MacBook Pro 2017 news: Potential release of redesigned laptops places Apple in precarious situation

The growing belief now is that Apple will be releasing a new MacBook Pro at the Worldwide Developer Conference on June 5, an act that may work against the Cupertino company. While most are criticising the laptops released in late 2016, the cycle of introducing the MacBook line has been singled out.

The MacBook Pro 2016 came out last year. It was a much-needed refresh for a device in need of an update. The only problem was that it came with an old Intel Skylake chipset limited to 16GB of space. Power-hungry users were upset since they wanted the best possible configuration they could get.

Most users wanted to see Intel Kaby Lake SoCs on-board, but supply issues were rampant at that time. In short, timing was a bit off. Apple's rival Microsoft, however, still opted to delay its Surface Pro series to early 2017.

Apple could have followed the same tactic, only that the clamour for a new MacBook Pro had grown loud. Would it have made sense to delay the device until early 2017 as well? Probably.

Regardless, Apple may still release an updated version of the MacBook Pro line outside of its normal schedule. Most are already anticipating Intel Kaby Lake chip-backed devices. Under normal circumstances, it would have been good news, but not for those who have already bought the MacBook Pro 2016.

It is a gamble that could put a dent on Apple’s credibility. Even with the backlash towards the underpowered MacBook Pro 2016, many still took the bait. In fact, Trendforce reports a 15-percent year-on-year rise for the last quarter of 2016.

With the cycle more than likely to be broken with a potential release of updated MacBooks next week, Apple will have to give a plausible explanation for doing so. Most consumers know the reason behind it, but one couldn't help but wonder what will happen late this year. This is, of course, if Apple fans assume there will be another batch coming out.

If consumers are thrown off with an untimely release, the effects could be detrimental. Most of them want a powerful MacBook Pro, and the early 2017 version seems to be such. Looking ahead, will a new batch stay on schedule? Or will Apple save new variants for consumers before the year comes to a close?