Apple unveils M2 Pro and M2 Max processors in the MacBook Pro and Mac Mini.

Apple has announced the release of updated 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros and a new version of the Mac Mini, all featuring the company’s latest M2 Pro and M2 Max chips. The new MacBooks promise an improved battery life of up to 22 hours and include the latest Wi-Fi 6E technology.

The M2 Pro and M2 Max chips offer significant performance upgrades over their predecessors, including 12-core CPUs, 19-core GPUs, and up to 96GB of unified memory for the M2 Max. The updated MacBook Pros and Mac Mini retain the same design as their previous versions and replace the M1, M1 Pro, and M1 Max chips.

MacBook Pro adds M2 Pro/Max.

Apple released the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro laptops in October 2021, introducing a new design with a square lid and sharp corners, a departure from the curved tops of previous models.

These latest models do not feature the touch bar interface found in earlier versions of the MacBook Pro, which is currently only available on the 2022 M2 13-inch MacBook Pro.

A major highlight of these new laptops is the improved battery life of up to 22 hours, which Apple claims are the most extended battery life ever in a Mac. The MacBook Pro also includes Wi-Fi 6E and an HDMI connection that supports 8K displays up to 60Hz and 4K displays up to 240Hz.

When processing images in Photoshop, the M2 Pro processor in these laptops provide a speed improvement of up to 40% over the M1 Pro, while the M2 Max can render effects in Cinema 4D and color grade in DaVinci Resolve up to 30% quicker than the M1 Max.

We are starting at $1,999 for the 14-inch MacBook Pro with M2 Pro and $2,499 for the 16-inch MacBook Pro with M2 Pro.

The Mac Mini receives its first update since 2020

The Mac Mini has received its first update since 2020, featuring both the M2 and M2 Pro chips. According to Apple, the M2 version boasts a 50% increase in Photoshop performance and 2.4x faster transcoding in Final Cut Pro compared to the previous M1 version.

The M2 Pro version offers even more significant performance increases, up to 4.2x faster in Final Cut Pro than the M1 Mac Mini. Additionally, this update marks the discontinuation of the Intel-based Mac Mini, leaving the Mac Pro as the only remaining Intel-based Mac available from Apple directly.

The new Mac Mini models start at $599 for the M2 version and $1,299 for the M2 Pro version and will be available for purchase beginning January 17th, with deliveries starting January 24th. Additionally, other Apple products, such as the 24-inch iMac, Mac Studio, and Mac Pro desktop, may also receive updates with M2, M2 Pro, or M2 Max chips in 2022, but it is important to note that there will be no touchscreen support.

Design Changes

The 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro laptops feature a more structured, squared-off design with a flat lid and sharp corners, rather than the gently bowed covers of previous MacBooks.

This new design is a departure from the traditional MacBook design and aims to appeal to users looking for a more modern look. These models also lack the touch bar interface of previous MacBook Pro laptops, which is only available on the 2022 M2 13-inch MacBook Pro.

Pricing and Availability

The new MacBook Pros and Mac Mini will be available starting January 17th and arriving to customers and stores on January 24th.

Depending on the area and currency, prices may change. Starting at $1,999 for the 14-inch MacBook Pro with M2 Pro and $2,499 for the 16-inch MacBook Pro with M2 Pro. Starting at $599 for the Mac Mini M2 and $1,299 for the Mac Mini M2 Pro, respectively.

Upgrade options

Customers who already own an M1 MacBook Pro or Mac Mini can upgrade to the new M2 Pro and M2 Max versions through Apple’s trade-in program, which offers a discount on purchasing a new device based on the value of their current device. Customers can also upgrade their memory and storage options through the online store or by visiting an Apple Store.

Compatibility

The new M2 Pro and M2 Max chips are compatible with macOS Monterey and later versions and will work seamlessly with other Apple devices and services such as iCloud, iMessage, and AirDrop. However, as with any new technology, there may be some compatibility issues with older software or third-party accessories, so it’s recommended to check with the developer or manufacturer before upgrading.

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