Bloomberg reports Apple is set to use their own chips in Macs, “beginning as early as 2020,” according to unnamed sources familiar with the plans:
The initiative, code named Kalamata, is still in the early developmental stages, but comes as part of a larger strategy to make all of Apple’s devices — including Macs, iPhones, and iPads — work more similarly and seamlessly together, said the people, who asked not to be identified discussing private information. The project, which executives have approved, will likely result in a multi-step transition.
The move would see Apple move away from reliance on Intel for chips, and the news sent the latter’s stock price down as much as 9.2 per cent today. Intel told Bloomberg, “We don’t comment on speculation about our customers.”
Why would Apple want to use their own chips in Macs? More control on when and how to release updates for the Mac line up, instead of relying on Intel’s processor roadmap. Apple already uses their own A-series chips in iOS devices and if they ever debut in a Mac, it could also possibly result in better power management and lead to improved battery life (btw: battery life in this MacBook Pro with Touch Bar is horrible).
Back in December, Bloomberg reported Apple had plans to unify iOS and macOS apps in 2018, meaning developers would be able to write one app for iPhone, iPad and Mac, instead of multiple versions.
