13-inch Retina MacBook Pro and New iMac in September, Analyst Says

Cupertino-based Apple is expected to bring to the market two new Mac computers this September, namely the 13-inch Retina MacBook Pro and a new iMac.

Ming-Chi Kuo from KGI Securities claims that Apple is indeed set to bring to the market a smaller version of its Retina MacBook Pro, currently available for orders with a 15-inch display.

Previous reports also suggested that the company was preparing the launch of this new MacBook Pro model. Benchmarks for it also emerged.

However, Kuo is not that optimistic when it comes to the impact the new device would have once it reaches the market.

The 13-inch Retina MacBook Pro would be released at the same time with new iPad, iPhone and iPod models, which is expected to affect its performance.

Overall, although many users are expected to go for the new MacBook Pro model, due to its hardware specs and appealing form factor, no significant increase in overall shipments of the machine are forecast.

“We think consumers who initially planned to purchase the 13” MacBook Pro and Air will turn to the 13” Retina MacBook Pro instead because it has an attractive panel, its price is similar to MacBook Pro and it has a better balance between power consumption and form factor,” Kuo reportedly notes.

According to the analyst, panel and assembly yield rate issues will affect supply of the new device, and shipments won’t be able to satisfy demand.

“And we think consumers’ budgets will transfer to new iOS products after Apple launches them, which suggests that overall MacBook shipments will not grow meaningfully on the 13” Retina MacBook Pro,” Kuo also notes.

In addition to this new Retina MacBook Pro model, Apple is also said to plan the release of the new Ivy Bridge-based iMac in late September, but that supply issues will emerge for this machine as well.

“The chances of the new iMac debuting in September are slim. But, judging by the current supply chain situation, it could be rolled out by end-September,” the analyst suggests.

“[Supply chain] shipments for Mac desktop models will be low due to inventory adjustment in July, and will see the most dramatic MoM rise in August as shipments for the new iMac begin.”

Others suggest that the new iMac might land in October, MacRumors reports. Apparently, it is yet uncertain whether Apple will indeed manage to include the Retina display with these models as well.

Via: 13-inch Retina MacBook Pro and New iMac in September, Analyst Says