Industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has sparked discussions about Apple’s potential partnership with Intel for the production of its M-series chips by 2027. In a recent post on X, Kuo noted that Intel’s prospects of becoming a key advanced-node supplier for Apple have significantly improved, based on his latest industry assessments.
This anticipated collaboration would mark an important moment in the tech landscape, especially considering Intel’s past, where it missed the opportunity to provide processors for the original iPhone. Presently, Apple relies on TSMC, a Taiwan-based company, to supply silicon chips for its portfolio, including the iPhone, iPad, and Mac products.
Kuo mentioned that Apple has established a non-disclosure agreement with Intel for the acquisition of the company’s 18AP PDK 0.9.1GA chips. The tech giant is currently awaiting the delivery of Intel’s PDK 1.0/1.1 kit, which is slated for the first quarter of 2026. Should the timeline proceed as anticipated, Intel could begin supplying Apple with its entry-level M-series processors utilizing the 18AP advanced node technology by the second or third quarter of 2027. However, this schedule hinges on the successful rollout of the PDK kit.
Kuo speculates that a partnership with Intel could reinforce Apple’s commitment to U.S. manufacturing, showcasing to the Trump administration its intention to bolster American companies within its supply chain. For Intel, this potential agreement may also herald a turnaround, indicating that the company’s challenging times could be behind it. Kuo suggests that advancements in the 14A node and subsequent technologies could secure more orders from Apple and other top-tier customers, potentially improving Intel’s long-term business outlook.
As the tech industry watches closely, the prospect of Apple collaborating with Intel for M-series chips ignites interest about the implications for both companies and their place in the ever-evolving semiconductor landscape.