It would have to use the Intel Atom x3. But I don't think it has enough performance to compete with the Apple A9 processor. If I were Microsoft, I would repeat what I did with Intel on the Hololens(custom holographic processor) and develop a custom piece of silicon that can compete with the A9. It not only needs to do what the A9 does, but one additional thing. An additional co-processor for Windows Hello that would allow the entire process to unlock the phone in < 1second. To me *that* is "bringing the thunder" like Panos is fond of saying. I don't see how he can do anything less then come onto a stage next spring to reveal "the ultimate smartphone" if it can't pip the iPhone in performance and capabilities. Sure it won't have the apps, but damn it can have hardware features(sans 3D Touch), maybe 3D tiles(McLaren)?