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Tech Giants Microsoft and ARM strike agreement on chip production

Microsoft has formed a licensing agreement with ARM, potentially allowing the software giant to emulate an 'Apple' strategy in the future. ARM chipsets are nearly omnipresent in mobile and embedded systems, and this new agreement enables Microsoft to create their own chips using the ARM...

Tech Giants Microsoft and ARM finalize chip partnership
Tech Giants Microsoft and ARM finalize chip partnership

Tech Giants Microsoft and ARM strike agreement on chip production

Microsoft, known for its software and device collaborations with Arm Holdings, is set to take a significant leap forward in its relationship with the chip designer. The tech giant has entered into a licensing deal with Arm, enabling Microsoft to design its own chips based on the ARM architecture.

This move places Microsoft in an exclusive club of companies, including Qualcomm, Marvell Technology, and Infineon Technologies, with similar licensing agreements. Arm Holdings, a key player in the mobile and embedded systems market, is renowned for its chipsets that power a wide range of products, from Apple's iPhone and iPad to high-tech toys and handheld calculators.

Ian Drew, executive vice president of marketing at Arm, confirmed the licensing of Arm's architecture and instruction set to Microsoft. With this agreement, Microsoft is now empowered to design its own Arm-based microarchitectures, paving the way for potential breakthroughs in device design.

The implications of this deal are far-reaching. For instance, Microsoft's Window Phone 7 Series based slates and tablets may feature ARM chips, marking a departure from the traditional Intel-based devices. Furthermore, the launch of smart products from Microsoft, such as tablets or e-readers, is anticipated.

Moreover, Microsoft might use ARM technology for their next-generation Xbox consoles, signifying a potential shift in gaming hardware. Additionally, Microsoft may provide Windows Embedded Compact with ARM derived technology in the future, expanding the reach of its software offerings.

However, it's important to note that at present, it is not possible for Microsoft to port complete Windows versions onto ARM. The LongARM project, which aims to do just that, is still under development.

As for what this means for the tech industry, only time will tell. But one thing is certain: with Microsoft joining the ARM fold, we can expect smart devices from Microsoft in the future, adding another layer of competition to the already bustling market.

In the realm of tech news, Sovan Mandal is a name to watch. With an interest in tech, he keeps himself updated on the latest gadgets and AI. His insights on tech developments, including this Microsoft-Arm partnership, are frequently shared on our website. His latest fad? Self-driven automobiles.

Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting development in the tech world.

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