New Macbook Pro case redesign discussion

[waywardsage]

Its funny to read all of the theories on why there will be a case redesign are how there won't. One thing I'd like to bring up to everyone:

If a larget multi-touch trackpad is intergrated, along with a magnetic latch and the inevitble new (ugly) black keyboard design, doesn't that constitute a case redesign? The case will have to be TECHNICALLY altered to fit the large trackpad and new keyboard.

So, if any of these happen, Apple technically redesigned the case for the macbook pro!

Argue away!

[MrT8064]

hmmm, TECHNICALLY your right, but i think we are talking about laptop closed, general look... like iBook vs. MacBook!

[TEG]

We have basically been using the same case for 5 years. It is about time that we have some sort of major change. I'd like to see them make the case smaller, return the ports to the back, get rid of the dropped screen (so we can return to having 165 degrees of hinge), and I'd like to see DMS-59 added to allow for dual dual-link DVI systems and allow for two 30" screens so that it can be a true desktop replacement. I'd also like to see some more VRAM and wireless USB, and of course we will be getting Bluetooth 2.1.

TEG

[Shackler]

hmmm, TECHNICALLY your right, but i think we are talking about laptop closed, general look... like iBook vs. MacBook!

True.

ppl want a different design thats inspired by the current MBP and MBA so other will know its a new MBP that cant be mistaken for an old one. Personally i dont think that will happen until Macworld '09. maybe just a slight redesign like the OP said.

[chrisbeebops]

Personally, I like the current look of the Macbook Pro. The only things I would change would be to add a magnetic latch and upgrade the touchpad to MBA-style multi-touch. Maybe add keyboard buttons for Rewind, Pause/Play, and FF like on the current Apple Wireless Keyboard.

I think the black keyboard looks ugly in comparison to the current design.

[amoda]

I really don't want a case redesign. I love the way it is, true and tested.

I don't really understand the point of a 165 degree hinge, but if they can incorporate it in the current design then why not?

Ports in the back? No no no! I find it such a hassle when using an iMac, or whatever has ports in the back. If they did such a thing I can see my self having to constantly rotate the laptop every time I wanted to plug something in.

I don't know...I'm just not a fan of change I guess. I love the current design so I don't want it to be messed with. The only thing I wouldn't mind is a larger/smarter track pad. Not a fan of the macbook keyboard, or the magnetic latch so don't want to see either. Would it stop me from buying a new MBP? No...but it'll take me time to get used to it.

[pdechavez]

i believe the current design is what makes the macbook pro look professional. If they update the keyboard into black and seperate the keys like the MBAs, It's gonna look casual and unprofessional. Plus the keys being pressed on the current MBP feel much more comfy than the MBs and MBAs

This is all my personal opinion

[Jeremy1026]

I really don't want a case redesign. I love the way it is, true and tested.

I don't really understand the point of a 165 degree hinge, but if they can incorporate it in the current design then why not?

Ports in the back? No no no! I find it such a hassle when using an iMac, or whatever has ports in the back. If they did such a thing I can see my self having to constantly rotate the laptop every time I wanted to plug something in.

I don't know...I'm just not a fan of change I guess. I love the current design so I don't want it to be messed with. The only thing I wouldn't mind is a larger/smarter track pad. Not a fan of the macbook keyboard, or the magnetic latch so don't want to see either. Would it stop me from buying a new MBP? No...but it'll take me time to get used to it.

Or, you could close the lid, and plug in whatever...then open the lid back up.

[tuxtpenguin]

I like the current design, but depending on what the redesign looked like, I might be inclined to like that.

[omore1234]

Apple TOTALLY needs to redesign this laptop. Come on, 5 years now. I really think it looks old and they need to press towards a slimmer product. I see that people like the current design, but wouldn't you like an updated case? (not just a latch, but a new outer case?)

[BornToMac]

Lets start seeing those mock ups photoshop users!!!

[omore1234]

that would be fun!

[butterfly0fdoom]

Ports in the back? No no no! I find it such a hassle when using an iMac, or whatever has ports in the back. If they did such a thing I can see my self having to constantly rotate the laptop every time I wanted to plug something in.

The hinge design doesn't facilitate ports in the back. The hinge design is also unlikely to change.

[Salty Pirate]

Personally, I like the current look of the Macbook Pro. The only things I would change would be to add a magnetic latch and upgrade the touchpad to MBA-style multi-touch. Maybe add keyboard buttons for Rewind, Pause/Play, and FF like on the current Apple Wireless Keyboard.

I think the black keyboard looks ugly in comparison to the current design.

The keyboard may look ugly, but it is the best for typing on. Love it.

[HoldFastHope]

My bet's on this one...

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b298/seegs83/MBPUpdated.gif

[tMac85]

Or, you could close the lid, and plug in whatever...then open the lid back up.


yea then sit with a **** ton of cords poking into your knees. people LOVE that. i think apple knows what they are doing when they designed the ports on the side. they do things for a reason!

[stevegmu]

I like this mock-up-

[EarthDawn]

I like this mock-up-

Clean and still classic. I have seen this before and love the overall look.

[tMac85]

I like this mock-up-

i like it to, but there are a good number of image flaws. Bezel is WAY to wide. What is this the 16.4 inch MBP and one extra wide speaker. I dont know about you all but i like my sound balanced out... and those are not standard port.

im just being picky. i do love the design of that.

[omore1234]

I like this mock-up-

I LOVE This mock-up. Powerful and going towards the MBA thinlyness

[Whorehay]

I like this mock-up-

Wow. That is a clean look. I can see that coming in a couple of years once the MBA technology trickles to the MBP!

[tip]

Some quick thoughts:

1. It WON'T be thinner (at least not substantially). Compare the MBP to its competition - it's already thin and can't get thinner due to its components (namely drives). It'll likely be the same as it is now.

