Problems at Intel have opened the door for competition, and its not just Apple taking advantage.
Microsoft is working with Qualcomm to smoothly transition Windows to ARM-based chips.
Laptop makers gradually are introducing these Qualcomm-powered PCs, some of which will debut at CES 2021.
Jeremy Laukkonen / Lifewire
Placing an ARM processor in a PC laptop isnt a new idea.
It was a flop.
The Surface brand would go on to success, but only after introducing models with Intel hardware inside.
Lenovo
Yet the ARM dream never died.
Why is that important?
Unfortunately for PC laptops, Apple is significantly ahead of Microsoft in this area.
Acer
If true, it would finally give Windows a clear path forward for ARM support.
The company isnt expected to make a major announcement at CES 2021, however.
Intels lack of 10nm execution, and AMDs flawless execution.
These two dynamics had to come together at the same time for this to happen."
Laptop makers are responding at CES 2021.
Some will use AMD processors exclusively.
Thats good news if youre in the market for a laptop in 2021.
Dont count Intel out, however.
Intel processors remain competitive.
Urbani also thinks the fight wont be one-sided, saying.
Consumers can expect more competition, especially in gaming products where performance per dollar really matters."
Both companies will be looking at other markets, including Windows PCs, to make up that loss.
More Choice, More Confusion?
Intel rose to dominate the PC market in the late 1990s and hasnt faced a challenger since.
Most laptops sold in the past two decades used Intel chips exclusively.
Your smartphone uses an ARM processor.
“I dont expect consumers to be more confused by having more options,” he said.
Urbanis mention of the pandemic underscores yet another way CES 2021 is different.
The show is virtual this year, and attendees are watching from their home offices.
PC laptop makers need to figure that out quickly.
The highly competitive PC market, however, remains divided, a trend that CES 2021 will only reinforce.
Want more?See all our coverage of CES 2021 right here.
