Central Processing Units (CPUs) Market Outlook

The global Central Processing Units (CPUs) market size is projected to witness significant growth from 2023, with a market value of approximately USD XX billion, and is expected to reach USD XX billion by 2032, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of X.X%. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing demand for high-performance computing across various sectors, including consumer electronics and IT and telecommunications. The CPU market is thriving due to advancements in technology, the proliferation of mobile and embedded devices, and the rising need for efficient and powerful processors to support emerging applications such as artificial intelligence and machine learning.

One of the major growth factors propelling the CPU market is the continuous innovation in semiconductor technology. The relentless pursuit of MooreÂ’s Law has led to the development of smaller, more efficient, and more powerful processors. This progress is critical as modern applications demand higher processing power and energy efficiency. With the growing adoption of AI, big data, and cloud computing, there is an increasing need for high-performance CPUs that can handle massive data processing and complex computations at speed. As companies invest heavily in R&D to innovate and produce CPUs that meet these demands, the market is set to expand at a robust pace.

Another significant driver is the burgeoning market for consumer electronics. The ever-increasing popularity of smartphones, tablets, laptops, and gaming consoles requires advanced CPUs that offer faster processing speeds and better graphics capabilities. This demand is further amplified by the rise of smart devices and IoT applications, which necessitate efficient and compact processors for functionality within constrained power and space environments. Such requirements have spurred the mass production and rapid deployment of advanced CPUs, thereby stimulating market growth.

The automotive sector also plays a crucial role in accelerating the growth of the CPU market. As the industry shifts towards autonomous vehicles and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), the demand for powerful CPUs that can process real-time data from various sensors and cameras is escalating. These applications require robust processors capable of performing billions of computations per second to ensure safety and reliability. Consequently, major CPU manufacturers are focusing on developing specialized processors designed specifically for automotive applications, further driving market growth.

The introduction of Deca-Core (10 Cores) Processors marks a significant advancement in CPU technology, offering unparalleled processing power for demanding applications. These processors are designed to handle intensive tasks by distributing workloads across ten cores, ensuring efficient multitasking and faster data processing. As industries continue to push the boundaries of technology, the demand for high-core-count processors like Deca-Core is expected to rise, particularly in sectors such as gaming, video editing, and scientific research. The ability to manage complex computations and support high-performance applications makes Deca-Core processors a valuable asset in the evolving landscape of computing technology.

Regionally, the Asia Pacific region is a significant contributor to the CPU market's growth, driven by the rapid industrialization and technological advancements in countries like China, Japan, and South Korea. This region is a major manufacturing hub for consumer electronics and automotive products, both of which are substantial end-users of CPUs. Meanwhile, North America and Europe remain strong markets due to the presence of leading technology companies and a high adoption rate of innovative technologies. The Middle East & Africa, while currently a smaller segment, is expected to see growth as digital transformation initiatives gain traction, and more industries adopt advanced computing technologies.

Architecture Analysis

The architecture segment of the CPU market is primarily categorized into x86, ARM, Power, and others. The x86 architecture continues to dominate the market, particularly in personal computers and server applications. Its widespread adoption is attributed to its compatibility with a vast array of software ecosystems and its proven performance in intensive computational tasks. The x86 architecture is renowned for its high processing power,

In the third quarter of 2024, roughly ** percent of x86 computer processor or CPU tests recorded were from Intel processors, while **** percent were AMD processors. When looking solely at laptop CPUs, Intel is the clear winner, accounting for nearly ** percent of laptop CPU test benchmark results in the third quarter of 2024. Traditional x86 processors The x86 is a family of instruction set architectures (ISA) for computer processors, otherwise known as central processing units (CPUs), which were initially developed by Intel. They refer to the way a CPU handles information, with x86 architecture of variable instruction lengths, and primarily of a complex instruction set computer (CISC) design. Although additions and developments to the x86 processor have taken place, backward compatibility has remained a key feature of the architecture; the newer x86 processors can run all the programs that older processors could run. Apple Mac processors The x86 processor is the predominant hardware platform for laptops, desktops, and servers globally. Both Windows and Mac laptops have used x86 chips; previously, Apple’s line of Mac products used PowerPC microprocessors, with the transition to Intel x86 architecture first acknowledged in 2005. The first generation of Intel-based Mac computers were released in January 2006, a partnership that continued through until 2020, where Apple announced the switch of the Mac line from Intel CPUs to Arm-based processors. The decision was made in order to standardize on one CPU architecture for all iPhone, iPad, and Mac products.

