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Speculation about a possible collaboration between Apple and Intel has resurfaced. This time, the focus isn't on Macs, but on iPhone chips. Specifically, the rumors concern the manufacturing of future Apple processors, not their development. These rumors come at a time when Apple is strategically restructuring and diversifying its supply chain.
For years, Apple has consistently relied on its own in-house developed chips, collaborating with specialized contract manufacturers. The name Intel evokes memories of a bygone era, but the current situation differs significantly from previous partnerships. Reports now circulating reveal how Apple is attempting to combine technological control with economic and geopolitical security.
Intel may begin chip production from 2028
The starting point for the current reports is an analyst note. In it, Jeff Pu, an analyst at GF Securities, reaffirms his assessment that Intel could begin manufacturing certain Apple chips around 2028. This would be based on Intel's planned 14A manufacturing process, which is reportedly slated for mass production from that point onward.
Pu had already stated last month that Intel could sign a supply contract with Apple starting in 2028. This would likely cover at least some non-Pro iPhone models. Based on this timeline, it would be conceivable that Intel could produce components for future A21 or A22 chips.
TSMC remains Apple's most important partner
Despite this potential collaboration, it is considered highly likely that TSMC will remain Apple's most important manufacturing partner. Intel would therefore not replace TSMC, but rather complement it. Apple would thus distribute its chip production across multiple partners without completely abandoning existing structures.
This division aligns with Apple's long-term strategy to minimize supply chain risks while maintaining access to state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies.
Intel plays no role in chip development
A key point in the reports is the clear separation between development and production. There is no indication that Intel would be involved in the development of the iPhone chips. Apple's design teams would remain fully responsible for architecture and performance characteristics. Intel's role would be limited to manufacturing.
This differs significantly from the previous collaboration on Macs, when Intel developed and supplied processors with x86 architecture. Apple began moving away from Intel processors for Macs in 2020 and switching to its own Apple Silicon chips.
Previous collaboration on iPhone modems
A collaboration between Apple and Intel wouldn't be entirely new, however. Intel had already supplied Apple with cellular modems that were used in several iPhone generations, including models from the iPhone 7 to the iPhone 11. This partnership ended later when Apple pursued other avenues in the modem market.
Intel chips for Macs and iPads under discussion
Intel's potential return isn't limited to the iPhone. Last year, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo of Tianfeng Securities stated that Intel could begin shipping lower-end M-series chips as early as mid-2027. These would be intended for select Mac and iPad models.
According to Kuo, Apple plans to use Intel's 18A manufacturing process in this case. He did not mention the iPhone in this context, which suggests that Apple evaluates different product lines differently.
Strategic reasons behind Apple's considerations
A key advantage of collaborating with Intel lies in the diversification of the supply chain. Competition for modern manufacturing capabilities is intensifying, particularly in the areas of chips for consumer devices and AI servers. Reports indicate that Nvidia has now overtaken Apple as TSMC's largest customer.
Additionally, Apple could support political and economic goals by increasing its manufacturing in the US. Production at Intel would contribute to strengthening domestic industry and aligns with the Trump administration's efforts during its second term to increasingly relocate industrial production back to the US.
Apple is focusing on greater flexibility in its chip strategy
Current rumors suggest that Apple is further refining its chip strategy. A potential collaboration with Intel wouldn't represent a change of direction, but rather additional flexibility. Apple would remain the developer of its own chips, but would utilize new manufacturing options. Whether and to what extent Intel will actually produce Apple chips is unlikely to become clear for several years. However, it's clear that Apple is reducing its dependencies and preparing for a more competitive semiconductor market. (Image: Shutterstock / nikkimeel)
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