Google to make its own ARM-based server processors?

Large customers like Google and Facebook can already get custom chips from Intel but now Bloomberg claims Google is tapping into ARM and may dump Intel altogether. According to the report, Google is designing its own ARM-based chips to better manage the interactions between hardware and software and perhaps also to cut costs. Google is Intel's fifth largest customer, the search giant is estimated to spend roughly $500 million a year on Intel server CPUs.

By using its own designs, Google could better manage the interactions between hardware and software, said the person, who asked not to be identified because the matter is private. Google, among the largest buyers of server processors, has made no decision and plans could change, said the person.

“We are actively engaged in designing the world’s best infrastructure,” said Liz Markman, a spokeswoman for Google. “This includes both hardware design (at all levels) and software design.” Markman declined to say whether the company may develop its own chips.