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DigiTimes
Intel's Apple deal boosts CEO Tan's turnaround, but hard part still lies ahead
Intel has reportedly secured a preliminary agreement to manufacture chips for Apple, marking a major win for CEO Lip-Bu Tan's effort to revive the company's foundry business. The deal, first reported by Digitimes, would give Apple a second source for chip production, reducing its reliance on TSMC. However, Intel must still prove it can deliver on advanced manufacturing processes, having faced delays and technical challenges in the past. The semiconductor industry will be watching closely as Intel ramps up production for one of the most demanding customers in the world.
MonitorConfidence: MediumShort term horizonExecution risk: High
Published 11 May 2026, 08:20 UTC1 min read
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Summary
TL;DR
- Intel and Apple have reached a preliminary deal for Intel to manufacture some chips for Apple devices.
- The agreement validates CEO Lip-Bu Tan's strategy to rebuild Intel's foundry business.
- Apple gains a secondary chip supplier, reducing dependence on TSMC.
- Intel still faces significant execution challenges in advanced node manufacturing.
- The deal marks a potential shift in the global semiconductor supply chain.
- Financial terms and exact chip types have not been disclosed.
Interesting facts
- Apple has historically relied almost exclusively on TSMC for its custom silicon.