At a virtual event on Monday at 1pm ET, the company is expected to unveil two high-end MacBook Pro laptops powered by its next-generation silicon chips. It could also introduce an update to its entry-level AirPods that looks more in line with the features of the AirPods Pro line.
Apple's event kicks off what promises to be a busy week in product launches, with several companies pushing out new gadgets before the all-important holidays season. Later this week, Google is launching its Pixel 6 phone and Samsung is hosting a mysterious press event that the rumor mill didn't even see coming.
The demand for PCs remains strong despite the shortages, however. PC shipments, including desktops and notebooks, reached 83.6 million units in the first quarter, up 13.2% from the same period last year, according to market research firm IDC.
Dan Ives, an analyst with Wedbush, said that Apple's decision to push forward with new product launches speaks to the company's confidence in getting its devices into customers hands during the holiday season despite the doomsday supply chain skeeptics. The centerpiece of this week's event is widely expected to be the MacBook. According to a Bloomberg report, MacBook Pro is set for its first major upgrade in five years. If the Event’s Unleashed tagline and the invitation application - art - which features a hyperspace version of Apple logo - are any indication, Apple will spend a good bit of time touting the MacBook Pro's speed and performance upgrades. In 2020, the company switched to a powerful in-house M1 chips for its computer lineup. Now, its MacBook Pro line is expected to get the so-called M 1 X processor that'll be even faster and more efficient than its M 1 chip. The new laptops are rumored to be available in two sizes, 14 inches and 16 inches. They are said to have thinner bezels, better displays, longer batteries and more memory options. According to TF International Securities analyst Ming-chi Kuo, who has a solid track record for predicting Apple specs, the company is also expected to ditch one of the Macbook's most controversial features: the touchbar. That small rectangular OLED touchscreen, which was introduced in 2016 replaced the row of function keys at the top of the keyboard with text prediction and shortcuts. Other MacBook Pro rumors include introducing USB-C ports, SD card slots and a MagSafe charger, the last of which was removed when Apple brought back the HDMI port to the line. Apple will also be providing its first AirPods update in two years, with no warranty period. Since their 2016 release, wireless earbuds have emerged as a startup status symbol and a runaway hit for the company. The third generation AirPods will likely borrow some features from the more premium AirPods Pro line, including shorter stems and a case with longer battery life. The pro version costs $159 and the entry-level version costs $259. Apple has long leaned on offering multiple tiers for products like its iPhones and Apple watches, often referred to as the best, better, and best model. It's possible that the new AirPods will come with active noise cancellation or spatial audio support, so the Pro line can still differentiate itself. The iPad X, the AirPods Max, is the priciest headset in the ear for Apple, $850; Apple could also launch a Mac mini Pro desktop with the M1 X chips. However, some rumors indicate a slimmer, redesigned model could be delayed until next year. Worldwide Developer Conference in June, it has yet to announce a launch date. In Safari, Apple will likely announce when users can download the next-generation software. This includes updates to FaceTime, support for AirPlay, a low-power mode and a tab-grouping feature in iOS. While the company announced new MacOS Monterrey features for its Mac computers in June at its annualWorldwide Developer Conference, it has yet to announce a launch date. Apple will likely be able to download next-generation Mac software, including updates for FaceTime, support for AirPlay, a low-power mode and tab grouping feature in Safari.