Apple has both updated 14 and 16-inch MacBook Pro models in the works.

The updated MacBook Pro models will use the same heat pipe design used by the current 16-inch MacBook Pro model.

Apple in 2016 rolled out a new MacBook Pro design that did away with all ports except for USB-C ports and the 3.5mm headphone jack, but prior models from 2012 to 2015 included a ‌MagSafe‌ connector, Thunderbolt ports, USB-A ports, an HDMI port, an SD card reader, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

Given Apple's emphasis on USB-C and the slim design of the MacBook Pro lineup, it's not likely we're going to see the return of USB-A, but Kuo has said that the new machines will have enough ports so most users "may not need to purchase additional dongles.".

‌MagSafe‌ connectors were used for MacBook Pro models from 2006 to 2016, when Apple replaced the ‌MagSafe‌ connector with a USB-C port, but now it looks like we're returning to a ‌MagSafe‌ design.

Both Kuo and Gurman expect the new MacBook Pro models to be equipped with ‌MagSafe‌ for charging purposes, with the ‌MagSafe‌ charging port to be distinct from the other included USB-C ports.

‌MagSafe‌ in the new MacBook Pro models is expected to be similar to the ‌MagSafe‌ 2 connectors and ports used prior to 2016, which allowed for a quick-release magnetic connection that prevented damage to the computer and the cable when the cord was yanked.

The ‌MagSafe‌ charging functionality is expected to allow for faster charging speeds than are available with USB-C, and given that Apple is swapping over to a new charging technology, we can expect the forthcoming MacBook Pro models to ship with a ‌MagSafe‌ charging cable and accompanying power adapter.

The entry-level 13-inch MacBook Pro already has an ‌M1‌ chip, and in 2021, all new MacBook Pro models will gain Apple silicon chips.

There's also new GPU technology in the works, with Apple designing 16 and 32-core GPU options, some of which could be used in the new MacBook Pro models?

The new MacBook Pro models are expected to launch in the third quarter of 2021.

We have more on the current MacBook Pro models and the upcoming redesigned MacBook Pro models in our dedicated 13-inch MacBook Pro and 16-inch MacBook Pro roundups.