Intel may start manufacturing chips for future iPhone, iPad and Mac

Several well-known industry insiders believe Apple is preparing to renew its partnership with Intel, handing over part of its chip manufacturing to the company.

The discussion began after analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported that Intel is expected to start producing entry-level Apple M series chips for Macs and iPads. Shortly after, analyst Jeff Pu added that Intel would also manufacture chips for future baseline iPhones.

Apple is not shifting architectures. The chips will still be Apple Silicon and will not use x86. According to the reports:

• Production of certain M series processors will begin in 2027. This will primarily affect entry tier chips such as those used in the MacBook Air. The key distinction is that these chips will be manufactured at Intel’s US based facilities.
• Entry level iPhone chips are expected to follow in 2028. Intel is reportedly preparing to manufacture Apple’s A22 processors for the iPhone 20 and iPhone 20e using its upcoming 14A process node.

One of the main reasons behind the renewed partnership is political pressure from US authorities who want more Apple hardware manufacturing localized within the United States. Working with Intel would allow Apple to label part of its product line as Made in USA.

There is no indication that Intel will design Apple chips. The company is expected to act purely as a manufacturing partner, operating alongside Taiwan’s TSMC, the world’s leading semiconductor foundry.

Apple’s high performance processors, including the Pro, Max and Ultra variants, are still expected to remain exclusively with TSMC.