The next generation of Macs may come with ARM-based processors alongside Intel ones as Apple is currently developing a processor that would “take on more of the functionality” handled by the Intel processors.
Bloomberg is reporting that said ARM-based chip, codenamed T310, is built using ARM’s technology and will work in tandem with the Intel processors. With this chip in place, Apple is looking to shift low-power mode functionality, referred to as “Power Nap”, to the ARM chip instead. Shifting “Power Nap” to the ARM chip instead of having it run on the Intel chips will allow the Mac to conserve even more power. Besides low-power mode functionality, this ARM chip will also be connected to wireless and storage components to take on additional power management capabilities.
Apple’s intention to use ARM-based processors in its devices isn’t exactly new as the company has implemented the ARM-based T1 chip to power the new MacBook’s Touch Bar. If all goes well, Apple is expected to introduce the T310 chip into this year’s lineup of Macs. As for Intel processors, Bloomberg mentions that Apple has no plans to abandon them in the near future, so rest assured, the upcoming Macs will still be Intel-powered machines.