Apple may soon partner with Intel to build M-series chips for MacBooks, iPads

Apple is reportedly exploring a partnership with Intel to manufacture future M-series chips for Macs and iPads. Intel is said to become one of Apple’s advanced-node foundry suppliers, with the initial plan focused on producing Apple’s lowest-end M-series processor. At present, Apple relies on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) for producing both its M-series and A-series chips. But by partnering with Intel, Apple is looking to diversify its manufacturing pipeline.

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo says Intel could become one of Apple’s advanced-node foundry suppliers, with the initial plan focused on producing Apple’s lowest-end M-series processor.

 In his post, Kuo said, “Apple previously signed an NDA (non-disclosure agreement) with Intel and obtained the advanced-node 18AP PDK 0.9.1GA.”

Intel’s 18A-P is an enhanced version of its next-generation 2nm-class process. First announced at Intel’s Direct Connect 2025 event, the technology supports Foveros Direct — Intel’s new 3D stacking method that enables vertically bonded chip components for improved performance and better power efficiency.

Kuo added that Apple’s immediate plan is for Intel to handle only the base M-series processor, used in products such as the MacBook Air and iPad Pro, while TSMC would continue to manufacture the higher-end Pro, Max, and Ultra variants for devices like the MacBook Pro, Mac Studio, and Mac Pro.

The first Intel-made M-series chip is expected to appear in an Apple device in 2027.