Opinion: Updated MacBook Pro lineup signaling future changes
The first major point to examine is price point. Although Apple did not push prices too much below (the previous unibody MacBook started at $1299 versus the $1199 price of the new 13-inch MacBook Pro), by reclassifying the 13-inch unibody MacBook as a Pro family computer, it opened the door for a new class of consumer models.
It is anybody's guess as to what the form factors or technical specifications would be of such a class, but one could safely assume that recent rumors of a sub-compact Apple netbook device could very well be the missing link in their revamped notebook lineup. The glaring hole in the consumer market left by the exit of the unibody MacBook could be just what Apple needs to compete in the increasingly growing "cost effective" notebook market. Expect to see more rumors about Apple's consumer notebook lineup build as the holiday shopping months approach.
Aside from speculation, there are some very tangible repercussions from Apple's notebook update. As any hardened road warrior may have already put together, none of the new lineup of MacBook Pros have a user-replaceable battery. Sure, the newer battery life capacities help to ease the shock of that a little, but consider your options on a transcontinental flight with no power outlets. Expect to see several third-party companies produce accessories offering extra battery life as Apple handles increased customer traffic at their Genius Bars seeking battery replacements.
Of course, any issues that may arise regarding Apple's new hardware will be reported here at MacFixIt. If you experience any issues that you would like to see us report on, feel free to contact us and let us know.
If you missed the WWDC you can find a roundup of the latest releases from Apple posted on MacFixIt yesterday, here.
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