Apple could confirm its ambitions to launch new ARM-based Macs at WWDC.
According to Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, who has a reliable track record and often scores scoops ahead of Apple announcements or launches, the company could share new information on its plans to move to ARM-processors.
This would give developers months to prepare for the move towards ARM, and allow them to update their macOS software.
The report suggests that Apple has a roadmap for its new ARM processor, launching the first ARM-based Mac in 2021. The company then wants to transition its entire MacBook, iMac, and iMac Pro computer range to custom-designed processors within the next three years.
This timeframe follows similar reports and leaks from reliable insider Ming-Chi Kuo. He had previously suggested that Apple would begin the transition in 2021 and finish by 2023.
Apple’s decision to switch to custom processors will offer several advantages over the current Mac range with Intel processors.
One of the most obvious is faster performance – as processors would be designed for a specific Mac – and reduced power consumption.
It worked well on the iPhone range and allowed Apple to innovative faster than its rivals.
Apple would also reduce its reliance on third parties, and be able to add new features and performance enhancements without waiting for Intel to develop the next generation chips.
According to Gurman, Apple is currently developing with three processors.
One will be based on the A14 chip, used in the new iPhone 12, set for release in September. TSMC will manufacture the processors, according to insider information, suggesting it’s ready to go.
The first Mac processor designed by Apple will feature 12 cores, eight of which will be high-performance, and four will be energy-efficient.
The company eventually wants to add more than 12 cores to its processors, already developing a second-generation based on the A15 chip, which we won’t see until at least 2021 or 2022.
Apple kicks off WWDC 2020 online on June 22, and we’ll hear more about the company’s plans for iOS, macOS, tvOS, watchOS, and more. We may even see some new product announcements. Stay tuned for more and follow us on Twitter for the latest developments.
