Apple has held exploratory discussions with Intel and Samsung about manufacturing the processors that power its iPhones, iPads, and Macs, according to a report by Bloomberg. The talks are still preliminary, and no orders have been placed. Apple itself has reservations about moving away from its longtime partner TSMC. However, the fact that these conversations are happening at all signals growing anxiety inside the company about its chip supply situation.
Apple's Visits to Samsung and Intel Facilities
Apple executives have already visited a Samsung fabrication plant currently under construction in Taylor, Texas. Separately, the company has held early-stage talks with Intel about using its chipmaking services. Both efforts are described as exploratory, indicating that Apple is actively seeking alternatives to its current supplier.
Why Apple Is Looking Beyond TSMC
The immediate pressure is supply. Apple has been unable to produce enough of its advanced chips to meet demand, a shortage driven largely by the AI boom. The AI boom has funneled semiconductor manufacturing capacity toward data center chips, leaving less capacity for consumer electronics. On a recent earnings call, then-CEO Tim Cook acknowledged that Mac mini and Mac Studio supply was constrained, adding it could take several months to rebalance supply and demand.
Future Chip Plans
Apple's chips for the iPhone 18 lineup, the A20 and A20 Pro, are expected to be made exclusively on TSMC's 2nm process. Any chips manufactured by Intel or Samsung would therefore be for devices launching in 2027 or later. One scenario floated by Bloomberg is that Intel's upcoming 14A (1.4nm-class) process could be used for non-Pro iPhones in 2028.
Intel and Samsung Still Playing Catch-Up
Neither Intel nor Samsung is currently in a position to match TSMC's scale or technological edge. Both have struggled for years with yield issues and process delays. Winning Apple as a foundry customer would be a significant turn of fortune for Intel especially, which is still rebuilding under CEO Lip-Bu Tan after years of setbacks.
Apple Remains Cautious
Apple, for its part, remains cautious. Bloomberg notes that the company has concerns about using non-TSMC technology and may not move forward with either company at all. The exploratory nature of the talks suggests that Apple is keeping its options open but is not yet ready to commit to a new manufacturing partner.
