Over the next few months, Apple’s flagship computers, especially laptops, will receive a lot of attention as the transition from Intel-based architecture to ARM-based retail shelves progresses. But a radical ARM laptop just can’t be the new hardware in the show.
Apple’s latest build refers to the new 16-inch MBBook Pro stretched inside the boot camp. It looks like Tim Cook and his team are ready to bring 16-inch specs with the current 2020 set. But there is a catch.
The new machine will have an out-of-favor Intel chipset.
Books Mabook Pro Laptop A computer published on the design of a laptop computer. Around the logo … [+]
The 16-inch MBQbook Pro was launched last year, replacing the 15-inch MBQbook Pro with tiny tweaks of a single size (thanks to the use of smaller bezels). It also sends Intel’s 9th pay generation core processors. Following the update of the 10th Pay Generation BBQ Air and MBKBQ Pro in the first half of 2020, the 16-inch model was quietly knocked out without much fanfare.
These updates were tied to high-end graphics cards, so the ‘top line’ options remain. This means moving the portfolio to the middle level and aligning the options with the current Air and Pro.
The sting in the tail is that these will be Intel based machines, not new ARM powered laptops – given that this is part of boot camp and Apple has confirmed that bootcamp will not be available for MacOS on ARM machines.
Answering is an easy question. The big question is how much current support Apple will give to Intel machines. The Intel-powered MaBook purchased today will require physical support to serve for many years, and is relatively easy to offer. Software software support is key.
Apple Pal will turn around in two years with a full product line, moving aggressively towards ARM. With this push for a new system, will Intel get the ‘new Apple Play Toys’ in a few more years? Will key developer apps be updated with the latest features? Can the ecosystem work with the benefits of ARM and still deliver on Intel?
It’s a question that I hope Apple Paul answers when I launch ARM-based MX to the public. I am sure there will be a lot of assurance about the compatibility of new machines, their increased performance and modern design. What I want to hear – and what many potential buyers want to hear – is what is going to happen in the medium to long term with the support of Intel machines.
The 16-inch MBBook Pro is a big investment. Knowing how long Apple Pal will have full support is just as important as the specifics.
Now read more about the color keyboard Apple is thinking of for the moment …
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