Apple furthers its commitment to VR with an external graphics processor that brings high-end, desktop level graphics to the Macbook Pro.
UPDATE (7/15/2018): Updated to better clarify Macbook Pro’s capabilities.
In terms of sheer popularity, very few models of laptop computers are able to hold a candle to Apple’s Macbook Pro. Over the course of the last decade the influential brand of notebook computers has dominated the laptop market to become one of the most preferred options among students, professionals and amateur creatives alike.
Despite this mainstream acceptance, however, Apple’s iOS has never played nice with modern day gaming. As a result, Apple computers have become what is arguably the least-desirable platforms for gamers. This has become especially true in terms of virtual reality technology.
In an attempt to appease Macbook owners interested in VR, Apple has teamed up with Blackmagic Development to create the Blackmagic eGPU, a Macbook Pro-compatible external graphics processor designed for VR, 3D games and pro creative software such as DaVinci Resolve.
Available now for $699, the Blackmagic eGPU brings increased performance to the Macbook Pro via a Radeon Pro 580, two Thunderbolt 3 ports, HDMI 2.0, 85W of charging power and four USB 3.1 connections. An additional 8GB of GDDR5 RAM, 256-bit memory bandwidth and 36 discreet compute units for up to 5.5 teraflops of processing power result in higher frame rates, impressive lighting and even more detailed textures. Simply plug the eGPU into the Macbook through a standard Thunderbolt 3 connection and instantly gain the high-speed processing power of a powerful desktop system.
“The Blackmagic eGPU is the world’s first eGPU designed specifically for accelerating professional video workflows with DaVinci Resolve,” said Grant Petty, CEO, Blackmagic Design. “It also adds the performance customers need for truly immersive, more realistic looking 3D game and VR experiences. Best of all, the Blackmagic eGPU gives you desktop class graphics performance on a laptop computer!”
Of course it wouldn’t be an Apple product without a sleek, physical design. A futuristic, aluminum appearance coupled with an advanced thermal cooling system makes the Blackmagic eGPU not only gorgeous, but efficient and quiet as well. An impressive internal power supply supports the entirety of the GPU while also distributing 85W of downstream power for charging laptop computers and peripherals.
The Blackmagic eGPU is available now for $699 exclusively at Apple.com or at official Apple retailers worldwide.
Image Credit: Blackmagic Design