Apple's computers have exclusively used Intel CPUs for four years, but some rumors suggest that may be about to change.

Apple's partnership with Intel has led to a major change in the computing landscape since Apple started moving away from PowerPC about four years ago. According to a post on AppleInsider, things may be poised to change again if the Cupertino-based computer giant is really considering adopting AMD processors.

The post suggests a couple of reasons for this possibility, both believable. First, that Apple wants to "increase its flexibility and broaden its competitive options." And second that Intel's own schedules and goals—the former for the timely release of processors (particularly for notebooks), the latter involving partnering with Nvidia on a standardized chipset for its full line of products—may not be compatible with Apple's own.

A move to AMD could mean lower prices—AMD's CPUs are cheaper than Intel's almost across the board, though they don't always offer equivalent performance—and easier-to-arrange access to the video technologies AMD acquired when it bought ATI in 2006. The AppleInsider story further speculates:

"Given word of the ongoing discussions and briefings, Apple may also now have access to new information about competitive products AMD has in the pipeline. The company may also have original design specifications that AMD may be more willing to adopt than Intel just to obtain Apple's high profile business. Similar to how Apple optimized the A4 ARM SoC used by iPad, Apple may be planning to develop customized x64 CPUs for its Macs that AMD could be interested in building specifically for use by Apple."

Whether the discussions are serious negotiations or just a bargaining, Apple remains highly in demand—the iPad certainly isn't hurting—and could continue to set the pace for the rest of the computing industry. Apple gave Intel a significant boost four years ago, and that's kept Intel at the forefront of both innovation and people's minds. Would Apple's influence do the same for AMD? Time will tell, but it will be interesting to see if Apple's magic can—and wants to—strike twice.

Do you think Apple will adopt or move to AMD? Do you think Apple should? Let us know in the comments.