There is a lot Microsoft can learn from Apple’s ARM Macs if it wants to continue on with a next-generation ARM-based Surface.
Microsoft has tried to transition toward ARM chips multiple times in the past 10 years. All of them have been failed attempts.
But at Worldwide Developers Conference on Monday, Apple announced its own plans to switch away from using Intel processors to its own custom ARM-based chips, starting later this year. But in Apple’s case, it just might work.
Appearing decisive and planned-out, Apple tackled everything from app compatibility to performance, explaining how ARM Macs would benefit both developers and consumers. If Microsoft ever wants to achieve something similar, it should start taking notes.
iPads, Windows laptops, and iMac Pros would be nothing without third-party developers. They code the apps you use and the games you play. That’s why, when switching system architecture, a company needs to listen to what developers have to say. Any kind of transition requires development effort, and these developers will require convincing.
You can’t say Microsoft hasn’t tried. From Visual Studio, the developer-friendly community, GitHub, and even the Windows Insider Program, Microsoft has plenty of dedicated tools for its developers. Microsoft even introduced Project Reunion, to help developers code better apps. But its attempts to unify its platform for developers have always fell flat.
