Apple Talks Lift Intel Shares 4%, Extend 160% Year-to-Date Rally
INTC•Apple held exploratory discussions with Intel about enlisting its US chipmaking services for main device processors, alongside preliminary talks with Samsung at its Texas plant. Intel’s shares jumped 4% premarket and have gained 160% year-to-date as Apple seeks backup suppliers to mitigate recent chip shortages.
1. Early-Stage Talks with Apple
Apple has held private, preliminary discussions with Intel to produce the main processors powering its iPhone and iPad devices in the United States. No formal orders have been placed and Apple remains cautious about adopting non-TSMC technology, keeping talks at a very early stage.
2. Intel’s Stock Reaction
Intel shares surged as much as 4% in premarket trading following news of the discussions, reflecting investor optimism over a potential new high-profile partnership. The stock has climbed 160% year-to-date, driven by strong AI demand and expectations of expanded manufacturing contracts.
3. Supply Chain Context
Apple’s dependency on TSMC’s 3-nanometer node has contributed to recent device supply constraints during AI data center build-outs and increased Mac demand. In parallel with Intel talks, Apple executives have toured a Samsung chip plant under development in Texas as part of efforts to diversify its processor suppliers.
