Apple Reportedly Considering Intel 14A Process for Future M-Series Chips
After a relatively quiet period in the semiconductor industry, new reports suggest that Apple is evaluating Intel’s upcoming 14A process node as a potential manufacturing option for future M-series processors. If adopted, this move would break Apple’s long-standing reliance on TSMC.
Intel 14A: A Key Milestone in Process Technology #
Intel’s 14A node targets transistor densities at the 1.4nm level. Building on its 18A technology, which first introduced PowerVia backside power delivery, the 14A process takes things further with:
- RibbonFET gate-all-around transistors
- A new PowerDirect technology for improved leakage control and power efficiency
These advances make 14A especially well-suited for applications demanding high performance per watt — such as AI workloads and edge computing. Intel projects over 20% density gains compared to 20A.
Apple’s Current Dependence on TSMC #
All existing M-series chips are manufactured exclusively by TSMC:
- M1 on 5nm
- M2 on 4nm
- M3 on 3nm
These chips power MacBooks, iPads, and other Apple devices, combining CPU, GPU, and Neural Engine capabilities. While Apple values TSMC’s consistency, a single-source dependency poses increasing geopolitical and supply risks.
Intel’s 14A could emerge as Apple’s second-source option, making its supply chain more resilient.
NVIDIA Also Watching 14A Closely #
Apple is not the only interested party. NVIDIA is also exploring Intel’s 14A process amid surging demand for AI chips. With growing pressure on TSMC’s capacity, NVIDIA may look to Intel as a backup foundry. Early reports suggest Intel could begin by producing entry-level gaming GPUs with ~2,000 cores and sub-200W TDP, reducing NVIDIA’s dependency on TSMC.
Apple–Intel: A Complex Partnership #
Apple has experience with dual foundry strategies. Early A-series chips were split between Samsung and TSMC, before Apple consolidated entirely with TSMC due to yield and efficiency differences.
Challenges remain:
- Apple’s M-series is ARM-based, while Intel’s heritage is x86
- However, Intel Foundry Services (IFS) already supports ARM, having produced chips for Qualcomm and others
Apple may start with small pilot runs to test yields and efficiency, before scaling up. If successful, annual wafer demand could reach millions of units.
Reshaping the Foundry Landscape #
TSMC currently controls over 50% of the advanced node market, with wafer prices exceeding $20,000 per 3nm wafer. Introducing Intel as a competitor could:
- Apply pricing pressure
- Spur faster innovation
- Reduce industry reliance on TSMC
Intel has also recruited top talent from TSMC in lithography and materials science, strengthening its ability to execute. The company aims to reduce defect rates below 0.1%, with volume production targeted after 2027. This timeline aligns with Apple’s expected M5 or M6 chips.
Materials Innovation and Performance Gains #
Shrinking nodes are not just about size but also materials breakthroughs. Intel plans to introduce silicon-germanium (SiGe) alloys in 14A to boost P-type transistor performance.
For Apple, this could translate into:
- Longer MacBook battery life (already up to 18 hours on current MacBook Air)
- Better thermal efficiency for edge devices
For NVIDIA, 14A could mean lower-cost entry GPUs, expanding access for budget-conscious gamers.
Conclusion: Intel 14A as a Strategic Pivot #
The Intel 14A process is shaping up to be a strategic battleground in the semiconductor industry. For Apple, it represents supply chain diversification and a hedge against geopolitical risks. For NVIDIA, it offers a way to expand capacity and lower costs.
If Intel delivers on its roadmap, 14A could disrupt TSMC’s dominance, reshape global chipmaking dynamics, and define the future of AI, consumer, and edge computing devices.