Microsoft’s push to mainstream Windows-on-ARM technology continues to gain momentum, with MediaTek reportedly designing a new chipset to diversify options for manufacturers. This development follows a string of recent Snapdragon X laptops from Microsoft, Samsung, Dell, HP, and Lenovo.
MediaTek’s Role and Development
According to Reuters, Microsoft has enlisted MediaTek to create an alternative Windows-on-ARM chip. Unlike Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X, which features custom CPU and GPU designs, MediaTek’s chip will utilize ARM’s standard library of cores. This approach is expected to accelerate development.
Key Features and Specifications
- ARM Cores: MediaTek’s chip will be based on standard ARM Cortex CPU cores and Mali/Immortalis GPUs.
- Development Timeline: The MediaTek Windows chip is anticipated to debut in late 2025, aligning with the expiration of Qualcomm’s exclusivity deal with Microsoft.
- Potential AI Capabilities: It remains unclear whether MediaTek’s design will meet the requirements for Microsoft’s Copilot+ program, which necessitates at least 40 TOPS of on-device AI computing power.
Industry Context
MediaTek’s expertise in ARM-based processors is well-established through its Kompanio series for Chromebooks, which could serve as a foundation for the Windows design. Additionally, MediaTek is collaborating with Nvidia on a separate ARM-based chip for Windows.
Competition
MediaTek’s entry into the Windows-on-ARM market is part of a broader industry trend. Last year, Reuters reported that AMD is also developing an ARM-based chip for Windows, potentially incorporating Radeon GPU technology, similar to its previous collaboration with Samsung’s Exynos chips.
Conclusion
MediaTek’s involvement signals a significant step towards broader adoption and diversity in the Windows-on-ARM ecosystem. This move is set to provide manufacturers and consumers with more options and potentially drive innovation in the ARM-based Windows laptop market.
Stay tuned for more updates as MediaTek progresses with its development and Microsoft continues to expand its Windows-on-ARM portfolio.
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