Discover the latest insights from Market Research Intellect's Central Processing Units(CPUs) Market Report, valued at USD 100 billion in 2024, with significant growth projected to USD 150 billion by 2033 at a CAGR of 5.5% (2026-2033).

Central Processing Units (CPUs) Market Outlook

The global market size for Central Processing Units (CPUs) was valued at approximately USD 85 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach around USD 150 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5%. This robust growth trajectory is driven by increasing demand for high-performance computing across various industries. The dynamic nature of technological advancements and the accelerating adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) solutions are significant growth factors propelling this market.

One of the primary factors driving the growth of the CPU market is the increasing complexity and computational requirements of modern applications. As industries such as gaming, artificial intelligence, and data analytics demand higher processing power, the need for more advanced CPUs continues to surge. This demand is not only limited to consumer devices but extends to enterprise-level applications where enhanced processing power can directly influence productivity and innovation.

Another key growth factor is the rapid advancement in semiconductor technology, which has enabled the development of more efficient and powerful CPUs. Innovations in materials and manufacturing processes, such as the introduction of smaller nanometer nodes, have significantly improved the performance and energy efficiency of CPUs. These advancements allow for better heat dissipation and more cores within a single chip, making them suitable for a wide range of applications from consumer electronics to industrial automation.

The proliferation of internet-connected devices, commonly referred to as the Internet of Things (IoT), is also contributing to the CPU market's expansion. IoT devices require reliable and powerful CPUs to handle data processing and communication tasks. As more industries adopt IoT solutions for automation, monitoring, and control, the demand for specialized CPUs designed for these applications is expected to rise. Additionally, the growing trend of digital transformation across various sectors is further driving the need for advanced computational capabilities.

In the realm of industrial applications, the Full-Size CPU Card plays a pivotal role by providing robust processing capabilities in compact form factors. These cards are integral to embedded systems where space is at a premium, yet high computational power is necessary. Full-Size CPU Cards are often used in environments that demand reliability and durability, such as in automation, telecommunications, and military applications. Their design allows for easy integration into various systems, offering flexibility and scalability. As industries continue to evolve with the adoption of IoT and edge computing, the demand for Full-Size CPU Cards is expected to rise, catering to the need for efficient and powerful processing solutions in constrained spaces.

From a regional perspective, North America and Asia Pacific are the leading markets for CPUs, driven by strong demand from technology giants and manufacturing hubs, respectively. North America, particularly the United States, is home to several key players in the CPU market and has a high adoption rate of cutting-edge technologies. Meanwhile, Asia Pacific benefits from its position as a global manufacturing center, with countries like China, South Korea, and Taiwan being major producers of semiconductors and electronic components. Europe's market is also significant, bolstered by strong demand from automotive and industrial sectors.

Type Analysis

The CPU market can be segmented into three main types: Desktop CPUs, Mobile CPUs, and Server CPUs. Desktop CPUs continue to be integral for personal computing applications, especially in gaming, content creation, and professional workstations. These CPUs are designed to provide high performance and versatility, supporting various tasks from simple web browsing to complex computational workloads. Innovations such as higher core counts and faster clock speeds are driving demand in this segment.

Mobile CPUs, on the other hand, are tailored for laptops, tablets, and smartphones. The increasing prevalence of remote work and the growing popularity of mobile gaming have significantly boosted the demand for high-performance mobile CPUs. These processors are designed to balance performance with power efficiency, ensuring longer battery life without compromising on computational

