Clues regarding 5G support for the new MacBook Pro are limited to reports from Bloomberg-related and Macworld-related sources. With the announcement scheduled for the early hours of 29 October Japan time, attention is focused on whether there will be an opportunity to handle the actual device. No definitive information on 5G support is available at this point, and the prevailing view is that the current M5 Pro chip will continue to be used.
Clues regarding 5G support for the new MacBook Pro are said to be limited to 2 items: a Bloomberg-related report and Macworld-related internal code information. Based on 9to5Mac's assessment, these reports have linked the information to this device, but no definitive information has emerged even immediately before the official announcement. The launch event is described as a hands-on session called “Pro and tell,” scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on 28 October U.S. time and 2:00 a.m. on 29 October Japan time, and may be held in a format allowing attendees to handle the actual device.
As for specifications, a redesigned 14-inch and 16-inch model with a touch-capable OLED display is rumored, but many believe the modem configuration will remain unchanged, using the M5 Pro and M5 Max. Prices are expected to rise in the entry-level configuration, with an increase of up to several hundred dollars anticipated based on the current configuration differences between the U.S. and Japan. No official confirmation of 5G support has been released at this point.
For use in Japan, adding cellular functionality is expected to involve a premium similar to the price difference for the iPad Pro, with the Wi-Fi + Cellular option potentially costing approximately ¥35,000 more than the current price. The expected configuration supports eSIM only, with a separate data-plan contract likely to be required.
Overseas reactions include differing views on whether a modem should be included, with opinions divided between those who favor tethering in 2 clicks and those who prefer to maintain their existing mobile contracts. Whether the actual device will include the feature and how pricing will develop are expected to be determined based on hands-on information and official specifications after the announcement.