The hotly anticipated Touch Bar Mac machines are here in Singapore, and they’re packed with shiny upgrades. Apple has launched two new models that are thinner and lighter than ever—a 13-inch MacBook Pro (14.9mm) and a 15-inch MacBook Pro (15.5mm).
The key features on the refreshed MacBook Pros include a context-sensitive, customizable Touch Bar that replaces the physical function key strip, giving fast access to popular commands, quick actions and your commonly used apps and programs. It’s also a powerful tool for editing media.
Touch ID makes its debut on the laptop allowing you to authorize payments, switch accounts and say goodbye to typing in long passwords.
Apple has also pumped up the battery life to 10-hours and simplified the machine’s exterior, trimming down various ports on the chassis, relying primarily on four Thunderbolt 3 ports for connectivity and power—and don’t worry, the headphone jack is still there.
The laptops are scheduled to ship in two to three weeks, and you can order them now at the Apple Store.
The 13-inch 2.9GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 MacBook Pro with Touch Bar and Touch ID costs S$2,588, while the 15-inch 2.6GHz quad-core Intel Core i7 MacBook Pro costs S$3,388. Both machines are available in Space Grey and Silver.
But wait, there’s also an entry level model…
If you’re not an early adopter, there’s another 13-inch variant available. However, it doesn’t come with the Touch Bar or Touch ID, retaining the same top level system control keys of old, but it has a dual core Intel i5 processor that’s clocked at 2.0GHz in the same new compact package. Of course, there’s the same vibrant display, new keyboard and larger trackpad, but half the number of Thunderbolt 3 ports. And yes, the headphone jack is still in this one, too.
Price-wise? You’re looking at S$2188 for 8GB memory and 256GB storage.
This story originally appeared on Stuff Singapore, bringing you what’s next in the world of tech and gadgets, with a twist.
