Apple has today, at its Worldwide Developer Conference, announced that future models of its Macintosh computers will utilise Intel processors, and that this transition will take place next year. All full transition of all Macs to Intel processors should be in place by 2007. Apple has already demonstrated a version of its "Tiger" OS running on an Intel based Mac, and has announced the availability of a Developer Transition Kit, consisting of an Intel-based Mac development system along with preview versions of Apple's software. Developers will be able to use this kit to prepare versions of their applications which will run on both PowerPC and Intel-based Macs.

"We are thrilled to have the world's most innovative personal computer company as a customer," said Paul Otellini, president and CEO of Intel. "Apple helped found the PC industry and throughout the years has been known for fresh ideas and new approaches. We look forward to providing advanced chip technologies, and to collaborating on new initiatives, to help Apple continue to deliver innovative products for years to come."

Microsoft has announced that it will be releasing a version of Microsoft Office for the Mac that will support PowerPC and Intel processors, and there was also backing from Adobe and many other important industry players.