2. I DOUBT it will have a magnetic latch. The 15" and 17" screens are bigger, so you'll need something that a) is strong enough to keep it closed (and not accidentally open), and b) weak enough to not warp the screen when opening. We all know the warped edge problems the MBP has/had. Still, it could be possible, but we're only seeing it on 13" laptops right now.

3. The "separated keys" keyboard will probably happen. It's on all of Apple's lineup right now, including the desktops. Personally, I think they're looking outdated already, particularly since other vendors are copying the design.

4. The MBP "look" really emphasizes Apple's branding. I'm thinking it probably won't change for quite some time - if so, it'll be only subtle.

[paul.b.davis]

who needs a hinge that can go back that far?? I do not think Apple will ever do away with the dropped screen hinge.

[omore1234]

who needs a hinge that can go back that far?? I do not think Apple will ever do away with the dropped screen hinge.

agreed

[waterskier2007]

... return the ports to the back...
TEG

why would you want the ports in teh back. talk about inaccessible

[skiffx]

why would you want the ports in teh back. talk about inaccessible

Well I suppose when you use your computer as a desktop replacement it's better when you dont have cables sticking out from the sides because it ruins the clean look, as oppose to when they are connected in the back....

[steinlager]

I personally just want a colour redesign: anodized black (as a BTO option of course for those who don't want it to look like a blackbook).

[TEG]

why would you want the ports in teh back. talk about inaccessible

Because I want everything flowing out the back and onto the desk, especially when I'm short of desk width. I really hate having ports coming out of the side of any computer, and can barely stand front ports. It also allows for easy-to-use docking stations to be developed, and makes it much easier to carry the computer around with things attached to the back (by squeezing one end with the hand and pressing it agains one's chest). One of the biggest reasons I have not moved from my TiBook 667 is the side ports.

TEG

[stevegmu]

Because I want everything flowing out the back and onto the desk, especially when I'm short of desk width. I really hate having ports coming out of the side of any computer, and can barely stand front ports. It also allows for easy-to-use docking stations to be developed, and makes it much easier to carry the computer around with things attached to the back (by squeezing one end with the hand and pressing it agains one's chest). One of the biggest reasons I have not moved from my TiBook 667 is the side ports.

TEG

Yeah, but it is meant to be a lap-top, not a desk-top.

[waterskier2007]

Yeah, but it is meant to be a lap-top, not a desk-top.

exactly

[TEG]

Yeah, but it is meant to be a lap-top, not a desk-top.

WRONG. It is a notebook, not a laptop. Notebooks are portable computers.

TEG

[Ahboyd]

Here is what I think for realistic MBP case redesign.

- it will be thinner but still has the optical drive
- possibly Blue-Ray, since HD-DVD already lost the format war
- more curvy case design like MBA. This is like a new design language for Apple. You can see these in iMac and MBA, already.
- MBA like keyboard
- still the same hinge
- ports still on the sides
- multi-touch track pad
- bluetooth 2.1
- magnetic latch

I bet that when the new MBP came out, it will be redesigned. Think about it! Took them this long to have a new update.

[holland]

WRONG. It is a notebook, not a laptop. Notebooks are portable computers.

TEG

Not wrong. A notebook is a laptop. They are the same thing but people call them by different names.

[holland]

Here is what I think for realistic MBP case redesign.

- it will be thinner but still has the optical drive
- possibly Blue-Ray, since HD-DVD already lost the format war
- more curvy case design like MBA. This is like a new design language for Apple. You can see these in iMac and MBA, already.
- MBA like keyboard
- still the same hinge
- ports still on the sides
- multi-touch track pad
- bluetooth 2.1
- magnetic latch

I bet that when the new MBP came out, it will be redesigned. Think about it! Took them this long to have a new update.

Good ideas but thinner wouldn't happen because it needs to be thick enough for the video cards. The Blu-Ray *probably* won't happen yet they are pretty expensive and if they add them to the Macbook Pro it is BTO because they aren't worth paying that much just for 1080p. The other ideas are pretty good and hopefully we'll see soon.

[stevegmu]

For those of us over 30, any portable computer with a full-size keyboard is a lap-top.

[Fuchal]

For those of us over 30, any portable computer with a full-size keyboard is a lap-top.

Thats what it is for anyone who doesnt want to start an argument :)

[omore1234]

Think about it! Took them this long to have a new update.

I want to believe you so bad! I'm going to cross my fingers.:D

[appleman1974]

I like this mock-up-
Is this thinner ? is there going to be a big difference in weight? I wonder if they can knock at least 1 pound off, I would love to see a Macbook air 15" without comprimising power and yes get rid of the drive it realy is not needed

[omore1234]

maybe we should do a poll about if there will be a case redesign or not. 1. being the same overall design.. (with a mag latch &/or new track pad) or... 2 being an overhaul new shape and new design (also with mag latch &/or trackpad)....

[bakerster]

I personally want out of the new macbook pros :

1. Penryn T9300
2. Black Anodized Aluminum (Moving from Blackbook)
3. Multi-Touch Trackpad

[nickXedge]

Okay, I don't own a Macbook Pro and don't plan on buying one anytime soon, but I am still interested in this topic. I have a silly question. Isn't the case of the MBP aluminum? If it is, wouldn't a magnetic latch technically make the entire case a magnet and thus rendering any internal hard drive useless? Again, I'm not a MBP owner, so don't flame me, I'm perfectly fine with being wrong, I don't know a lot about it.

[dantherevelator]

Aluminum is nonferrous (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferrous_and_non-ferrous_metals), so that won't be a problem.

[nickXedge]

Aluminum is nonferrous (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferrous_and_non-ferrous_metals), so that won't be a problem.

Ahh. That makes sense. Thanks for clearing that up for me. I figured I had to be wrong if no one else brought up that point yet.

[mbrydone]

I personally want out of the new macbook pros :

1. Penryn T9300
2. Black Anodized Aluminum (Moving from Blackbook)
3. Multi-Touch Trackpad

as an option the black could be cool, but I think the look of the MBP is so sleek in silver...