The global Central Processing Unit (CPU) market is a dynamic and competitive landscape, characterized by continuous innovation and evolving technological demands. While precise market size figures for 2025 aren't provided, considering the presence of major players like Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm, and a typical market size in the tens of billions of dollars for this sector, a reasonable estimate for the 2025 market size would be $100 billion. Assuming a conservative Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5% (a figure influenced by factors such as fluctuating economic conditions and technological advancements), the market is projected to experience substantial growth over the forecast period (2025-2033). Key drivers include the increasing demand for high-performance computing across various sectors, including data centers, gaming, and the burgeoning Internet of Things (IoT). Furthermore, advancements in CPU architecture, such as the rise of multi-core processors and specialized AI accelerators, are fueling market expansion. However, constraints such as supply chain disruptions and the cyclical nature of the semiconductor industry pose challenges to sustained growth. Segmentation within the market is diverse, encompassing various CPU types (x86, ARM, RISC-V), applications (desktop, mobile, server), and geographic regions. The competitive landscape is dominated by established players like Intel and AMD, but the market also features significant participation from other companies like Qualcomm (mobile), Nvidia (high-performance computing), and ARM Holdings (licensing). This competition fosters innovation and drives down prices, benefiting consumers and businesses alike. The forecast period (2025-2033) promises further growth driven by several factors. The increasing adoption of cloud computing and artificial intelligence necessitates powerful CPUs, thus driving market expansion. Moreover, the ongoing development of 5G technology and its integration into diverse applications will fuel the demand for high-performance, energy-efficient CPUs. Emerging markets are also expected to significantly contribute to market growth due to rising digitalization and infrastructure development. However, challenges remain. The industry's susceptibility to geopolitical factors and the volatility of commodity prices necessitate careful market monitoring and strategic planning. Competition will intensify, leading to further innovation and price optimization. Continued investment in research and development will be crucial for companies to maintain a competitive edge in this fast-evolving market.

Get key insights from Market Research Intellect's AI Central Processing Unit (CPU) Market Report, valued at USD 30 billion in 2024, and forecast to grow to USD 80 billion by 2033, with a CAGR of 12.5% (2026-2033).

AI Central Processing Unit (CPU) Market Outlook

The global AI Central Processing Unit (CPU) market size was valued at approximately USD 5.2 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 18.5 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.1% during the forecast period. This robust growth can be attributed to the increasing integration of AI in various industries, which is driving the demand for advanced processing units capable of handling complex algorithms and large datasets efficiently.

One of the primary growth factors for this market is the rapid advancement in AI technologies, which necessitates the development of more powerful and efficient CPUs. As AI applications become more sophisticated, there is a growing need for CPUs that can support higher data throughput and improved computational speeds. This demand is further fueled by the rise of machine learning and deep learning applications across various sectors, including healthcare, finance, automotive, and retail. The increased focus on AI-driven innovations to enhance operational efficiencies and customer experiences is also boosting the market.

Another significant factor contributing to the growth of the AI CPU market is the expansion of cloud computing. With the proliferation of cloud services, there is a heightened need for CPUs that can manage AI workloads in a cloud environment. Cloud-based AI solutions offer scalability, flexibility, and cost-efficiency, making them attractive to businesses of all sizes. Consequently, the demand for AI-optimized CPUs that can seamlessly integrate with cloud platforms is on the rise, propelling market growth.

The growing investment in AI research and development by both private enterprises and government bodies is also a key driver for this market. Governments across the globe are recognizing the potential of AI to drive economic growth and are investing heavily in AI initiatives. Similarly, private companies are allocating substantial budgets to AI projects to gain a competitive edge. These investments are leading to the development of advanced AI CPUs with enhanced capabilities, further accelerating market expansion.

The role of the Computer CPU in AI applications cannot be overstated. As the foundational processing unit, the CPU is responsible for executing the basic instructions that drive AI operations. While GPUs and specialized AI accelerators have gained attention for their parallel processing capabilities, the CPU remains crucial for managing general-purpose tasks and orchestrating complex AI workflows. In many AI systems, the CPU works in tandem with other processors to ensure seamless execution of tasks, from data preprocessing to model inference. This synergy between different types of processors highlights the ongoing importance of the Computer CPU in the evolving AI landscape.

From a regional perspective, North America holds the largest share of the AI CPU market, driven by the presence of key market players and significant investments in AI technologies. The region's well-established IT infrastructure and early adoption of advanced technologies are also contributing factors. However, the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period, owing to the increasing adoption of AI across various industries and substantial government support for AI development initiatives.

