Could 13-inch Retina MacBook Pro be ready by September?

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Reports are out today that production is officially under way on screens for a 13-inch version of Apple’s Macbook Pro with Retina display.

Rumors have been lingering since the beginning of the month on whether or not Apple would release a 13-inch model of its high-end laptop with ultra-sharp display. Geekbench marks have been popping up and demand on Apple’s 15-inch version of its Retina MacBook Pro have finally eased up.


CNET reports that production has indeed started on the new laptop.

“Production has begun of a 2,560-by-1,600 pixel density display that will land on a 13.3-inch MacBook Pro,” NPD DisplaySearch analyst Richard Shim told CNET.

“The supply chain indications are that it’s for a MacBook Pro 13.3 — not a MacBook Air,” said Shim.

Shim added that the displays are being made by LGD, Sharp and yes — Samsung.

All signs are pointing to a 13-inch Retina MacBook Pro, which would be marketed toward users in between a consumer and a prosumer market. But the question is when?

Apple is set to hold a media event on Sept. 12 to announce its much-anticipated iPhone 5. It wouldn’t be out of the ordinary for CEO Tim Cook to also give an update on sales across the board, including on its 15-inch Retina MacBook Pro. After announcing “the amazing amount of computers sold,” he would then announce that in October, Apple will be releasing a 13-inch version of the ultra-sharp displayed laptop.

Or maybe the new, 13-inch MacBook Pro would be available immediately for order. I doubt Apple would would release it on Sept. 21, the same day its expected to release its iPhone 5, in an effort to cut down on congestion at the store.

The base model of the 13-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display is expected to cost between $1,199 and $1,299, based on estimates calculated against the base model of the 15-inch model, which can be configured and priced as high as $2,700.

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