ACCORDING to a recent investigative report by Jeff Pu, an analyst at GF Securities, Apple is contemplating a strategic restoration of its silicon fabrication partnership with Intel, with production possibly starting as early as 2028 using the Intel 14A process node. Pu emphasises that Intel’s involvement would be strictly confined to the role of a pure-play foundry, manufacturing chips designed exclusively by Apple, ensuring Apple retains sovereignty over the silicon architecture.
Based on current product cycles, the 2028 timeline suggests that the A21 or A22 processors—destined for the hypothetical iPhone 20—could be the initial beneficiaries of this arrangement, with Intel initially handling non-Pro models while TSMC remains the primary supplier for flagship-tier silicon.
This disclosure aligns with prior prognostications by Ming-Chi Kuo, who suggested Intel might begin fabricating entry-level M-series processors for specific Mac or iPad models as early as mid-2027 using the Intel 18A node. Collectively, the reports imply Apple’s calculated effort to diversify its supply chain and mitigate risks by expanding Intel’s responsibilities from entry-level tablets to the iPhone ecosystem, driven by NVIDIA’s AI server demand and Made in America considerations.
Should Intel secure Apple’s patronage, it would validate its technological resurgence and give Apple leverage in price negotiations with TSMC while insulating the company from regional instabilities.