Apple is once again rumored to be in talks with Intel over chip manufacturing, as the iPhone maker looks to diversify its supply chain and reduce reliance on TSMC.
The renewed claim comes from a research note by Jeff Pu of GF Securities, who reiterated reports that first surfaced in early December.
Pu said he expects Intel to begin manufacturing Apple chips using its future 14A process, which is projected to enter mass production in 2028. Under this arrangement, Intel would reportedly fabricate a portion of Apple’s A21 and A22 chips.
Despite the potential partnership, TSMC is expected to remain Apple’s primary chip supplier. Like TSMC, Intel would only handle fabrication and would not be involved in chip design.
In a separate prediction, Ming-Chi Kuo said Intel could also manufacture chips for select Mac and iPad models. According to Kuo, Intel may begin producing lower-end M-series chips as early as mid-2027.
Apple has not commented on the reports. If confirmed, the move would represent a significant shift in Apple’s long-term semiconductor strategy, aimed at increasing supplier flexibility while maintaining TSMC as its main manufacturing partner.