Google develops its own Chromebook processors based on ARM architecture

Chromebooks could run on Google's own processors in the future: According to Nikkei Asia, the company is developing processors for Chrome OS-based laptops and tablets in-house. This isn't such a far-fetched story, as the tech giant recently announced its own mobile chip called Tensor, which is expected to debut in the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro.

Google has hired chip engineers from around the world for the job, including talent from teams at manufacturers like Intel and Qualcomm. The company may have decided to use their expertise to work on the processor for Chromebooks.

Nikkei reports that the tech giant was inspired by the success of its rival when it came to developing its own chips for the iPhone, iPad and, more recently, Mac computers. The first Mac and iPad Pro computers powered by Apple's M1 processor arrived in 2020, and the first iMacs with the chip became available earlier this year.

Google is reportedly developing the chip for Chromebooks, like most mobile processors, based on Softbank's ARM development. By building the processor itself, the company will be able to customize it to its needs and add its own features. This will reduce Google's dependence on third-party suppliers, in other words, allowing it to control production as it sees fit.

Google plans to release the processors it is developing for Chromebooks in 2023. The first devices powered by these chips could go on sale soon after.

Source: nikkei