The move marks the first time in Apple's 29-year history that it will use Intel microprocessors in its computers. The Apple I, built in 1976, was based on the MOStek 6502 chip, at a time when most other home computers used the Intel 8080. Apple began its storied relationship with Motorola in 1984, when it equipped its first Macintosh with the Motorola 68000 processor.
Apple moved its computer lineup to the PowerPC line, which it uses today, in the mid-1990s.
"It's been ten years since our transition to the PowerPC, and we think Intel's technology will help us create the best personal computers for the next ten years," Jobs said in a statement.
At its developer conference today, Jobs began paving a path toward the new era of Intel-based Macs by unveiling a software development kit. The tool will enable Apple developers to prepare code which will run on existing PowerPC-based Macs as well as the upcoming Intel-based systems.
Intel also plans to add its impetus to the new Mac tool chain. The semiconductor giant has pledged to provide support for the new Intel-based machines beginning later this year, in the form of compilers and associated kernel libraries