Apple’s long break from Intel may soon shift, as a new report points to a fresh manufacturing partnership between the two companies. Although Apple now uses its own M-series chips in every Mac, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claims that Intel could start producing Apple’s lowest-end M-series processors by mid-2027.
This time, the relationship looks very different. Apple will continue designing the chips, while Intel may only handle the manufacturing process.
Intel’s 18A Process Draws Apple’s Interest
According to Kuo, Apple plans to use Intel’s 18A fabrication technology, which Intel calls the first sub-2nm advanced node built in North America.
If this move happens, Intel might manufacture future M6 or M7 chips for products such as the MacBook Air, iPad Air, and even the iPad Pro. Apple would keep control of the architecture, which remains based on Arm rather than Intel’s old x86 platform. Meanwhile, TSMC is still expected to provide most of Apple’s M-series production.
A Win for U.S. Manufacturing and Apple’s Supply Strategy
This shift may offer key strategic benefits. For Apple, splitting chip production between TSMC and Intel would increase long-term supply stability. Additionally, choosing a U.S.-based manufacturer aligns with political pressure for more “Made in USA” technology.
Because Intel would supply only Apple’s least powerful M-series chips, the partnership would not interrupt Apple’s overall chip roadmap. Instead, it could strengthen Apple’s ability to meet rising demand for entry-level Macs and iPads.
Macs Will Still Move Away From Intel Support
Despite this potential reunion, Apple’s software strategy continues to distance itself from older Intel-powered Macs. macOS Tahoe, Apple’s upcoming release, will be the final major version that supports x86-based systems.
