Apple is ready to shift from Intel chips to its own 5 nanometer or 5nm processors for Mac computers after analyst Ming-Chi Kuo revealed the company’s plans to release a device with the new CPU in H1 2021.
Apple laptops and desktops have been powered by Intel for some time, but the ARM-based tech used in iPhones and iPad is now set to make its way into a new line of Mac computers.
Apple generally favours its own internally designed chips as they offer greater control over release schedules and can be tailored to offer improvements over off-the-shelf parts, such as longer battery.
There is one potential problem though as many apps for Mac have been built from the ground up using Intel processors, which could cause issues with compatibility and performance.
Kuo revealed earlier this week that Apple is looking to use 5nm tech in the new processors and that they will form the basis of internals in a range of upcoming products.
This means that 5nm is likely to feature in the hotly anticipated 5G iPhone, which is expected to launch some time next year, and a new generation of iPads.
Kuo, who keeps a close eye on Apple’s supply chain throughout the year, has a stellar track record, having predicted many developments in Apple’s product pipeline in the past.
In the note, he said: “We expect that Apple’s new products in 12-18 months will adopt processors made by 5nm process, including the new 2H20 5G iPhone, new 2H20 iPad equipped with mini LED, and new 1H21 Mac equipped with the own-design processor.”
While Apple has been hit by the spread of the coronavirus during the first two months of 2020, Kuo said that the potential epidemic would not knock the company off course as it moves forward with the production of 5nm chips.