Apple Computer has continued its transition to x86 microprocessors with the announcement of the new MacBook Pro 17” computer that features Intel Core Duo chip. The company said that using of the Intel’s latest dual-core processors allowed its MacBook Pro to offer up to four times the performance of PowerBook G4 computers.

“With Intel’s state of the art dual-core processor, the new 17-inch MacBook Pro delivers unrivaled performance in an innovative, sleek, one-inch thin design,” said Philip Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of worldwide product marketing.

The Apple’s MacBook Pro 17” laptop is available with Intel Core Duo T2600 (2.16GHz) dual-core processor. The new mobile computers from Apple that target media professionals feature 1680x1050 screen resolution, built-in iSight webcam, gigabit ethernet, 54Mb/s wireless network controller, Bluetooth 2.0 as well as Apple’s SuperDrive (CD/DVD burner). The notebooks come with either 1GB of PC2-5300 memory, 80GB or 120GB 5400rpm (7200rpm is an option) hard disk drives and Mobility Radeon X1600 graphics adapter with 256MB of memory.

The new MacBook Pro 17” computer is relatively thin – about 1” (2.59cm) thick and relatively light for a notebook in 17" form-factore: 6.8 pounds (3.08 kilograms).

A new distinctive feature of the Apple MacBook Pro its new power adapter with MagSafe connector: a magnetic connection that breaks cleanly away when accidentally stepping onto a power cord, something which may save notebook’s valuable data and the machine itself.

Default configuration of the new MacBook Pro 17” costs $2799.