Apple Mac computers will begin a transition towards custom processors, from 2020, according to a Bloomberg report on Monday.
The move would see Apple phase out Intel processors from its line-up, according to those people ‘familiar with the plans’.
The report says the initiative is codenamed ‘Kalamata’ and the goal is to ensure Macs, iPhones and iPads work together more seamlessly.
Currently, Macs are the only Apple product to run processors that were not designed by Apple based on ARM technology.
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This could be part of Apple’s rumoured plans to ensure iOS and macOS apps run across both platforms. It would also enable Apple to free itself from Intel’s release schedules when planning new Mac launches.
The report speculates Apple Mac computers could also benefit from better battery life due to the ability to integrate hardware with software more efficiently.
The reported move also follows the inclusion of the custom-build T2 chip within the recent iMac Pro, which takes over some of the duties from the Intel clips.
Should Apple decide to take this route, it would need to ensure the replacement chips can match Intel for speed, functionality and reliability.
Transition
Bloomberg’s sources say there’ll be a multi-step transition away from Intel, which has been approved by the company’s top brass.
Although the plans could still be dropped, according to the report, Intel’s stock price plummeted by as much as 9.2% following the report.
That’s the largest slip in 2 years and it’s understandable given Apple accounts for about 5% of Intel’s annual revenue.
In a blunt statement Apple said: “We don’t comment on speculation about our customers.”
Are you heartened by the news Apple may be moving away from Intel chips? Drop us a line @TrustedReviews on Twitter.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
