Apple’s new MacBook Pro with PROLED XDR is an exciting upgrade that delivers nearly every feature I was hoping for, with just one exception.
I’ve been waiting a long time for the MacBook Pro with PROLED XDR. I haven’t used a Mac as my primary computer in years, but rumors about this new model made me think that might finally change.
The iPad Pro has been my main computer of choice since 2015, but lately I’ve grown increasingly curious about revisiting the Mac full-time.
This is largely due to Apple making the Mac, to me at least, a lot more exciting than it was in 2015. The Mac’s hardware and software are advancing in compelling new ways, and today’s new MacBook Pro brings an especially big leap.
As a longtime iPad Pro user, I’ve come to expect features like touch support and OLED in a relatively thin, lightweight device. I also love how iPadOS tends to advance in lockstep with iOS, a trend that has recently started extending to macOS too.
Until recently, it seemed like Apple’s latest and greatest tech—with the exception of pro-focused chips—has been in the iPad and iPhone.
I don’t need an extremely powerful chip, as my computing needs are pretty basic. But I do value having a great display, touch support, and modern OS features like the Dynamic Island.
The MacBook Pro with PROLED XDR delivers those things. I’ve ordered one and can’t wait to give it a legitimate shot to be my full-time computer. But my biggest hesitation is the lack of cellular.
The lack of cellular is my one MacBook Pro disappointment
I use cellular all the time on my iPad Pro. I tend to work from coffee shops and random outdoor spots for at least a few hours every day. And in my experience, public Wi-Fi options aren’t reliable enough for my needs.
Having a persistent cellular connection on my iPad is a killer feature. I very much wish Apple provided the option of cellular on the MacBook Pro too.
I’m hoping that personal hotspot has become a lot more reliable since I last tried it. Apple does say its N1 wireless chip makes the feature better.
Additionally, I wonder if the need for cellular will be mitigated some by having a tablet-sized iPhone Duo in my pocket soon. So if I need to stop in the middle of nowhere and get work done quickly, maybe the Duo will suffice.
In any case, the MacBook Pro looks like a fantastic product regardless. It’s not for everyone, and the high price hurts, but I’m excited to give it a try.
What are your thoughts on the new MacBook Pro? Would you use cellular if it was offered? Let us know in the comments.
*Buy Mac with 15% discount from Apple refurbished
Best Mac accessories
You’re reading 9to5Mac — experts who break news about Apple and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Mac on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out our exclusive stories, reviews, how-tos, and subscribe to our YouTube channel