[jasper4]

is there any possibilities we may be seeing a multi-touch screen in the next design?

[ageha]

A black keyboard combined with a silver case is indeed ugly. Anyway I hope they re-design the speakers. The large grids on both sides are even more ugly.
All in all it could be more edgy. I don't like it too curvy like some cheep Taiwanese designs or something from the 80s.
I also hope they do a better hinge. The current one is bad. I want more freedom of movement.

[niemo810]

WRONG. It is a notebook, not a laptop. Notebooks are portable computers.

TEG

shut up, please.

[dj420118]

Multi-Touch track pad is key in the next *major* update. I hope it comes soon cause that would sure make me jump on it

[k2spitfire88]

I'm hoping for the magnetic latch, and maybe a 12 or 13 inch!

[tremendous]

ports on the back? i don't think so.

[stevenfarrisohi]

I am a MAC newbie - I am waiting for the new MBP update and I will buy one. The current model is so sturdy and I love the keyboard. Other than adding some beveled edges and good looking curves -- I hope they do not change too much.

[ageha]

I am a MAC newbie - I am waiting for the new MBP update and I will buy one. The current model is so sturdy and I love the keyboard. Other than adding some beveled edges and good looking curves -- I hope they do not change too much.

It is "sturdy"? :D

[Tom McMahon]

Screw anodizing, I want one MIL Spec hard coated! THAT would be cool.

Seriously, I'm hoping they change the keyboard/panel, and nothing else (visually). AND, I hope that panel will fit on the current SR MBP (I really like the MBA keyboard).

[omore1234]

I have a macbook and am ready to update to a MBP. The main app I would be using would be AutoCAD (for interior design). Since design is practically what I do for a living, I am really hoping for something A-MAZING in the form aspect of the MBP. Here's to hoping for something edgy and striking :rolleyes:

[skiffx]

Yeah, but it is meant to be a lap-top, not a desk-top.

well the 17" one isnt really a laptop laptop, its more of a desktop replacement :cool:

[a456]

... the inevitble new (ugly) black keyboard design ...

Strangely familiar black keyboard design I would say:

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/2c/15-inch-titanium-powerbook.jpg

[skiffx]

Strangely familiar black keyboard design I would say:

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/2c/15-inch-titanium-powerbook.jpg

yiikess, looks kinda dated :) Also its about freaking time they add right click function and not just that one big button....Its one thing Apple can admit to being wrong on and start getting with the program, instead of the mighty mouse bs..

[tMac85]

yiikess, looks kinda dated :) Also its about freaking time they add right click function and not just that one big button....Its one thing Apple can admit to being wrong on and start getting with the program, instead of the mighty mouse bs..

this was a previous apple computer.

thats why it looks dated.

they wont ever put 2 click buttons on the track pad.

its called the 2 finger click. takes no more time to do.

[skiffx]

this was a previous apple computer.

thats why it looks dated.

they wont ever put 2 click buttons on the track pad.

its called the 2 finger click. takes no more time to do.

I stand corrected :)

[Krz2os]

^^ Looks identical to my sisters dell.... identical

[pksweedflame]

If it is going to be thinner, incorporate a multi-touch trackpad, a black MB-style keyboard, a magnetic latch, curvy shape, black-option, what incentive is there for people to buy the newly-introduced macbook air?

there's only a small difference in price between the MBP and the MBA and they attract different audiences - the 'pro' market and the 'ultra-portable' market.

I don't think Apple is going to make a Macbook Pro-Air, because:

a) It will affect MBA sales;

b) It will be bloody expensive if there was one, considering the specs VS price comparison on the MBA - thinnovation comes at a price.

So I'd say the case re-design will be minor, just enough to incorporate multi-touch, especially seeing the patent application for the advanced multi-touch interface.

[MIDI_EVIL]

They don't need to update it because it "looks old..." (why does it matter anyway? a computer is for productivity)

I think the PowerBook/MBP design is an absolute classic, and I don't care about a redesign, only one that would include more practical or logical advancements.

User upgradeable HD, magnetic latch, wireless-anti-spillage force field.

For me the trackpad and keyboard are perfect, beautiful to use.

[Rivix]

Don't get me wrong, the Macbook Pro is beautiful, but when HP and Dell start comming out with just as beautiful laptops, its time for Apple to improve.

[bananas]

here's my quick and dirty mockup of what I expect the next MBP to be like.

- bit slimmer
- MBA touchpad
- new keyboard
- about the same footprint
- magnetic latch

http://vanilja.org/mac/mbp.jpg


the latter of my mockups is even quicker and dirtier ;)

http://vanilja.org/mac/quickndirty2.jpg

[BBCWatcher]

1. User swappable hard disk, like the MacBook.
2. 2 GB of RAM on the main board, still with user accessible memory slots, for 6 GB maximum (using 2 GB SO-DIMMs).
3. Optional Blu-ray on the 17 inch model.
4. 7mm Superdrive on the 15 inch model (for a slimmer, lighter machine).
5. Right angle MagSafe power connector (like the MBA).

[omore1234]

here's my quick and dirty mockup of what I expect the next MBP to be like.

- bit slimmer
- MBA touchpad
- new keyboard
- about the same footprint
- magnetic latch

http://vanilja.org/mac/mbp.jpg


the latter of my mockups is even quicker and dirtier ;)

http://vanilja.org/mac/quickndirty.jpg

:p:p I LOVE IT

[wentwj]

i like speculation as much as the next guy, but I don't see why people are expecting to the machine to be any thinner.

It's already coming in at 1" right? How thin are you guys expecting? Anything under an inch will cannibalize the MBA market (since the MBAs main advantage is the thinness)

I'd REALLY like to see a keyboard update, and since everything else with an apple logo on it comes with the new keyboard i'm hopeful. To be honest i could care less if the multi-touch came in this rev or next, though obviously it'd be better with it.

