Reportedly, Apple is developing a 32-core processor for high-end Macs
Image Source: Apple
We all had a sense Apple would eventually use ARM-based processors in their high-end Mac desktops; it's just a matter of time when the company would make that move. But we soon may see it all come to fruition. According to Bloomberg's report, Apple is working on a new ARM-based processor with as many as 32- CPU performance cores and will appear in the Mac in late 2021. The processor could also make an appearance in the new "half-sized Mac Pro" in 2022. Right alongside the 32-Core variant, there are also reports Apple is developing another processor that will have up to 16-high performance cores and four power-efficient cores, making its appearance in a future version of MacBook Pro and iMac. The new processors could arrive as early as Spring 2021.
Image Source: Apple
This report from Bloomberg comes at a time when Apple just recently released their very first Macs powered by its ARM-based CPU. Currently, the new MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and Mac Mini use the company's own M1 chip; the CPU itself features four high-performance cores and four high-efficiency cores. Notably, Apple's Mac Pro system is still powered by the Intel chip. In the next two years, Apple's primary intent is to transition its entire Mac lineup to the Arm-based architecture.
Along with increasing CPU core count, Bloomberg reports Apple is also working on expanding GPU cores. Currently, the M1 chip comes with eight GPU cores. Apple is now testing several models with 16 to 32-cores and developing a 128 cores processor, making its debut in late 2021- 2022.
Image Source: Apple
Although Apple is currently designing a processor that will feature 16 high-performance CPU cores, Bloomberg noted that it might release it with just eight or twelve functioning cores. All depending on how well production goes.
Arm-based Macs thus far have been well received by consumers. Regarding performance, will the power-efficient processor match the more powerful Intel systems like the Mac Pro? We shall see.
