Apple may turn to Intel to manufacture some of its future baseline iPhone chips as both companies respond to shifting market pressures.
A research note from GF Securities on December 5, 2025 claims Intel could become a fabrication partner for certain non-Pro iPhone processors starting in 2028. Analyst Jeff Pu, whose track record often focuses on Apple’s hardware roadmap, reported that Intel’s upcoming 14A process may be used to produce the A22 chip — expected to power devices like the iPhone 20 and iPhone 20e.
According to Pu and colleagues, Intel is close to securing a deal that would give it a small but meaningful share of Apple’s iPhone chip production. Apple would continue to design every processor as usual, while Intel’s role would be strictly manufacturing — similar to how TSMC produces today’s A-series chips.
Why Apple wants another fabrication partner
TSMC currently handles nearly all of Apple’s advanced chipmaking, delivering strong yields and reliable next-generation nodes. But the pandemic revealed how fragile reliance on a single region can be. Apple has since expanded device assembly into India and Vietnam and explored closer-to-home component options.
Chip fabrication is especially critical, influencing performance, efficiency, and safety. Intel offers geographic diversity, with major advanced fabs located in the United States. That reduces Apple’s exposure to geopolitical tension in East Asia, shipping delays, and regional shutdowns.
Intel’s motivations
Intel aims to rebuild its foundry reputation after years of manufacturing setbacks. The company invested heavily in its 18A and 14A nodes to become more competitive with TSMC. A partnership with Apple would boost Intel’s credibility and show progress in its turnaround.
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently reported that Intel is expected to manufacture Apple’s lowest-end M-series chips for certain Macs and iPads using the 18A process starting mid-2027. Apple often begins with lower-risk chips to evaluate a new foundry’s yields before trusting it with iPhone silicon.
Potential impact on Apple’s long-term roadmap
The iPhone is Apple’s most important product, and even small fabrication issues can trigger global shortages. Additional manufacturing capacity would reduce risk, stabilize supply, and improve Apple’s leverage in pricing negotiations. Diversifying suppliers also aligns with U.S. government initiatives encouraging domestic chip production.
If approved, this collaboration would mark a notable shift in the Apple-Intel relationship. Apple moved away from Intel processors in 2020, yet the companies may now reconnect on manufacturing rather than chip design.
Intel as part of Apple’s broader diversification strategy
Intel is not Apple’s only path. TSMC’s Arizona expansion remains central, with Apple reserving major capacity there. Texas Instruments supports power management chips from U.S. facilities, ensuring stability for essential low-cost components.
Intel’s potential role fits within this expanding multi-supplier system—complementing, not replacing, Apple’s commitments to TSMC and Texas Instruments. Apple’s overall strategy depends on maintaining several strong partners across advanced processors, analog parts, and foundational components.
