apple moving to x86

[Freddie Cash]

On June 8, 2005 02:24 pm, Nicole wrote:
> On 07-Jun-05 My Homeland Security "observers" reported that Erich
> Dollansky said:
> > Claus Guttesen wrote:
> >> on the ongoing work with FreeBSD. As most know by now Apple will base
> >> it's next-generation hardware on the x86-architecture moving away
> >> from the PowerPC.

>  It seems a shame that they could not have at least gone with AMD
> processors instead of Intel. No matter how closely they are tied to IBM.

Apple has always been about the platform.  They like to control as much of 
the computing experience as possible.  In a way, it makes sense to go with 
Intel, as Intel is on way to "platformisation", where they don't just sell 
CPUs, but a CPU + chipset + I/O (wireless, ethernet, audio, video) in a 
single package.  Look at the Centrino branding, and how they want to bring 
something similar over to the desktop.  So, Apple could start with laptops 
based around some form of Centrino.  That way, they only have 1 source for 
CPU/chipset/IO needs, and can make sure that their software definitely 
works on that hardware.  Limit the choices, improve the software 
experience.

Will the go with the existing Centrino/PentiumM that is only 32-bit?  
Maybe, since their existing laptops (G4-based) are 32-bit.  Or, will Intel 
be ready with the next Centrino/PentiumM that includes EM64T support by 
the time Apple wants to release the first laptop?  Who knows, there's 
still a year before the first Apple computer with Intel Inside is 
available.

If they went with AMD processors, then they would have to either build or 
find someone to build a chipset.  Then they would have to either build or 
find someone to build a motherboard around that.  And so on.  Too many 
partners, too many variables, too many people to wait for.  Intel can whip 
up everything they need, which means they can focus on the software.  It's 
not like Intel is going to up and disappear next year.  :)

Ars Technica has a couple of very intriguing articles on this subject, and 
they make a lot of sense.

-- 
Freddie Cash, CLCP CNCP            Network Support / Helpdesk
School District 73                 (250) 377-4357
fcash-ml at sd73.bc.ca