In a significant potential shift for the global semiconductor landscape, Apple is reportedly considering a major diversification of its chip supply chain. According to recent analyst reports, the tech giant is in discussions to have Intel manufacture processors for future non-Pro iPhone models, a move that could begin as early as 2028 and would mark a new chapter in the complex relationship between the two American companies.
Analyst Reports Point to a 2028 Timeline for iPhone Chip Production
The speculation originates from a research report by GF Securities, highlighted by MacRumors. Analyst Jeff Pu and his team project that Intel could finalize a supply agreement with Apple to produce chips for select iPhone models starting in 2028. The initial focus would be on the standard, non-Pro versions of the iPhone, which in that timeframe could include devices like a potential "iPhone 20" or "iPhone 20e." This timeline suggests Apple is planning its manufacturing strategy several product cycles in advance, seeking to secure advanced production capacity for the latter part of the decade.
Reported Timeline & Product Focus:
- Potential Start Date: 2028
- Apple Products Affected: Non-Pro iPhone models (e.g., speculated "iPhone 20," "iPhone 20e")
- Intel's Role: Chip manufacturing (foundry services) only, not design.
- Contrasting Rumor (Ming-Chi Kuo, Nov 2025): Intel to make low-end M-series chips for Mac/iPad starting mid-2027 using 18A process.
Intel's Role: Pure Manufacturing with Advanced 14A Process
A critical detail from the reports is the defined scope of Intel's potential involvement. The company would not participate in the design of Apple's custom silicon. Instead, its role would be strictly limited to the manufacturing, or "fab," side of the operation, using its own advanced fabrication processes. Specifically, the GF Securities report indicates these iPhone chips would be built on Intel's future 14A (14 Angstrom) manufacturing node. This arrangement would see Intel working alongside, not replacing, Apple's primary foundry partner, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), though its share of production is expected to be minor initially.
Technical & Strategic Details:
- Intel Process Node: Future 14A (14 Angstrom) manufacturing technology.
- Primary Strategic Driver for Apple: Supply chain diversification and increased reliance on U.S.-based manufacturing.
- Historical Context: Intel previously supplied cellular modems for iPhone 7 through iPhone 11. The "Intel Inside" Mac era involved Intel-designed x86 chips, which is fundamentally different from this potential foundry deal for Apple-designed Arm chips.
A Strategic Move for Supply Chain Diversification and U.S. Manufacturing
This potential deal is driven by clear strategic motives for Apple. First and foremost, it represents a major step in diversifying its supply chain for its most critical component. Relying heavily on a single foundry, even one as capable as TSMC, carries geopolitical and logistical risks. Bringing Intel on board, especially for a portion of iPhone production, mitigates that risk. Secondly, it increases Apple's reliance on a U.S.-based manufacturing company, aligning with broader industry and governmental pushes to bolster domestic semiconductor production. This wouldn't be Intel's first component supply role for Apple; the chipmaker previously provided cellular modems for iPhones from the iPhone 7 through the iPhone 11 series.
Contrasting with Earlier Rumors and a Historic Shift
The new iPhone-centric rumor appears to contrast with earlier speculation from renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Last month, Kuo suggested Intel could begin manufacturing Apple's lowest-tier M-series chips for Mac and iPad as early as mid-2027, utilizing its 18A process—touted as the earliest available sub-2nm node in North America. Whether these reports are conflicting or describe complementary, phased plans remains unclear. What is certain is that any deal would be fundamentally different from the "Intel Inside" era of Macs. In that period, Apple used Intel-designed x86 processors. A new agreement would involve Intel fabricating Apple-designed Arm-based chips, flipping the traditional supplier-customer dynamic on its head.
The Road Ahead for Apple's Silicon Ambitions
If the rumors hold, Apple's silicon strategy is poised to become more complex and geographically diversified by the end of the decade. The company would maintain its industry-leading chip design capabilities while splitting advanced manufacturing between TSMC and a revitalized Intel. For Intel, securing Apple as a foundry client for its cutting-edge 14A process would be a monumental win for its fledgling contract manufacturing business. While details are still speculative and years away from potential fruition, the mere discussion underscores the intense competition and high-stakes planning defining the future of advanced semiconductor manufacturing.
