Will TSMC still produce most of Apple's chips?

Yes. TSMC remains the primary supplier, with Intel manufacturing only a small share initially.

Overview

Apple is reportedly moving toward a new chip manufacturing partnership with Intel as part of its long-term strategy to diversify production beyond TSMC. The rumored agreement—expected to begin in 2027–2028—would have Intel fabricate select A-series and M-series chips using its next-generation 18A process, marking a major shift in Apple’s supply chain and a potential breakthrough for Intel’s foundry ambitions.

Apple may soon bring Intel back into its hardware ecosystem—but in a very different role than before. After years of transitioning away from Intel-powered Macs in favor of its own M-series silicon, Apple is reportedly preparing a manufacturing partnership that would position Intel as a foundry for certain Apple-designed chips.

According to new reports, Apple aims to reduce its reliance on TSMC, currently its primary chip fabrication partner, by diversifying its supply chain. While Apple will continue designing its own chips, Intel would handle a portion of the manufacturing, especially as its 18A process node becomes available.

Intel to Fabricate Apple’s A-Series Chips by 2028

GF Securities analyst Jeff Pu claims Intel and Apple are now expected to reach an agreement for Intel to manufacture a percentage of non-Pro A-series iPhone chips beginning in 2028. Intel would initially handle a small share of production while TSMC remains the principal supplier.

This aligns with Apple’s ongoing strategy to secure multiple foundry partners, particularly for high-volume components such as iPhone processors.

Intel May Also Produce Entry-Level M-Series Chips

Reinforcing these claims, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo previously stated that Intel could begin producing Apple’s lowest-end M-series processors for Macs and iPads as early as mid-2027. These chips are expected to be built on Intel’s 18A process, touted as the earliest sub-2nm advanced node manufactured in North America.

If accurate, this would represent a major win for Intel’s revitalized foundry business and a renewed strategic connection between the two tech giants.

Why Apple Is Looking Beyond TSMC

Apple’s dependence on TSMC has grown over the past decade as its chips have become more advanced and more challenging to manufacture. By adding Intel as a second major partner, Apple can:

Reduce supply-chain risk
Increase manufacturing flexibility
Support U.S.-based semiconductor production
Prepare for future expansion of AI-driven, high-performance chip designs

For Intel, securing an Apple manufacturing contract would further validate its foundry roadmap and support its efforts to compete globally with TSMC and Samsung.

TSMC Remains Apple’s Primary Fabrication Partner

Despite these rumors, TSMC is expected to remain Apple’s main supplier for both A-series and M-series chips. Intel’s role, at least initially, would focus on supplementing production rather than replacing existing arrangements.