Dave brought this up earlier and I had to say…Anyways the news story is
NEW YORK (Reuters) – Apple Computer Inc. has been in talks that could lead to a decision soon to use Intel Corp. chips in its Macintosh computer line, the Wall Street Journal reported on Monday.
Here is a comment from /..
Cheaper because of Intel? I doubt it. Even if Apple does start using x86 – or more likely x86-64 – they would still likely use their own controller chips (Note that Apple uses a single, integrated controller rather than a north/southbridge approach) and custom boards.
It’s not impossible that Apple will switch to Intel processors. We already know they keep a copy of the OS up to date on Intel hardware, and even released Darwin x86. The problems come from all the things they would leave behind:
Compatibility – The PowerPC architecture emulates x86 better than the other way ’round. To keep from eliminating all old software with one fell swoop, they would need to emulate PowerPC. This would cause old software to run like death.
VMX – Much of Apple’s current power comes from the AltiVec/VMX/Velocity Engine available on the G4 & G5 processors. It is what offers Apple serious performance benefits in certain applications, and makes possible many of the near/realtime capbilities in programs like iPhoto, iMovie, and even Final Cut Pro. Unless Intel tacks on a VMX unit, I don’t see Apple switching.
I would guess, if Apple did agree to use Intel chips it was for some other device then a computer. Intel did reorganize the company and diverted billions into chips for cell phones, MP3 players, and PDA’s. All of these devices Apple could create or improve upon and if they use an Intel chip…who cares.