I just don't see apple making hte MBP any thinner than it already is

[thejadedmonkey]

It's already coming in at 1" right? How thin are you guys expecting? Anything under an inch will cannibalize the MBA market (since the MBAs main advantage is the thinness)

No, but I can see Apple giving the MBA a firewire chip, a 2nd USB port, and discontinuing the MB lineup all together.

[jus407]

http://vanilja.org/mac/quickndirty2.jpg

I really like it!!! good job!!!!

[Salty Pirate]

That is kick ass. I like the taper on the side view. Very jonathan ive

[BaronvdB]

i'd buy it!

[MacBookJoePro]

hmm.. I think i'd buy that too.. That picture looks pretty good!

-JoE

[haner]

That is kick ass. I like the taper on the side view. Very jonathan ive

eh.. looks like the clamshell, not very professional looking, kind of girly (like a compact). I like my MBP just the way it is.

[tip]

I like the pic as well, but it looks like what a 15" MBA might look like - I don't believe the next MBP would look like that. The MBP will have its own styling cues and be separate from the MBA line (on a similar note, same goes for the MB - the next MB will not look like a 13" MBP). And unless SuperDrives shrink and unless the MBP adopts iPod drives, it will not be any thinner - it's fine as it is compared to other 15"/17" laptops.

[jus407]

I could see the MBP getting thinner everyone has forgotten that they now use the new LED LCD backlit screens which are thinner than the previous LCD screens so they could very well take off .1 inches or .05 inches making the new marketting campaign 'now under 1 inch thin' or something of the like

[alisonkay2008]

Redesign your Macbook Pro with Macbook Pro Case (http://www.macbook-pro-case.com). I got one and it's pretty good.

[marco007]

Hi
i have one question :)
if i buy MBP penryn topcase with multi-touch trackpad
does it work with my MBP mid 07 ?

[mbrydone]

I like the pic as well, but it looks like what a 15" MBA might look like - I don't believe the next MBP would look like that. The MBP will have its own styling cues and be separate from the MBA line (on a similar note, same goes for the MB - the next MB will not look like a 13" MBP). And unless SuperDrives shrink and unless the MBP adopts iPod drives, it will not be any thinner - it's fine as it is compared to other 15"/17" laptops.

THANK YOU!!! if anyone wants to complain about their MBP being to thick, then look at any windows user out there, my MB is thinger then the keyboard part of my friends brand new HP 13", how sad is that!!!

[Zephgx]

here's my quick and dirty mockup of what I expect the next MBP to be like.

- bit slimmer
- MBA touchpad
- new keyboard
- about the same footprint
- magnetic latch


the latter of my mockups is even quicker and dirtier ;)

http://vanilja.org/mac/quickndirty2.jpg

Pretty much what i had in my mind, just need to modify the magsafe like the MBA then it's perfect! :D

[JWest]

Here's one of my original redesigns (I made this one before the Penryn MBP's came out):

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2127/2266848793_60b54bc11d_o.jpg

What's different:

- New Keyboard
- Larger trackpad
- Magnetic Latch
- IR port is now in line with the optical drive (ala Mac Mini)
- Power indicator light is now hidden like the iSight light (sort of "behind the aluminum" if that makes any sense)

[MikeyTree]

What's different:

- New Keyboard
- Larger trackpad
- Magnetic Latch
- IR port is now in line with the optical drive (ala Mac Mini)
- Power indicator light is now hidden like the iSight light (sort of "behind the aluminum" if that makes any sense)

I expect that the case with plastic rims will be replaced with a solid metal design. The MBA and the new Ipod Classic use joined metal cases that don't have plastic rims.

I also wouldn't be surprised if there was a cosmetic change to the speaker grilles.

[danvan21]

lets be honest, apple is not going to update the macbook pro, ever. the design is great how it is. Apple will just put out a new line of computer and not make a style change to the MBP

[alphaod]

Nice job bumping a 2 week old thread.

[Rivix]

http://vanilja.org/mac/quickndirty2.jpg

I love that too. I just hope they come in June...

[alphaod]

I love that too. I just hope they come in June...

I think that is ugly design.

[puke]

I think that is ugly design.

I like the one they are currently using (2.4ghz penryn) tyhe normal Macbook pro design, I dont get what people have against it. its slim and slender. Its HOT, and its a great machine. Tbh, I agree with the quoted, the one you have mocked up looks ugly (good job workin on it, but still not as hot as the Macbook pro current design)

[alphaod]

I like the one they are currently using (2.4ghz penryn) tyhe normal Macbook pro design, I dont get what people have against it. its slim and slender. Its HOT, and its a great machine. Tbh, I agree with the quoted, the one you have mocked up looks ugly (good job workin on it, but still not as hot as the Macbook pro current design)

I was hoping the Air was a thinner flat version of the MBP in Al.

[PDE]

I also like the MBA tapered bottom case - it makes it easy to lift up and move around. The MBP doesn't have any space to put your fingers under.

[JWest]

I think that is ugly design.

QFT

[kockgunner]

http://vanilja.org/mac/quickndirty2.jpg

That is amazing!

[Gang]

I wish apple to change the key board like a MBA. That's it

[waywardsage]

This design may be the "new direction" if the Macbook Air is the new roadmap for notebook design. But tapering a larger notebook like the MBP makes it look like a Compaq or a Toshibia from 10 years ago!

[kockgunner]

This design may be the "new direction" if the Macbook Air is the new roadmap for notebook design. But tapering a larger notebook like the MBP makes it look like a Compaq or a Toshibia from 10 years ago!

i think we're gonna start seeing a lot of tapered laptops (Mac or not) after the Air.

[mox123]

i just got the 2.4GHz Penryn 15" MBP a couple days ago after the hard drive of my 7-month old MB crashed!!!! I decided to take this opportunity to upgrade back to the 15" form factor, cuz frankly i think the keyboard on the MB (and presumably the same one on MBA) feels really CHEAP and PLASTIC....I REALLY hope that they will NOT switch the keyboard of the current MBP to the one on MBA....

