Could Apple Partnership Spark Intel’s Revival?

Intel is actively pursuing a strategic comeback, and a surprising potential ally has emerged: Apple. According to reports, the semiconductor giant has initiated preliminary discussions with the iPhone maker, exploring avenues for collaboration that could include an investment stake. The irony is palpable—the very company that ended its long-standing partnership with Intel in 2023 might now play a pivotal role in its recovery. These talks, reported by Bloomberg, are in their early phases and may not result in a deal.

A Strategic Shift for Both Giants

The potential reconciliation carries significant weight. After more than a decade, Apple concluded its partnership with Intel to power its Mac computers with proprietary ARM-based chips. A renewed alliance now would serve a clear strategic purpose for Apple: diversifying its supply chain. Currently heavily reliant on Taiwan’s TSMC, Apple is seeking alternative manufacturing partners amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region. An investment in Intel would align perfectly with U.S. government initiatives to onshore critical chip production.

For Intel, a deal with Apple would represent another major strategic victory following a series of significant financial injections. The company secured an $8.9 billion investment from the U.S. government in August for a 10% stake. This was followed by a $2 billion commitment from SoftBank and, notably, a $5 billion investment from competitor Nvidia in September.

Intel’s Aggressive Restructuring Plan

The push for a turnaround is being driven under the leadership of CEO Lip-Bu Tan, who returned to the helm in March 2025. A radical corporate overhaul is underway, underscored by several key recent actions:
* A majority stake in Altera was sold to Silver Lake.
* Cost-cutting measures were implemented following the Altera spin-off.
* Over $100 billion is being allocated for investment in domestic fabrication plants.
* Leadership changes include the departure of Chief Product Officer Michelle Holthaus.

Should investors sell immediately? Or is it worth buying Intel?

Despite this influx of capital, Intel’s core challenge remains. The company must prove it can close the technological gap and compete effectively against rivals like Nvidia and AMD. Its foundry business, in particular, continues to struggle to attract major commercial customers beyond government contracts.

A Critical Juncture

The timing of the Apple discussions is crucial. Intel is scheduled to report quarterly earnings at the end of October, and investors will be looking for concrete evidence of progress in securing foundry clients. A recent stock rally indicates that markets are beginning to see potential in Intel’s strategy. However, whether the substantial financial backing will be enough to achieve technological parity will only become clear over the coming quarters.

One thing is certain: Intel is betting big. Should a partnership with Apple materialize, it could mark the definitive beginning of a genuine corporate resurgence.