Intel may once again become part of Apple’s chip supply chain, possibly as early as 2027, according to well-known Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.
Kuo suggests that Intel could begin producing Apple’s entry-level M-series processors — the chips powering devices like the MacBook Air and iPad Pro — sometime in the second half of 2027. At present, all Apple Silicon chips are manufactured by TSMC, the Taiwan semiconductor powerhouse that dominates much of the global chip-fabrication industry.
The analyst notes that Apple’s interest in working with Intel could align with a push to support the Trump administration’s “Made in USA” initiative. Even so, Apple is still expected to rely heavily on TSMC for most of its silicon production. Kuo also points out that the MacBook Air and iPad Pro together represent only around 20 million unit sales per year — a relatively small fraction of Apple’s total hardware shipments.
Neither Intel nor Apple has issued any public statements on the speculation. Kuo cautions that the timing could shift depending on how smoothly development progresses over the next few years.
If Kuo’s outlook proves accurate, it would mark a notable shift in Apple’s silicon strategy. The company moved away from Intel chips in 2020, replacing them with its in-house M-series processors based on Arm designs. Reports have not suggested that Intel would be involved in creating Apple’s higher-tier chips, such as those used in the MacBook Pro, only in fabrication of lower-tier models.
For Intel, regaining Apple as a customer — even in a limited capacity — would be a major symbolic win. Kuo believes it could help demonstrate that Intel remains capable of securing top-level clients, despite recent struggles. Following the report, Intel’s stock rose by roughly 10%. However, it’s worth noting that in this scenario Intel would serve purely as a manufacturer, rather than designing the chips themselves as it once did with x86-based Macs prior to 2020.
Intel’s challenges have become a frequent topic in the tech industry. Figures such as Bill Gates have remarked on the company’s apparent decline, especially after large layoffs announced in late 2024, saying he was surprised to see how far the once-dominant chip maker has fallen.
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