MacBook Pro and "mainstream" new size iMac tipped for 1H 2011

With Intel's second-gen Core processors expected early in 2011, it doesn't seem too great a leap to assume that Apple will be all over the new chips for their mobile and desktop lines. We've already heard that Apple is testing the Sandy Bridge processors in the MacBook Pro and Mac Pro models; now DigiTimes is claiming their supply chain sources expect new systems – including a new iMac targeted at the mainstream – in the first half of next year.

According to the leaky sources, Apple is preparing "at least four" upgraded MacBook Pro models. While there's no mention of Sandy Bridge, they do say there'll be a "slight change in chassis design" along with OS X 10.7 Lion preinstalled. Previous rumors suggested the new MacBook Pros would switch from NVIDIA GPUs to AMD's Radeon range, though the entry-level models in the Apple portable line-up would use Sandy Bridge's own integrated graphics capabilities.

As for that "mainstream" iMac, details are scant but a new panel size is tipped. Since it seems unlikely Apple would undercut their entry-level $1,199.99 21.5-inch iMac, perhaps more likely is a mid-scale iMac that would slot in-between it and the flagship 27-inch units.