ARM based Macs: It's back to the future in a way

[MrNoBody]

ARM, a variant of RISC architecture like SPARC & Power PC. Leaving Intel's CISC
architecture, like the move from Moto68000 to PPC decades ago.

Ironically, Intel has used RISC within the core of its x86 family since the P6.
Intel x86 Processors – CISC or RISC? Or both??

I suppose we should all thank the folks who worked on DARPA's VLSI Project!!
VLSI Project

[MacArtist]

So what is the real benefit from switching Macs to ARM processors? Is it cost savings so Apple can compete with Chromebooks?

Is it part of the plan to consolidate separate operating systems, no more macOS-iOS?

Is it a way to end the not-so-covert Hackintosh experience?

Apple developers have been put through many serious changes. I wonder how many will call it quits developing for the Mac platform.

[Sarcany]

MacArtist wrote:
So what is the real benefit from switching Macs to ARM processors? Is it cost savings so Apple can compete with Chromebooks?

Vertical integration.

Tim is a supply-chain guy.

They control source, spec, schedule and cost.

[pdq]

I think that with Intel, you always have the problem that they are making general-purpose processors for a market which is predominantly still Windows. It certainly didn’t work to have a non-Intel third party (like IBM or Motorola) making a relatively small number of processors ostensibly more specifically designed for Macs but actually often just stripped down versions of their big iron chips (like the G1/PowerPC 601 or the G5).

Now that Apple is designing (if not actually fabricating) chips for many millions of devices (iPhones+iPads) themselves, it might make sense for them to make a few million more that are specifically designed for laptop/desktop computers (ie Macs).

I guess we’ll see. Should be interesting.

[tenders]

1. Keep more of the revenue from the computer within Apple - they already do this at huge scale with iOS devices, makes sense to expand it to Macs.

2. Chip architecture generates higher computation/watt - laptop battery charges will last longer

3. Better hardware feature integration between Macs and flagship iOS devices

4. More hardware differentiation possibilities in a sea of commoditized PCs