Apple tests Intel for low-end/legacy iPhone, iPad, and Mac chips

Source Domain: macdailynews.com

In a detailed new analysis shared on X, longtime Apple supply-chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has provided the clearest picture yet of Apple’s expanding partnership with Intel Foundry. Far from a limited trial, Apple has simultaneously launched low-end/legacy processors for iPhone, iPad, and Mac on Intel’s 18A-P process (using Foveros packaging), with wafer allocation that closely mirrors its overall device sales mix — about 80% iPhone.

According to Kuo, Apple’s wafer plans for Intel’s 18A-P technology follow a deliberate multi-year lifecycle:

• Small-scale testing in 2026
• Ramp in 2027
• Continued growth in 2028
• Expected decline in 2029

Ming-Chi Kuo via X:
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Apple has kicked off low-end/legacy iPhone, iPad, and Mac processors at Intel on the 18A-P series (using Foveros packaging).

Apple’s wafer plans at Intel reflect the technology lifecycle of the 18A-P series: small-scale testing in 2026, ramp in 2027, continued growth in 2028, and decline in 2029.

This schedule gives Apple time to validate yields, optimize designs, and fine-tune collaboration processes across its full product lineup rather than simply placing a low-risk experimental order.

Kuo emphasizes that Apple is systematically cultivating Intel as a long-term key supplier. The move comes as Apple recognizes the growing revenue gap at TSMC between AI/HPC work and consumer devices like iPhones. By developing a strong alternative foundry relationship while it still holds significant bargaining power with TSMC, Apple is reducing single-source risk and strengthening its negotiating position for the future. Apple also continues to actively evaluate Intel’s other advanced-node technologies beyond 18A-P.

For Intel, the partnership represents a rare, high-quality “foundry training” opportunity. Apple’s orders span multiple product lines, are large enough in scale, and require the kind of dynamic design and production adjustments that will help Intel rebuild its…

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