Apple Silicon: Everything you need to know

In 2020, Apple launched its first Macs powered by Apple silicon, marking the beginning of a shift away from Intel processors. These custom-built chips are based on Arm architecture, similar to the A-series chips used in iPhones and iPads, which sets them apart from the Intel processors used in earlier Macs. Apple completed the transition to its own silicon in 2023 with the release of the Apple silicon Mac Pro. As of now, all Apple Macs use Apple silicon, and Intel processors have been completely phased out.

Apple Silicon Mac Range

Every Mac model from Apple now runs on Apple silicon, with the company currently on its third generation of M-series chips. The MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, Mac mini, Mac Studio, iMac, Mac Pro, and iPad Pro are all equipped with different versions of the M2 or M3 chips.

Apple's current chip lineup includes the M3, M3 Pro, and M3 Max, all of which are built using a new 3-nanometer process and are improvements over the M2 chips. The M2 Ultra has not been upgraded to the M3 Ultra yet, and some of Apple's Macs, such as the Mac Mini, Mac Pro, and Mac Studio, still use the older M2 chips instead of the new M3 ones.

Apple Made the Change

Apple switched to its own Apple silicon chips to create better Macs. These chips offer a significant boost in performance, powering more efficient Macs that use less energy. M-series Macs are far more powerful than Intel-based Macs ever were, and they also have much longer battery life.

Intel Mac Support

Apple will continue to provide software updates for Intel-based Macs for many years after the transition to Apple silicon. This means users with Intel Macs will still receive macOS updates throughout the lifespan of their devices.

Using Intel Apps on Apple Silicon Macs

Although most developers have already updated their apps for Apple silicon, users can still run Intel-based apps even if they haven’t been updated. Apple’s Rosetta 2 automatically translates these Intel apps in the background, allowing them to work seamlessly and efficiently on Apple silicon Macs without the user noticing any difference.

Advantages of Apple Silicon

Improved Performance: Apple Silicon chips, such as the M1, M2, and M3, offer significant improvements in speed and efficiency compared to Intel processors. They deliver faster processing, better graphics, and enhanced performance for tasks like video editing, gaming, and multitasking.
Energy Efficiency: Apple Silicon chips are more power-efficient, leading to longer battery life in Macs and iPads. This means devices can run for longer without needing to be charged, making them ideal for users on the go.
Better Integration: Since Apple designs both the hardware and software, Apple Silicon chips are closely integrated with macOS. This tight integration leads to improved performance, smoother user experiences, and more reliable software updates.
Improved Security: Apple Silicon chips have advanced security features built in, such as the Secure Enclave for protecting personal data. These chips offer better protection against malware and other security threats.
Unified Architecture: Apple Silicon chips are based on the same architecture as the ones in iPhones and iPads, making it easier for developers to create apps that work across all Apple devices. This creates a seamless experience for users when switching between different Apple devices.
Smaller and Lighter Devices: Due to their energy efficiency and compact design, Apple Silicon chips allow for thinner, lighter, and more portable devices without compromising on power.
Better Graphics and AI: The M-series chips feature advanced GPU and neural engines, improving graphics performance and enabling more powerful machine learning and artificial intelligence capabilities.
Reduced Heat and Noise: Apple Silicon chips generate less heat compared to Intel chips, meaning that Mac devices are quieter and cooler to use, improving comfort and performance.

Upcoming Arm-Based Macs

The M4 chip will be the next significant upgrade in Apple's silicon lineup, with the first M4-powered Macs expected to launch in late 2024.

Devices like the Mac mini, iMac, and MacBook Pro may be updated with the M4 chip by late 2024, though some of these models might arrive in early 2025. The MacBook Air will receive its M4 update in spring 2025, the Mac Studio will follow with an update in mid-2025, and the Mac Pro is set to get refreshed in late 2025.

The standard M4 chip will be used in the Mac mini, iMac, MacBook Air, and entry-level MacBook Pro. The M4 Pro will power the higher-end Mac mini and MacBook Pro models. The M4 Max will be used in the premium MacBook Pro models and some Mac Studio devices, while the most advanced M4 chip will be found in the Mac Pro.

All M4 chips will focus on improving AI features to support new artificial intelligence capabilities in iOS 18 and macOS 15. Expect an upgraded Neural Engine with more cores, along with improvements to the processor and GPU, although the performance boost will be smaller than the jump from the M2 to M3 chips.

Conclusion

Apple's shift to Apple Silicon has significantly boosted Mac performance, efficiency, and security, offering a seamless experience across devices. The upcoming M4 chips will further enhance AI capabilities and performance, solidifying Apple's commitment to innovation and providing even more powerful, efficient Macs in the future.