Apple parts with IBM, plans to use Intel's MPUs

SAN JOSE, Calif. — Apple Computer Inc. on Monday (June 6) plans to announce that it will use Intel Corp.'s x86-based microprocessors for its Mac computers, thereby ending its MPU partnership with IBM, according to a report from CNET News.com on Friday (June 3).

Apple has used IBM's PowerPC processors within its Mac computers since 1994. But IBM has reportedly experienced an assortment of delays and supply problems for the PowerPC to Apple.

According to CNET, Apple will move its lower-end computers to Intel chips in mid-2006 and higher-end models by mid-2007. The announcement is expected Monday at Apple's Worldwide Developer Conference in San Francisco.

The news is somewhat expected. In May,, the Wall Street Journal reported that the computer maker has been meeting with Intel. The newspaper cited two industry executives with knowledge of recent discussions between the companies as saying that Apple will agree to use Intel chips.