Another day, another big unveiling for tech giant Apple, as Monday it unveiled a slew of a new products, including MacBook Pro, AirPods 3 and HomePod minis.
For most consumers, the HomePod mini and maybe AirPods 3 will be the big news here, as they are more accessible to the general market. But the new MacBook Pro is the undoubted star of the Monday lineup.
Let’s take a closer look at the new product announcements, when they’ll be available, and how much they are going to set you back.
MacBook Pro
The all new Apple MacBook Pro.
Most consumers probably aren’t in need of the powerful MacBook Pro line of Apple computers. They have immense power, with typically steep price tags. But those who use them understand, you’re getting what you pay for here.
With a new set of chips – the M1 Pro and M1 Max – the newest 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro are said to be the most powerful professional-level notebook computers ever.
“We set out to create the world’s best pro notebook, and today we’re excited to introduce the all-new MacBook Pro with M1 Pro and M1 Max — a game-changing combination of phenomenal performance, unrivaled battery life, and groundbreaking features,” said Greg Joswiak, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing. “The all-new MacBook Pro adds a breathtaking XDR display, more ports like MagSafe 3, an advanced 1080p camera, and a sensational six-speaker sound system, all in a stunning new design. The new MacBook Pro simply has no equal and is by far the best pro notebook we’ve ever built.”
The chips are far more powerful. The battery life is immensely improved. The visuals and camera are extremely high-end. The ports and connections are better than ever. It’s a major step forward in notebook computing.
But what about cost and availability? Here’s the rundown from Apple:
- The new MacBook Pro models with M1 Pro and M1 Max are available to order today on apple.com/store and in the Apple Store app. They will begin arriving to customers and will be in select Apple Store locations and Apple Authorized Resellers starting Tuesday, October 26. The new 14-inch MacBook Pro model starts at $1,999 (US), and $1,849 (US) for education; the 16-inch MacBook Pro model starts at $2,499 (US), and $2,299 (US) for education. Additional technical specifications, configure-to-order options, and accessories are available at apple.com/mac.
AirPods 3
The new AirPods feature spatial audio and industry-leading sound, longer battery life, and an all-new design.
AirPods have already vaulted into the upper-echelon of headphones for many people, and Apple upped the game even more with a new design, better sound quality, and new advanced features.
“AirPods forever changed wireless headphones with their groundbreaking design, incredible sound, and magical experience,” said Greg Joswiak, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing. “We are excited to introduce the next generation of AirPods, featuring unrivaled sound through Adaptive EQ and spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, along with seamless interaction between Apple devices — making the world’s best-selling headphones even better.”
The third-generation Airpods are expected to have six hours of listening time on a single charge, with 30 hours of total listening time with the charge case time included. The new design is also expected to help improve ear comfort, and is resistant to sweat and water.
There’s also a cool new skin-detect sensor that helps your AirPods figure out if they are in your ear, instead of on your table or in your pocket.
And how much are these gonna be? It’s actually not too bad:
- AirPods (3rd generation) will be available for $179 (US) and are available to order from apple.com/store and in the Apple Store app in the US and more than 26 other countries and regions starting today, with availability in stores beginning Tuesday, October 26.
- AirPods (2nd generation) will be available at the new price of $129 (US).
HomePod Mini
HomePod mini is now available in three bold new colors: orange, yellow, and blue, in addition to white and space gray.
For fans of the virtual assistants in your home (Alexa, Siri, Google Home, etc.), Apple just made it’s HomePod a little more accessible, with the new HomePod mini.
The previous versions of HomePod were a little more bulky, and came in at higher price tags. The new mini changes that – and comes in yellow, orange or blue colors!
“HomePod mini sounds incredible, and with access to more than 90 million songs in the global Apple Music catalog and deep integration with your Apple devices, it’s the must-have smart speaker for iPhone users,” said Bob Borchers, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing. “With new vibrant colors, HomePod mini fits in even more places and delivers amazing sound, the power of Siri, and simple and secure smart home controls, all while protecting your privacy.”
If you’re an iPhone user, the connectivity of the two devices will be a game changer as well. Plus, you’ll have Siri around the house to help you do pretty much anything! She will help you with controlling your home systems, including lights and other devices, if you’re already doing those things.
And price and availability on these?
- HomePod mini will be available in yellow, orange, and blue, in addition to white and space gray, for $99 (US) from apple.com/store, in the Apple Store app, and at Apple Store locations. HomePod mini will also be available through Apple Authorized Resellers and select carriers (prices may vary).
