A Bloomberg report published today claims that Apple Inc. will soon launch at least three new Mac personal computers with custom coprocessors designed to provide better security for users.

The anonymous sources who spoke with the publication didn’t go into detail, but it’s a safe bet that the silicon belongs to the iPhone maker’s T chip lineup. Introduced in the 2016 MacBook Pro, the coprocessor series is based on blueprints from Arm Holdings Plc and was originally created to power the laptop’s Touch ID fingerprint reader.

A subsequent iteration of the chip released last year significantly expanded upon the original feature set. Available as part of the newest iMac Pro, the T2 coprocessor handles not only fingerprint verification but also encrypts data and checks the operating system for security issues when the user boots up their machine. Moreover, it powers several hardware subsystems including the fans.

The new Macs that Apple is reportedly developing could potentially include a third iteration of the T coprocessor with even more capabilities.  Either way, the inclusion of the silicon in the upcoming models would represent a milestone in the company’s chip-making efforts.

Apple has gradually been reducing its reliance on outside processor suppliers over recent years. The iPhone X is powered by a homegrown chip called the A11 Bionic that has a dedicated component for running artificial intelligence software, while the newest Apple Watch likewise packs custom silicon. The company reportedly also plans to eventually develop an alternative to the modem chips that it sources from Qualcomm Technologies Inc., which it’s currently suing.

The updated Mac models should arrive in the more immediate future. Bloomberg cited sources as saying that the company could launch the machines as soon as this year, with the lineup expected to include both laptops and a new desktop.

Another rumored offering that Apple has in the works is a revamped version of the iBooks app meant to challenge Amazon.com Inc.’s dominance of the e-book market. According to the tipsters who leaked word of the upcoming redesign last week, the new release will sport a simpler look and enhanced navigation features.

Image: Apple