Rumor
Apple evaluates Intel foundry services through engineering consultations
Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at 04:39 AM
Apple has reportedly initiated extensive engineering discussions with Intel to assess the potential of using Intel Foundry services for its chip manufacturing needs.
Context
Apple and Intel have entered deep engineering consultations to evaluate the 18A manufacturing process for future silicon. Reports indicate Apple has received the 18AP process design kit and is holding intensive, all-day technical meetings to validate timing and power targets for its designs. If these evaluations meet performance benchmarks, high-volume production for entry-level M-series chips could begin as early as 2027, marking a significant manufacturing return to Intel for the first time since Apple transitioned to in-house silicon.
This collaboration represents a critical strategic pivot for Apple to diversify its supply chain away from its near-total reliance on TSMC. By leveraging Intel’s domestic capacity, Apple aims to mitigate geopolitical risks and secure secondary sourcing for its high-volume devices, targeting initial annual runs of 15 to 20 million units. For Intel, securing the world’s most demanding chip designer as an anchor foundry customer would provide massive validation for its turnaround strategy and bolster its foundry business, which recently reported $4.5 billion in quarterly revenue.
Sources (3)
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