What makes Apple’s M1 Pro and M1 Max so important?

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Intel has been one of Silicon Valley’s most technologically advanced companies for decades. Almost every personal computer has been powered by a microprocessor from the x86 family. As a result of the pandemic and the microchip crisis, trends have changed.

The giants want to play by their own rules. Including Apple.

In the fall of 2021, Apple introduced the M1 Pro and M1 Max, a technology with breakthrough chips of their own production. Not only is this the end of the 15-year period when Intel processes were used in Apple laptops and desktops, but it’s also a huge step forward for the semiconductor industry as a whole.

According to Gartner, Apple is the fourth-largest PC in terms of shipments. The move to native processors across Intel’s entire laptop and desktop lineup represents a major loss for Intel.

Why does Apple need this?

There are two main reasons:

1) Technical reason.

For many years, Intel chips were made primarily for stationary machines. To achieve maximum speed, Intel processors consumed a lot of power and generated a lot of heat.

Apple’s new chips employ ARM technology rather than Intel’s x86 architecture. The ARM design is similar to the A-series chips in smartphones. Such designs are lighter and more energy-efficient. The architecture of the M1 Pro and M1 Max allows your MacBook to deliver the same level of performance from both AC and battery power.

ARM also enables faster graphics and artificial intelligence in the new Mac. 

2) Strategic reason.

Apple has full control over its technology by developing its own chips. It’s a powerful response to an ongoing semiconductor shortage that has ravaged the manufacturing sector. In computing, the company now owns everything from chips to software.

This isn’t just the case with personal computer manufacturers.

The automaker Tesla at a promotional event in 2021 presented innovative chips of its own production.

Robert Bosch GmbH, a supplier of technologies and spare parts, also announced a significant increase in production capacity for its own microchips. A total of 400 million euros will be invested.

Proprietary technology enables companies to integrate products more deeply and become more vendor-independent.

If making chips in-house is too expensive, you can always turn to professionals. Our experience and passion for innovation will help your business become more independent and resist any crisis.