Intel and Qualcomm are at odds over the rise of ARM processor-based computers. Discover the key points of their dispute and the future of the ARM architecture in the PC market.

 A Heated Dispute Over ARM Processors

A heated conflict has emerged between tech giants Intel and Qualcomm, following comments made by Intel’s interim co-CEO, Michelle Johnston Holthaus, regarding the rise of ARM processor-based computers. The controversy began when Holthaus suggested that high return rates for ARM-based devices were linked to software compatibility issues, a claim that Qualcomm quickly refuted. As the battle between these two semiconductor powerhouses intensifies, questions about the future of ARM processors in the PC market are coming to the forefront.

Intel’s Concerns About ARM Processors in the PC Market

At a financial conference on Thursday, Michelle Johnston Holthaus raised concerns about the challenges facing computers powered by ARM processors. Specifically, she claimed that high return rates for these devices were due to software compliance issues. Holthaus argued that many customers were returning their ARM-based devices after discovering that certain apps were not functioning properly, causing frustration among retailers and users alike.

This criticism is part of Intel’s broader push to defend its position in the PC market, as it faces increasing competition from ARM-based processors, particularly Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X chips. The rapid expansion of ARM architecture, driven by companies like Apple and Qualcomm, has raised concerns for Intel, which has long dominated the PC processor market.

Qualcomm Strikes Back: Refuting the Claims

Qualcomm responded swiftly to Intel’s accusations, releasing a statement on Friday strongly denying the allegations of high return rates for devices using Snapdragon X processors. A Qualcomm representative pointed out that their devices regularly received more than 4-star ratings from users and had earned numerous accolades from respected publications such as TechRadar and Fast Company. The company stressed that return rates for their devices were consistent with industry norms and far from alarming.

Qualcomm’s defense also pointed to the growing popularity of ARM-based devices, particularly in the smartphone sector, and highlighted their efforts to bridge the gap between ARM and x86 app compatibility through emulation systems developed in partnership with Microsoft. Despite the challenges of supporting all x86 applications, Qualcomm believes that the long-term prospects for ARM processors in PCs are strong.

The ARM Processor Debate: Intel’s Response and Qualcomm’s Bold Claims

The ongoing dispute stems from Qualcomm’s aggressive push into the PC market. In June, Qualcomm launched the Snapdragon X processors, which power the Copilot+ series of PCs from Microsoft and other manufacturers. While many popular apps have been adapted for ARM architecture, certain Windows programs still face compatibility issues. Despite this, Qualcomm has high hopes for the future, with predictions that ARM-based processors could make up 50% of the PC market within the next few years.

Intel, on the other hand, acknowledges the growing importance of ARM in terms of performance and energy efficiency but claims to have caught up with the competition through its latest Core 200V Ultra processors. Holthaus also referenced Apple’s shift to ARM-based M-series processors as a catalyst for broader adoption of the architecture.

Market Share and the Future of ARM Processors

Although ARM-based computers are gaining traction, they still represent a small portion of the overall PC market. According to data from Tomshardware, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite processors accounted for just 0.8% of the PC market in the third quarter of 2024. When factoring in Apple’s M-series chips, ARM-powered PCs make up approximately 10% of the market. Despite this modest share, Qualcomm is optimistic about the future, predicting that ARM processors could dominate the PC market in the coming years.

Intel, meanwhile, faces mounting pressure as it tries to reclaim its competitive edge in the face of ARM’s growing influence. While Holthaus admitted that Intel was slow to respond to the ARM challenge, she emphasized the company’s advancements with its new Ultra processors, which she believes will help Intel maintain its market dominance.

 A Tense Rivalry in the Processor Market

The ongoing dispute between Intel and Qualcomm highlights the growing competition between traditional x86 processors and the emerging ARM architecture. With Qualcomm aggressively entering the PC market and Intel struggling to adapt to the rise of ARM, the next few years could be pivotal in determining the future of computing. As both companies continue to innovate and defend their market share, the battle for dominance in the processor market is far from over. Whether ARM-based processors will ultimately dominate the market remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the rivalry between Intel and Qualcomm is only just beginning.