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MacBook Pro and iMac Models featuring Ivy Bridge Update and 15-inch Screen
MacBook Pro and iMac Models featuring Ivy Bridge update and 15-inch Screen
According to MacRumors, two new benchmark results appeared in Geekbench's database within the past few days. They were from unreleased 2012 models which got people talking about a nearing upgrade to Apple's MacBook Pro and iMac lines. Could this be Apple's next move?
The first benchmark result was from a MacBookPro9,1 which was listed as carrying an Intel Ivy Bridge Core i7-3820QM quad-core processor running at 2.7 GHz. Although results can be easily faked, it's not that far-fetched since Ivy Bridge is the next most logical upgrade in computer processors today. Compared to the current MacBook processor which scored 10,500 in benchmark testing, the unreleased system earned 12,252 which proves that there is definitely a step up in its specs. In addition, the result shows the test machine running on OS X Mountain Lion build 10A211.
Next up is from an iMac 13,2 that has the same specs as the new 27-inch iMac model. It was reported to feature an Intel Ivy Bridge i7-3770 quad-core processor running at 3.4GHz. It scored 12,183 on the benchmark test which is higher than the 11,500 score of the current top-of-the-line iMac models. These results have a high chance of representing genuine machines that could be launched soon since previously posted results from Geekbench ended up pushing through.
On the other hand, 9to5Mac reports that it has received specific information on the new 15-inch MacBook Pro's design from a source who has handled prototype casings and other components. The new design gives a look similar to the current MacBook Pro only thinner as Apple allegedly opted to exclude the optical drive. The new housing has been reported to support a Kensington lock slot, an SD card, two USB ports, a battery level indicator, audio in/out jacks, and ports for the MagSafe power connector.
A dedicated Ethernet port was also reported to be lacking to reduce the machine's size. Users would have to rely on the USB-to-Ethernet dongle for wired connections. They may also remove the firewire connectivity, but the report seems unsure on that part.
If those weren't enough rumors for you, the machine is said to sport a "Retina" display. "According to the report's source, OS X will simply offer a set of resolution quality options for the new machine ("such as big, small, or optimal") to allow users taking advantage of this new "HiDPI" support to select their desired combination of sharpness and resolution," reported MacRumors.
Release of these new products are still unknown but it could be at any time since Intel's Ivy Bridge is now widely available.
