Apple’s new line of notebook computers have been well received by a vast majority of the online demographics, both in the blogosphere and on Twitter. The usual cycle of an Apple notebook computer followed this transition.
- Initial product release.
- Processor updates and faster bus speeds.
- Slight increase in hard-drive capacity.
- Rinse and repeat every 8-12 months.
Apple has generally kept the same design on their products for an extended period of time. The first Intel Macintosh, the MacBook Pro kept the same design (following the above transition list) for close to 34 months, nearing three years. Over the past 6 months, consumers have started speculating the need for a refresh of the line – here we have it, 34 months after the initial design was revealed at Macworld Expo 2006.
Inclusion Of Innovation
- Two NVIDIA graphics chipsets: 9400M and 9600M GT
By far the most innovative feature on the new MacBook Pro is the inclusion of two NVIDIA graphics chipsets. When you’re unplugged and on the go the lesser power card is utilized for superior battery life, however when plugged in to your MagSafe adaptor the powerful card kicks in for some serious performance.
- User accessible hard drive
The single reason I haven’t changed the internal hard-drive in the Santa Rosa MacBook Pro is the long and strenuous process of actually doing it. I could pick up a 320GB drive for pocket change at todays rates, but the idea of ripping the machine apart doesn’t sound very attractive. The hard-drive is now as easy to change on this new generation of the MacBook Pro as it is to change the battery.
- Glass Multi-Touch trackpad with new Multi-Touch gestures
No – I doubt there’s much of a change seeing touch screens on Apple’s portable lineup anytime soon, however Apple’s made up for it with the inclusion of a new glass multi-touch trackpad in each of their new notebooks. Tap, flick, twist, turn – it all works to control various gestures within your favorite Apple applications.