A fresh rumor from analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests Apple will tap Intel to produce its entry-level M-series chips starting mid-2027, leveraging Intel's 18A process—the first sub-2nm node made in North America. This limited manufacturing partnership aims to diversify Apple's supply chain and align with U.S. manufacturing priorities under the Trump administration. While TSMC remains Apple's primary fabricator, this move signals a strategic shift for both companies amid geopolitical pressures.