Apple is exploring a diversification of its chip production and has begun talks with Intel and Samsung Electronics. Bloomberg reports, noting that negotiations are still at an early stage.
The company has already held preliminary meetings with Intel and intends to assess Samsung’s manufacturing capabilities for advanced semiconductors. The primary goal is to reduce its reliance on current key partner TSMC, which has been fabricating Apple’s chips using the most advanced process nodes, including 3nm, for over a decade.
The search for alternatives has intensified amid global supply chain disruptions. Surging demand for AI hardware and rising Mac sales have led to component shortages. Even a major semiconductor customer like Apple has not been immune to these pressures.
An internal restructuring has also added momentum: hardware development is now consolidated under the leadership of Johnny Srouji. One of the critical areas, Silicon, is overseen by company veteran Sree Santhanam, highlighting the strategic importance of Apple’s in-house chip design.
However, shifting to new partners is not without its challenges. According to sources, neither Intel nor Samsung can yet match TSMC’s level of scalability and production stability. That makes any potential transition both complex and risky.
The move nonetheless has strategic advantages. For Intel, a deal with Apple would validate the growth of its foundry business. For Samsung, it would be a chance to strengthen its position in the advanced chip market. Additionally, moving some production outside Taiwan could mitigate geopolitical risks and support US high-tech manufacturing initiatives.
Despite the active talks, no final decision has been made. Apple remains uncertain about whether it can achieve the same technological level outside TSMC, leaving cooperation with new partners an open question.