Apple and Intel Eye Future Chip Manufacturing Partnership

Multiple reports and analyst notes indicate a potential future partnership between Apple and Intel for chip manufacturing, signaling a strategic shift in Apple's supply chain.

Key Projections

• iPhone Chips: Analyst Jeff Pu has stated that Intel is expected to begin producing chips for Apple's non-Pro iPhone models starting in 2028. This would involve Intel's 1.4nm-class process technology, known as 14A.

• Mac and iPad Chips: Ming-Chi Kuo has also reported that Intel could start shipping Apple's lowest-end M processor as early as 2027, likely for base model M7 chips in certain iPad and Mac models.

• Intel's Pipeline: Pu's research note identifies Apple, AMD, and Nvidia as companies in Intel's "solid external customers pipeline" for its 14A process.

This move does not signify a return to Intel-designed chips powering Apple's devices, but rather Intel acting as a foundry for Apple's proprietary designs.

Partnership Structure

Under this potential arrangement, Apple would continue to develop and design its iPhone and Mac processors internally. Intel would serve as an additional manufacturing partner, diversifying Apple's chip production beyond its current primary supplier, TSMC.