Possibly Concurrent With Intel for M-Series Chip Production
New reports from @mingchikuo on X suggest that Apple may try to reactivate an old relationship with Intel, but this time for manufacturing, which is far removed from their previous association. Analyst Minhui Kuo suggested that the American chipmaker could be invited to manufacture future processors of the Apple Silicon family, marking a possible departure from Apple having a monolithic tie with TSMC.
The Intel 18A Process and the Apple M7
It has been speculated that Intel made a pass of its advanced 18A process technology to Apple. This process would be tailored specifically for Apple's needs under the working title of 18AP. If the agreement is reached, Intel may begin manufacturing the basic version of the Apple M7 chip by the end of 2027.
This is historic, as this would be the first time an Apple Silicon chip would be manufactured outside the confines of TSMC. Nevertheless, the rumor states that this only applies to the standard M7 chip. The expected higher-end M7 Pro and M7 Max processors will remain with TSMC to take advantage of its advanced process nodes.
Strategic Considerations for Intel
For Intel, acquiring Apple as a customer would be a major win for its foundry business. It also would symbolize a comeback for the company after a rough patch with its process technologies and timelines. Successfully running 18A for such a large customer like Apple might make for a very strong proof of concept and support other large customers trying to avail of Intel's manufacturing services.
Why Apple Might Like to Diversify
From an Apple perspective, this partnership provides some supply chain management flexibility. By offloading the production of high-volume base models to Intel, Apple would relieve some pressure from TSMC. This would mean TSMC can then devote its full attention to the more difficult flagship solutions, balancing the manufacturing landscape and giving Apple Silicon a far more sensible manufacturing pipeline.
