A new range of laptops and the third generation of AirPods were the key highlights from Apple’s latest launch event.
Chief executive Tim Cook announced Apple’s much-anticipated new Macbook Pro computers, with new screens and high-end M1 Pro and M1 Max chips, as the tech giant continues its switch from Intel.
Mr Cook also announced the third generation of AirPods, five years after they were first launched, during the live-streamed event on Monday.
Apple’s chief executive Tim Cook introduced the new laptop and earbuds during a live-streamed launch event on Monday
The new Macbooks mark the biggest change in Apple’s laptop line since 2012, with HDMI ports making a return.
The secondary OLED “touch bar” screen, which was added in 2016, has been ditched after it proved unpopular, while they will be available in bigger screen sizes.
A 14.2 inch and 16.2-inch screen will be available, alongside an upgraded 1080p webcam.
Both sizes’ have miniLED and 120Hz ProMotion technology, which has been utilised in the iPad Pro.
The new laptops mark the return of a variety of ports, including three Thunderbolt ports, HDMI, SD card slots and the Magsafe 3 magnetic charging system, which was replaced in 2016.
The body is made of 100% recycled aluminium and inside, Apple’s new M1 Pro and Max chips drive the laptops engine.
The new chips have 10-core processors which are up to 70% faster than the M1 and 16 or 32-core graphics.
The 14in and 16in MacBook Pros start at £1,899 and £2,399 respectively and will ship on 26 October.
A new desktop operating system, macOS Monterey, will be released on 25 October.
The new AirPods are the third series since Apple launched the product five years ago
The new AirPods have a similar design to the AirPods Pro, which has shorter stalks and squeeze controls.
But they will not have silicone earbud tips or active noise cancelling.
The wireless earbuds have improved speakers for better quality audio, longer battery life and a redesigned case.
The third generation will also support head-tracking for Apple’s spatial awareness surround-sound feature.
The third-generation AirPods will cost £169 and will ship on 26 October.
Apple also introduced a cheaper Apple Music plan costing £4.99 a month that can only be controlled via Siri on Apple devices.