Apple Abandons PowerPC for Intel Processors

Strategic Insights -

The transition will help the Mac compete against Windows PCs in performance and price, but poses big challenges for Apple, software developers, and users. After years of touting its Macintosh computers as superior, Apple announced Monday that it will switch to Intel Corp. microprocessors that power computers designed to run Microsoft Corp.'s Windows operating systems. The first Intel-based Macs won't appear until June 2006, and the full product line won't shift to Intel until 2007, according to Apple's chief executive, Steve Jobs.

Key Takeaways:

  • Apple will switch to Intel Corp. microprocessors, abandoning the PowerPC processor developed with International Business Machines Corp. and Motorola Inc.
  • The transition will help the Mac compete against Windows PCs in performance and price, but poses big challenges for Apple, software developers, and users.
  • Apple has been working on the move for at least five years, creating two separate versions of its Mac OS X operating system for both the current Mac chips and those built by Intel.
  • The first Intel-based Macs won't appear until June 2006, and the full product line won't shift to Intel until 2007, according to Apple's chief executive, Steve Jobs.
  • Adobe Systems Inc. and Microsoft will support Macs running the new hardware, with Microsoft's Office productivity suite working on current and future Macs.
  • Apple will offer software that translates programs written specifically for the older chips to run on Macs with Intel inside.
  • The move may make Macs more vulnerable to attacks by viruses and other malware.

Statistics:

  • Apple will take 2-3 years to complete the transition to Intel processors.
  • The first Intel-based Macs will appear in June 2006.
  • The full product line will shift to Intel by 2007.
  • Apple has been working on the transition for at least five years.
  • The move will give Intel 92% market share, with Apple's market share to be determined.
  • Microsoft's Office productivity suite will work on current and future Macs.

Sources:

  • The Associated Press, "Apple to Use Intel Microprocessors" by Greg Sandoval and Matthew Fordahl
  • Insight 64, Nathan Brookwood
  • Apple Computer Inc.
  • Microsoft Corp.
  • Adobe Systems Inc.