Apple could get Intel to make M-series chips from 2027, says Ming-Chi Kuo

For years, Apple has depended almost entirely on TSMC to manufacture its M-series and A-series chips. But a new post from analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests that this may slowly begin to change. According to him, Apple is now showing clearer signs of working with Intel as a second supplier for its lower-end M-series processors. If this happens, it would mark a major shift not only for Apple’s supply chain but also for Intel’s foundry ambitions, which have struggled in recent years. The move would not replace TSMC, but it could help Apple reduce supply-chain risks and support long-term manufacturing plans inside the United States.

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This is what Ming-Chi Kuo posted on X:

‘Intel expected to begin shipping Apple’s lowest-end M processor as early as 2027

There have long been market rumors that Intel could become an advanced-node foundry supplier to Apple, but visibility around this had remained low. My latest industry surveys, however, indicate that visibility on Intel becoming an advanced-node supplier to Apple has recently improved significantly.

Apple previously signed an NDA with Intel and obtained the advanced-node 18AP PDK 0.9.1GA. The key simulation and research projects (such as PPA) are tracking in line with expectations, and Apple is now waiting for Intel to release PDK 1.0/1.1, currently scheduled for 1Q26. Apple’s plan is for Intel to begin shipping its lowest-end M processor, utilizing the 18AP advanced node, as early as 2Q–3Q27, but the actual timeline remains contingent on development progress following the receipt of PDK 1.0/1.1.

Apple’s lowest-end M processor is currently used in the MacBook Air and iPad Pro mainly, with combined shipments of roughly 20 million units for 2025. As MacBook Air shipments in 2026 may be impacted by a new more-affordable MacBook model using an iPhone-class processor, shipments of lowest-end M processor in both 2026 and 2027 are expected to be 15–20 million units.

In absolute terms, order volumes for the lowest-end M processor are relatively small and virtually no material impact on TSMC’s fundamentals or its technology leadership over the next several years. However, the signaling and trend implications for Apple and Intel are meaningful:

1. For Apple: In addition to showing strong support for the Trump administration’s strongly promoted “Made in USA” policy, Apple, while clearly expected to remain highly dependent on TSMC’s advanced nodes for the foreseeable future, still needs to secure a second source to meet supply-chain management requirements.

2. For Intel: The significance of winning Apple’s advanced-node orders far exceeds the direct revenue and profit contribution from this business. Although Intel will still be unable to compete head-to-head with TSMC over the next several years, this suggests that the worst may soon be over for the IFS business. Looking ahead, the 14A node and beyond could capture more orders from Apple and other tier-one customers, turning Intel’s long-term outlook more positive.‘

Kuo’s post makes the situation clear. Apple is not shifting away from TSMC. Instead, the company wants a backup foundry that can handle at least one chip in the M-series lineup. The ‘lowest-end M processor’ mentioned here refers to the standard M-class chip used in the MacBook Air and iPad Pro, not the more powerful M Pro, M Max, or M Ultra variants.

For Apple, the move is mostly about reducing supply-chain risk and aligning with US manufacturing goals. Having a second supplier gives the company more flexibility and ensures it is not dependent on a single foundry during global shortages or geopolitical uncertainty. It also helps Apple support US-based chip fabrication, something political leaders have been pushing for.

For Intel, however, this is much more significant. Even though the order volume is small and won’t immediately transform Intel’s business, the symbolic value is huge. Winning any advanced-node Apple order signals that Intel Foundry Services is finally making progress after years of delays. If Intel successfully delivers the 18A node at scale, it could open the door for more work in the future, especially with its upcoming 14A process.

In simple terms, this move won’t suddenly change how Apple builds its products, because TSMC will continue handling most of the important chips, especially the high-end ones. But for Intel, even a small order from Apple is meaningful. Intel already makes advanced chips, but getting Apple on board is a big vote of confidence at a time when the company is trying to strengthen its foundry business.

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