Apple launch: New MacBook Pro will be based on Intel Skylake and come with 2TB SSD

Long overdue update for four-year-old MacBook Pro coming this Thursday

The Apple launch on Thursday will include a long overdue update to the ageing MacBook Pro, which will include an Intel Skylake microprocessor and a large (and expensive) two terabyte SSD.

That is according to leaks from respected Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who provides a number of other insights into can be expected from Apple's MacBook event on Wednesday,

The report, seen by Apple Insider, reiterates that Apple's new MacBook Pro line will be the first to feature an OLED touch bar that will replace the physical function keys along the top of the keyboard.

Kuo notes that, in a bid to ensure this added touch functionality doesn't drain the MacBook's battery, Apple will equip both 13in and 15in laptops with a sub-processor similar to that seen inside the Apple Watch.

While this so-called 'Magic Toolbar' is expected to be the star of the show, Kuo predicts that Apple's new MacBook Pro line will also offer Touch ID functionality, a 2TB SSD storage capacity option and 7th-generation Intel Skylake internals.

An upgraded display is also on the cards, according to the report. While this will offer the same resolution as Apple's last-gen MacBooks, it will be better quality and boast improved energy efficiency thanks to a new oxide panel.

Kuo also confirms previous reports that the new MacBook Pros will ditch traditional USB in favour of newfangled USB-C connectivity but notes that a 'Magsafe-like' USB-C adaptor will be introduced, either by Apple or a third-party.

Beyond the MacBook Pro, Kuo says Apple will also launch a "13in MacBook", which is likely to be a new addition to the MacBook Air lineup. Previous reports suggested that Apple may also include USB Type-C on the new MacBook Air, which could mean that the device will lose its traditional USB ports.

Finally, Kuo's report notes Apple is working on updates for its iMac desktop line, as well as a replacement for the recently discontinued Thunderbolt Display, but those models are due to arrive in the first half of 2017.

Kuo estimates MacBook shipments between 3.8 million to 4 million units in the fourth fiscal quarter of 2016, up 20 to 30 per cent quarter-on-quarter but down 5 to 10 per cent year-over-year.

Computing's Enterprise Security & Risk Management Summit returns on 24 November. Entrance is FREE to qualifying IT leaders and computing professionals, but places are going fast, so register now.