Apple’s “Scary Fast” event this week went as expected, with Apple showcasing its next-generation Mac chips across a few product lines during a quick 30-minute presentation.
Unsurprisingly, our biggest stories this week focused on Apple’s announcements, including some early information on the updated MacBook Pro and iMac, a farewell to the Touch Bar, and more, so read on below below for all the details!
Everything Apple announced at the ‘Scary Fast’ event
Charity please! Apple held its “Scary Fast” event this week, focused entirely on the Mac. During the brief presentation, Apple announced new 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro models powered by M3, M3 Pro, and M3 Max chips, as well as an updated iMac with the M3 chip.
We’ve recapped everything Apple announced at the event for those who missed it or want to know more.
Apple announces new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models with M3 series chips
The new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models feature M3 Pro and M3 Max chips, and an entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro is now also available with the standard M3 chip.
The new MacBook Pro models come in a Space Black finish when configured with the M3 Pro or M3 Max chip, and they feature displays that are 20% brighter than the previous generation.
The new MacBook Pro models are available to order now and most configurations will launch on Tuesday, November 7.
Apple announces new iMac with M3 chip
Apple has updated the 24-inch iMac with the M3 chip for up to 35% faster performance compared to the previous model with the M1 chip.
The all-in-one desktop computer features the same design and color options as the 2021 model. There are just a few other changes with the new iMac, including support for Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3.
Contrary to rumors, the Magic Keyboard, Magic Mouse and Magic Trackpad accessories still feature Lightning instead of USB-C.
Apple discontinues 13-inch MacBook Pro with Touch Bar
Apple discontinued the 13-inch MacBook Pro after the event, meaning the Touch Bar was completely removed after seven years.
The first MacBook Pro models equipped with the Touch Bar were released in October 2016, part of a controversial redesign that also included a faulty butterfly keyboard and the removal of many connectivity options, including an SD card slot, a HDMI port and MagSafe.
First surface benchmark results for M3 chip in new Macs
The first benchmark results for the standard M3 chip and the high-end M3 Max chip appeared in the Geekbench 6 database after Apple’s event, offering a closer look at the processor’s performance improvements.
Results show that the M3 chip is about 20% faster than the M2 chip, while the M3 Max chip is as fast as the M2 Ultra chip that debuted on Mac Pro and Mac Studio desktops earlier this year.
MacBook Pro 2023 buying guide: 20+ differences compared
Are you considering purchasing one of the new 14- or 16-inch MacBook Pro models? If so, be sure to check out our detailed 2023 MacBook Pro buying guide that compares over 20 features and differences between MacBook Pro generations.
We also shared a buying guide comparing the new iMac with the M3 chip to the 2021 model with the M1 chip for those interested in this computer.
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