsafe connector for example, what are they thinking? I'm glad they are keeping the current line of MacBook Pros, Retina display on a laptop is a waste. Non-upgradable RAM and HD, no thanks.
Why is Apple going back to the T shaped mag connector? Especially after the class action lawsuit?
Hmm, looks nice, but a step backwards in some respects. The new magsafe connector for example, what are they thinking? This old design would always pop out when you didn't intend it. I'm glad they are keeping the current line of MacBook Pros, Retina display on a laptop is a waste. Non-upgradable RAM and HD, no thanks.