Apple is reportedly exploring discussions with Intel over future chip manufacturing, signaling a potential shift in the tech giant’s long-standing reliance on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC).
According to a research note by analyst Jeff Pu of GF Securities, Apple is once again evaluating Intel as a possible manufacturing partner. Similar reports first appeared in early December, but the renewed claim suggests talks may still be active.
Apple currently depends heavily on TSMC for producing its custom-designed silicon, including the A-series chips used in iPhones and the M-series processors powering Macs and iPads. While TSMC remains the world’s leading chip manufacturer, Apple has been seeking ways to diversify its supply chain.
Industry experts believe the move is driven by growing geopolitical risks, capacity constraints, and the need for long-term manufacturing stability. By working with multiple foundries, Apple could reduce exposure to regional disruptions and improve resilience across its product lines.
Intel, which has been investing aggressively in its foundry business, is positioning itself as a serious competitor to TSMC and Samsung. The company has announced multi-billion-dollar investments in advanced fabrication facilities in the United States and Europe, aiming to attract major clients.
If a deal materializes, Intel could potentially manufacture select Apple chips using its upcoming advanced process nodes. However, analysts caution that Intel still faces technical challenges in matching TSMC’s manufacturing efficiency and yield rates.
Apple has previously worked with multiple chip suppliers for different components, but its core processors have remained exclusively tied to TSMC in recent years. Any shift, even partial, would represent a significant change in Apple’s silicon strategy.
The report does not suggest that Apple plans to completely abandon TSMC. Instead, Intel may serve as a secondary manufacturing partner, handling specific chips or lower-volume production to reduce risk.
Neither Apple nor Intel has officially commented on the report. As with many supply chain discussions, negotiations may remain confidential until formal agreements are finalized.
The potential collaboration reflects broader trends in the semiconductor industry, where major technology firms are actively reshaping supply chains amid rising global demand for advanced chips.
If confirmed, an Apple–Intel manufacturing partnership could have major implications for the global chip market, strengthening Intel’s foundry ambitions while giving Apple greater flexibility in its hardware roadmap.
