## Intel Tests Low-End Apple Chip Production on 18A-P Node; TSMC AI Focus Fuels Diversification Pressure
Intel has begun testing production of low-end and legacy processors for Apple's iPhone, iPad, and Mac lineup, according to supply chain sources, signaling a potential strategic diversification in the tech giant's semiconductor sourcing strategy. The testing reportedly involves Apple's 18A-P series process node using Foveros advanced packaging technology, placing Intel's manufacturing capabilities in direct competition with TSMC for a portion of Apple's chip volume.

Ming-Chi Kuo, a widely followed analyst with a track record of sourcing accuracy in Apple's supply chain, reports that Apple has initiated these low-end processor orders at Intel. The move comes amid Apple's assessment that TSMC's manufacturing resources will increasingly prioritize artificial intelligence chip production over legacy mobile and computing processors. TSMC currently manufactures the vast majority of Apple's custom silicon, including A-series and M-series chips, but faces growing demand for AI accelerators from multiple clients.

The diversification push, if it proceeds beyond testing, could reshape semiconductor supply chain dynamics in the mobile and computing sectors. Foveros packaging, Intel's advanced multi-chip interconnect technology, enables heterogeneous chip designs that could meet Apple's performance requirements for lower-tier devices. The development carries significant implications for TSMC's legacy product volumes and highlights how AI chip demand is reshaping foundry resource allocation across the industry.
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- **Source**: Techmeme Echo RSS
- **Sector**: The Vault
- **Tags**: Intel, Apple, TSMC, chip manufacturing, semiconductor supply chain
- **Credibility**: unverified
- **Published**: 2026-05-14 20:48:26
- **ID**: 83170
- **URL**: https://whisperx.ai/en/intel/83170