13-inch MacBook Updated, Mini DisplayPort Updated Too


Well, the 13-inch MacBook was updated the other day, and it has all the specs that have been rumored for a bit. 2.4GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor and a 10-hour battery are the big kickers, making this a smoking deal at $999.

But a new thing was pointed out by MacRumors, and it all comes from the support document posted here. In previous versions of the MacBook and MacBook Pro, the Mini DisplayPort only carried video. This made hooking up the computer to a TV problematic, particularly if you wanted to use an HDMI connection. There were workarounds, but nothing from the factory. I must have missed this one, but apparently the latest version of the MacBook Pro offered audio support out of the Mini DisplayPort, making a Mini DisplayPort to HDMI cable a possibility. Now the regular MacBook carries the same option, making it perfect for those situations.

I wondered when I’d ever be in one of those situations until a few months back. I was cleaning out my sister’s house, and I had my MacBook handy. There was no radio or TV that I could watch, but I did have my iTunes library ready to go. I went to the Apple store and bought a VGA adapter, but of course, I didn’t get anything for audio. I ended up watching Blazing Saddles with the volume cranked on my computer. Sounded horrible, but it got the job done.

It’s not enough for me to buy a new MBP for, but if they come out with a 1TB drive option, I’m there.


Kevin Whipps

Kevin Whipps is a copy editor, writer, photographer and custom car builder based in the Phoenix, Ariz. area. For the past 10 years he's been building his portfolio, mostly in the automotive publishing industry. When he's not wrenching on cars, most of his time is spent discovering new gadgets and toys, and of course, using everything Apple. Whipps is also married, and has a baby boy, Kevin Whipps Jr., coming on February 7, 2010.

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