Apple Mac desktop computer with ARM CPU also coming in 2021?

Apple watcher Ming-Chi Kuo predicts we'll see the first ARM-based Mac computers in 2021 at the latest. Earlier this year, the analyst wrote Apple is on track to release its first ARM-based laptops in Q4 2020 or Q1 2021. Now Kuo is confident that ARM-based Mac desktop computers will follow in 2021.

It's been in the cards for a long time now and if it indeed happens it will be Apple's second architectural switch in less than 20 years. The company transitioned from PowerPC to Intel's x86 in 2006 and a switch to ARM is seen as a way to get greater control over the hardware and offer greater hardware differentiation versus Windows PCs.

Kuo predicts switching to an ARM-based platform will significantly enhance Apple's competitive advantage. It means the Cupertino-based firm will no longer need to rely on Intel's roadmap, and it could result in a CPU cost cut of 40 to 60 percent. However, we're still wondering if this will pan out well for professionals. Basic tasks like web browsing and general productivity can easily be done on ARM-based processors, but will Apple be able to deliver something powerful enough for content creation? And will backwards compatibility be an issue? I guess we'll find out next year.

There is also speculation that Macs will get USB4 support in 2022:

Kuo expects ASMedia Technology to become the exclusive supplier of USB controllers for Arm-based Macs, adding that the Taiwanese integrated circuit designer will benefit from Macs gaining support for USB4 in 2022.