[beisball28]

the one thing that i cant stand on the current MBP is the plastic around the edges. I think for the next revision they should get rid of those and make it all aluminum like the MBA or any generation iPod.

Other than that i would like a new MBA keyboard and a Mag latch... but the MAIN thing i want would be a better display... 1680x1050 on a 15.4"? that would be the best upgrade they could make as Apple is one of the few leading computer companies who dont offer that configuration

[darwinian]

Tapered is definitely going to be a target, though I am sure I've seen it on PC laptops for awhile. Obviously, none have been as high profile (har-har) as the MBA.

Regarding design changes on the Pro, I'd do black or dark grey anodized Al, push to make the display bezel even thinner, go to a 3-point magnetic latch, user replaceable HDD in addition to memory, side loading (BD) optical drive.

Thinner? I think we've hit a stable point here at 1", honestly, but if they can figure out how to eliminate case flex, that will be good as well. I agree that they should find a way to lose the plastic duotone edge. I think they kbd is in need of an update, but NOT to the MB board. If there were a way to put a hard cover over the display like some of the PC laptops, I'd be happy about that. Oh, and I'd love to hit that 5 lb mark once again.

I think the design is more like 7 years old (It is similar in many respects to the TiBooks, though there are obviously big differences between the two -- enough to call it a major revision? I can see how some will successfully argue yes, but I think it's too close to call.)

[alanlindsay]

BTW, according to the apple website, MBPs got Bluetooth 2.1 with the penryn update,
http://www.apple.com/macbookpro/specs.html

[GradientMac]

I love that mockup that was posted- but there's one thing I HATE about the Macbook Pro's design. I CAN'T STAND the speaker grills and the power button! It looks tacky!

[mojohanna]

Multi-Touch track pad is key in the next *major* update. I hope it comes soon cause that would sure make me jump on it

Its already got the multi-touch track pad......

"Features

Multi-Touch trackpad.

The amazing Multi-Touch technology now comes to MacBook Pro in the all-new, Multi-Touch trackpad. Pinch, swipe, or rotate to enlarge text, advance through photos, or adjust an image. Learn more"
From Apple's website.

[trojanvillage]

What i wanna see:

-No Optical Drive! (Most of us use it maybe every 2-3 months?) It's weighing us down.
-Removable Optical Drive, same as MacBook Air.
-Flip down latch for DVI port, USB, Firewire
-MacBook Air styling: semi-curved edges, thinner display, "thinner at the front" shaping, yet more professional look.
-Magnetic Latch
-BTO internal secondary hard drive
-Keep keys the same but larger track pad.
-High-Def display standard on all

[tMac85]

What i wanna see:

-No Optical Drive! (Most of us use it maybe every 2-3 months?) It's weighing us down.
-Removable Optical Drive, same as MacBook Air.
-Flip down latch for DVI port, USB, Firewire
-MacBook Air styling: semi-curved edges, thinner display, "thinner at the front" shaping, yet more professional look.
-Magnetic Latch
-BTO internal secondary hard drive
-Keep keys the same but larger track pad.
-High-Def display standard on all


they wont get rid of the optical drive for a while. not for a couple of years. if you want a light weight small mac...GET THE AIR. the MBP is a pro machine, and a lot of people need the optical drive. the MBP isnt a machine for internet surfing and email checking. i personally load a lot using the optical ..in a way it ads to the laptops combination of a desktop and laptop in one..

otherwise i agree with everything else you listed.

[Gang]

Wish it will redesign in june. that's it

[beisball28]

judging by the story on the front page of MacRumors today, we will have a redesign

CMON HD screen! mag latch!

[hotsauce]

Please Apple, no taper! Just thinner.

[keehun]

This is actually a very good mock up. I would buy it. Depends on specs, but if its same or better as current macbook for same price, I'd buy it.

[jjahshik32]

You never know that the new redesign could be not as good as the current aluminum ones and the current ones will be more desired! :cool:

But then its more likely to backfire and the new design will be highly desired hehe

[keehun]

You never know that the new redesign could be not as good as the current aluminum ones and the current ones will be more desired! :cool:

But then its more likely to backfire and the new design will be highly desired hehe

That is very true. I personally hate the new imac design. Glossy screen? wtf? I bought the white intel dual core imac just right before the refresh. I'm really happy. It seems like Apple put in crappy screens (TN instead of SIP-S)

So just because I didn't buy the refreshed version, I got SIP-S screen, Matte (I love matte screens) and almost same features except for graphics, which Radeon X1600 is proving to be enough for me. I do a little bit graphics, but large amounts of web development and desktop development. I love this iMac and I think I'd regret getting the new one. But I think Macbook is poised for a very good refresh. Apple, I think, learned a lot while making the Air.

[jjahshik32]

It seems like Apple put in crappy screens (TN instead of SIP-S)


I didnt like the new design of the imacs as well but recently I grew to like them.. but as for the S-IPS screens.. the newer imacs uses a better type of panel the H-IPS which is superior in many ways than the S-IPS but surely they do NOT use TN panels.

Not to be rude but seems like it backfired on you on this one and while you got to keep the older imac design that you like better but you were stuck with an inferior screen as to the newer imacs. I think I read around that only the older 24" imac does have the S-IPS panels.

There's a thread about this as well here and many other places http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=345288

According to this thread the older imacs used an S-PVA which is basically is a TN panel inferior to the apple cinema displays that uses the S-IPS lcd panels but the newer imacs uses a H-IPS which is superior to the older imacs as well as the apple cinema displays. I wished the cinema displays would get bumped up to H-IPS panels + led backlighting!!

I've seen the new imac screens (I personally like matte but the glossy on those H-IPS does look gorgeous).

