William Gallagher
Supply chain reports from component suppliers claim that an updated 13-inch MacBook Pro will add Apple's new scissor-style keyboard, but there may not be an often-rumored screen size increase any time soon.
Backing up previous reports, a new claim from Apple's supply chain says that a forthcoming 13-inch MacBook Pro will adopt the Magic Keyboard that is now in both the 16-inch MacBook Pro, and the latest MacBook Air.
According to Digitimes, suppliers involved in the production of the redesigned scissor-switch keyboard mechanism are increasing production. They are doing so in spite of industry concerns about the coronavirus impacting sales, and reportedly have as yet seen no reduction in Apple's orders.
This Magic Keyboard production includes the version being released in May for the new 11-inch iPad Pro and 12.9-inch iPad Pro. Digitimes sources say that this will make a total of four Apple devices with the new keyboard, but then separately expects what must be a fifth with the 13-inch MacBook Pro.
These sources do also report that this updated machine will retain the existing 13.3-inch screen, but it's possible that Digitimes is misinterpreting. The publication has a strong record of reliable sources within the supply chain, but has a poor track record of predicting specific features of Apple products.
It would now be unlikely that Apple would not adopt the Magic Keyboard for any update to the 13-inch MacBook Pro. However, the keyboard was introduced in the 16-inch MacBook Pro, which ended the 15.4-inch MacBook Pro line.
It's been expected, then, that the current 13-inch model may be updated to 14 inches, although previous rumors have concentrated chiefly on the addition of the scissor-style keyboard.
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6 Comments
There are certain companies, Apple among them, that may actually see an increase in sales during an event such as we are experiencing. I know several people who have bought new computers and/or upgraded so that they can work at home more easily. Plus they have the cash on hand due to canceling vacations. Apple’s customer base is also probably less effected by the stay-at-home directives which has impacted the service and entertainment industry most heavily. Apple’s main problem during this time will most likely be supply-chain disruptions rather than a lack of demand.
Everyone knows soon Magic keyboard coming to 13" MBP. What is needed is consistent ports among 13" MBP and MBA. Thanks for not adding touch bar to 2020 MBA.
Oh, Digitimes... I just can’t trust you anymore.