No more Intel processors: Will Apple go its separate ways in the future?

According to insiders, Apple is planning a major change in its processors. The iPad Pro already showed how powerful Apple's own chips can be. But the question remains whether this can also apply to processors in Macs.

Why Apple prefers to use its own chips

Logically, the change means that they are more independent from other companies. Even if Apple does not manufacture its chips itself, you do not have to constantly consult with other companies to further develop features. This means that errors, especially those related to the performance of a device, can be corrected faster and more smoothly.

It is still unclear whether the performance will improve. Apple worked very closely with Intel. Therefore, software adjustments for maximum performance were possible before. However, if you manage to adapt your own ARM chips even better to the system, an increase in performance can be expected. It should also make the Apple devices work more seamlessly and similarly with one another. It is unclear whether this also means that the Apple systems will seal themselves off even more. Features such as using Windows under a virtual machine could be omitted with the switch.

In my opinion the biggest advantage is the battery. By better networking hardware and software, Apple may be able to improve battery life. With a MacBook, this makes perfect sense, because the devices are known for their slim and elegant design and are therefore more than suitable for mobile use.

"Kalamata" initiative

That is supposed to be the code name for the switch to ARM chips in the Mac. However, this is still in the early stages of development. As already mentioned, Apple's own chips are nothing new. They have been producing their own processors for the iPhone, iPod touch and iPad for a long time and these regularly beat the competition from the Android camp.

However, it is worth questioning whether Apple can really compete with Intel's mid-range or even high-end processors in 2020. But this again confirms the step-by-step approach. You could start from the bottom with the 12-inch MacBook and then update the Pro versions of the MacBooks in the following years.

In summary: is it the right step?

This change offers many advantages for Apple. Most of these are also noticeable for the consumer, so the Switch is a step in the right direction in my opinion. How it affects the interaction between PC and Mac is still unclear, but it can be assumed that the compatibility will decrease. But this is speculation. The chips could also have an x86 emulation and thus be Windows-compatible.