14 DAY TRIAL // There have been quite a few rumors about further updates to the Mac line. Everything except for the iMac, for which new models were recently released, is a likely candidate and many of these rumors also mention new Mac models altogether. While most of the Mac rumors are not very compelling, a recent AppleInsider report about the Mac Pro is very convincing, especially given their track record for accurately ferreting out Apple's intentions.
It seems that Apple is sitting on a major overhaul to the Mac Pro line and all that is needed is for Intel to give the green light. The new models will be the first computers to make use of upcoming Penryn family of 45-nanometer microprocessors. This matches a report published earlier this month by the Inquirer that mentioned new 8-core configurations that employ two "Harpertown" chips.
While those intending to upgrade may jump up at the news, it could still be quite some time before these new models actually materialize. While Apple may be ready on their end, it is up to Intel to deliver enough of the new processors for Apple to be able to start a manufacturing ramp. In the case of the first ever 8-core Mac, rumor sites caught wind of the fact that Apple was ready with the new model in October, but it wasn't until five months later that they were finally unveiled. Considering the surge in Mac sales, as well as the upcoming holiday shopping season, it is less likely that it will take the two companies another five months to finally release the new Mac Pros.
Harpertown Xeons will offer approximately 45 percent more speed than the Clovertown Xeon chips available in today's Mac Pros, when it comes to bandwidth-intensive applications. While the top of the range model might be pretty clear, exactly what will be used for the entry level Mac Pros remains unclear.