MediaTek to rival Qualcomm, designs ARM-based chip for Microsoft's Copilot+ PCs

Taiwanese chipmaker MediaTek is entering the race for Arm-based processors in laptops, aiming to rival Qualcomm’s current dominance, especially in the newly unveiled Copilot+ PCs Surface devices.

According to sources, MediaTek is developing a new chip specifically designed for Microsoft Windows, focusing on better AI capabilities.

This goes hand in hand with Microsoft’s recent push towards ARM architecture, similar to Apple’s M-series chips used in Macs.

The upcoming MediaTek chip could impact the PC processor landscape, which has been dominated by Intel for decades, remember seeing “Intel Inside” everywhere? But Microsoft’s decision to optimize Windows for Arm processors opens doors for new players like MediaTek and challenges Intel’s longstanding position.

MediaTek and Microsoft declined to comment; reports suggest the MediaTek chip will launch in late 2025, following the expiration of Qualcomm’s X Ultra/Elite exclusive deal to supply chips for Arm-based Windows laptops. MediaTek is using pre-designed components from Arm to expedite development.

This news comes amidst a growing trend of Arm processors entering the PC market. Companies like NVIDIA and AMD are also reportedly developing their own Arm-based solutions for Windows machines. This increased competition could lead to more innovation and potentially lower prices for consumers looking for Arm-powered laptops.

It remains to be seen if Microsoft approves MediaTek’s chip for its official Copilot+ Windows program. However, MediaTek’s entry into the market signifies a huge shift in the options for Arm-based Windows laptops.

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