Apple · Intel · TSMC · Wall Street · CNBC Technology
Intel begins production of most-pushed chip, inching closer to possible Apple agreement
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Intel has begun production of its most-advanced chip node, bringing the company one step closer to a possible deal to make some chips for Apple devices.
Key facts
- TSMC is expanding its own $165 billion chipmaking campus 50 miles North of Intel's Arizona plant
- Wall Street has been anticipating a massive rebound in the business, sending Intel shares up over 200% this year after the stock soared 84% in 2025
- Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan told CNBC in May that he expects commitments from multiple foundry customers in the second half of 2026
- Intel said 18A-P can deliver 9% higher performance or use 18% less power than 18A, which the company has been making at volume at its chip plant in Arizona since December
Summary
Intel announced it's making the new chip node, 18A-P, at the VLSI Symposium in Honolulu, Hawaii, on Tuesday. "This is a journey, and while we have more work ahead, we appreciate the opportunity to share the progress we are making," Intel foundry head Naga Chandrasekaran said in a statement. First announced last year, 18A-P is now in what's known as "risk production," an early production stage with data indicating it will meet customer requirements upon final qualification. Intel brought 18A to PC chips in January, but the company has yet to secure a major outside customer.