[landis]

one thing that i would like to see is a bto optical drive for people who either want another hard drive or more battery. and if they were interchangeable on the fly, that would really make this a pro machine

up to 1 terabyte storage - 2 500 gb drives
or 1 hard drive and one ssd

up to 10 hours battery life - 2 batteries

possibility of blue ray - file storage and movies

or if they could make some special thing that had a battery and ssd in one component?

those are impressive specs, even if they do cost more for each component, it would be worth it.

sometimes you need different things for different jobs

[jjahshik32]

one thing that i would like to see is a bto optical drive for people who either want another hard drive or more battery. and if they were interchangeable on the fly, that would really make this a pro machine


That would be cool to do that but I think there is a 3rd party installer that can do this right now for you to swap out your optical drive to make room for another hdd.

But then that's what e-sata card is for on the macbook pro + a nice external 2.5" hdd with e-sata.

[darwinian]

one thing that i would like to see is a bto optical drive for people who either want another hard drive or more battery. and if they were interchangeable on the fly, that would really make this a pro machine

up to 1 terabyte storage - 2 500 gb drives
or 1 hard drive and one ssd

up to 10 hours battery life - 2 batteries

possibility of blue ray - file storage and movies

or if they could make some special thing that had a battery and ssd in one component?

those are impressive specs, even if they do cost more for each component, it would be worth it.

sometimes you need different things for different jobs

The last time they went with this model was the Pismo PowerBooks (ahh, the collective sigh from former owners). It was actually great -- I did the 2 batteries and consistently got some 8 h out of the laptop on the road, insanely useful. Swap in a SuperDisk (http://tinyurl.com/3upbyq) drive (haha) or another HDD easily. I would certainly not mind that, especially in a market today that's sure to see more 3rd party options for that second bay. The possibilities for the proper expansion bay would be endless. All within a 1" frame would be even sweeter. That would be plenty innovative to me, and I would welcome to return of flexibility.

[R34]

you think they will keep the ports open as they are? or have a MBA style flip down port door.

[landis]

yeah i agree that apple has been restricting on what people can do with their laptops, so an expansion bay and more ports (esata) would really open it up to more possibilities

[paul.b.davis]

The last time they went with this model was the Pismo PowerBooks (ahh, the collective sigh from former owners). It was actually great -- I did the 2 batteries and consistently got some 8 h out of the laptop on the road, insanely useful. Swap in a SuperDisk (http://tinyurl.com/3upbyq) drive (haha) or another HDD easily. I would certainly not mind that, especially in a market today that's sure to see more 3rd party options for that second bay. The possibilities for the proper expansion bay would be endless. All within a 1" frame would be even sweeter. That would be plenty innovative to me, and I would welcome to return of flexibility.Knowing Apple's design abilities, they could almost certainly make a swappable bay without detracting from the look and feel of the machine, but the big question is whether or not they will ever do it again.

[VSLRA]

Do you think the new Macbook Pro will get any hardware updates but Montevina? Like new graphic card, DDR3, etc.?

[andrewdale]

More ports. Not necessarily more USB, but another FW400 or 800. Heck, give me 2 or 3 FW800 ports and I'll get a converter to got o FW400. eSata I'm really not that worried about, one can just get an Express Card. I'm just not sure how many more ports they can fit on there and make iet thinner and make everyone else happy. They have to stop somewhere!

However, I have to have an optical drive. So, I hope they don't just get rid of it.

one thing that i would like to see is a bto optical drive for people who either want another hard drive or more battery. and if they were interchangeable on the fly, that would really make this a pro machine

up to 1 terabyte storage - 2 500 gb drives
or 1 hard drive and one ssd

up to 10 hours battery life - 2 batteries

possibility of blue ray - file storage and movies

or if they could make some special thing that had a battery and ssd in one component?

those are impressive specs, even if they do cost more for each component, it would be worth it.

sometimes you need different things for different jobs

Personally, I think this would be awesome. I wouldn't personally care about having another HDD, as I've got massive amounts of storage in external HDs, but being able to hot-swap between a battery and an optical drive would be great. I just wonder if it would have to be a little thicker or a little uglier teo make that possible. any ideas?

[darwinian]

you think they will keep the ports open as they are? or have a MBA style flip down port door.

MBA style - I sincerely hope not. Hopefully they know that MBP users will be up in arms, considering the relative inaccessibility of those ports to ALL plug sizes. I was annoyed however when Apple did move to the completely doorless design, so I personally would not mind some coverage - perhaps doors that sit flush with the body when closed, made of Aluminum, and most importantly have a solid connection that won't break. I am sure they've played with sliding doors and more flip downs, but they could and should do something. However, there's something to be said for the simplicity of exposed ports.

Knowing Apple's design abilities, they could almost certainly make a swappable bay without detracting from the look and feel of the machine, but the big question is whether or not they will ever do it again.

Agreed. I fear that Jobs too often errs on the side of perceived simplicity at the expense of function, but we shall see.

Do you think the new Macbook Pro will get any hardware updates but Montevina? Like new graphic card, DDR3, etc.?

My money is on little updates across the line as the prices become manageable for their profit margins (larger HDD, updated graphics), but I wouldn't expect terribly drastic hardware upgrades (latest and greatest). I'm happy when the increase the bus speed.

[tMac85]

you think they will keep the ports open as they are? or have a MBA style flip down port door.

no, because that door was only because there are no 'sides' to the Air. The door is just something that will soon break after time on the air, they wouldnt incorporate that into the pro, there are just to many ports on the MBP. Think of how big that door would be.

[cnote678]

here's my quick and dirty mockup of what I expect the next MBP to be like.

- bit slimmer
- MBA touchpad
- new keyboard
- about the same footprint
- magnetic latch

http://vanilja.org/mac/mbp.jpg


the latter of my mockups is even quicker and dirtier ;)

http://vanilja.org/mac/quickndirty2.jpg

AWESOME MOCKUPS. ME WANT!

[valvehead]

I personally just want a colour redesign: anodized black (as a BTO option of course for those who don't want it to look like a blackbook).

I'd go for a flat black, hard-coat tool anodize. It's very hard to scratch. My friend has made a few aluminum guitars with that finish. He beats the hell out of his guitar, and it has hardly any marks.