Component Analysis

The AI CPU market can be segmented by component into hardware, software, and services. The hardware segment includes the physical CPUs and other essential equipment required to support AI processing. This segment constitutes a significant portion of the market as the demand for more powerful and efficient CPUs continues to rise. The constant need for hardware upgrades to keep pace with evolving AI applications further boosts this segment's growth. Leading manufacturers are continuously innovating to produce CPUs with higher processing speeds and better energy efficiency, addressing the increasing demand.

In the software segment, AI-specific software tools and platforms play a crucial role. These include operating systems, machine learning frameworks, and development environments that are optimized for AI workloads. The growth of this segment is driven by the increasing complexity of AI algorithms and the need for software that can leverage the full potential of advanced CPUs. Companies are focusing on developing AI-specific software solutions

Global Central Processing Units CPUs market size 2025 was XX Million. Central Processing Units CPUs Industry compound annual growth rate (CAGR) will be XX% from 2025 till 2033.

In the fourth quarter of 2024, PC client-based central processing unit (CPU) shipments jumped as the excitement around AI PCs began to take hold. Of the PC CPUs, notebook devices accounted for ** percent.

The Aircraft Central Processing Unit (CPU) Market is projected to grow at a CAGR of around 4.46% during the forecast period, i.e., 2022-27 says MarkNtel Advisors.

The Processor Market is Segmented by Type of Product (CPU (Client (Desktop and Laptop), Server) and APU (Smartphone, Tablet, Smart Television, Smart Speakers)) and Geography (China (including Hong Kong), Taiwan, United States, Rest of the World)). The Market Sizes and Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (in USD) for all the Above Segments.

CPU Market size was valued at USD 51.25 Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 101.42 Billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 10.2% during the forecast period 2024-2031.

Global CPU Market Drivers

The market drivers for the CPU Market can be influenced by various factors. These may include:

Technological Advancements: Continuous improvements in semiconductor technology, such as the transition towards smaller nanometer processes (e.g., 7nm, 5nm), are leading to the production of more powerful and energy-efficient CPUs. These advancements allow for higher performance in computational tasks, reduced power consumption, and minimized heat generation. Increasing Demand for AI and Machine Learning: As AI and machine learning applications grow across industries, there is a rising need for CPUs that can efficiently handle these complex computations. Companies like Intel, AMD, and newcomers like Apple's M1 chip are emphasizing AI-specific features in their CPU designs to cater to this growing market. Expansion of Cloud Computing: The proliferation of cloud services offered by major players like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud is driving the demand for high-performance CPUs in data centers. Enhanced processing capabilities are crucial to handle the vast amounts of data and intensive computations required for cloud-based applications. Growth in Gaming Industry: The gaming industry's continual expansion, fueled by both casual and competitive gaming segments, demands powerful CPUs. The rise of esports and the ongoing development of graphically-intensive games require CPUs with higher clock speeds and better multi-threading capabilities to ensure optimal performance. Edge Computing: The shift towards edge computing, where data processing happens closer to the data source rather than a central data center, demands robust and energy-efficient processors. CPUs designed for edge devices need to handle real-time data processing and analytics, which is driving innovation in this market segment. Adoption of Internet of Things (IoT): The expanding IoT ecosystem, encompassing smart home devices, industrial IoT applications, and wearable technology, requires a range of CPU capabilities. Efficient, low-power CPUs are critical for these devices to function seamlessly, driving demand in the consumer and industrial sectors. Remote Work and Digital Transformation: The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift towards remote work, increasing the need for high-performance CPUs in both business and consumer markets. Companies are investing in infrastructure upgrades to support a remote workforce, boosting the demand for robust computing solutions. Competition Among Major Players: Intense competition between giants like Intel, AMD, and emerging companies like ARM Holdings has led to continuous innovation and price-performance improvements in the CPU market. This competition drives investments in research and development, resulting in faster, more reliable CPUs. Software Innovation: As software applications become more complex and demanding, there is a corresponding need for more powerful CPUs. The development of software that leverages parallel processing and multi-threading capabilities directly influences CPU design and performance requirements. Environmental Sustainability: There's an increasing emphasis on the environmental impact of electronics, including CPUs. The semiconductor industry is investing in greener manufacturing processes, reducing power consumption, and enhancing the longevity and recyclability of CPUs to address growing concerns about e-waste and energy usage.

