Refreshed 13-inch MacBook Pro may have 4TB storage option, 32GB memory

Apple's rumored refresh of the 13-inch MacBook Pro could have more than just a larger display, with the suggestion that Apple may be increasing the storage capacity for the model from 2 terabytes to a 4-terabyte option, as well as more memory.

There is some speculation that Apple will be bringing out a refreshed 13-inch MacBook Pro in the near future, with some suggesting it could take place sometime in May. Current rumors largely focus on the display being upgraded to 14 inches, but it is thought Apple is testing other changes it could be including in the reworked model.

Twitter account @_rogame posted on Twitter on Wednesday that there is a new configuration of the 2020 13-inch MacBook Pro, equipped with a Core i7-1068NG7 quad-core processor clocked at 2.3GHz and a boost that could reach 4.1GHz. As part of the same tweet, spotted by iMore, the model is also being tested with 32 gigabytes of RAM and a 4-terabyte SSD.

The account previously claimed in February that Apple was trialling a model with the same processor and RAM, offering a supposed specifications list screenshot at the time. The processor in question is one from Intel's 10th-generation Ice Lake chip range, the same generation as used in the MacBook Air refresh from March.

The RAM figure of 32 gigabytes would be an improvement from the existing upper limit of 16 gigabytes offered on the 13-inch model. It is plausible that Apple will offer higher memory capacities on the 13-inch model, as the 16-inch MacBook Pro is available with up to 64 gigabytes.

It is also similarly feasible for Apple to offer higher storage capacities for the model, higher than the 1TB maximum option currently available to purchase. Again, the 16-inch mode has 2TB, 4TB, and 8TB SSD options, so it seems probable the 13-inch model will follow with a similar storage range.

Other changes have been suggested for the model, including investor notes by analyst Ming-Chi Kuo speculating the use of a 14.1-inch Mini LED display, along with the use of the new scissor-switch keyboard mechanism.