Apple to Partner with Intel on Chip Production in 2027

Apple is reportedly planning to partner with Intel to manufacture certain chips for its devices, marking a strategic shift to diversify its supply chain away from longtime partner TSMC. According to analysts, the collaboration could begin in 2027 with entry-level M-series processors for Macs and iPads, expanding to non-Pro iPhone chips by 2028.

The potential deal, outlined in recent research notes from GF Securities analyst Jeff Pu and corroborated by Ming-Chi Kuo, would position Intel solely as a foundry. Apple would retain full control over chip design, continuing to use its in-house Arm-based architecture for A-series and M-series processors. Intel's role would focus on fabrication using its advanced 18A process node, the first sub-2nm technology available in North America. This process incorporates innovations like RibbonFET transistors and PowerVia backside power delivery, which Intel claims can improve performance by about 25 percent and reduce power consumption by up to 36 percent compared to prior nodes.

Pu's note specifies that initial production in 2027 might cover 15 to 20 million units of base M-series chips, serving as a trial for lower-risk products before scaling...