Last week, we reported that well-connected supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo expects to see Intel begin shipping low-end M-series chips to Apple for use in Macs and possibly iPads as soon as mid-2027. Now, a new rumor claims the deal could also extend to lower-end iPhones.
In a research note with investment firm GF Securities this week, shared by MacRumors, analyst Jeff Pu said he and his colleagues “now expect” Intel to reach a supply deal with Apple for at least some “non-pro” iPhone chips, manufactured with Intel’s future 14A process, starting in 2028.
Kuo last week said Apple would utilize Intel’s 18A process, which he says is the “earliest available sub-2nm advanced node manufactured in North America.”
While the research note did not include any other details about the possible Apple/Intel partnership, the timeframe indicates Intel could begin providing the A22 chip for devices like the “iPhone 20” and “iPhone 20e” in three years or so from now.
Intel would only be involved in the manufacturing process, not the design process.
Apple would continue to design iPhone chips and Apple’s major chipmaker TSMC would continue to supply the majority of Apple’s M-series chips.
Apple’s choosing to use Intel as a supplier for its lowest-end M-series chips would help it to satiate President Trump’s desire to see Apple produce more “Made in USA” products, while also helping Apple to diversify its supply chain for manufacturing.
