Today, Forbes is reporting that Apple is to acquire microprocessor maker PA Semi. The deal is thought to be worth $278 million, and could see the Cupertino-based company providing its own microprocessors in some of its products. Speculation is rife that these products may include the iPhone and iPod lines. If so, it could potentially mean more powerful portable devices, better capable of supporting text-to-speech and other access technologies.

Apple does purchase smaller technology-based companies from time to time, and never comments on their plans for such acquisitions. Where this eventually leads is anyone’s guess, but more powerful devices can only benefit all users.