The market size of the Central Processing Units (CPUs) Industry is categorized based on Processor Type (Microprocessors, Microcontrollers, Digital Signal Processors (DSPs), Embedded Processors, Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs)) and End-User Industry (Consumer Electronics, Automotive, Telecommunications, Data Centers, Industrial Automation) and Architecture (x86, ARM, RISC, MIPS, PowerPC) and geographical regions (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Middle-East and Africa).

The PC CPU market experienced a slight dip in shipments during the first quarter of 2024, with ** million units shipped compared to ** million in the previous quarter. However, this temporary decline may soon be overshadowed by the growing demand for AI-capable PCs, which are projected to surge from ** million units in 2024 to an impressive *** million by 2028. This shift towards AI-powered devices signals a significant transformation in the PC industry. AI PCs driving a wave of innovation The introduction of AI-capable PCs is set to revolutionize the computing landscape. In May 2024, Microsoft unveiled Copilot+ PCs, a new category of Windows machines designed specifically for AI applications. These devices, equipped with specialized AI chips, are part of a broader AI PC market that manufacturers are positioning as their flagship products. The neuromorphic computing market is experiencing rapid growth As well as CPU and GPU processors found in traditional PCs, AI PCs accommodate another key component: neural processing units (NPUs). These accelerators serve as the brains behind AI, designed to supercharge generative AI and machine learning tasks.

Global CPU Processors market size 2025 was XX Million. CPU Processors Industry compound annual growth rate (CAGR) will be XX% from 2025 till 2033.

The global processor market, encompassing central processing units (CPUs), graphics processing units (GPUs), and system-on-chips (SoCs), is a dynamic and rapidly evolving landscape. Driven by the increasing demand for high-performance computing across diverse sectors like data centers, artificial intelligence, and consumer electronics, the market exhibits substantial growth. Let's assume a 2025 market size of $500 billion, based on industry reports showing similar figures for related markets. A conservative Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8% from 2025 to 2033 reflects ongoing technological advancements and market expansion. This sustained growth is fueled by the proliferation of mobile devices, the rise of cloud computing, and the increasing adoption of high-bandwidth applications. Key players like Intel, AMD, NVIDIA, and Qualcomm continue to innovate, leading to improved processing power, energy efficiency, and specialized architectures tailored to specific applications. However, market restraints include the cyclical nature of the semiconductor industry, supply chain vulnerabilities, and potential fluctuations in global economic conditions. Segmentation within the market is diverse, including CPUs for desktops and servers, mobile processors for smartphones and tablets, and embedded processors for automotive and IoT devices. Regional variations exist, with North America and Asia-Pacific representing significant market shares, though the precise distribution is subject to ongoing shifts based on economic factors and technological adoption rates. The forecast period (2025-2033) promises continued expansion, with significant opportunities for companies specializing in advanced chip design, manufacturing, and related technologies. Strategic partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions are anticipated as companies strive to maintain competitiveness and capitalize on emerging market segments.

CPU Market Outlook

The global CPU market size was valued at USD 74.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 114.6 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.9% during the forecast period. The growth of the CPU market is driven by increasing demand for high-performance computing, advancements in technology, and the proliferation of IoT devices. With the constant evolution of artificial intelligence and machine learning, the need for more powerful and efficient CPUs has become paramount, further fueling market growth.

One of the primary growth factors in the CPU market is the escalating need for data processing capabilities across various sectors. With the rise of big data analytics, enterprises are investing heavily in CPUs that can handle extensive data sets and complex computations. This demand is particularly pronounced in industries such as finance, healthcare, and telecom, where real-time data processing is crucial. Additionally, the emergence of cloud computing has further spurred the demand for high-performance CPUs, as cloud service providers require robust processing power to manage vast amounts of data and deliver seamless services to their clients.

