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The Apple Silicon M1 Chip – Everything You Need To Know!

The Apple Silicon M1 Chip – Everything You Need To Know!

November 16, 2020 by eStormAus

Whether it be on the radio, the news, or from your co-workers and friends, you’ve probably heard whispers of excitement over the new Apple Silicon processor for Macs, officially announced on November 11. Or if you haven’t, you’re now probably wondering – what is the new Apple Silicon chip?

For over a decade, Apple’s world class design and development team has been building and refining Apple silicon for iPads and iPhones, while they have simultaneously relied solely on Intel to provide processors for their Macs. The transition to their own homegrown processor represents the biggest and boldest leap ever for the Mac, but it will take up to two years to complete the shift from Intel. Nevertheless, Apple has already unveiled three Macs powered by Apple Silicon; available for orders as of 11 November 2020: the MacBook Air, the MacBook Mini, and the MacBook Pro. 

The Apple Silicon M1 Chip

“With industry-leading performance, powerful features, and incredible efficiency, M1 is Apple’s first chip designed specifically for the Mac”

The seismic and daring shift from Intel to Apple M1 enables Apple to create an experience on Macs that is more consistent with that of iPads and iPhones, and allows Apple to have more control and flexibility over the launch cycles and features for its notebooks and desktops.  Combined with macOS Big Sur, M1 delivers extraordinary battery life, maximum performance capabilities, and access to more software and apps than ever before.

The Apple M1 is a 5nm 8 core System-on-Chip (SoC) with 16 billion transistors and an integrated 8 core graphics processor (GPU).

 

What This Means for Future Apple Macs

The best CPU performance per Watt: The 8-core CPU (consisting of 4 high performance cores and 4 high efficiency cores) provides industry-leading performance while running as efficiently as possible. This means photographers are able to edit high-resolution photos at lightning speed and developers can build apps nearly 3x faster than before!

Faster Integrated Graphics: The M1 includes Apple’s most advanced GPU. Featuring up to 8 powerful cores capable of running nearly 25,000 threads simultaneously, the GPU can handle extremely demanding tasks with ease. This includes smooth playback of multiple 4k streams and rendering complex 3D scenes.

Blazing-fast On-Device Machine Learning: The Neural Engine in M1 enables up to 15x faster machine learning performance, so tasks like video analysis, voice recognition and image processing will have a level of performance never before seen on the Mac.

MacOs Big Sur Optimised for M1: Apple’s latest macOs is engineered to take full advantage of the capability and power of M1. It delivers a massive boost in performance, incredible battery life and the strongest security protections on the market. Macs will instantly wake from sleep, and iPhone/iPad apps can now run directly on the Mac.

The Next Generation of Mac

 

MacBook Air: A Thin and Light Powerhouse

Boasting the title of one of the world’s best-selling 13-inch notebooks, the M1 chip will take the MacBook air to extraordinary new heights.

The powerful 8 core CPU and GPU allows it to perform 3.5x faster than its predecessors and run immersive graphics-intensive games up to 5x faster. It’s fanless design means no matter what users are doing, it remains silent at all times. It also features astonishing battery life, with up to 15 hours of wireless web browsing and up to 18 hours of video playback (compared to approx. 11 hours on previous generations).

From November 11, it will no longer be possible to buy MacBook Airs with an Intel CPU.

 

13-inch MacBook Pro: More Powerful, More Pro

The 13-inch MacBook Pro is Apple’s most popular pro notebook and combines high performance with a portable design. The introduction of M1 to the MacBook Pro will allow professionals to channel their creativity and provide the tools students need to succeed. Enjoy a system that is 2.8x faster than its predecessor thanks to its 8 core CPU, and take advantage of remarkably smooth graphics performance due to its 8 core GPU. Other new features include studio-quality mics and Apple’s latest camera ISP, which enables sharper images on video calls.

