The new MacBook Pro is rumored to be announced in this year's annual tech expo hosted by Apple. The highly anticipated new series of Macbook Pros may feature liquidmetal technology along with a new design. Although a release date has not been announced yet, apple fans predict the new line of MacBook Pros to launch some time between May and June.

New reports also suggest that Apple may discontinue its 17-inch Macbook Pro. According to a report by MacRumors, research analyst Ming-Chi Kuo published a report earlier this week, predicting that the 17-inch size Macbook may be dropped as part of a revamp of the Macbook Pro.

Kuo of KGI Securities, wrote: "Apple's Mac business in 2Q12 will be boosted by several factors. Three of which are: (1) Mountain Lion, which integrates iOS features with Mac OS, Apple TV's interaction function, will be launched in June; (2) upgrading to Ivy Bridge; and (3) back-to-school demand. We forecast Apple will sell 5.32mn units of the Mac series (up 28.5% QoQ and 35.2% YoY) in 2Q12, making it the main growth driver.

"We also predict Apple will roll out a fully new MacBook model in early 3Q12, boasting strong performance and easy carryability by combining the advantages of MacBook Air and MacBook Pro.

"While adding new products, Apple is likely to stop making the 17" MacBook Pro this year due to falling shipments, in order to maintain a lean product line strategy."

Analysts believe that the new notebook will be a hybrid between the current Macbook Pro and the super-thin Macbook Air. The new products allegedly could be released with Intel's Core i5 and Core i7 Ivy Bridge chipset - which could prolong battery life.

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