Apple is unlikely to introduce a refreshed version of the 13-inch MacBook Pro at the forthcoming "Scary Fast" event.

According to trusted source Mark Gurnam, Apple is no longer planning to introduce the M3 chip in the upcoming Apple Event for the entry-level MacBook Pro. However, it is important to note that the development of this chip is still ongoing within Apple's internal processes.

Despite previous rumors, it is now unlikely that a new 13-inch MacBook Pro with the M3 chip will be seen at Apple's upcoming "Scary Fast" Mac event, as suggested by Mark Gurman of Bloomberg.

In Gurman's recent "Power On" newsletter, he mentioned that supplies of the current 13-inch MacBook Pro were running low, hinting at a possible refresh soon. However, he now believes that although the new entry-level MacBook Pro is still being developed internally at Apple, it will not make an appearance at the event. Instead, Apple seems to be focused on unveiling the iMac, along with 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro models, all equipped with the upcoming M3-series chips.

The base 13-inch MacBook Pro has been a controversial device, given its aging design and minimal performance improvements compared to the similarly priced MacBook Air, which boasts a better display and a more modern design. While a spec bump could have made the device more appealing, potential buyers may have to wait a bit longer.

Gurman also mentioned that he does not anticipate the introduction of other refreshed devices, such as iPads or AirPods, at the event.

When will the Apple event commence?

It appears that Apple has scheduled an online-only launch event for October 30th. During this event, it is anticipated that Apple will unveil its latest chip updates, as well as new Macs to complement them. This pre-Halloween announcement, aptly named the "Scary Fast" event by Apple, will take place on their YouTube channel, where they humorously invite viewers to "Treat yourself."

Almost every Apple event invitation features a themed Apple logo that provides subtle clues about the upcoming announcements. In this instance, the company's event website showcases an animated Apple logo that seamlessly transforms into the Finder icon, further solidifying the speculation about new Macs being on the horizon. Additionally, the intriguing description of "scary fast" suggests the potential unveiling of Apple's latest M3 processors, which might make their debut in the refreshed Mac lineup, including the highly anticipated iMac desktop refresh. It remains to be seen if these impressive processors will outperform Qualcomm's evidently superior M2-beating X Elite processors. Fortunately, we won't have to wait too long to uncover the truth.

The 'Scary Fast' Apple event is set to occur on Monday, October 30th, 2023, at 8PM ET / 5PM PT. In a departure from Apple's usual morning product announcements, this livestream will take place in the evening.

Apple has completed the rollout of its M2 chips earlier this year, signaling the transition to the M3 lineup. In the upcoming Monday, the eagerly anticipated first set of M3 chips will be unveiled, promising even greater performance gains compared to the M2 generation.

Reports indicate that the new M3 chips are being developed using TSMC's 3nm process, which is identical to the process used for the A17 Pro chips in the recently launched iPhone 15 Pro. This advancement in process technology is expected to result in faster and more efficient M3 chips compared to the 5nm process utilized for the M2 line. Furthermore, Apple has reportedly secured exclusive access to TSMC's entire production output of 3nm chips for approximately the next year, positioning the company's hardware at an advantageous position vis-à-vis its competitors.

Apple's M-series chips have earned accolades for their impressive power, cooling capabilities, and efficiency. However, they now find themselves facing formidable competition. Qualcomm, for instance, has announced that its newest Snapdragon X Elite is projected to be 50 percent faster than Apple's M2. This circumstance presents Apple with a key opportunity to introduce an even swifter offering.

In light of all forthcoming announcements, it is the M3 chip that will undoubtedly take center stage, showcasing Apple's commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance and innovation in its computing products.

Alright, what other developments can we anticipate?

Some of the less reliable rumors suggest the possibility of a 13-inch MacBook Pro or new MacBook Air models. It is worth noting that Apple uses the same chips in the Mac Mini as well. While no one is currently speculating about an update, it wouldn't be completely unexpected.

In the realm of Apple accessories, it would be odd if a new iMac didn't come bundled with a new USB-C Magic Keyboard, Magic Mouse, and Magic Trackpad, wouldn't it? Hence, there is a genuine chance that we will see those additions. (Perhaps it is too much to hope that Apple will relocate the charging port on the mouse?)

Apart from these speculations, there haven't been any strong indications of other releases slated for this year. There were rumors about updated iPads, but considering Apple recently announced a new Pencil separately, it is likely that they won't arrive until next year. As for the other prominent rumors, such as a 32-inch iMac, OLED MacBook Pro, or a redesigned iPad Pro, it seems we will have to wait at least a year or more for them. Lastly, the Vision Pro is still scheduled for an early release next year.