All new MacBook Pro models now offer twice the standard memory and greater storage capacity than the previous Core Duo models.  All models now include a FireWire 800 port for high-speed peripheral connections and a built-in iSight video camera for video conferencing.  With a stunning, lightweight, aluminum case measuring just one-inch thin, the MacBook Pro is available in 15 inch and 17 inch models.

• “With an Intel Core 2 Duo processor, greater storage capacity and FireWire 800 connectivity, the new MacBook Pro delivers unprecedented performance and mobility in an incredibly thin and light design.”
• “We are thrilled that our notebook sales are growing twice as fast as the overall notebook market, and we hope these new MacBook Pro models continue that success.”

Each new MacBook Pro ships with Intel Core 2 Duo processors featuring 4MB of shared L2 cache, and according to Apple, is up to 39 percent faster than the previous 2.16 GHz MacBook Pro (Core Duo based) and more than seven times faster than the 1.67 GHz PowerBook G4 (PowerPC based) running industry standard benchmarks.

Apple has also announced that the world's most advanced operating system Mac OS X tiger has been enhanced to "take advantage" of the technological advances in the Intel Core 2 Duo processors.  These enhancements deliver increased performance across Apple's professional software applications such as Aperture 1.5, Final Cut Pro 5 and Logic Pro 7.  As of this posting, each new MacBook Pro ships with Mac OS X version 10.4.8 Tiger.

Key performance features include:

• 667 MHz DDR2 SDRAM memory expandable up to 3GB
• ATI Mobility Radeon X1600 graphics with up to 256MB of dedicated GDDR3 graphics memory
• Double-layer SuperDrive for burning professional-quality DVDs.

High-performance connectivity options include:

• Built-in 10/100/1000 BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet for high-speed networking
• Built-in AirPort Extreme
• Built-in Bluetooth 2.0+EDR (Enhanced Data Rate)
• One FireWire 800
• One FireWire 400 port
• Combo analog and optical digital audio input
• Combo analog and optical digital audio output ports
• ExpressCard/34 expansion card slot
• DVI video output (capable of connecting to a 30-inch Apple Cinema HD Display)

Power features include:

• Apple’s MagSafe Power Adapter
• MagSafe Airline Adapter (optional, cost $59 US)

Usage features include:

• Illuminated keyboard
• Apple’s Sudden Motion Sensor (protects hard drive in case of a fall)
• Scrolling TrackPad (for easy scrolling through web pages and large photographs)

Each new MacBook Pro ships with iLife ‘06, Apple’s award-winning suite of digital lifestyle applications featuring that include iPhoto, iMovie HD, iDVD, GarageBand and iWeb.  In addition to Mac OS x Tiger version 10.4.8, the models include Intel native versions of Apple's applications Safari, Mail, iCal, iChat AV, Front Row and Photo Booth.

Pricing & Availability

The new 15-inch MacBook Pro starts to ship on October 26, the 17-inch MacBook Pro will ship within the next week.  All models are avaiable via the online Apple Store, via Apple's retail stores, and through Apple Authorized Resellers.

2.16 GHz, 15-inch $1,999 (US) uggested retail price includes:

2.33 GHz, 15-inch - $2,499 (US) suggested retail price includes:

2.33 GHz, 17-inch - $2,799 (US) suggested retail price includes:

Additional build-to-order options for the MacBook Pro include the ability to upgrade to a 200GB (4200 rpm) or a 160GB (5400 rpm) hard drive, up to 3GB DDR2 SDRAM, Apple MagSafe Airline Adapter, Apple USB Modem, glossy widescreen display, and the AppleCare Protection Plan.

Buy yours today from the Apple Store