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Apple Considering Adopting AMD Processors for Upcoming Macs?
- Thread starter *LTD*
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Like posters said above, it might be a consideration in the low end Macbooks and whatnot. But I haven't seen a highend laptop with an AMD in it.
Like another poster said above, they could be using this as some sort of ruse to keep Intel on their toes. Also, why couldn't Apple keep a series of working prototypes for when the day comes, they need to cover all their bases.
Like another poster said above, they could be using this as some sort of ruse to keep Intel on their toes. Also, why couldn't Apple keep a series of working prototypes for when the day comes, they need to cover all their bases.
I hope Apple isn't simply switching to AMD processors because they are cheaper since I doubt most of those savings would be passed on to consumers anyways. AMD's CPU performance and power consumption doesn't compare to Intel currently and while Bulldozer might catch up, it's not clear that it can actually surpass Sandy Bridge. On the mobile front though, Bulldozer won't be in that space, as such I don't think current or future AMD mobile processors will be competitive with what Intel can offer for notebooks. It's good to keep the option open, but hopefully Apple will make sure they aren't taking a step backwards in performance just to save money or to spite Intel.
I've always built my PCs around AMD chips because I thought they were more energy efficient. I admit it was a loooong time ago that I heard this but is this still the case? The industry changes so fast I don't have the time to keep up!
Is the NVIDIA/AMD partnership still valid?
Is the NVIDIA/AMD partnership still valid?
Intel's winning the the efficiency battle but AMD chips are still hella competitive.
Why do you people keep talking about CURRENT CPUs? Do you think Apple will start selling macs with AMDs tomorrow?
Jeebus!
I don't see why Apple wouldn't pass savings down the the consumer. Pricing dictates sales to a large extent. If Apple is happy with their gross margins they typically don't have a problem giving out a good price.
Intel may be slightly superior but if that comes at a 30% cost premium then no thanks. I'll pocket the money and build a better config.
I really hope this isn't true. Switching from Intel to AMD is a bad idea. AMD's processor technology is always behind Intel. Remember the years it took for OSX to switch from PPC to Intel? Do we really want to see that happen again in less than a decade? I don't see this being a quick transition. It'd be much better for Apple to just start making the chips themselves. They could probably just buy out AMD ha. I'd be cool with that.
God, I hope not. AMD processors are no longer in the same league as Intels. Maybe for the lowest end macs if any.
I couldn't agree more!! AMD have been lagging seriously behind Intel for the last few years and I really don't think they have much to offer in terms of future developments of faster and more efficient processors.
At one time AMD ruled the roost with their Athlon Intel busting processors, now I think it's hard for them to keep up...
Because AMD has no roadmap. Their engineering is in complete disarray. They're selling chips that were designed a decade ago. They have no chief architect. Stick a fork in 'em.
It would be interesting to see if Apple decides to start using AMD within their lineup. However, it seems that apple prefers to simplify and standardize their offerings and using both doesn't seem to fit that model. Moving to AMD exclusively would, however, re-open the debate between PC versus MAC hardware. Looking at AMD's roadmap is impressive, but so in Intels. Intel has more offerings and varying solutions for many needs.
God, I hope not. AMD processors are no longer in the same league as Intels. Maybe for the lowest end macs if any.
At least these 2 are correct in their thoughts... this is nothing but a disaster waiting to happen IMO. Intel CPU's are leaps and bounds better than AMD's today, it is unfortunate as I used to only use AMD's many moons ago... there was a time when AMD > Intel but no longer and especially not in the mobile CPU department. I would go Windows on a laptop before I ran one with an AMD CPU in it. 'Shudders'
This is merely speculation. Perhaps it does go deeper. Maybe Apple is making plans to purchase AMD. Maybe Apple will become Hardware independent. I for one, am completely for this. But this has as much chance of happening as Apple creating their own search engine.
Apple already has its A4. If Apple buys AMD, they have an in-house solution for making chips and ATI graphics.
The team that did all the great design work for Athlon 64/Opteron is gone. Forced out or quit in disgust. They now work at Apple, Oracle, misc. startups, and, in my case, changed careers.
And now my AMD stock will be worth more.
That aside bring on the Radeon HD 5870 and 5850 Mobility!!!!
That aside bring on the Radeon HD 5870 and 5850 Mobility!!!!
Let the Intel hate begin
If Apple makes the switch, I bet you're right that we'll have people in lock step with his Steveness - spouting the evils of intel and how crappy they are.