Overview
- Analyst Ming‑Chi Kuo reports Apple has signed an NDA with Intel and already accessed the 18AP PDK 0.9.1GA, with PDK 1.0/1.1 expected in Q1 2026 for final validation.
- If validation goes to plan, Intel could begin shipping Apple’s lowest‑end M‑series processor on 18AP in Q2–Q3 2027.
- Kuo estimates annual volumes of roughly 15–20 million units for these entry‑level chips used in devices like MacBook Air and iPad Pro.
- TSMC would continue fabricating higher‑end M variants and iPhone‑class chips, suggesting limited near‑term impact on TSMC.
- The potential arrangement remains unconfirmed and contingent on PDK results, with Kuo framing the move as diversification aligned with U.S. manufacturing goals and noting a positive market reaction for Intel.