Apple claims the 13-inch MacBook Pro is up to 3x faster than the best-selling Windows laptop in its class, and now boasts up to 17 hours of wireless web browsing and 20 hours of video playback – up to twice the battery life of the previous generation and the longest battery life ever on a Mac.

Unlike the MacBook Air, you can still purchase a 13-inch MacBook Pro with an Intel CPU, but you’ll be paying a considerably higher price for them compared to their M1 counterparts.

 

Mac mini: Staggering Performance, Ultra-Compact Design

The Mac mini is by far Apple’s most versatile computer, and with M1 it combines incredible performance and new features with the compact design many users have come to love. M1’s 8 core CPU and GPU make for a faster desktop that delivers a massive 6x increase in graphics performance, allowing users to play graphics-intensive games like “Shadow of the Tomb Raider” with 4x higher frame rates.

Mac mini also features an advanced thermal design to remain cool and quiet throughout heavy usage and supports up to two displays (including Apple Pro’s Display XDR in 6K resolution).

The Mac mini will also continue to offer options with Intel CPUs, but like the MacBook Pro, these will be priced higher than M1 minis.

 

Watch Apple’s ‘One More Thing’ event for a complete overview on their latest announcements and products!

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What happens to my Intel Mac after Apple completes the switch to M1?

Considering Apple is still releasing products with Intel CPU’s and it will take 2 years to complete the switch to M1, it should be expected that Apple will continue to provide support and updates for Intel Macs for years to come. This is backed by the fact that Big Sur, Apple’s newest macOS update, will be compatible with MacBook Pros from 7 years ago!

What are the major benefits of M1? 

Longer battery life, faster performance, and enhanced graphics on the new Macs are the major benefits of Apple’s M1 chip. Combining those with the cost-effectiveness, and the ability to access all of your apps across all your Apple devices, makes it hard to deny this is a major upgrade for Mac products.

Intel vs M1: Which Mac is right for me? 

While the M1 boasts myriad new features, we understand it can be difficult to say goodbye to what we’re used to, especially considering Intel has been the trusted leader of CPU’s for over 15 years. While Apple is still offering a range of Macs available with Intel processors, it is predicted most versions of Macs will be transferring over to M1 by late 2021. It is therefore recommended that you purchase the M1 Macs if you are currently in the market for a new device, HOWEVER please check with eStorm before doing so as your current software may not be compatible with Big Sur or the M1 chip. Big Sur, Apple’s latest macOs update, is also expected to run marvellously on M1’s, as it was specifically engineered to accommodate the new chip.

What’s Big Sur?

Big Sur (or MacOs 11) is Apple’s newest desktop and laptop operating system, released on November 12 2020. It is full of new and redesigned features that make for a better user experience, and is compatible with Apple’s new M1 devices along with its older Intel-based machines. It features a revamped Safari browser, improved privacy features, and the option to have widgets on your home screen. More info on the Big Sur update can be found here: https://www.apple.com/macos/big-sur/

