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Apple appears ready to rekindle its relationship with Intel, but this time the partnership will look very different. After transitioning away from Intel chips in favor of its in-house M-series processors, Apple now seeks to diversify its chip supply and reduce reliance on TSMC. Intel would focus solely on manufacturing, without taking part in the design process.
According to GF Securities analyst Jeff Pu, Intel could start supplying some non-Pro iPhone A-series chips as early as 2028. Initially, Intel would produce a small fraction of Apple’s total chip volume, with TSMC remaining the primary supplier. This move marks a strategic shift for Apple as it seeks to secure a more flexible supply chain.
Separately, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported that Intel might begin producing Apple’s lowest-end M-series chips for Macs and iPads by mid-2027. These chips would be manufactured using Intel’s 18A process, described as the first sub-2nm advanced node made in North America.
By leveraging Intel’s local fabrication, Apple aims to strengthen supply resilience while continuing to expand its in-house chip roadmap. The partnership could signal a new era of chip manufacturing collaboration, blending Apple’s design expertise with Intel’s production capabilities.
