Months ago, Apple launched its latest 13-inch and 15-inch variants of the MacBook Pro laptop for 2015. As early as now, the 2016 editions are rumored to be even more equipped than their predecessors and will come earlier than anticipated.

The speculations that Apple will unveil the next-generation MacBook Pro stem from reports saying that retailers already slashed prices off some previous MacBook Pro models in preparation for the arrival of the new one.

For instance, US-based consumer electronics retailer Best Buy has offered a discount for the 15-inch MacBook Pro Retina released only in May 2015. The retailer is reportedly selling it for $1,699, which is $300 less than its initial price of $1,999. Another retailer, B&H Photo Video, is said to have offered a $600 discount on the 2014 version of the 15-inch MacBook Pro.

Giving out discounts is an indicator that the next-generation model is coming soon. These discount promos reportedly allow retailers and Apple to deplete the remaining inventory of the last-generation models before the releasing new versions to the market.

When it comes to specifications, significant improvements to Intel's processor could bring exciting news for potential buyers of the new MacBook Pro. One of most interesting rumors surrounding Apple's upcoming laptop is reported by Tech Radar, suggesting that the Cupertino-based tech giant is thinking of ditching AMD graphics it is currently using in favor of Intel integrated graphics.

Intel's new Y series Skylake chip, which utilizes a fanless architecture technology, could bring in up to 41% faster GPU performance along with 17% faster CPU performance. The chip maker revealed that the integrated Gen9 graphics of the Skylake processor can also run up to three 4K displays at 60fps (frames per second).

This would be a notable achievement for Intel, given that MacBook Pro users usually engage in more rigorous computing than generic PC users. It is reported that the new electronics component will also support 3D modeling, simulation, data analysis, and intensive gaming on the 2016 MacBook Pro.

Furthermore, the unannounced model is predicted to sport an even greater battery life due to the power-saving benefits of Intel's chipset. It is possible that the MacBook Pro could see its battery life extended into double-figures, making it at par with lower-powered tablet devices.

Since the new MacBook Pro will likely arrive in early 2016, buyers can expect that both 13- and 15-inch variants will be run by Apple's new OS X El Capitan, the newest version of the company's proprietary desktop operating system.