Apple launches MacBook Pro

It’s goodbye PowerBook and hello MacBook Pro, the first portable Mac based on an Intel dual processor and running up to four times faster than its predecessor.

The processor isn’t the only difference. The computer’s casing is a smart aluminium finish, just one inch thin and weighing 5.6 pounds. It includes a built-in iSight video camera with software to take instant snaps, a brighter screen plus Apple Remote and Front Row software – first launched with the iMac back in October 2005. Apple has also introduced a new magnetic power adapter, MagSafe, which safely disconnects if there is any strain on the power cord – if it is pulled or someone accidentally falls over it.

Each MacBook Pro ships with ATI Mobility Radeon X1600 PCI Express graphics, with either 128MB or 256MB of dedicated GDDR3 graphics memory, built-in Bluetooth 2.0+EDR (Enhanced Data Rate), integrated AirPort Extreme 54Mbps 802.11g WiFi wireless networking, a scrolling TrackPad and Apple’s Sudden Motion Sensor. It doesn’t ship with an internal modem – which could be annoying for anyone on the move and away from a wireless network.

The release is slghtly delayed to update all pro applications to run with Intel processors, but you can pre-order now from the Apple Store for March shipping from £1,429. Find out more at www.apple.com/uk/macbookpro/