Mac Book Pro - Third Generation (Retina)

Third Generation (Retina)

The third generation MacBook Pro, as seen below a MacBook Air, has a MagSafe 2 and two Thunderbolt ports.

On June 11, 2012, at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in San Francisco Apple introduced a new third generation MacBook Pro, marketed as the "MacBook Pro with Retina display" to differentiate it from the updated models of the previous generation released earlier that day. The new model includes Intel's third generation Core i7 processors (Ivy Bridge microarchitecture) along with USB 3.0 integrated, and a high-resolution 15.4" IPS 2880x1800-pixel Retina display. Other new or changed features include a second Thunderbolt port, an HDMI port, and a new thinner MagSafe port, dubbed the 'MagSafe 2. On October 23, 2012, Apple introduced in a keynote a new version of the third-generation MacBook Pro. This was a 13-inch version, with slightly lower capabilities than the 15-inch Retina model.

The new models omit Ethernet and FireWire 800 ports, though Apple offers Thunderbolt adapters for both interfaces. They also omit a SuperDrive, making the 15-inch model Apple's first professional notebook since the PowerBook 2400c to ship without a built-in optical drive. Instead of a hard disk drive the new models ship with a solid state drive standard in a proprietary flash module form factor rather than a 2.5" notebook drive. Apple also claims improved speakers and microphones and a new system for cooling the notebook with improved fans.

The Retina models are also significantly less user-accessible than previous MacBooks. Unlike the previous generations, the memory is soldered onto the logic board and thus not upgradable. Because of this, the amount of memory can only be chosen at time of purchase. The solid state drive is not soldered and can be replaced with a larger unit. The battery is glued into place; attempts to remove it may destroy the battery and/or trackpad. The entire case uses proprietary pentalobe screws and cannot be disassembled with standard tools. While the battery is glued in, recycling companies have stated that the design is only "mildly inconvenient" and does not hamper the recycling process.

The Retina models do not have a Kensington lock slot, so alternative products are required to physically secure them.