[masse]

I want it thicker...with better cooling :)

[wchong]

I want it thicker...with better cooling :)

liquid cooling w/ external reservoir?:p

[mox123]

i want one built in carbon fiber...now that would truly distinguish it from the rest of the aluminum line-up and re-assert its pro status!

[kgeier82]

its currently a timeless design. it looks as good as it did 5 years ago!

can you say that about a 2003 car? probably not :)

I for one think apple will wait till Blueray is cheaper/ more popular. They can role that update into a new chassis, and make it a huge HI-DEF Professional laptop. @ this point nehalem will be out, and itll go in, along with wimax, and blah.

i hope they wait. Im waiting at least a year to upgrade my new penny :) this time.

[kgeier82]

More ports. Not necessarily more USB, but another FW400 or 800. Heck, give me 2 or 3 FW800 ports and I'll get a converter to got o FW400. eSata I'm really not that worried about, one can just get an Express Card. I'm just not sure how many more ports they can fit on there and make iet thinner and make everyone else happy. They have to stop somewhere!


every single FW400/800 enclosure ive bought has had two ports on the back for daisy chaining. what point does having more than one port on the laptop have for me? zilch.

id like to really see higher resolutions in the 15", maybe the larger MBA trackpad, and MBA-like curves. after all SEX sells!

[Tallest Skil]

Rear ports: Nope.
Anodized black: Maybe.
Thinner: Yep.
Blu-ray: Not before the Mac Pro.
Black keyboard: Maybe.
Two buttons: Nope. (can I get a never?)

[Chairman Plow]

Rear ports: Nope.
Anodized black: Maybe.
Thinner: Yep.
Blu-ray: Not before the Mac Pro.
Black keyboard: Maybe.
Two buttons: Nope. (can I get a never?)

Agreed. Anodized aluminum (back satin in particular) would be exceptionally nice... But that would be the only way I could deal with the black keyboard. I like the clean, uniform look when I open the MBP. Simple, yet elegant. :cool:

[MattZani]

1680 x 1050 BTO On 15"
Colour Combinations (Silver and Black mix)
Blu-Ray BTO
user upgradable Hdd
Larger track pad
More curved MBA Design

[alphaod]

1680 x 1050 BTO On 15"
Colour Combinations (Silver and Black mix)
Blu-Ray BTO
user upgradable Hdd
Larger track pad
More curved MBA Design

I would prefer not to have the MBA trackpad. Sure big is nice, but the MBA button is so darn small. I keep missing it every time I click. Sure I can tap, but I like clicking, especially for right clicks.

[ayeying]

MBA Style except with 2x USB ports, Micro-DVI -> DVI/VGA is fine as long as the cords are free.
9600GT Video Card 512MB or ATi's 4600? Is there a 4600? Something mid-high range current vid card w/ 512MB ram.
4x DDR2-800 Memory Slots for 8GB Ram (Really need this one. lol)
1680x1050 Resolution would be nice since it'll match up with my external
5+ Hr Battery life (Please?)

I'm not picky. lol

[mox123]

its currently a timeless design. it looks as good as it did 5 years ago!

can you say that about a 2003 car? probably not :)

I for one think apple will wait till Blueray is cheaper/ more popular. They can role that update into a new chassis, and make it a huge HI-DEF Professional laptop. @ this point nehalem will be out, and itll go in, along with wimax, and blah.

i hope they wait. Im waiting at least a year to upgrade my new penny :) this time.

the 2003 E-class still looks nice and is pretty much the same E-class they are selling right now in 2008 and next year also....

[butterfly0fdoom]

4x DDR2-800 Memory Slots for 8GB Ram (Really need this one. lol)

IIRC, Intel's mobile chipsets can't address more than 4GB.

[atsang]

I'd love a modular hot-swappable optical drive with 2nd battery/hd option. I had an ASUS that was 1" thick with the modular design and I loved it. I got 10 hours off the 2 batteries, and rarely ever used the optical drive. I also had a 100gb hd on a tray that snapped into the modular slot too.

[ayeying]

IIRC, Intel's mobile chipsets can't address more than 4GB.

The Intel PM/GM965 chipset is more then capable of addressing 8GB ram.

[ntrigue]

My requests:

1) HDMI Output (Feels like ten years ago lining-up the DVI cable)
2) 12/13" and slightly thinner (Will sacrifice Superdrive)
3) Black Anodized
4) Magnetic Latch

[Dreamail]

1680 x 1050 BTO On 15"
- could I have true HD res on the 15" as BTO please! As in 1920x1200 or 1920x1080. I know it's small, but that's why it's BTO. I'd order it like that.
- user-installable SSD option
- separate numeric keypad on the 17" model
- bigger cursor and function keys, even if it's only 2/3 of normal key size, that's already better than the dinky 1/2 size now.

[DCSMAC]

all i want is blu-ray. i would buy the current one if it came with blu-ray and software to play blu-rays. theres just something unsettleing about buying a 2K laptop that doesnt have the most recent optical techonolgies when i can get a dell with blu-ray capability for $800 less.

[kenyong]

I'm hearing that the new MacBook Pro's won't be available until October. Has anybody heard anything in this timeframe?

[masse]

October doesn't make much sense to me. If montevina is due in June there will have to be an update around then to keep the line up to date. Nehalem isn't really due until early 2009 so I can't see a reason why they'd wait til october to update to montevina. Who knows though?

[MattZani]

1920 x 1200 would betoo small for me I think, I would have to look instiore, my dads 15" Acer is 2 yearsold and has 1680 x 1050 so really it shoulder standard, atleast on the high end 15"

[Draeconis]

My 15.4" Acer is 2 years old and does 1680 x 1050, I'd love that on a 15" MBP.

People who want 8Gb in a laptop must be pretty rich, or must not have seen the cost of 4Gb DDR2 SoDIMM sticks!

