Microsoft products currently run exclusively on Intel chips, but according to a Bloomberg report, that could soon change. Sources have said that the software giant is developing a Windows operating system that would run on ARM’s chip architecture. The new OS will supposedly be unveiled at the Consumer Electronic Show (CES) in January.
The rumored low-power operating system would be targeted toward tablets and smartphones, Bloomberg said. If the rumors are true, this would be a dramatic shift for Microsoft, considering the company’s longstanding relationship with Intel.
The move makes business sense, however, considering the explosive growth in the use of mobile devices in recent years. A low-power OS based on ARM’s blueprint would open up new markets for Microsoft. More companies would be able to run Windows on their hardware, as ARM powers a majority of tablets and mobile devices. Intel’s chips, on the other hand, require a lot more power, so aren’t as suited for battery-powered devices.
While it could be a gain for both Microsoft and ARM, this report doesn’t bode well for Intel. Currently almost all PCs and laptops use Intel’s x86 chip product line. Computer manufacturers, though, would have more opportunities, since they would be free to build ARM-based products capable of running Windows.
[RELATED_ARTICLE]Bloomberg said that Microsoft’s anticipated move is a response to the dominance of Apple’s iPad in the tablet market. Since its launch last April, iPad sales have been strong. In the third quarter, Apple sold 4.19 million iPads, although sales this quarter might be lower than the projected six million units, instead rounding out at around five million. Additionally, reports have said that Apple could start shipping the second-generation iPad in early 2011.
But Intel could have tablet plans of its own. Earlier this month, it was reported that the company is planning its own tablet division, although Intel has yet to publicly announce the move.
Is there room in the tablet market for more products? Gartner’s recent research has said that 19.5 million tablets are expected to ship in 2010, and that sales will soar to 208 million by 2014.
ARM and Microsoft declined to comment on the issue and
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