M4 MacBook Pro: 10 New Features You Should Know

Apple's latest M4 MacBook Pro lineup, featuring new M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max chips, brings a range of updates and improvements, from expanded connectivity to a massive boost in performance. As Apple enthusiasts eagerly await its release next week, here’s a look at the top 10 features you need to know about the 2024 M4 MacBook Pro lineup.Photo via Apple Inc. // Apple's new 2024 M4 MacBook Pro is here. Pictured in Space Black.

1. Expanded Color Options

For the first time, Apple’s distinctive Space Black color is available across all M4 MacBook Pro models. Previously limited to only the Pro and Max variants, this sleek shade is now a choice for every user, alongside the classic Silver.Photo via Apple Inc. // Apple's new 2024 M4 MacBook Pros in Space Black and Silver.

2. Enhanced Standard Memory

Apple is doubling down on memory with 16GB of starting RAM in every M4 MacBook Pro model—a significant increase over last year’s 8GB standard. For heavy multitaskers, the M4 Pro starts with 24GB, while the M4 Max boasts an impressive 32GB.

3. Nano-Texture Display Option

Designed with professionals and on-the-go users in mind, the M4 MacBook Pro now offers an anti-reflective nano-texture display option. This feature, already seen in Apple's iMac and Pro Display XDR, is invaluable for those working in bright environments, as it significantly reduces glare.

4. Increased Display Brightness

Apple has boosted the SDR display brightness up to 1,000 nits, a leap from the previous 500 nits, making outdoor work and photo editing much more vibrant and clear. HDR content still shines with a peak brightness of 1,600 nits.Photo via Apple Inc. // Some of the standout features of Apple's newest MacBook, the late 2024 M4 MacBook Pro.

5. Performance Boost with M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max Chips

Each M4 chip tier brings significant upgrades:

• M4: Up to 1.8x faster CPU and 2.2x faster GPU performance over the M1.
• M4 Pro: Now configurable with up to 14 CPU cores and a 20-core GPU.
• M4 Max: Up to 16 CPU cores, a 40-core GPU, and a Neural Engine that's three times faster than its M1 counterpart.

This increased power is tailored for creative professionals who rely on heavy applications like 3D rendering, video editing, and machine learning.

6. New 12MP Center Stage Camera

The MacBook Pro now features an upgraded 12MP Center Stage camera. Beyond just resolution improvements, Center Stage technology tracks movement to keep the user centered in the frame, ideal for video calls and presentations.

7. Thunderbolt 5 for Pro and Max Models

The M4 Pro and M4 Max models receive a substantial connectivity upgrade with Thunderbolt 5 ports. Thunderbolt 5 enables faster data transfers and better support for external displays, pushing the boundaries with up to 8K resolution and refresh rates as high as 240Hz over HDMI.

8. Unprecedented Battery Life

Battery longevity has hit new heights:

• M4 models: Up to 24 hours of video playback.
• M4 Pro models: 22 hours.
• M4 Max models: 18 hours.

This marks a significant increase, providing an additional 2 hours over the M3 MacBook lineup. Apple credits the energy-efficient M4 processors for this achievement, making it one of the longest-lasting MacBooks yet.Photo via Apple Inc. // Official imagery of Apple's M4, M4 Pro and M4 Max chipsets.

9. Enhanced External Display Support

The M4 Max supports up to three external displays, allowing for setups that include:

• Two 6K displays via Thunderbolt.
• One 8K display at 60Hz.
• One 4K display at a staggering 240Hz.

This versatility will appeal to professionals in video production, graphic design, and engineering.

10. Universal USB-C Ports and Charging Flexibility

Finally, all M4 MacBook Pros now include three USB-C ports, bringing greater connectivity flexibility without needing to upgrade to higher-end models. These ports simplify workflows by enabling easier charging and connection to monitors and accessories.

In Summary

Apple’s M4 MacBook Pro lineup is designed to give professionals more tools, speed, and flexibility at every level. From increased battery life and enhanced memory to versatile display support, the M4 models offer compelling reasons to upgrade. Starting at $1,599, Apple has retained last year’s pricing, making this high-performance upgrade accessible to more users.

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