Google could make own chips with Brit firm ARM, rumour says
The search giant is rumoured to be considering making its own server chips, using designs from British firm ARM.
Google is mulling over making its own server chips with the help of British firm ARM, Bloomberg reports. The anonymous "person with knowledge of the matter" told the news source Google is considering the move.
If it did make its own chips, Google could manage better the interactions between hardware and software, and make its services more efficient, according to the source. Though it has no firm plans as yet, and could well scrap it entirely, they added. So best file this under 'rumour' for now.
Google wouldn't be drawn on the matter. "We are actively engaged in designing the world's best infrastructure," Google spokesperson Liz Markman told me in a statement. "This includes both hardware design (at all levels) and software design." But that's all she'd say, no word on whether Google will make its own chips or not.
A spokesperson for ARM told me: "Our partners operate independently, and we're not in a position to comment on their business operations. Any questions regarding specific design decisions should be directed to Google."
This would obviously impact Intel's sales. Google is Intel's fifth largest customer, accounting for about four per cent of its revenue, according to Bloomberg's supply chain analysis.
ARM chips dominate in the world of mobiles and tablets, thanks to their low power consumption -- resulting in better battery life -- and cool running temperatures. But it's a relatively small player in the world of server processors. Getting Google on side would obviously be a huge boon for the company, and take a slice out of Intel's money pie.
There aren't enough British firms at the top of the tech tree, so let's hope the rumour does turn out to be true, for the good of the nation.
Do you think Google would make its own server chips? Would that be another step in its quest for total world dominance, or would it be a nice fillip for a British tech company? Let me know in the comments, or on our Facebook page.
Update: Added comment from ARM spokesperson.