Macotakara is reporting that Apple is working on an ARM Cortex A9 (or as Apple likes to call them A5) based MacBook Air. The ARM-based A5 is the same processor currently used in the iPad 2, and is expected to make it’s way to the next-generation iPhone this fall.
The report goes on to note that they are uncertain as to which operating system this A5-based Air was running, and they claim that the machine was manufactured by Quanta Computer.
Now, if you incorporate two recent reports with this claim, a semi-believable picture begins to form. First, a few weeks back we heard that Apple was indeed working on transitioning their portable lines to ARM-based processors, away from Intel. Then, in recent days, we’ve heard reports that Intel is very interested in manufacturing other’s chips for them, acting as a sort of foundry.
On the flip side however, there have been recent reports that Intel is working to bring the wattage of their chips from 35 watts to 10-15 watts. A chip with power consumption like that, would be perfect for Apple’s ultra-portable uses.
In other words, I still can’t see Apple making this transition. However, if they would do it, they could still maintain a relationship with Intel and have them manufacture the chips. Everyone still makes money that way.
This will be interesting to watch play out.
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