Apple may have confirmed the existence of an upcoming M1X MacBook Pro. In the metadata for the WWDC21 YouTube video, Apple included the tags “M1X MacBook Pro” and “M1X.” These tags describe the contents of the video, so people can search for topics related to the video. Apple may have admitted that the M1X MacBook Pro is just around the corner, as they considered releasing it this week.
That or they only confirmed that they knew people who were looking for an M1X MacBook Pro could be interested in the WWDC21 keynote. However, going by the choices provided, including a lack of an “M2” tag, it’s quite likely that Apple is confirming the naming scheme of the next MacBook Pro’s processor. Apple’s also confirming that there was a chance they could have released it during WWDC this year. Otherwise, they would have included other popular tags for products they didn’t reveal, like the new iPad mini, or an M1X Mac Pro.
Someone at Apple likely thought, either because they were told to or because they made an assumption, that the M1X MacBook Pro was on the docket for WWDC 21. They weren’t alone. Analysts and leakers had the same impression.
Is a new MacBook Pro just around the corner?
Confirmation?
Screenshot via 9to5Mac
It’s true that Apple adding this tag seems like a confirmation. However, it’s not a guarantee. It’s true Apple can put whatever tags they want into their video, including ones that may not be directly related, but can draw in users. Still, this seems like a bit of a dishonest tactic. And, since Apple didn’t include any other superfluous tags, it seems unlikely. Apple likely only included it because, at one point, it may have been on the release list.
Analysts did believe that Apple would release the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro redesign during the WWDC keynote. After all, it wouldn’t be the first time new hardware, especially for software engineers, was revealed during WWDC. However, this year, Apple revealed no new hardware. This may have been a last minute decision.
M1X MacBook Pro
OK OK OK
Everyone stay calm… but I just spotted these tags on Apple's YouTube livestream of the June 7 keynote!!!
APPLE CONFIRMED THE M1X!!!@jon_prosser you were right after all!!!
This isn't fake, you can get the @TubeBuddy extension for YT and it shows them! pic.twitter.com/C54sBydj7u
— Max Balzer (@MaxBalzer_) June 9, 2021
It’s worth considering what the M1X MacBook Pro should represent. While there is currently an M1-powered MacBook Pro, this isn’t really a “Pro” model. It has the same processing power as the MacBook Air, and also the same screen size. There was always a version of the 13-inch MacBook Pro that is basically just the consumer-level MacBook in a MacBook Pro’s body. In the case of the M1-powered MacBook Pro, it comes with a slightly longer battery life, Touch Bar and Touch ID, and a very slightly brighter screen.
The M1X MacBook Pro is supposed to replace the high-end MacBook Pro. It would likely include slightly higher specs, or perhaps improved graphical performance. Of course, it won’t be “pro” in the way that it can build and test Android apps, use an eGPU, or boot Windows for games. It’ll still be an Apple silicon Mac, after all. It’s more “pro” in the way that Apple won’t mention that stuff. Still, it’s supposed to answer other complaints of pros.
The new MacBook Pro is supposed to bring back the useful ports Pros need, like an SD card and HDMI port. It may also bring back the MagSafe charger. This was present in MacBooks up until 2016, and fans of it have missed it. A pull on a power cable now could send your Mac toppling, while from 2006 until 2016, it just would unplug.
Due to the improved thermal performance of Apple’s processors, the new MacBook Pro can be thinner and lighter than the Intel-based MacBook Pro computers.
The “Pro” Conundrum
The fact of the matter is, not all “Pros” can use the new M-Series Macs. I can’t. There have been problems with multiple pieces of software that engineers rely on. Anything involving emulation has struggled, and even applications like Android Studio haven’t performed well. As a developer, I simply can’t upgrade. Perhaps that’s part of the reason Apple didn’t consider this “pro” enough for WWDC?
Furthermore, anyone who used their Mac as a gaming rig by booting Windows and going through the arduous process of setting up an eGPU in Windows can’t upgrade. Which I’ve also done. It wasn’t easy, but it’s a great way to have a machine for work and play.
Some graphics professionals and movie editors can upgrade without issue. But the truth is, there are many “pro” users who simply can’t use the M-Series Macs, a year after they were first announced. Adoption of Apple’s new hardware has been slow as a result. While they’re perfect for most consumers, those using their Macs for work have to be more careful. This could improve as Apple releases more Macs with their own processors, or it could become a serious problem as companies simply stop making anything for the Mac.
The M1X MacBook Pro could help Apple. Or it could just be another product that doesn’t reach the popularity of previous MacBook Pro models.