Source code for the LLVM-based compiler Clang,the default compiler Xcode, reveals that support has recently been added for Marvell's quad-core, ARM-based Armada XP processor, reports ArsTechnica.
While this leads to speculation that Apple could be considering the ARM chip for its future iOS devices or even the MacBook Air, Ars believes that it's more likely that the Marvell chip is being used in iOS prototypes for testing.
Most probable in our opinion, is that Apple is using the Marvell chip in prototypes of future iOS device designs (or even an ARM-based MacBook Air that is rumored to exist somewhere inside One Infinite Loop) for testing purposes. An Armada XP-powered prototype logic board would allow iOS or Mac OS X software engineers to experiment with performance tuning and other optimizations, while Apple's hardware design team-comprised largely of former PA Semi and Intrinsity engineers-could continue working on a possible quad-core ARM design to be manufactured somewhere down the road.
Read More
While this leads to speculation that Apple could be considering the ARM chip for its future iOS devices or even the MacBook Air, Ars believes that it's more likely that the Marvell chip is being used in iOS prototypes for testing.
Most probable in our opinion, is that Apple is using the Marvell chip in prototypes of future iOS device designs (or even an ARM-based MacBook Air that is rumored to exist somewhere inside One Infinite Loop) for testing purposes. An Armada XP-powered prototype logic board would allow iOS or Mac OS X software engineers to experiment with performance tuning and other optimizations, while Apple's hardware design team-comprised largely of former PA Semi and Intrinsity engineers-could continue working on a possible quad-core ARM design to be manufactured somewhere down the road.
Read More