Filed Under: Blog

eStorm Service Centre Google Reviews

eStorm Service Centre
4.6
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Gary Fraser
01:10 11 Sep 24
Four weeks ago, I took my cracked iPad to this store for repair. The employee behind the counter informed me that because I did not have AppleCare, Apple does not fix iPads but rather replaces them entirely. He advised me to take it to an unauthorized repair shop, despite me explaining that the iPad was less than 12 months old. He insisted that Apple would not fix it.I followed his advice and had the iPad repaired elsewhere. However, it has now stopped charging. When I returned to your store, I was told that because someone had previously opened the device, this store could no longer assist with the repair. The first employee failed to inform me about this critical detail.As a result, I’m now stuck with a $1,300 device that doesn’t work. I feel misled and frustrated by the lack of proper guidance from the staff
Priscilla Parata-Reeves
00:58 03 Sep 24
Top notch customer service ,fast, reliable and trustworthy!My daughter cracked her iPhone 15 front screen! Luckily the phone was only 3 weeks old and eligible for apple care+! Dallas did an excellent job. Left the phone with him at around 9am and picked up at 10:30am !!!!!Also so convenient as I don’t have to drive out of spring field to get the repair done- saving me travel time and money!!!!!Will be going back in the future.Happy customer.
Bob Dix
21:19 26 Aug 24
Lachlan Fothergill
01:41 25 Jul 24
Very professional at handling airpods repair
Adele Rankin
03:56 19 Jul 24
Exceptional service.
Beatrice Ndebele
07:36 22 Sep 22
Fantastic service, was referred by Apple after MacBook developed a dark screen and wouldn’t turn off. I was informed of possibility to pay for diagnostic fee and expect to leave it for a fee days. I found the gentlemen friendly and accommodating. The service was prompt, fair subsequent charges. My MacBook had storage issues, I got a new laptop and they helped transferring my data. I will certainly be going back to them in future and I strongly recommend these professionals to anyone having issues with their devices.
julie farrell
06:28 02 Sep 22
2 nd time I have used this service. Needed new battery for my iphone 6 s in 2020. Then 2022 had a battery replaced in my iphone 7. Both times have been brilliant. Such a smooth and well organised service. The fellas at the counter on every occassion have been very patient and helpful. Thanks again, highly recommended
Gary wylie
09:28 01 Sep 22
Quick service. Reasonable pricing .Would recommend for apple repairs
Joel Berry
10:08 23 Aug 22
Awesome service, with a quick turn over. Genuine apple product dealers, most issues under warranty and or insurance will be covered free of charge or for a small cost.Highly recommended.
John Florez
00:27 11 Jul 22
Very knowledgeable, friendly and 100% helpful. They explained all the options and their pros and cons to improve my iMac's performance. My computer is now running much faster with these upgrades. Great Work! Highly recommended!
Melissa Moana
05:16 13 Jun 22
i had no idea they were here awesome service way better than having to travel to carindale
Desiree S
07:52 27 May 22
I discovered this apple repairer by chance and now I recommend them to everyone. Great service and reasonable prices.
Emily Martin
04:45 22 Feb 22
Dropped my MacBook in just shy of 3 years old with a battery issue. The team were very prompt in email response and with the computer. Dropped Saturday, said it would be ready Wednesday. To my surprise it was ready today (Tuesday) a whole day early. Even better they covered the replacement of the battery under warranty. Highly recommended!
Kyle PM
07:59 01 Feb 22
Great and easy service. Much simpler to deal with than an Apple store for repairs. As an IT professional, will definitely be back if a staff member breaks their phone. (Let's be honest, they will).
Ricardo Sé Cestari
23:30 02 Jun 20
Good professional service. Job well done and in a better than expected timeframe.
Kathryn Chee
06:38 15 May 20
Phone came back good as new after a nasty cracked screen. Service was efficient although I did have to come back 24hours later as they didn’t have my colour iphone Instock - so maybe call ahead the day before if you want same day screen repair?
Stevan Kostantinovic
23:01 05 May 20
Very helpful and professional staff as they are Apple certified and did a great job replacing my sisters broken macbook pro screen.Always remember, you get what you pay for.
Ivan ZiHao Tan
10:12 29 Apr 20
Effective and honest! It’s a nice and not busy place to get your IT stuff fixed. It is a bit out of the way but if you’re around west side, just go there. Traffic is smooth too!
Oliver Baumeister
