Apple Hires Ex ARM CPU Architect, Could Launch ARM Based Mac By 2020

Claims in the past have suggested that Apple is developing ARM based Mac computers which will replace Intel processors. The company has hired one of ARM’s top CPU architect, Mike Filippo who led the development of several chips at the latter corporation between 2009 and 2019.

With the wealth of chip making the new Apple recruit brings, reports about the aforementioned ARM based Mac computers may soon turn into a reality. Users who are unaware, ARM is the company responsible for developing Cortex cores which are found on most Android mobile chipsets.

As previously mentioned, Apple designing its own ARM-based processors will allow the company to move away from Intel processors which are currently seen on all its offerings. Besides, sources within Intel have confirmed to Axios ( an American News Website) that Apple plans to transition to ARM architecture based Macs starting 2020.

As of now, the A series chipsets found on the iPhone and iPad are developed in house by Apple. Furthermore, the custom T2 security chip present in the latest Mac models is also developed in house. Some benefits that Apple will reap upon switching to self-developed ARM processors are as follows: 

• Due to the same underlying hardware architecture, applications designed for iOS i.e iPhone, iPad or iPod will be compatible with Mac computers. Furthermore, Apple in the past has showcased ‘Project Catalyst’ which is intended toward unifying and cross compatibility between MacOS and iOS apps. 
• It won’t be wrong to assume that this move will help the company to save up production costs as in house developed components are generally more economical. Besides if the company decides to pass on the benefit to customers by lowering prices of its offerings. This will result in a sales boost for Mac computers.
• Apple iPhones are generally considered more secure than its Android counterparts, because of a closed ecosystem between software and hardware which are both developed by the same company. Likewise, Mac computers which are already regarded for a high level of security will become even more secure with a combination of proprietary software and hardware.

All in all, the idea of a Mac computer with ARM processor doesn’t seem farfetched at all. Aside from the fact, the current gen iPad Pro with A12x Bionic SoC is regarded as powerful as a MacBook Pro with an i7 processor. With the high end tablet computer,  Apple has proved that ARM computers can not only provide a better battery backup, they are on par in terms of processing with dektop grade CPUs.

Also Read: Lenovo India Introduces “Made To Order” Customisable Laptops

Even though Apple has not revealed a launch date for an ARM based Mac, as mentioned previously, they could be expected in the year 2020. 

What are your thoughts on Apple’s departure from Team Blue’s offering to its own chipsets? Do let us know what is your take on this!