CNet reports that IBM sold three of its PowerPC processors (PowerPC 403, 405, and 440) to Applied Micro Circuits.
Based on comments from IBM, the goal of the sale is to open up the Power architecture further.
The 400-series processors sold to Applied Micro Circuits will be marketed for the embedded sector. IBM retains the rights to use PowerPC 400 chips as well as all associated patents. IBM, of course, also retains the rights to the PowerPC 700 and PowerPC 970 chip families.