Apple announced on Monday plans to deliver models of its Macintosh computers using Intel microprocessors in 2006 and to convert all of its Macs to use Intel microprocessors by the end of 2007.

Apple previewed a version of its operating system, Mac OS X Tiger, running on an Intel-based Mac to the over 3,800 developers attending its Worldwide Developer Conference in San Francisco.

Apple's computers are now installed with PowerPC microprocessors from IBM, which are different in design from the popular X-86 chips of Intel and AMD.

"It's been 10 years since our transition to the PowerPC, and we think Intel's technology will help us create the best personal computers for the next 10 years," said Steve Jobs, Apple's CEO.

Apple announced the availability of a Developer Transition Kit, consisting of an Intel-based Mac development system along with preview versions of Apple's software, which will allow developers to prepare versions of their applications which will run on both PowerPC and Intel-based Macs.

Paul Otellini, president and CEO of Intel, hailed Apple's decision to adopt Intel chips, saying his company is "thrilled to have the world's most innovative personal computer company as a customer."

Source: Xinhua