Apple has released an update to the 15 and 17 inch MacBook Pros that sport faster processors, faster WiFi and better graphics than previous models.

Intel Core 2 Duo processors now available in 2.2GHz or 2.4GHz (up from 2.16 or 2.33GHz), NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GT graphics controller is included with either 128MB or 256MB VRAM, 802.11n Wi-Fi, 2GB RAM (up to 4GB) memory, 120GB or 160GB hard drive (up to 200GB available on 15 inch model and 250GB on 17 inch model), and 8X double-layer SuperDrive. Prices are $1,999 for the 2.2GHz 15 inch, $2499 for the 2.4GHz 15 inch, and $2799 for the 2.4GHz 17 inch model.

The new 15 inch MacBook Pros are also the first Apple laptops to feature mercury-free, LED-backlit displays. The new displays are said to be more power-efficient, weighs less, and are better for the environment than their predecessors. The 17-inch model has an optional higher-resolution display available at 1920 x 1200 (1680 x 1050 pixels remains standard on the 17-inch model). The higher-resolution display for the 17-inch adds $100 to the price. Displays are still available in anti-glare or glossy finish.

The MacBook Pros have Intel’s latest Core 2 Duo new Santa Rosa-based platform microprocessors equipped with 4MB of shared Level 2 cache, and 800MHz frontside bus and standard 2GB of 667MHz DDR SDRAM memory which changes dynamically to save power.

All of the new MacBook Pros also feature 8x dual layer SuperDrives, built-in iSight cameras, Gigabit Ethernet, 802.11n wireless networking, ExpressCard/34 expansion, Bluetooth 2.0+EDR, two USB 2.0 ports (17 inch model has three), a FireWire 800 port and FireWire 400 port, one audio line in and one headphone out port, each with optical support; scrolling trackpad and illuminated keyboard; Apple Remote and infrared port; and dual-link DVI connector to attach up to a 30-inch a display.

The MacBook Pros ship with Mac OS X v10.4.9 and include Apple’s standard iLife applications along with Safari, Mail, iCal, iChat AV, Front Row and Photo Booth.

Online store says they will ship in 1-3 business days with FREE shipping available. See more details at Apple site.

    | Tags: Apple, macbook pro, Macintosh