“MacBook Pro with Retina display continues to redefine the pro notebook”

Oct 22, 2013 19:04 GMT  ·  By

Apple today released new MacBook Pro computers with Retina displays, featuring upgraded specs and lower prices.

MacBook Pro now starts at $1,299 (€943) and packs fourth-generation Intel Core processors, new graphics, longer battery life, faster flash storage, and next-generation Wi-Fi.

The 13-inch version offers fourth-generation dual-core Intel Core i5 processors up to 2.6 GHz with Turbo Boost speeds up to 3.1 GHz, while the 15-incher uses quad-core Intel Core i7 up to 2.3 GHz with Turbo Boost speeds up to 3.5 GHz.

New integrated Iris graphics deliver up to 90 percent faster performance than the previous-generation MacBook Pro, while the 13-inch version can be pre-configured to come with dual-core Intel Core i7 processors.

Notably, the 15-inch MacBook Pro comes with 2GB of VRAM, for the most graphics-intensive applications.

Both computers now have PCIe-based flash storage with up to 60 percent faster read speeds, and next-generation 802.11ac Wi-Fi.

Battery-wise, the new Pros can last even longer on a single charge: 9 hours for the 13-inch version and 8 hours for the 15-inch model.

“We’ve made the world’s best pro notebook even better by adding more performance and even longer battery life,” said Philip Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing. “MacBook Pro with Retina display continues to redefine the pro notebook.”

Both MacBook Pros are shipping as of today pre-installed with OS X Mavericks, the latest version of Apple’s desktop operating system.

Apple today also confirmed today that all its iLife and iWork apps are now included with every new Mac purchase, free of charge.

More information on additional tech specs, build-to-order options, and accessories can be found at www.apple.com/macbook-pro.