Intel and Apple are in talks for a potential partnership. Intel, which has been taking steps to strengthen its financial position, is said to be a lifeline for its foundry business.

Apple-Intel alliance on the horizon

If the deal goes through, Apple would also gain a second chip manufacturing source in the US. According to reports, the scope of the talks is not yet clear because the process is in its early stages and proceeding confidentially. However, a deal could significantly boost Intel’s chip manufacturing operations, particularly its 14A manufacturing process.

Intel has recently made aggressive moves to improve its financial structure, and its previous agreements with Nvidia, SoftBank, and the US government have boosted its balance sheet. Now, all eyes are on Apple.

According to sources, the parties are considering not only investment but also closer collaboration. Previous statements by Intel CEO Lip Bu Tan suggested that the company could halt or cancel the 14A process if it cannot find sufficient volume of customers.

This would mean Intel’s departure from the advanced manufacturing process race. Therefore, a major customer like Apple turning to Intel would both secure the future of the company’s foundry division and provide financial support.

From Apple’s perspective, the company used Intel processors in MacBooks until 2020, but subsequently switched to its own Apple Silicon. Despite this, Apple’s emphasis on US manufacturing investments and its search for a second supplier beyond TSMC present a significant opportunity for Intel.

In such a scenario, Apple could consider producing its A- and M-series processors at Intel’s foundry. What are your thoughts on this? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.