Apple's Mac computers have only been equipped with processors from Intel since the transition from PowerPC processors in 2005. Now it is claimed that Apple is considering dropping to AMD as a supplier of both processors and other system chips.
It is first and foremost the site AppleInsider who writes about the case, which shall be based on statements from sources with insight into the calls. Apple will also have begun to test the AMD chips in its labs.
The reason why AMD's products will be more interesting than before, is the company's graphics division, ATI. AMD's graphics products are in many cases the very top, both in terms of performance and features, while Intel is still hanging far behind - at least when it comes to discrete solutions.
Meanwhile, Intel earlier this year sued Nvidia to prevent the company stock options chipset for Intel's latest processors. This should have forced Apple to having to equip the new laptops with integrated graphics solutions from Intel instead of the powerful solutions from Nvidia.
This limitation may be the main reason that Apple is now considering other options. AMD's microprocessors has recently hung some of Intel when it comes to maximum performance, but in return for AMD's chips are usually significantly cheaper.
A deal with Apple could mean a lot for AMD. Not only for chip sales, but also in terms of prestige. For Apple will lower prices make the process easier for the company to introduce low-cost models.
