Apple Working on New MacBook Pros for Spring and Summer

In April Apple will start manufacturing a new 15-inch MacBook Pro while a new 13-inch model won’t start production till June, according to reports.

The timing fits two things. It fits with the potential release of Intel Ivy Bridge CPUs, the next generation of their Core i processors available in current MacBooks, according to MacRumors. It also means these will be available for the busy back-to-school season in mid to late summer.

(See MacBook Air Refresh Coming Soon, What We Want from Apple)

The report from DigiTimes — which has a spotty record on accuracy — says that Apple ordered more of the 13-inch models than 15-inchers while other ultrabook makers seem to have their focus on larger 14 and 15-inch models. Apple’s partners can make up to 100,000 to 150,000 MacBooks per month in the early days with higher numbers to come.

We don’t know why Apple would order more 13-inch models than 15-inch. MacRumors speculates that Ivy Bridge chip supply affects capacity.

If Apple plans to update their MacBook Pro line with a MacBook Air style design, then this change might not come till after Ivy Bridge chips ship from Intel in June.

(See Why a 15″ MacBook Air Won’t Kill the MacBook Pro)

The Digitimes report says nothing about the new MacBook Air style that other rumors claim will come to the MacBook Pro. It’s possible the difference in orders between he two sizes has nothing to do with a new Air style but rather sales figures.

If you’re thinking about getting a new MacBook Pro, we recommend you wait until the end of April unless you have to buy now for some reason.

Source: DigiTimes via MacRumors