Apple Explores Using Intel, Samsung to Build iPhone Chips in the U.S. [Report]

Apple has opened early-stage discussions with Intel and Samsung about building its main device processors in the United States. The move points to an ongoing effort to secure a secondary manufacturing option beyond Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC).



According to Bloomberg, executives have held preliminary talks with Intel regarding its foundry business and recently toured a Samsung plant currently under construction in Texas. Nothing is finalized, and Apple reportedly still has reservations about using non-TSMC technology. The company could ultimately walk away without placing any orders.


During last week's Q2 2026 earnings call, CEO Tim Cook said a lack of available chips is constraining Apple's growth. He noted the company currently has less flexibility in its supply chain than usual. A surge in AI data center development, combined with higher-than-expected demand for Macs capable of running local AI models, has reduced the available supply of advanced silicon.

For over a decade, Apple has relied almost exclusively on TSMC in Taiwan to manufacture its custom silicon. Securing an alternative is difficult because Intel and Samsung currently lack the scale and consistency that made TSMC the industry leader. Still, Apple prefers having multiple suppliers for key components to improve pricing leverage and protect against disruptions.

Partnering with Intel or Samsung would be a reunion of sorts. Intel supplied Mac processors until Apple transitioned to its own M-series chips, and Samsung built the earliest iPhone processors. Tapping Intel for foundry work might also offer some strategic advantages in Washington, with some Apple executives believing it could help relations amid ongoing efforts to boost domestic chipmaking.

Apple is already taking steps to diversify its manufacturing geography by backing TSMC's new facilities in Phoenix, Arizona. Those plants are expected to supply Apple with around 100 million chips in 2026. However, that only covers a small portion of overall demand. With supply chain constraints already impacting the availability of the Mac mini, Mac Studio, and iPhone 17 Pro, securing a larger safety net remains a priority.