Another significant growth driver is the booming gaming industry. The increasing popularity of e-sports and the development of more sophisticated, graphically intensive games have led to a surge in demand for advanced CPUs that can provide superior gaming experiences. Gamers require CPUs with high clock speeds and multiple cores to ensure smooth gameplay and fast response times, making the gaming sector a vital contributor to the overall growth of the CPU market. Furthermore, the advent of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies has also created new opportunities for CPU manufacturers, as these applications demand high processing power to deliver immersive experiences.

The proliferation of smart devices and the Internet of Things (IoT) has also significantly contributed to the growth of the CPU market. As more devices become interconnected, the need for efficient and powerful CPUs to manage and process data from these devices has increased. IoT applications in smart homes, industrial automation, and healthcare rely heavily on CPUs to function effectively. Additionally, advancements in semiconductor technologies have enabled the production of smaller, more efficient CPUs, making it possible to integrate powerful processing capabilities into compact devices.

The introduction of FinFET CPU technology marks a significant advancement in the semiconductor industry, offering enhanced performance and energy efficiency. FinFET, or Fin Field-Effect Transistor, is a type of 3D transistor used in modern CPUs to improve switching speeds and reduce power consumption. This technology is particularly beneficial for high-performance computing applications, where power efficiency and thermal management are critical. By utilizing FinFET architecture, CPU manufacturers can achieve greater transistor density, leading to faster processing speeds and improved overall performance. As the demand for more powerful and efficient CPUs continues to grow, FinFET technology is poised to play a crucial role in meeting these needs, driving innovation and competitiveness in the CPU market.

From a regional perspective, the growth of the CPU market is witnessing significant variation. North America holds a substantial share of the market, driven by the presence of major technology companies and high adoption rates of advanced technologies. The Asia Pacific region, however, is expected to exhibit the highest growth rate during the forecast period, fueled by rapid industrialization, burgeoning consumer electronics market, and increasing investments in technology infrastructure. Europe also plays a crucial role in the market, with significant contributions from countries like Germany, France, and the United Kingdom. The market in Latin America and the Middle East & Africa is also poised for growth, albeit at a slower pace, due to improving economic conditions and increasing technology adoption.

Type Analysis

The CPU market can be segmented by type into desktop CPUs, mobile CPUs, and server CPUs. Desktop CPUs have traditionally dominated the market, given their widespread use in personal computers for both consumer and enterprise applications. These CPUs are known for their high performance and ability to handle demanding tasks such as gaming, video editing, and professional s

In 2023, the size of the CPU market in China reached *** billion yuan. According to the forecast, the market was projected to exceed *** billion yuan in 2024. The largest share of the CPU market in China were desktop and mobile CPUs.

The accelerated processing unit (APU) market revenue worldwide from 2017 to 2025 (in billion U.S. dollars)market worldwide generated revenues of **** billion U.S. dollars in 2020. In 2021, the market is expected to grow further to **** billion U.S. dollars. Forecasts suggest the market will reach **** billion U.S. dollars by 2025.

System-on-a-chip (SoC)

The global application processor (AP) market is forecast to experience strong growth in the coming years, with APs helping to drive innovation in smartphones as well as the next generation of high-tech, IoT devices. In such hardware, a mobile AP is typically a system-on-a-chip (SoC), designed to support applications running in a mobile operating system (OS) environment. The SoC combines multiple computer components onto one chip, or integrated circuit (IC), using less power and taking up less space in the process, hence their popularity within modern-day smartphones. Examples include the Apple A13 Bionic chip, found in the iPhone ** and iPhone ** Pro, designed by Apple using Arm’s processor architecture.

Arm processor architecture

Arm, also recognized in the industry as ARM, is a semiconductor and software design company with its global HQ in Cambridge in the United Kingdom. The company, which was acquired by the Japanese conglomerate SoftBank Group in 2016, is best known for its computer processor architecture. Arm develops the architecture and licenses it to other companies, who then use the design to create microcontrollers (MCUs), central processing units (CPUs), and SoCs. In addition to their smartphones, in 2020, Apple announced it will begin using Arm-based CPUs across its line of Mac PCs, a move away from their current partnership with Intel. The decision was made in order to standardize on one CPU architecture for all iPhone, iPad, and Mac products, with the transition to Apple's custom Arm-based chips expected to take place over a two-year period.