In early December, reports emerged that Apple was in discussions with Intel regarding chip manufacturing, aiming to diversify its supplier base and reduce reliance on TSMC.
A recent research note from GF Securities analyst Jeff Pu has reiterated this rumor. Pu anticipates that Intel will commence the production of Apple chips using its forthcoming 14A process, which is expected to be ready for mass production by 2028.
This collaboration suggests that Intel will manufacture a portion of Apple's A21 and A22 chips. However, TSMC is likely to continue serving as Apple's primary chip supplier. Similar to TSMC, Intel will be responsible solely for fabricating the chips and will not participate in their design process.
In addition to iPhone chips, industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo notes that Intel may also produce chips for select Mac and iPad models, with the potential to manufacture lower-end M series chips as early as mid-2027.
