Microsoft Ramps Up ARM Chip Development to Compete with Apple's Silicon

Apple's successful development of Apple Silicon has led to significant improvements in power consumption and efficiency in their Mac product line. In a recent report, it was revealed that Microsoft is actively recruiting new employees for the development of in-house ARM chips for client devices. This highlights Microsoft's collaboration with partners and their internal Microsoft Silicon team to compete with Apple's M-series chips. Additionally, Microsoft is optimizing Windows 12 for the Silicon-ARM architecture.

According to reports from 9to5Mac and Apple Insider, Windows Latest disclosed that Microsoft's Microsoft Silicon team is currently recruiting a Chief System-on-Chip (SoC) Chip Architect. The job description emphasizes the need for expertise in high-performance SoC architecture, CPU/GPU design, and experience. The role will be responsible for developing complex and state-of-the-art SoCs using advanced silicon technology, while closely collaborating with internal clients and partners. Documents seen by Windows Latest indicate that the engineer in this position will be tasked with developing SoC program models, defining comprehensive SoC performance requirements, and working with hardware and software teams from clients.

Another job listing from Microsoft reveals their focus on internal ARM chip development within the Microsoft Silicon team. These recruitment efforts highlight Microsoft's active involvement in the research and development of their own ARM chips, with the aim of challenging Apple's dominant market position. Furthermore, Microsoft is recruiting engineers for chip development roles within the Microsoft Silicon team, including Senior Physical Design Verification Engineers, Chief Design Engineers, and Sr. Silicon Power Integrity CAD Managers. Many of these customized chip positions within the Microsoft Silicon team were announced at the end of April 2023, with some positions being posted even earlier.

Reports suggest that these new chips will be combined with the upcoming Windows 12 release and will significantly enhance the performance and efficiency of Microsoft devices. While these plans and job listings indicate a major strategic shift for Microsoft, it is noted that plans may still evolve before the release of Windows 12 and its ARM chips. Windows 12 is considered to be part of Microsoft's Windows Core project, which focuses on creating modular and customizable versions of Windows for various hardware specifications.

The integration of in-house ARM chips by Microsoft will further optimize the hardware and software experience provided by Windows 12. Another advantage of Windows 12 leveraging Microsoft's self-developed ARM chips is the incorporation of various artificial intelligence (AI) functionalities that Microsoft is currently developing.

The recruitment information demonstrates Microsoft's expansion of their in-house ARM chip capabilities. While Microsoft is familiar with ARM, having already used ARM architecture chips in certain Surface versions over the past decade, they have continued to recruit engineers in this field to enhance their relevant technical expertise.