Apple is expected to introduce its first MacBook Pro with a next-generation M2 chipset in March, but it may not be the upgrade many fans are hoping for.
A new report, citing a “reliable source with close links to Apple’s supply chain,” claims the device will be identical to the 13-inch MacBook Pro — complete with Touch Bar. It is not expected to get a display upgrade.
13-inch MacBook Pro to get M2 chip
Many will have expected Apple’s new M2 chip to debut in a flagship Mac that brings sizeable processing and graphics improvements. However, it seems that the base configuration may be much closer to the original M1.
Although some performance improvements are expected, it is believed that the entry-level M2 will feature the same number of CPU and GPU cores as its predecessor. And it could debut in an entry-level MacBook Pro.
More specifically, the M2 is expected to power a refreshed 13-inch MacBook Pro that could make its debut at Apple’s spring event next month. And aside from the chipset upgrade, it could be identical to earlier 13-inch models.
The machine “retains the same design as the current version, including the Touch Bar, but unlike the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models, it will not have a notch or a ProMotion display,” reports MacRumors.
Touch Bar isn’t dead yet
These are somewhat surprising claims given that it looked like Apple had finally thrown in the towel on the controversial Touch Bar. But this particular source has been reliable in the past, MacRumors says.
Back in October, shortly before Apple’s newest MacBook Pro lineup debuted, the same source reported that that the new machines would bring larger displays with a notch but no Face ID. That turned out to be spot on.
It’s not the first time we’ve heard Apple is planning a 13-inch MacBook Pro refresh, either. Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman, who has been reliable in the past, recently predicted the same from Cupertino in 2022.
The big difference Gurman’s report and the latest is that Gurman does expect Apple to ditch the Touch Bar. We should find out who’s right in just a few weeks, with Apple’s event supposedly scheduled for March 8.
