Nvidia, AMD to launch Arm-based processors for Windows PC by 2025

Nvidia reportedly eyes to make Arm-based processors for Windows PC. According to Reuters, Nvidia has ‘quietly’ started developing processors for the Microsoft operating system. AMD, which has historically competed with Intel in the x86 market, is also entering the realm of Arm-based CPUs for desktops and laptops.

Citing insider sources, Reuters reveals that both companies have set their sights on introducing Arm SoCs for client PCs by 2025.

Photo/ Nvidia

Microsoft has been relying solely on Qualcomm for Arm-based versions of Windows 11. However, as Qualcomm’s exclusivity agreement with Microsoft ends in 2024, new competitors have an opportunity to emerge. So far, Windows on Arm has not met expectations.

This development could lead to increased competition and put pressure on Intel to deliver chips that can rival Apple‘s own silicon.

“Microsoft learned from the 90s that they don’t want to be dependent on Intel again, they don’t want to be dependent on a single vendor,” said Jay Goldberg, chief executive of consulting firm D2D Advisory, in a conversation with Reuters.

“If Arm really took off in PC (chips), they were never going to let Qualcomm be the sole supplier.”

Entering the realm of CPUs for PCs presents a notable leap forward for Nvidia, which is not entirely surprising considering the company’s previous forays into the tablet and smartphone markets with its Tegra offerings in the mid-2010s.

With Nvidia’s strong background in datacenter Arm-based SoCs, it is only logical to anticipate the company expanding its reach to encompass a diverse range of computing devices, ranging from conventional desktops and laptops to high-performance workstations.

Re-entering the Arm-based PC CPU market poses significant competitive and technological hurdles for AMD and Nvidia. They will face off against formidable foes such as Apple and Qualcomm, who have already been manufacturing Arm-based chips for laptops since 2016 and 2020, respectively.