There has been a ton of rumors surrounding Apple’s MacBook line. Everyone is expecting big things from Apple this year; and there’s been a lot of talk about the MacBook being one of those things. I personally don’t care what they do with the MacBook line as long as it doesn’t turn into a toy…
Recent reports are in from Ming-Chi Kuo with KGI Securities. The Analyst predicts that Apple will throw out the 17-inch MacBook Pro, and have two models across the board. No longer will there be a MacBook Pro or a MacBook Air. The new and anticipated laptop will come in 13-inch, and 15-inch sizes and apparently combine the best qualities of both.
Apple’s Mac business in 2Q12 will be boosted by several factors. Three of which are: (1) Mountain Lion, which integrates iOS features with Mac OS, Apple TV’s interaction function, will be launched in June; (2) upgrading to Ivy Bridge; and (3) back-to-school demand. We forecast Apple will sell 5.32mn units of the Mac series (up 28.5% QoQ and 35.2% YoY) in 2Q12, making it the main growth driver.We also predict Apple will roll out a fully new MacBook model in early 3Q12, boasting strong performance and easy carryability by combining the advantages of MacBook Air and MacBook Pro.While adding new products, Apple is likely to stop making the 17” MacBook Pro this year due to falling shipments, in order to maintain a lean product line strategy.
According to Kuo the 13-inch MacBook Pro is Apple’s best selling laptop. (For obvious reasons.) But I don’t know if I sit well with them completely throwing out the 17-inch model. I can understand why they dropped the standard “MacBook” line and just stuck with the Pros. But I just don’t see the point in completely ditching a pricing tier. Especially for a computer that many professionals use.
I just really hope that Apple realizes the necessity of being able to upgrade a laptop. (I’m talking about you MacBook Air…) If they combine these models and leave us with something that just, “is the way it is,” I’m going to be upset. Just my opinion.
What do you think about the new MacBook Line?
