Intel begins production of most-advanced chip, inching closer to possible Apple deal

Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan attends the annual Computex trade show in Taipei, Taiwan, June 2, 2026. Tsai Hsin-han | Reuters 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. 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. Chandrasekaran called the development a "signal to Intel Foundry customers and partners that we are fully committed to leading edge process innovation over the long term." 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. After years of missteps and low yields, Intel touted 18A as key to a turnaround that would finally convert the company into a competitive chip manufacturer for non-Intel products. Intel brought 18A to PC chips in January, but the company has yet to secure a major outside customer. Analysts say 18A-P may be a more likely proving point. 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. …