Bloomberg reports Apple might drop the use of Intel processors inside Mac PCs, replacing them with more powerful versions of the ARM-based iPhone and iPad chips.

Apple has been using Intel chips for Macs since 2005, when it abandoned the PowerPC chips from Motorola and IBM. Sources say it is still "committed" to Intel for the next few years-- or until Apple designs grow further in power and "features of mobile devices and PCs become more similar."

Apparently, according to "three people familiar with the [Apple-Intel] relationship" Apple is also unhappy with Intel's take on low-power processors. The lack of satisfaction crept in at around late 2011, when Apple was working on MacBooks featuring power-hungry high-resolution Retina displays.

Currently Apple offers two varieties of Retina-equipped MacBook Pro (13- and 15-inch), while even the latest iMac desktop has a design just 5mm thick at the edges.

The Apple semiconductor team also has "ambitious plans for the future"-- such as a seamless user experience between all Apple devices.

The above rumours must not be too pleasing to Intel, which as yet failed to make much process within mobile device processors. And as Gartner tells Bloomberg, "Apple is a trendsetter... once they do their own chip many others may pursue a similar path."

On the other hand ARM designs appear to be going from strength to strength. The company has partnerships with the likes of AMD and Nvidia, and ARM-based processors even find use in servers.

Back in 2005, now CEO Tim Cook negotiated the deal with Intel. With Apple cash and investment reserves totaling $121.3 billion, Cook now can literally draw up a deal with any supplier in the world...

Go Apple Said to be Exploring Switch from Intel for Mac (Bloomberg)