New MacBook Pro with next-gen M2 chip could land next month

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MacBook Pro notch won’t hinder mouse cursor movement
Could we get an M2 Mac earlier than expected?
Photo: Apple

Apple’s next MacBook Pro upgrade could be right around the corner. Supply chain sources claim a new model with a next-generation M2 chip will be unveiled during Cupertino’s spring event next month.

Aside from the silicon upgrade, the new MacBook Pro is expected to employ the same internals as existing models. Apple suppliers reportedly kept production going during the Lunar New Year to prepare for the machine’s arrival.

Apple preps new MacBook Pro with M2 chip

It’s shaping up to be an exciting March for Apple fans, with upgrades to iPhone SE and the entry-level iPad on the way — both of which are rumored to bring 5G connectivity. But we could see a surprise new entry to the Mac lineup, too.

Citing sources in Apple’s supply chain, Digitimes reported Tuesday that Cupertino is preparing a somewhat surprising MacBook Pro refresh introducing a next-generation M2 chip.

“Except for the processor, most other components used in the new MacBook Pro reportedly will feature almost the same specs as those for existing model featuring M1 chips,” reads the report.

It also says Apple suppliers in China worked during the weeklong Lunar New Year “to satisfy increasing demand for Mac series.”

What to expect

The report does not mention the screen size of the MacBook Pro. It’s possible it could be an upgrade to the 14-inch model. But recent rumors suggest Apple plans a new 13-inch MacBook Pro with an M2 chip.

A report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggested the latter would not appear until later in 2022 — perhaps alongside other Mac refreshes in the spring — which is what makes this unexpected news. That is, of course, if it’s accurate.

Digitimes has a mixed track record when it comes to predicting Apple’s moves. Therfore, it might be best to take its latest claims with a pinch of salt for now.

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