MacBook Pro Core Duo (T2600) 2006

At first glance, the Apple MacBook Pro "Core Duo" 2.16 17-Inch shares a strong resemblance with its predecessor, the PowerBook G4/1.67 17" (HR), but it runs on an Intel "Core Duo" processor. This model is equipped with a 2.16 GHz Intel "Core Duo" processor (T2600) featuring two independent cores, a 2 MB shared L2 cache, and a 667 MHz frontside bus. It includes 1.0 GB of 667 MHz DDR2 SDRAM (PC2-5300), a 120.0 GB hard drive with "Sudden Motion Sensor" technology, and an 8X dual-layer DVD+R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW SuperDrive. It also has an ATI Mobility Radeon X1600 graphics processor with 256 MB of GDDR3 video memory and dual-link DVI, and a 17.0" widescreen TFT active-matrix display (1680x1050) that Apple reports is 36% brighter than the previous model's.

Like the model it replaced, this MacBook Pro includes the fiber-optic "ambient light sensor," "scrolling TrackPad," AirPort Extreme (802.11g), Bluetooth 2.0+EDR, Gigabit Ethernet, both FireWire "400" and "800" ports, and optical digital audio in/out. However, it omits the S-video out port and internal modem, while adding a third USB 2.0 port and replacing the PC card slot with an ExpressCard/34 slot. This model also incorporates a built-in iSight camera, an Apple Remote for Front Row, and the "MagSafe" power connector.

The first 17-inch MacBook Pro successfully scaled up the benefits of the new Intel architecture into a true desktop-replacement machine. Its expansive, high-resolution display provided a vast canvas that was highly sought after by creative professionals. A key differentiator from its 15-inch counterparts was the retention of the FireWire 800 port, a critical piece of connectivity for the audio and video industries at the time. It also boasted a more capable 8X dual-layer SuperDrive and an additional USB 2.0 port. By combining a large screen, powerful Core Duo performance, and crucial professional I/O, this machine firmly established itself as the definitive mobile workstation for power users in the early Intel era.