I was dismissive of the initial report, but it looks like it might actually come to pass: Apple might truly be moving to Intel processors and the AIM (Apple IBM Motorola) alliance might finally be dead. The noise and news has moved beyond the typical speculation and right into the realm of serious talk; and if that news is correct, we’ll know by the end of the day.

News.com reported that Apple would begin the transition to Intel with its lower-end computers, such as the Mac Mini, in mid-2006 and higher-end models a year later.

Apple’s break with IBM stemmed from Jobs’ wish that IBM make a larger variety of the PowerPC processors used in Macintosh systems. IBM balked because of concerns over the profitability of a low-volume business, News.com reported.

I still wonder how the shift will be handled and how a dual OS strategy will pay off for Apple (since they will need to not only support the two operating systems for sale and distribution, but also for update and support during the first few years after transition). Even more curious, and potentially harmful, will be to see how the move changes Apple’s relationships with developers.

It’s hard to second-guess Steve Jobs, but I’m still uneasy about this news.