Apple has been reportedly designing a new chip for future Mac laptops that would take on more of the functionality currently handled by Intel processors.

The chip, which went into development last year, is similar to one already used in the latest MacBook Pro to power the keyboard's Touch Bar feature, unnamed sourced told Bloomberg.

The part, internally codenamed T310, will be based on ARM technology and would handle some of the computer's low-power mode functionality, the report added. Of course, Maccs will continue to be powered by Intel processors.

Apple's first ARM-based Mac chip, known as T1, was introduced as part of the MacBook Pro update last October. This chip powers the Touch Bar and some security features.

Apple engineers are planning to offload the Mac's low-power mode, a feature marketed as "Power Nap," to the next-generation ARM-based chip. This function allows Mac laptops to retrieve e-mails, install software updates, and synchronize calendar appointments with the display shut and not in use.

The new chip may first become available in an upgraded version of the MacBook Pro laptop planned for later this year. Apple is also working on a faster version of the 12-inch MacBook and a new iMac with multi-functional USB-C connectivity for this year.