When it comes to the Mac, there’s absurd speculation and absurd speculation. But this one is so stupid I just can’t believe people are linking to it: if Intel designed a Mac-specific CPU, Apple could license OS X to third-party computer makers.

Geez.

• The main advantage of switching for Apple is to piggyback on the Windows-propelled development of the x86 chip line so that each new PowerMac revision will be able to use the most powerful CPU available when it’s launched.

• The main advantage of switching for users is to be able to boot to Windows and use those few applications that require it (most commonly, games).

• For years now Apple as been refusing to consider licensing MacOS to clone makers again; what sick mind can find it logical that the condition for them to reconsider would be switching to another chip maker yet still having a CPU designed specially for them?