Microsoft is taking a cue from Apple by working on its own custom silicon and preparing for Windows 12 optimized for Arm chips.
In recent years, Microsoft has been trying to replicate Apple’s success by developing its own PC lineup called the “Surface” series. However, one of the defining elements of today’s Macs is Apple Silicon SoCs, which Microsoft is now also working on.
According to Windows Latest, Microsoft has posted job listings on its website for key positions related to chip manufacturing. This includes hiring a Principal SoC Silicon Architect responsible for building complex, state-of-the-art SOCs using key silicon technology nodes. Another job listing was for a Senior Silicon Power Integrity CAD Manager. The postings appear to have been part of the “Microsoft Silicon Team,” a group of engineers who develop silicon components internally.
Microsoft’s Windows 12 is part of the Windows Core project, which is expected to create a modular version of Windows that works across multiple form factors. Hiring engineers specializing in Arm chips shows a more aggressive stance to make Windows 12 run as well as possible on Arm chips, further strengthening Microsoft’s prospects of using its own silicon.
One of the benefits of using an in-house Arm chip is the ability to support various AI functions, which can be promoted from the hardware side as well. Microsoft’s silicon team has already worked on Azure, Xbox, Surface, and HoloLens designs, and they could also work on Arm-based processors if Microsoft chooses a chip of its own design.
In recent years, Apple has made significant strides by offering performance that set it apart from previous Intel chips and Windows notebook PCs in terms of power and especially efficiency. By developing its own custom silicon and preparing for Windows 12 optimized for Arm chips, Microsoft is hoping to catch up with Apple’s success.
In conclusion, Microsoft’s move towards creating its own custom silicon and preparing for Windows 12 optimized for Arm chips is an aggressive step towards replicating Apple’s success. With the hiring of key personnel and the development of the Windows Core project, Microsoft is hoping to create a modular version of Windows that works across multiple form factors while also supporting various AI functions. Only time will tell if Microsoft can catch up with Apple, but these recent moves show they are trying.
