Apple’s long-term chip strategy may be taking a surprising turn. According to a new industry report, the Cupertino-based tech giant is preparing to bring Intel back into its supply chain — not for Mac processors like before, but to manufacture its entry-level M-series chipsets starting in 2027. This move could mark a major shift in Apple’s chip production roadmap and potentially reshape the global semiconductor landscape.

Key Points

Apple reportedly plans to use Intel as a secondary source for manufacturing its lowest-end M-series processors.

Intel and Apple are said to have signed an NDA, giving Intel access to the 18AP process development kit.

Mass production of these chips may begin in 2027, supplying 15–20 million units annually.

This would be Apple’s first significant collaboration with Intel since transitioning to Apple Silicon in 2020.

TSMC will remain the primary supplier, but Intel could help manage volume and supply-chain stability.

Apple Looking to Diversify Chip Production

Apple has relied solely on TSMC for manufacturing its M-series chips since the launch of Apple Silicon in 2020. But growing demand, rising costs, and global supply-chain risks appear to be pushing Apple toward a dual-sourcing strategy — a model the company has historically adopted for displays, modems, and memory components.

According to supply-chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Intel is now preparing to manufacture Apple’s most basic M-series processors used in devices such as:

MacBook Air

Entry-level iPad models

Future budget-oriented Apple devices

These chips form the bulk of Apple’s consumer hardware shipments, making them ideal candidates for offloading to a second manufacturing partner.

Intel’s 18AP Process: A Big Bet for the Chipmaker

The centre of this collaboration is Intel’s upcoming 18AP process technology, which is expected to compete directly with TSMC’s advanced nodes.

What is the 18AP Node?

A next-generation advanced process under Intel Foundry Services (IFS).

Designed to improve performance-per-watt and transistor density.

Intel expects the node to enter mass production by mid-to-late 2027.

Apple has reportedly provided Intel with access to its Process Design Kit (PDK) versions 1.0 and 1.1, scheduled for finalisation by early 2026. This early access suggests deep collaboration and alignment with Apple’s upcoming M-series roadmap.

A Major Volume Opportunity for Intel

If the deal moves forward as reported, Intel could supply 15 million to 20 million chip units per year for Apple.

This would be the largest foundry partnership Intel has secured since launching its IFS business — and a major milestone in its goal to become the world’s second-largest semiconductor manufacturer.

For Intel, partnering with Apple gives:

Massive, consistent production volume

Global credibility as a cutting-edge foundry

A chance to compete directly with TSMC and Samsung

This agreement could help Intel accelerate its comeback in the chip manufacturing race.

A Rare Reversal for Apple

Apple’s decision is surprising because it spent more than a decade moving away from Intel chips. The company completely ended its dependency in 2020, shifting all Mac devices to Apple’s own M-series processors.

If Apple indeed taps Intel again — even for lower-end chips — it would mark a rare strategic pivot, signalling:

A need for diversified production

Concerns over TSMC’s capacity or geopolitical risks

Confidence in Intel’s future manufacturing capabilities

TSMC is still expected to produce Apple’s high-end chips (like M-Pro and M-Max), where efficiency and performance are critical.

Why Apple Might Need a Second Source

Several factors could influence Apple’s decision:

Rising Demand for Macs and iPads

The entry-level products represent Apple’s biggest shipment volumes.

Supply Chain Stability

A dual-source setup protects Apple from disruptions like material shortages or geopolitical tensions, especially Taiwan-related risks.

Cost and Scalability

Intel may offer competitive pricing and capacity, especially as it expands its foundry operations in the US and Europe.

Regulatory Pressure

US and European initiatives encourage local production and supply-chain diversification — a strategy that aligns with Apple’s long-term plans.

Conclusion

If the reports are accurate, Apple returning to Intel for entry-level M-series chip manufacturing will be one of the most significant semiconductor developments of the decade. The partnership could:

Strengthen Intel’s growing foundry ambitions

Reduce Apple’s dependence on TSMC

Diversify global chip production

Reshape the Mac and iPad production ecosystem

As Intel pushes hard to regain dominance in the chip industry, Apple’s involvement could be the catalyst Intel needs — while giving Apple a more stable, flexible, and scalable semiconductor supply line for the future.

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