https://www.macrumors.com/2026/01/23/apple-intel-iphone-chips-rumor/
There is a rumor that Apple is partnering with Intel for iPhone chips.
Rumors have surfaced again that Apple could revive its chip manufacturing partnership with Intel. This time, however, it appears that the arrangement would involve Apple designing the chips and Intel handling their production.
According to a research note by GF Securities analyst Jeff Pu, obtained by MacRumors, he reaffirmed his previous outlook that Intel would begin supplying some Apple chips using its 14A process. This particular 14A process is expected to be ready for mass production in 2028.
Last month, Pu predicted that Intel would enter into a chip supply agreement with Apple starting in 2028, targeting at least some non-Pro iPhone models. Based on this timeline, Intel could potentially manufacture a portion of the A21 or A22 chips for iPhones. TSMC is expected to remain Apple's primary chip manufacturing partner.
There are no indications that Intel would be involved in the design of iPhone chips. Intel's role appears to be limited to foundry services (contract manufacturing). This differs from the era of "Intel Macs," which used x86 architecture-based Intel processors. Apple began phasing out Intel processors in Macs starting in 2020.
Intel has previously supplied cellular modems for some iPhone models, ranging from the iPhone 7 to certain iPhone 11 models.
Apple's return to Intel could potentially extend to some Mac and iPad chips as well. Last year, Tianfeng Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicted that Intel could start shipping Apple's entry-level M-series chips for some Mac and iPad models as early as mid-2027, with Apple planning to utilize Intel's 18A process. However, he did not mention anything about iPhones.
Intel could help Apple diversify its supply chain. This comes at a crucial time when Nvidia has reportedly overtaken Apple as TSMC's largest customer due to increased demand for chips used in consumer devices and AI servers, particularly. Additionally, Apple is likely to increase its manufacturing footprint within the United States in line with the Trump administration's policy of promoting domestic production.
