So far, Microsoft has always relied on Intel processors to power its surface laptops, but this could change in the future. According to sources on The Verge’s website, Microsoft could consider using AMD processors for its Surface laptop device in 2019.
This move from Microsoft to AMD may be motivated by the company’s difficulties in developing Surface Go and other devices.
A recent book by Brad Sams (Beneath A Surface) suggests that Microsoft is eagerly awaiting Intel’s 10nm processors in the hope that the new node will dramatically improve the performance of its low-power Surface line. In recent years, AMD has begun to offer fierce competition in the CPU market, with the move to 7nm, which is an opportunity for Microsoft to break away from Intel.
Microsoft gets tired of Intel?
According to Intel’s pricing policy, the company will not allow its low-profile chips to achieve significantly lower prices over time. As a company, AMD is more willing to accept lower margins for higher sales volumes, allowing Microsoft to develop lower-cost devices.
Microsoft is reportedly considering using AMD’s Picasso processors for a future Surface device. Picasso would be a new APU chip to replace today’s Raven Ridge.
The year 2019 seems to be quite “moved” in the processor segment, with the arrival of the Zen 2 CPUs of 7 nm from AMD and those of 10 nm from Intel.