Apple is reportedly working with Intel to produce some iPhone, iPad, and Mac chips, with analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claiming that early production has already started using Intel’s 18A-P process technology and Foveros packaging.
The report follows a recent claim from The Wall Street Journal that Apple and Intel had reached a manufacturing agreement.
Intel is reportedly handling older Apple chips first
According to Kuo, the current production focuses on what he describes as “low-end” or “legacy” processors rather than Apple’s latest high-performance chips.
That likely means Intel is manufacturing chips for older iPhone, iPad, and Mac models that Apple still sells, while TSMC continues to handle Apple’s flagship silicon.
Kuo says around 80% of Intel’s Apple-related orders are tied to iPhone chips, which makes sense given the iPhone’s larger share of Apple’s overall hardware sales.
The analyst also outlined Apple’s expected production timeline with Intel. The company is expected to begin with smaller-scale testing in 2026 before increasing production through 2027 and 2028, with activity slowing later in the decade.
He further added that Apple is evaluating additional Intel manufacturing technologies beyond the current 18A-P process.
Apple still appears heavily dependent on TSMC
Despite the reported Intel partnership, TSMC is still expected to remain Apple’s dominant chip supplier.
Kuo says TSMC could retain more than 90% of Apple’s overall chip production share even after Intel ramps up operations.
The move appears to be less about replacing TSMC and more about reducing supply chain risk by diversifying Apple’s manufacturing partners. Apple has relied heavily on TSMC for years, especially for advanced Apple silicon chips used in flagship iPhones, iPads, and Macs.
If the reports are accurate, Intel’s role may initially focus on helping Apple handle older-generation chips and additional production capacity rather than leading-edge processors.
Do you think Apple partnering with Intel again is a smart move for supply chain stability? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
