Apple is reportedly considering reintroducing Intel into its iPhone chip supply chain.
While Intel would handle manufacturing, it would not be involved in designing the chips.
The collaboration could cover components of future A21 or A22 chips, with production on Intel’s 14A process anticipated by 2028. However, Apple’s primary chip partner, TSMC, would continue to handle the bulk of manufacturing.
Analysts suggest that Apple’s move may be aimed at diversifying its supply chain, particularly as global demand for chips rises, fueled by AI servers and other high-performance devices. Expanding production in the US also aligns with government incentives for domestic manufacturing.
Intel could also potentially produce chips for Apple’s Mac and iPad devices. According to Tianfeng Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Intel might fabricate Apple’s M-series chips using its 18A nodes as early as 2027. Previously, Intel supplied Apple with cellular modems for older iPhones, but this new partnership would be separate from that.
Apple began moving away from Intel chip designs in 2020, specifically for its Mac lineup. Former Intel employee Francois Piednoel noted that the Skylake architecture caused significant quality issues, prompting Apple to adopt alternative designs.
This potential partnership marks a notable shift as Apple balances its chip production between established partners and new domestic manufacturing options.
