Apple currently partners exclusively with TSMC for production of its M-series chips, but analyst Ming-Chi Kuo says that may change soon, with Intel being brought in as an important new supplier.
Intel may start producing Apple’s M-series chips in 2027
Apple has a strong partnership with Taiwan-based TSMC for production of its various Apple silicon chips, including those that power the iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
But per analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple might be looking to diversify by adding Intel as a new partner starting in 2027.
Intel expected to begin shipping Apple’s lowest-end M processor as early as 2027 […]
Apple previously signed an NDA with Intel and obtained the advanced-node 18AP PDK 0.9.1GA. The key simulation and research projects (such as PPA) are tracking in line with expectations, and Apple is now waiting for Intel to release PDK 1.0/1.1, currently scheduled for 1Q26. Apple’s plan is for Intel to begin shipping its lowest-end M processor, utilizing the 18AP advanced node, as early as 2Q–3Q27, but the actual timeline remains contingent on development progress following the receipt of PDK 1.0/1.1.
By “lowest-end M processor,” Kuo is referencing the standard M-class chip, meaning the M5 but not the M5 Pro, M5 Max, or M5 Ultra.
Top comment by Mike nelson
A natural progression considering the developing threats to Taiwan production both seismic and geo-political (chinas invasion exercises) wit the risk that chip production in Taiwan could stop overnight in extreme circumstances. Intel may not get the density, yield or energy efficiency of TSMC it would at least be a fall back if the worst happens
Per Kuo, TSMC would continue to be Apple’s partner for those higher-end chips, and presumably the much higher volume iPhone-class chips such as A19 and A19 Pro.
But it sounds like starting with perhaps the M7 chip, Intel could come on board as a new partner.
Kuo sees this as a good move for Apple for two reasons:
- It would show the Trump administration that Apple supports its ‘Made in USA’ policy
- Diversification: “Apple, while clearly expected to remain highly dependent on TSMC’s advanced nodes for the foreseeable future, still needs to secure a second source to meet supply-chain management requirements”
What do you think of Apple potentially partnering with Intel to produce M-series chips? Let us know in the comments.
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