Apple MacBooks set to arrive in 2011 will rely on Intel’s forthcoming Sandy Bridge processor which will extend improvements to the Core i-x chipset series. With the new Sandy Bridge CPU, Nvidia’s graphics processors will not be included in at least some models 13 inches and under, according to a new report. Instead MacBook models 13-inch and under will be sporting integrated Intel GPU.
“Adoption of Sandy Bridge in popular small MacBook designs would constitute one of the strongest endorsements of Intel technology since Apple made the seminal transition from IBM-Motorola PowerPC chips to Intel back in 2005,” the report said. “And a recognition that Intel’s graphics technology, while maybe not the best, now offers the best price-performance for low-end MacBooks.”
Starting in 2010 with its Arrandale processors, Intel began building in the major northbridge chipset memory controller components to its chips. The architectural changes in Arrandale, along with a lawsuit, forced Nvidia to halt the development of future chipsets.
Intel had changed the CPU architecture so that Intel could leverage its GPU offerings to manufacturers. Laptops of 15- and 17-inch displays will be utilizing AMD graphics according to the tipsters. Lower end Mac portable models could be candidates also for AMD Fusion technology.
Nathan Brookwood, principal analyst at Insight64, told Cnet he believes that Apple’s lower-end MacBooks are “sitting ducks” for AMD’s Fusion technology, which combines the company’s central processors and graphics processors. In April, AppleInsider reported that Apple and AMD were in advanced discussions to potentially adopt AMD processors in at least some of its MacBook line.
The Sandy Bridge platform will be unveiled by Intel at the Consumer Electronics Show early in January 2011. Begin
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