Apple may launch an upgraded version of MacBook Pro notebooks before the end of February with the possibility of adopting Intel's Sandy Bridge processor, according to sources from channel retailers based on historical trends.

The sources pointed out that most of IT malls in Taiwan currently do not have any MacBook Pro inventory with only demo models remaining. Sales clerks also pointed out that their MacBook Pro shipments from oversea have already ceased.

The sources pointed out that the current MacBook Pro notebook models have already been selling for about one year and Apple should have already prepared to launch upgraded versions in near future. Meanwhile, Apple's upstream component makers also pointed out that Apple's new MacBook Pro notebooks, which are set for mass shipments in March should help the company achieve sequential growth in first quarter notebook shipments.

In addition to Taiwan-based channel retailers, US-based BestBuy and Amazon also announced that they are preparing to sell the new MacBook Pro models soon with sizes including 13-, 15- and 17-inch and priced around US$1,199-2,199. Channel retailers in Europe are also reportedly being informed that will soon receive new MacBook Pro products and the major retailers have already stopped accepting orders for the current MacBook Pro.

Although some channel vendors believe Apple will release its new MacBook Pro before the end of February, sources from the upstream supply chain pointed out that the volume will not pick up significantly until March.

Currently, Apple outsources most of its MacBook products to Taiwan-based Quanta Computer, leaving only a small portion of 13.3-inch model to Foxconn Electronics (Hon Hai Precision Industry).

In addition to notebooks, the supply chain sources also pointed out that Apple may also launch its new iMac along with its MacBook, and the company may also make some changes over the screen size to allow panel cutting to reach its optimization.