Introducing the Official MacBook Pro: Enhanced with M4 Pro and Max Chips, Expanded RAM, and Thunderbolt 5 for Peak Performance

Apple has launched its new MacBook Pro lineup featuring the M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max chips. These models boast enhanced performance for demanding tasks, increased RAM, Thunderbolt 5 connectivity, and an upgraded Liquid Retina XDR display. The entry-level model starts at €1,899, while more powerful versions range up to €4,099. Additional features include a high-quality 12 MP webcam, new Apple Intelligence functionalities, and a variety of connectivity options, though some features are not yet available in French.

Apple recently introduced the latest MacBook Pro models featuring the powerful M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max chips. With enhanced RAM, a stunning display, and Thunderbolt 5 connectivity, these laptops are designed to handle demanding tasks like never before.

Following the launch of the iMac M4, Apple refreshes its MacBook Pro lineup with cutting-edge M4 chip options, elevating performance standards across the board. While the new processors significantly boost speed and efficiency, other innovations have also been integrated, affirming the MacBook Pro’s status as the premier portable computer. Apple Intelligence is also enhanced and readily available.

The base model features a 14-inch display, the M4 chip, three Thunderbolt 4 ports, and a robust 16GB of RAM. Apple has shifted from offering 8GB of RAM, which was insufficient for resource-intensive tasks like video editing or AI applications. This entry-level version is priced at 1,899 euros, marking the starting point for the new MacBook Pro. Notably, there is no 16-inch model with the standard M4 chip.

Performance Redefined with M4 Pro and M4 Max Chips

For those seeking enhanced capabilities, the M4 Pro and M4 Max options are available in both 14-inch and 16-inch configurations. These advanced models feature Thunderbolt 5 ports, which offer transfer speeds exceeding 120 Gbps—more than double that of previous generations. The 14-inch MacBook Pro with the M4 Pro chip comes equipped with 16GB of RAM and is priced at 2,399 euros. The 16-inch variant steps up to 24GB of RAM, retailing for 2,999 euros. Meanwhile, the 14-inch MacBook Pro powered by the M4 Max chip includes an impressive 36GB of RAM and is priced at 3,799 euros. The 16-inch version, also with 36GB of RAM, is available for 4,099 euros.

Apple describes the M4 Pro chip as essential for professionals in research, development, engineering, and creative fields. With a 14-core CPU—comprising 10 performance cores and 4 energy-efficient cores—along with a 20-core GPU, it offers a significant leap in power compared to the standard M4. On the other hand, the M4 Max chip is optimized for high-demand users such as data scientists and 3D artists, featuring a CPU with up to 16 cores and a GPU powered by up to 40 cores, along with an NPU that is three times faster than that of the M1 Max chip and over half a terabyte per second of unified memory bandwidth.

Apple Intelligence: A Game-Changer

The updated display technology in these new models enhances visual performance. The Liquid Retina XDR display reaches a brightness of 1,000 nits for SDR content and peaks at 1,600 nits in HDR scenarios. A nano-textured screen option is available, designed to “significantly reduce reflections and disturbances”, allowing for improved outdoor usage.

All models feature a new 12 MP Center Stage webcam, which promises “improved video quality in challenging lighting conditions”. The Centered Frame functionality automatically detects and follows users, keeping them in focus during video calls. Additionally, the Desk View feature provides a unique simultaneous perspective of the user’s face and their workspace.

In terms of connectivity, the laptops are equipped with USB-C Thunderbolt 4/5 ports along with an HDMI 2.1 port, an SDXC card reader, a MagSafe 3 charging port, and a headphone jack. Wireless capabilities are supported with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, though many anticipated Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 given the pricing.

Apple continues to emphasize its AI capabilities across the new MacBook Pro range. The M4 models integrate local generative models empowering features like text generation and summarization, along with an enhanced Siri experience. New Apple Intelligence features will roll out in December, including the introduction of ChatGPT into Siri, with more updates expected in 2025. However, currently, Apple Intelligence is only accessible in English within the U.S. on macOS Sequoia 15.1, with a planned French version anticipated by April 2025.

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