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General discussion

Date for Leopard/MacBook Pro Update

Jan 17, 2007 10:28AM PST

I'm currently a high school student and will be attending UNC Chapel Hill in August. I'm in a situation where I can splurge on a MacBook Pro. My question is: Using Apple's previous releases as guide, when do you project Leopard and a possible update to the MacBook Pro line? I know Leopard is due "Spring 2007," but my college orientation in June 11-12 (I must have my laptop at orientation) and spring doesn't technically end until June 21. Orientation can be pushed back if necessary.

I would absolutely hate to drop over three grand on a MacBook Pro only to have a new version released a few weeks later, and even worse not have Leopard.

Thanks for your educated speculation and advise.

Discussion is locked

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Spring 07 is
Jan 17, 2007 8:56PM PST

still the best guess on the release of Leopard.
As for a projected date for upgrades to the MacBook Pro line. Well you guess is as good as anyone else's. Apple has traditionally not released any information about upgrades to their lines, so any information would just be speculation.
The have also just upgraded a line without any fanfare or announcement, other than, "Oh, by the way, we..."

It's always a gamble waiting for the next best thing to arrive.

P

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As Peter says...
Jan 18, 2007 7:04AM PST

... hardware upgrades are done with little fanfare and occur frequently. It only seems like a long time to the next upgrade when you're chomping at the bit to get a new laptop. Wink After you buy, it will seem like they put out a new model every time you turn around.

I would be most concerned with the OS upgrade. Generally they offer a free upgrade to anyone who buys their mac within a month (30 days before) of the OS release. Thus it is safe to say that once you get a confirmed date for Leopard to be put out... buying the computer within that 30 day period will ensure the upgrade even if the macbook comes loaded with Tiger. If they release thee upgrade of iLife at the same time then so much the better. Don't forget, you will be eligible for a nice price discount in software and hardware anyway so take advantage of that if you can show proof of enrollment when you buy any apple products over the next few years!

I know it isn't easy but be patient!

grim Happy

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Spring, probably.
Jan 20, 2007 12:17PM PST

Apple almost always has a considerably large spring announcement. The last tray loading G3, sensor G5s, PowerMac G5 and Leopard were all released in Spring. I'd say that since we already know about Leopard something is bound for Springtime.

So I would think to wait until late may at the latest to get your MacBook Pro so you get it for your orientation (mine took almost 3 weeks to ship). Even if Leopard comes out after orientation you can always upgrade.