MacBook Pro with PROLED XDR Display review: gorgeous screen, touch is useful, strong performance and speakers, and a Dynamic Island, but pricey and no Face ID

If you consider buying a high-end laptop, the price of premium displays has just increased by $400.

Apple has launched a new MacBook Pro featuring a PROLED XDR display, marking the first time OLED and touch capabilities are integrated into a Mac laptop. The 16-inch model starts at $3,399, with a high-end configuration reaching $7,899, while the 14-inch version begins at $2,899. These prices represent a $400 increase over previous models with similar specifications. Key enhancements include a "gorgeous" tandem OLED screen, a noticeable reduction in weight, improved speakers with deep bass, and the adoption of the Dynamic Island interface, which is considered more functional than the previous notch. However, the laptop notably lacks Face ID and remains a very expensive option in the market.

The inclusion of a PROLED XDR display signifies a major shift in Apple's laptop display technology, bringing OLED and touch to the MacBook Pro line for the first time. This move is likely to set new benchmarks for visual quality and interactivity in premium laptops, potentially influencing competitors to adopt similar screen technologies. The company's approach of refining and integrating features, rather than rushing them to market, is evident in the polished execution of these new capabilities. The emphasis on a "gorgeous" screen, coupled with practical enhancements like reduced weight and improved audio, suggests a strategy focused on delivering a comprehensive high-end user experience.

While the new MacBook Pro boasts cutting-edge display technology and user interface improvements, its high price point and the continued absence of Face ID may limit its immediate appeal. The $400 price increase for the OLED panel positions it as a significant investment, potentially widening the gap between mainstream and premium laptop segments. The omission of Face ID, especially when touch is now a feature, could be seen as a missed opportunity for enhanced security and convenience. Future iterations will likely address these concerns, but for now, the premium experience comes with a substantial cost and a familiar biometric security feature.