Report: Apple Considering AMD Chips

From DailyTech: When Apple made the switch to Intel processors back in 2006, many in the Apple community were worried about what the future would be like for the the Mac platform. Apple owners didn't need to worry, however, as the move to Intel processors bought faster performance across the board and opened up Mac desktops and notebooks to faster refreshes -- not to mention that Mac computer sales have boomed since the adoption of Intel chips.

So all would seem to be well with the Apple-Intel relationship -- well, maybe not. In news that may come straight of left field for some, Apple Insider is reporting that Apple is in serious talks with AMD to provide processors for its Mac notebook and desktop platforms.

According to Apple Insider, “Representatives for the Sunnyvale, Calif.-based AMD have recently been seen on Apple's Commuter Coach buses, and executives for the chipmaker have been spotted on their way out of meetings with members of Apple's top brass.” The Apple-centric website goes on to add, "The meetings have reportedly included briefings by AMD that have since enabled Apple to begin working with AMD processors in its labs as part of an initiative to position the chips inside some of the company's forthcoming products."

According to DailyTech's own sources, Apple is said to be looking at a number of upcoming AMD technologies including the Fusion platform which will meld a microprocessor and GPU functions into a single die. The first 32nm Fusion processors will feature a Llano APU (up to four Phenom II core plus an integrated DX11 graphics core). These processors will debut in 2011 for mainstream notebook and desktop platforms.

Where does this leave Intel as a chip supplier for Apple? If Apple Insider's report and our sources are correct, it's quite possible that Intel may maintain its position as a supplier for high-end chips for Apple's MacBook Pro and iMac platforms. However, lower-level platforms like the MacBook, Mac mini, and the Apple TV “hobby” could be prime targets for AMD processors.

View: Article @ Source Site