Apple released Updated 15" and 17" MacBook Pros--Better CPUs, Screens and Graphics

Today, Apple released updated MacBook Pros featuring the latest Intel Core 2 Duo processors to 2.4GHz, an LED-backlit screen for the 15" model, an optional 1900x1200 resolution screen on the 17" model and a change to Nvidia graphics, the GeForce 8600 GT with up to 256MB of VRAM. The new models also allow 4GB of RAM instead of just 3GB.

The new CPUs at 2.2GHz and 2.4GHz feature an increased frontside bus to 800MHz for faster RAM access. These latest Intel Core 2 Duos can also address up to 4GB of RAM. Apple claims the new 2.4GHz MacBook Pro is 50 percent faster than the original 2.16GHz MacBook Pro Core Duo at running Final Cut Pro 6 and Logic Pro 7 through the combination of improved CPUs, graphics and hard drives.

For graphics performance, Apple claims the new models are 37 percent faster running Motion, 50 percent faster running Doom3 and 57 percent faster running Quake 4 than the original 2.16GHz MacBook Pro Core Duo with ATI Radeon X1600 graphics.

There are still three standard models (two 15" and a 17") at the same three price points: $1,999, $2,499 and $2,799. The upper models get the 2.4GHz CPU, a 160GB 5400RPM hard disk drive and 256MB of graphics VRAM. The lower priced 15" model gets a 2.2GHz CPU, a smaller 120GB hard drive and 128MB of VRAM. All three get 2GB of main memory, an 8X SuperDrive with double-layer support and a choice of a glossy screen.

Among the options are a 200GB 4200RPM hard drive for the 15" model ($175 or $100), a 250GB 4200RPM hard drive for the 17" model ($150) and a high resolution 1900x1200 screen for the 17" model ($100). An extra 2GB of RAM costs $750.

The 15" model weighs 5.4lbs, a bit lighter than the 5.6lbs we recall, and the 17" model is 6.8lbs vs the 6.9 we recall. Apple is also claiming battery life of up to 6hrs for the 15" model and 5.75hrs for the 17" model.

All three models are available now and are showing 1-3 days shipping on the Apple Store. [Bill Fox]