Apple is apparently working on various ARM-based OS X computers, including new iMac, Mac mini and MacBook models, French site MacBidouille has heard from a reliable source. The publication says that Apple already has such Mac prototypes featuring between four and eight 64-bit quad-core ARM processors, and a new keyboard that incorporates a larger Magic Trackpad.
While these devices are apparently ready to be shown off to the world, the company is not yet prepared to make an official announcement yet, the publication says. It’s not clear how long Apple has been working on these devices, or when they are supposed to become official.
Various reports claimed that Apple was indeed considering making ARM-based Macs, but the company never announced such devices, sticking with Intel chips for all its recent desktop and notebook releases.
MacRumors notes that the A7 chip found in 2013 iPhones and iPads, the first 64-bit mobile chip in the world, actually packs quite a punch, being able to deliver desktop class performance according to some reports. “In fact, the A7 chip is currently being underutilized in Apple’s iPhone and iPad devices, leaving some of its power untapped,” the publication writes.
Apple is expected to introduce an even more powerful chip this year, the A8 which should be found on board the iPhone 6 and new iPad models.
