Besides compatibility issues, which could be solved via emulation, the big problem with using ARM is that while these chips are very energy efficient, they do not offer the same level of performance as x86. For the average user this may not be a major concern, but for power users and especially content creation, which is one of the areas where Apple is quite popular, this still seems a big issue.
Anyway, Apple watcher Ming Chi Kuo now believes that the company will introduce the first ARM-based Mac computers in the first half of 2021. The analyst predicts these devices will use a 5nm ARM-based processor.
We expect that Apple's new products in 12-18 months will adopt processors made by 5nm process, including the new 2H20 5G iPhone, new 2H20 iPad equipped with mini LED, and new 1H21 Mac equipped with the own-design processor. We think that iPhone 5G support, ?iPad?'s adoption of innovative mid-size panel technology, and Mac's first adoption of the own-design processor are all Apple's critical product and technology strategies. Given that the processor is the core component of new products, we believe that Apple had increased 5nm-related investments after the epidemic outbreak. Further, Apple occupying more resources of related suppliers will hinder competitors' developments.If true, it will be interesting to see how the market accepts these products.
Via: MacRumors