Apple could manufacture its next entry-level M-series processor through Intel Foundry, marking the first time the company has shifted production of its Mac and iPad chips away from long-time supplier TSMC, according to a new industry forecast.
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said Apple is expected to adopt Intel’s forthcoming 18AP node for the standard M7 processor, which is projected to become operational in 2027. Kuo described the move as part of a broader trend in which major chip designers consider Intel for future products. The report noted that “the ‘lowest-end’ chip will be manufactured by Intel Foundry,” indicating a targeted rather than full-scale transition.
Based on the assessment, Apple will continue relying on TSMC for higher-tier models. The M7 Pro and M7 Max are anticipated to be built using TSMC’s N2P or A18 manufacturing processes. The base M7 is expected to power future iPad and MacBook Air devices and could also feature in later versions of the Vision Pro headset.
If confirmed, the shift would make the M7 the first Apple silicon chip produced outside of TSMC. Performance expectations remain uncertain until consumer-grade processors using Intel’s 18A technology — including Intel’s upcoming Panther Lake products — reach the market.
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For Intel, the development would represent a strategic win as it continues expanding its contract-manufacturing business. Securing Apple could strengthen confidence among prospective customers such as Qualcomm, while increasing competitive pressure across the global semiconductor supply chain.