Apple announces 13-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display

Along with announcing relatively minor updates to the Mac mini, at today’s San Jose media event, Apple unveiled the much-rumoured 13-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display. The new machine boasts Intel’s latest Ivy Bridge processors, USB 3.0 ports, and Intel HD graphics – which drive the 2560 x 1600 pixel resolution display.

As expected, the new notebook sports the same ultra-slim and light enclosure as the 15-inch Retina MacBook Pro introduced back in June. It weighs 3.75 pounds – making it the lightest MacBook Pro ever, and is just 0.75 inches thick.

In terms of connectivity the new machine has two Thunderbolt ports, two USB 3.0 ports, one HDMI video out port, and one SD card slot. Other features include a FaceTime HD camera, back-lit keyboard, dual microphones, enhanced speakers, 3-stream 802.11n Wi-Fi and a MagSafe 2 power port.

Apple says the 13-inch MacBook Pro’s battery offers up to 7 hours of wireless productivity, and can remain in standby mode for up to 30 days.

Apple is offering the new MacBook Pro in two standard configurations.

The entry-level model is priced at £1,449.00 ($1,699.00) and features a 2.5 GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB of memory, and 128GB of flash storage. The higher-end model, which will set you back £1,699.00 ($1,999.00), comes with a 2.5 GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB of memory, and 256GB of flash storage.

Additional built-to-order options include a faster 2.9GHz Dual-core Intel Core i7 processor, and either 512GB or 768GB of flash storage.

The new 13-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display is available to order today.