Apple (AAPL) has introduced new microchips for its personal computers (PCs) and a cheaper MacBook Pro laptop.
The new computers and chips to power them are aimed at reinvigorating Apple’s Mac product line that saw sales decline 7% in this year’s second quarter amid a global slowdown in PCs.
The new computers, which include MacBook Pro and iMac models, go on sale within a week. The computers have the same design as last year’s models only with new microchips.
Apple said that its new microchips are a major improvement, providing faster speeds, longer battery life, and the power to develop artificial intelligence (A.I.) applications.
Apple cut the price of its entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro computer to $1,599 U.S. from $1,999 U.S.
An updated 16-inch MacBook Pro computer, which is Apple’s biggest and most powerful laptop, now has a starting price of $2,499 U.S., which is about $500 U.S. less than previous pricing.
Apple also unveiled an updated 24-inch iMac desktop computer with a starting price of $1,299 U.S. The previous model used an M1 chip, and the new version uses an upgraded M3 microchip.
Apple is scheduled to release its third-quarter financial results on Nov. 2. The company’s stock has risen 11% over the past 12 months and currently trades at $170.29 U.S. per share.
