Apple Inc., the maker of the world’s most successful digital media player who has minor presence in the market of personal computers (PCs), has unveiled three new MacBook Pro laptops that feature Intel’s latest mobile processors as well as Nvidia’s new graphics chip that support DirectX 10 capabilities.

Apple’s new 15.4” and 17” MacBook Pro notebooks are based on Intel Core 2 Duo processors with 800MHz processor system bus and a set of chips known under “Santa Rosa” code-name. Besides performance improvements that are enabled by Intel’s new mobile platform, the new MacBook Pro laptops feature LED-backlight displays with up to 1920x1200 resolution as well as Nvidia’s new mobile graphics processor – Nvidia GeForce 8600M GT with 128MB of memory. Like all latest machines from Apple, the new mobile offerings feature 802.11n network for higher performance wireless connection. The machines come with 2GB of memory and up to 160GB hard disk drives.

LED-backlight displays not only allow Apple to eliminate mercury, but are also more power efficient, which means that such machines can work longer on battery power, which is critical for mobile computers.

Depending on configuration, the new MacBook Pro 15.4” and 17” can cost $1999, $2499 or $2799. The new MacBook Pro models are now shipping and will be available through the Apple Store, Apple’s retail stores and Apple authorized resellers.

“With Intel Core 2 Duo performance, more memory and state-of-the-art graphics, this MacBook Pro is a portable powerhouse for creative and professional users,” said Philip Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of worldwide product marketing. “Apple’s notebooks have always led the industry in innovation with features like built-in 802.11 and the MagSafe Power Adapter, and now the industry’s first 15” LED-backlit display is another step toward completely eliminating mercury from our displays.”