<<p> The UK channel has reacted with uncertainty to Apple's decision to drop IBM processors in favour of rival Intel chips.
Speaking at Apple's Worldwide Developer Conference last week, Apple chief executive Steve Jobs said that by next year the vendor will build Intel microprocessors into all of its Macintosh computers.
The move effectively sees Apple turning its back on IBM after a 14-year business relationship.
However, Jobs said in a statement that the switch will result in "cheaper and more efficient" Apple computers.
"It has been 10 years since our transition to the PowerPC, and we think Intel's technology will help us create the best personal computers for the next 10 years," he said.
Jobs said power consumption is the most important reason for the switch, claiming that Intel chips will offer 366 per cent more performance per watt than the PowerPC architecture. Another factor in the switch was the need for faster clock speeds and development.
"We plan to create future versions of Microsoft Office for the Mac that support both the PowerPC and Intel processors," he added.
However, Gary Barnett, research director at analyst Ovum, said Apple has made the wrong move.
"Apple absolutely should not simply switch between architectures. It should provide support for both architectures and allow Intel and IBM to fight it out in terms of innovation and performance, while letting the market decide which architecture to invest in," he said.
Shaune Parsons, managing director of reseller Computer World Wales, said the change could have a negative effect on the channel.
"Apple has done well with IBM, and this could be detrimental for some IBM channel partners," he said.
But Alex Page, sales director at Apple reseller Trams, was more upbeat. "The channel shouldn't be too badly affected. It may take a bit of getting used to and cause a few public relations issues, but it should not affect sales," he said.
Do you agree?
Have your say on this article