MacBook Pro 2016: Top 7 features and specifications (plus release date)

Apple is expected to launch three new MacBook models this year -- 12-inch, 13-inch and 15-inch -- and the rumour mill has already started churning out details about the purported specifications and features of the upcoming MacBooks.

Digi Times had earlier reported that Apple was working on an ultra-thin 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook models, while following the Cupertino giant's unveil event of March 21, Mac Rumors reported that these models seemed more appropriate for the MacBook Pro lineup. We explore some of the expected features of the upcoming MacBook Pro models:

1 | Stellar design

Rumours are rife that the 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Pro 2016 models will feature a design that is similar to the 12-inch MacBook from 2015. Both models are expected to sport a slimmer design.

2 | Skylake chipsets

Leading brands like Dell, HP and Microsoft have already launched notebooks that are powered by Intel Skylake chipsets, with Apple too now expected to launch new MacBook models fueled by the latest Skylake chips.

3 | More ports

The 12-inch MacBook of last year features only a single USB-Type C slot that can handle multiple tasks, from charging to connecting peripheral devices, with users forced to make use of an adapter for USB Type-C port to take advantage of multiple ports.

The newer MacBooks are expected to feature more USB-C Type ports or an additional adapter so that users can add multiple devices. Both new MacBook Pro models are also expected to feature Thunderbolt 3, which produces data transfer speeds of up to 40 GB/s.

4 | Support for external graphics card

In order to fully enjoy high-end games and apps on the MacBook and MacBook Pro series, users currently have to shell out extra money for a higher configuration model. There is a high chance Apple will include support for external graphics card on its upcoming low-end models, which would allow users to enjoy better graphics without spending more for a top tier model.

5 | More storage

The newly announced 9.7-inch iPad Pro comes in three storage options -- 32 GB, 128 GB and 256 GB. Speculations are now rife that the Cupertino company will launch its 13-inch MacBook Pro model in 256 GB as a base storage.

6 | Touch ID fingerprint sensor

Over the last few years, Apple has provided a Touch ID fingerprint sensor for its iPad and iPhone lineups. Now, the company is expected to introduce the biometric recognition feature on the MacBook and MacBook Pro 2016 models. Its arrival will not only increase access protection to the notebook, but also makes the authorisation of a purchase easier.

7 | Siri for MacBook

Siri, Apple's voice-assistant app, is one of the rumored features of the MacBook and MacBook Pro 2016 lineup. Currently unavailable on MacBook models, Siri is expected to be included in the next edition of Mac OS X, and will deliver weather and sports updates and other information quickly.

MacBook Pro 2016 release date

Apple is believed to be unveiling the 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Pro 2016 notebooks during the World Wide Developers Conference (WWDC). The event will be held from June 13-17.