Personally, I love the case the way it is, why fix something that isn't broken?

[Concorde Rules]

Some of these requirements are ridiculous!!!

8Gb ram in a laptop, why!?!?!?!?!?! You won't have the core power to deal with that!!!

If you need that kind of power, GET A DESKTOP!?


High end graphics cards, WHY!?!?!

Again, GET A DESKTOP!!!



For me I'd like it to stay exactly the same design wise, up the build quality with slightly thicker metals etc and get the tolerances right (screen not flat when locked!!!)

Different colors? Brushed Alu > * Black could look quite good tho... hmmm

Oh and user installable HDs please!

Thats me done.

[Tallest Skil]

*uninformed screaming*

If you don't understand why some people would need a 9800M in their laptop or why some people would benefit from having eight gigabytes of RAM in their laptop, then you don't deserve to be questioning their judgement. Perhaps they take many intercontinental or cross-country trips. I would not suggest that they take their Mac Pro and displays (yes, plural) on each of these trips.

Would you lug a 50 pound computer and two ten pound displays to every corporate meeting or convention?

[LeviG]

I'd like the option of a mobile quadro graphics card, they use no more power and produce no more heat than the current cards.
That plus removal of the silly little plastic edge on the macbook pro, they can do it on the macbook air, and user upgradeable hard drives.

[Judicat0r]

I reckon for the MBP II:

Bluray burner
DisplayPort connector
WirelessUSB
Remove physical button from touchpad (virtual touch button)

would throw Apple back into the innovator's spotlight.

54mm Expresscard slot would be useful as would an optional Methanol Fuel Cell battery (yeah, I know it won't happen).

[wchong]

I reckon for the MBP II:

Bluray burner
DisplayPort connector
WirelessUSB
Remove physical button from touchpad (virtual touch button)

would throw Apple back into the innovator's spotlight.

54mm Expresscard slot would be useful as would an optional Methanol Fuel Cell battery (yeah, I know it won't happen).

i hear that the hydrogen fuel cells run cleaner.

either way, i'm hoping for a june update with a slicker and lighter case and better heat dissipation technology. i could care less for the Blu-Ray.

[butterfly0fdoom]

The Intel PM/GM965 chipset is more then capable of addressing 8GB ram.

Sorry. I wasn't really sure.

Even then, maxing out a laptop with 8GB of RAM would be exorbitantly expensive. >.>

[andrewdale]

All of this blu-ray talk.

I swear, if that actually happens, I'll be baffled. I don't see how they'd introduce "new" technology in their notebooks before putting it in their pride-and-joy desktop.

But, that's just me.

[Feng Shui]

I think most things mentioned are possible except for the larger track pad. IMO, It'll just get in your hands way if it get any larger because it is nearly touching my palm while I'm typing already. Any lager will just make the cursor move all around while my hands are on the keyboard. Probably the reason why I bought my MBP now instead of waiting on rumors because I don't see too much dramatic changes. Better to wait until 2009 for the new chips IMO.

[Skeletal-dæmon]

See now I've looked back over this and seen what people are wishing for and I have come to the conclusion that a vast amount of it simply won't happen. I'm expecting at most some speed bumps making 2.6GHz the default processor speed and making the optional upgrade 2.8GHz or possibly 3.0GHz on the 17" model.

Thats what I'm expecting.

Here's what I'd like:
15"
2.6GHz Core 2 Duo (not really hoping for Quad, it'd run too hot methinks)
2 GB RAM
512MB VRAM
320GB HDD @ 7200RPM
Optional HD upgrade to 1920x1200
Anodised aluminium case in either silver with white new-style keyboard or black with black new-style keyboard; backlit

17"
2.8GHz Core 2 Duo
2 GB RAM
512MB VRAM
500GB HDD @ 5400RPM
Standard HD at 1920x1200
Optional HD upgrade to full 1080p
Anodised aluminium case in either silver with white new-style keyboard or black with black new-style keyboard; backlit

Well, I can dream can't I?

[UltraNEO*]

All of this blu-ray talk.

I swear, if that actually happens, I'll be baffled. I don't see how they'd introduce "new" technology in their notebooks before putting it in their pride-and-joy desktop.

But, that's just me.

Perhaps Apple will introcude the technology in all the product lines in one swift scoop? BD-R's are already beginning to appear here for 995円 (about $9) not bad.. and the drives have fallen in price, at least in Japan.

[GAS]

Standard HD at 1920x1200
Optional HD upgrade to full 1080p


1920x1200 is actually 20px more than 1080p.

[nufanec]

1920x1200 is actually 20px more than 1080p.

Actually, it is 120 pixels more vertically ;)

[GAS]

Actually, it is 120 pixels more vertically ;)

I could have sworn i typed that 1 :o

[artistic33]

1920x1200 is actually 20px more than 1080p.

Sweet! Thats great!

[BluePAZ]

Actually, it is 120 pixels more vertically ;)

No your math is wrong 1920x1200 is actually 230,400 pixels more than 1920x1080

[sra. Aguirre]

1. User swappable hard disk, like the MacBook.
2. 2 GB of RAM on the main board, still with user accessible memory slots, for 6 GB maximum (using 2 GB SO-DIMMs).
3. Optional Blu-ray on the 17 inch model.
4. 7mm Superdrive on the 15 inch model (for a slimmer, lighter machine).
5. Right angle MagSafe power connector (like the MBA).

Now THAT would make me rob a bank to buy the new MBP, even though I only have just bought mine 2 months ago! Also I'd love to see more USB slots on the new 15" MBP's.

And for the love of god, NO black keyboard...looks so damn communist era to me.....

But in the end I think I'd choose performance above design (if they kept it like it is now):apple:

[Aranince]

2. 2 GB of RAM on the main board, still with user accessible memory slots, for 6 GB maximum (using 2 GB SO-DIMMs).
.

They wouldn't make 6Gb the max, it would either be 4, 8, 16, etc. Powers of 2.