According to a Bloomberg report citing sources familiar with the matter, Intel Corp. has reached out to Apple Inc. in hopes of securing an investment as part of the company’s broader efforts to revitalize its business.
Alongside the investment inquiry, both firms have been exploring opportunities to strengthen their collaboration, though agreements remain uncertain at this early stage.
Recent industry developments have seen Intel attract significant backing, including a $5 billion investment from Nvidia Corp., which is planning joint chip projects for PCs and data centers, and a $2 billion commitment from Japan’s SoftBank Group Corp. Industry sources indicate that Intel is also canvassing other potential investors and strategic partners.
A deal with Apple would mark a strong vote of confidence in Intel’s turnaround, considering Apple’s past reliance on its chips. However, some doubt Apple will return to Intel for device processors, as it remains committed to in-house designs produced by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC).
Intel and Apple have a complex relationship, shaped by years of partnership in Mac processors and events such as Apple’s 2019 acquisition of much of Intel’s modem chip business.
Since August, Intel’s prospects have brightened following a unique U.S. government deal that saw the state acquire a roughly 10% stake in the company. The government views Intel as crucial to boosting domestic semiconductor production—a top White House priority, especially under President Donald Trump.
Despite this, Intel continues to face formidable challenges, having lost ground to competitors like Nvidia and Advanced Micro Devices, while also struggling to capitalize on the surging demand for artificial intelligence chips.
CEO Lip-Bu Tan is pushing to make Intel a leading chip foundry for outside clients, a strategy launched under former CEO Pat Gelsinger. Progress has been slower than planned, with the company insisting it will only roll out new manufacturing technologies if customer commitments are secured.
Apple CEO Tim Cook told CNBC earlier that increased competition in the chip foundry sector would be welcome, expressing hope for Intel’s revival, and suggested that Apple’s investments may help set off a broader wave of domestic production across the industry.
