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Apple updated the MacBook with much milder official changes this year -- most notably a better graphics processor and more battery life -- but we wanted to see for ourselves exactly how the laptop evolved.
Photo Courtesy iFixIt
We ventured inside the MacBook to find out how Apple achieved the claimed 10 hour battery life, as well to see if there were any magical unicorns that they chose to keep hidden from public view.
Teardown:
http://www.ifixit.com/Teardown/MacBook-Unibody-Model-A1342-Mid-2010-Teardown/2931/1
Video slideshow:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fwhl8hLtJMA
Highlights:
* The battery is identical in size and shape to the old one, but is rated for 63.5 Wh (compared to 60Wh) and weighs 355 g (compared to 347.5 g).
Photo Courtesy iFixIt
* The battery also works in the previous MacBook! You can get an extra 350 mAh of electric charge if you're willing to add 7.5 grams to your older machine.
* Of course, Apple continues to use tri-wing screws for the battery, as well as the "Do not remove the battery" warning sticker. We ask: why is it such a big deal to have users replace it themselves?
* The layout is so similar to the earlier version of the MacBook that users can use them to repair the new machine:
http://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Device/MacBook_Unibody_Model_A1342
* We confirmed the updated NVIDIA GeForce 320M integrated graphics, much to the thrill of lite gamers everywhere.
Photo Courtesy iFixIt
* Other notable chip winners include Realtek RTL8251CA ethernet, Cirrus Logic 4206ACNZ audio, CYPRESS CY8C24 16 KB Flash PSoC, and dual TDK 6T213HF packages.
Photo Courtesy iFixIt
* No MacBooks were hurt, in any way, shape, or form, during the teardown process.
Cheers,
Kyle Wiens
iFixit CEO
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