21:38 06 Mar 20
Good service, quick repair of my MacBook Pro under warranty. 3 days to replace ‘top case’ (keyboard, trackpad, etc). Very satisfied.
Bradley Witham
01:43 03 Feb 20
Great shop. Highly recommended. Professional and very helpful staff. Did a great job for me. Will be back for sure - even though it’s over 1hr drive from my home!
Evan g
01:49 07 Jan 20
Friendly and knowledgeable staff coupled with quick service even during a busy period.
Jaidyn Somerville
22:59 01 Nov 19
Quick and professional service, I was told my MacBook would be ready in 2/3 business days and received a text to confirm it was ready two days later. Kept me informed with updates too. Defiently recommend these guys.
Mike C
09:09 23 Oct 19
Friendly, professional staff. Perfect job replacing Macbook keyboard and screen, all with a very quick turnaround. Best Apple experience yet - highly recommended.
Mark Schulz
01:15 04 Sep 19
My second time using the service - first for an iPhone battery replacement and this time to replace the battery in a Macbook Air. Service is great. Will continue to use them into the future.
Jason O'Connor
01:25 28 Aug 19
What a terrible experience dealing with eStorm in Springfield Lakes. After spending an hour on live chat with Apple last night they said that there was an issue with phone and to take it to one of their retail stores or to an authorised service centre. The closest to us was eStrom Service Centre in Springfield Lakes. We were booked in there by Apple who were 100% aware of the phone being out of warranty but due to the issue they were happy for it to be taken in. When my wife got there she was greeted by someone called Dallas who then proceeded to ask her for $40 as a diagnosis fee. At no stage were we made aware that there would be a fee even though Apple were aware of the phone being out of warranty. When my wife made him aware of that he said that it was their policy and there was nothing they could do about it. My wife turned around and walked out. I called to ask what the story was and Dallas said exactly what I have written above. No consideration about the fee, it was internal policy and not their problem that Apple didn't tell us about it. So disappointed at this experience and will never be using them again or would ever recommend them to anyone.
Kelley Knudsen
07:58 16 Aug 19
Great customer service, professional and polite, great results and fast turnaround!
Theticus _
00:08 30 Jul 19
Great service for Apple repair
Michael Bischa
03:27 31 May 19
Great service, let us know our options up front, found the solution and ordered parts in and completed the job in just 48 hours to get am important computer back up running. They are great!
Rob & Rebecca Ketelaars
19:43 20 May 19
Friendly staff. Fast service. Replaced the battery in my iPhone 6 in about 1.5 hours while I was shopping at Orion just across the road. Perfect.
Valentin Despa
08:33 09 May 19
Very professional, friendly and fast. I liked a lot that you get text messages with the status of your job. Thank you guys!
Anthony
05:33 05 Feb 19
Staff was very friendly and professional, only took 2 business days for my keyboard to be repaired; excellent service and absolutely no hassle.
Kazi Nazmul Haque Shezan
00:46 01 Dec 18
Just awesome experience. My apple watch 4 was not charging. I got a new apple watch in 3 days. They are very fast at resolving problem. The staffs are very helpfull
Helena Stibbard
23:12 11 Sep 18
Exceptional service; Explained everything and was very helpful with advice for backing up files; MacBook Pro full keyboard replacement done in 2 days; very little downtime which was really appreciated. Highly Recommended
Tom Parke
11:41 05 Sep 18
This is an easy five stars. I came into the store, explained my issue (I needed to have the entire screen of my laptop replaced). They told me they'd need to order in some parts, and the entire repair was finished in less than 24 hours. Superb team.
Sam D
22:38 19 Apr 18
I took my MacBook Pro in to get the screen diagnosed and replaced through apple warrenty, it was completed very quickly and estorm did an excellent job. It was so much easier going to estorm over an apple shop, no wait time, plenty of appointment times and no pushing your way through noisy crowds. Will definitely be going back to them for any issues. Thanks!
James C
02:50 22 Mar 18
Liam Sorensen
21:18 31 Jan 18
Excellent service and very professional atmosphere. I had a couple of apple devices that needed fixing and to my surprise were covered under warranty and were replaced free of charge!! The team there are an awesome crew very welcoming and very understanding.Look forward to requiring your service again.
Dallas Rankin
01:20 17 Oct 17
Wade
04:43 16 Oct 17
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