While Apple currently exclusively partners with TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company) for M-series chip production, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests this could soon change, with Intel entering the picture as a key new supplier. According to Kuo’s new post on the X platform, Apple may consider a new partnership with Intel for chip production starting in 2027.
Intel’s 18A Node and M7 Chip
Kuo stated that Apple signed a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) with Intel and acquired Intel’s advanced node, 18AP PDK 0.9.1GA. Noting that key simulation and research projects are progressing as expected, Kuo stated that Apple is currently awaiting Intel’s PDK 1.0/1.1, scheduled for release in the first quarter of 2026 (Q1 2026).
According to Kuo, Apple plans to begin production of its lowest-tier M processor using Intel’s 18AP advanced node as early as the second or third quarter of 2027 (Q2–Q327). However, the actual timeline will depend on development progress following the receipt of PDK 1.0/1.1.
By “lowest-tier M processor,” Kuo means the standard M-class chip, likely the base version of the M7 chip. TSMC is expected to remain Apple’s partner for high-performance chip variants like the M7 Pro, M7 Max, or M7 Ultra. TSMC is also assumed to remain the leading supplier for much higher-volume iPhone-class chips like the A19 and A19 Pro.
Kuo believes this move would be a good move for Apple for two key reasons:
- Support for the “Made in USA” Policy: This would be a way to demonstrate to the Trump administration that Apple supports the “Made in USA” policy. (Intel is currently making significant investments in advanced node technologies in the US.)
- Supply Diversity: Kuo emphasizes the importance of diversity, saying, “While Apple is expected to remain highly dependent on TSMC’s advanced nodes for the foreseeable future, it still needs to secure a second source to meet its supply chain management requirements.”
This potential partnership is seen as a significant gain for Intel’s foundry business and a strategic step for Apple to mitigate its chip supply risks.
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