Apple's M1 roadmap targets 2022 for independence from Intel, includes 32-core M1 monster

Apple’s M1 SoC has shaken the CPU business to its core, but the Cupertino colossus is not content to sit on its laurels. Apple’s roadmap for its silicon business aims to skirt Intel entirely and includes some seriously impressive hardware.

According to a report from Bloomberg, Apple aims to remove Intel CPUs from its entire computing lineup by 2022. As demonstrated by early reviews of the M1-based MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and Mac Mini, Apple no longer needs another company for its hardware. According to the Bloomberg report, Intel generates less than 10% of its revenue from Apple. However, if Apple keeps the M1 momentum going, future Macs could easily steal significantly more business from Intel than its current 10%.

Perhaps more exciting is the hardware Apple has in store for the next two years. The current M1 Macs feature mobile-oriented M1 silicon focused on efficiency, but future Macs (particularly desktops and high-end MacBook Pros) will likely target power over efficiency. Apple has multiple machines planned, including a 32-core Mac Pro beast. Considering the highest CPU spec currently offered in the Mac Pro is the 28-core Intel Xeon W. Considering the advantages of the M1 chip over comparable Intel and AMD chips, a 32-core M1 Mac Pro would smoke competitors in both raw power and efficiency.

Of course, this is speculation at this point. Apple is planning on releasing high-powered M1 silicon in late 2021 and on into 2022, so we won’t see what a 32-core M1 chip can do for at least a year or two.

What are your thoughts on Apple’s plans for its M1 silicon? Let us know in the comments.