8-Core Mac Pro In January? Displays Too?

MacScoop/MacOSXRumors believes that an 8-core Mac Pro is currently on track for a January release. In addition, the sites' sources indicate that a 4-core configuration may be left in Apple's lineup at a lower price point.

AppleInsider has previously indicated that development on the systems has been complete for some time and that a release was expected this year. While details on the upgraded machines remain scarce, some were reportedly able to upgrade their Mac Pros to Clovertown CPUs without incident, indicating that research and development on Clovertown-based Mac Pros may not need to be extensive if the CPU is only being upgraded.

Also mentioned was the possibility of a simultaneous release of refreshed displays. We had previously reported that new displays perhaps would be released in or around MacWorld with built-in iSights, and MacScoop continues to believe that the new displays will also support HDMI. MacScoop also hints that the 23" model may be refreshed with a 24" model, and a larger display may also debut. Of interest, Macsimmum news had recently reported that a 50" monitor may be planned for "early 2007".

The exact timing of the events is unknown, but readers should note that MacWorld is traditionally a consumer event. However, if rumors of Apple releasing larger displays with HDMI capability are true, the line between professional and consumer (iTV connectivity?) could be blurred.