M1 Chip (Apple’s ARM-based processor, November 2020) revolutionized Mac performance and battery life, ending Intel dependence after 15 years. Benchmarks shocked tech world—laptop with iPad chip outperforming Intel desktops while running cool/silent. Transition mostly smooth despite app compatibility concerns. M2/M3 followed, cementing Apple Silicon success and pressuring Intel/AMD, proving vertical integration advantage.
Sources: Apple M1 Benchmarks, Mac Transition Analysis