Rumor: Apple Disappointed with Intel Graphics?

[RobRich]

Word on the street suggests Apple may be less than thrilled by the integrated graphics feature being touted as a key component of Intel's Arrandale processor, enough so to perhaps demand Intel ship a comparable solution lacking the onboard GPU sub-system. With Apple currently utilizing nVidia graphic solutions, it is possible an integrated Intel GPU solution could be see as step backwards by both Apple and consumers, especially for 3D performance.

The benefit of a custom graphics-less Arrandale, however, is less clear, though Intel and Apple have been known to collaborate on custom chip designs, as in the CPU found in the original MacBook Air.

Source: MacRumor

[thephilosophizer]

I think apple already did this considering that they don't put intel graphics in any of their laptops anymore.

[RobRich]

You are referencing Intel graphics integrated typically into the chipset's northbridge controller.

The Intel Arrandale integrates graphics, and several other northbridge features, into the processor package instead of the chipset. Arrandale supports discreet graphics if desired, but if the rumor is true, it could suggest Apple does not want to pay for an integrated GPU feature for which it has no use.

[thephilosophizer]

Right, but the point is that apple isn't even giving them a chance right now (though there also seems something of a special relationship between the two, or least nvidia --> Apple).
It is a good question though if apple will be able to make intel bend, I wonder if that might be a potential anti-trust suit for nvidia to jump?

[DoubleK]

Integrated graphics on the die could very well be a boon for the pc gaming industry and the pc industry as a whole as one of the most expensive, power hungry and troublesome components of a pc is relegated to the annals of history.

Anti trust hogwash but you are probably correct. I hope Intel succeeds!