May 2009

This week’s question concerns recent reports that Apple, the immensely successful computer and consumer electronics manufacturer, may be contemplating getting into the chip design business. Designing their own chips could provide a number of competitive advantages for the company, not the least of which is making their already secretive product development process even more secure. It could also allow them to further reduce power consumption on handheld devices like the iPhone and iPod, and add enhanced graphics circuitry for gaming and video. On the other hand, there are significant risks involved in straying too far from their core competency and trying to beat the established chip manufacturers at their own game. What do you think? Should Apple design its own computer chips?

Vote here.