Apple Begins Testing Intel Production for iPhone, iPad, and Mac Chips [Kuo]

Apple is reportedly preparing to use Intel Foundry Services for a small portion of future chips destined for the iPhone, iPad, and Mac. New industry checks indicate Apple has started work with Intel on select processors using the company's 18A-P process and Foveros packaging technology.



The initial order allocation reportedly mirrors Apple's broader device sales mix, with iPhone processors accounting for roughly 80 percent of the planned volume. This move builds on preliminary agreements reached between the two companies earlier this year. The remaining share is expected to support iPad and Mac processors.


According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple's roadmap with Intel begins with small-scale testing in 2026. Production is expected to ramp up in 2027 and continue growing through 2028 before eventually declining in 2029. Intel is currently targeting manufacturing yields of 50 to 60 percent or higher by 2027. Exact mass production timelines and shipment volumes remain unclear, as Apple's assembly partners have not yet received formal delivery schedules.

Apple reportedly began discussions with Intel well before TSMC's advanced-node resources became increasingly constrained by artificial intelligence demand. The effort to cultivate Intel as a long-term supplier reflects Apple's broader strategy to reduce dependence on a single foundry partner while it still maintains substantial bargaining power.

TSMC is still expected to remain Apple's dominant chip supplier for the foreseeable future. Kuo notes that even if Intel executes its initial shipments successfully, TSMC would still account for more than 90 percent of Apple's total chip supply. Apple is reportedly using the entire 18A-P generation to optimize collaboration and manufacturing yields with Intel, treating the effort as a full product line validation rather than a limited low-risk trial.

Apple is also said to be evaluating additional advanced manufacturing technologies from Intel. We previously noted analyst expectations that Intel's future 14A process could eventually secure orders for upcoming Apple hardware if the foundry improves execution.