Intel to Manufacture Apple's Entry-Level M Chips in 2027

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported on Friday that Intel is poised to manufacture Apple's entry-level M-series processors starting as early as 2027, marking a limited revival of the companies' partnership after Apple's shift to in-house chip design.

The arrangement would involve Intel producing the standard, lowest-tier M-series chip—potentially the M7—using its 18A process node, a sub-2-nanometer technology set to be the first of its kind manufactured in North America. Unlike Apple's previous reliance on Intel's x86-based processors for Macs until 2020, this deal centers on foundry services only. Apple would retain design control over the Arm-architecture chips, which power devices such as the MacBook Air and iPad Pro. Shipments could begin in the second or third quarter of 2027, following the release of Intel's full 18A process development kit in early 2026.

Apple and Intel have already advanced under a confidential nondisclosure agreement. Apple obtained an early version of the development kit last year and has completed key simulations and research, which are progressing as expected. The final timeline depends on further milestones, including the upcoming kit release. Production...