A rumor, which hopefully will come true. TSMC became great because of Apple. Some folks in the industry might argue the point but there is not doubt that even today, Apple and their mobile silicon drives the leading edge of process tech and has pioneered advanced packaging with TSMC.

Apple could make Intel great once more especially if they nail 18A and can prove that they can economically scale 14A.

“Apple previously signed an [non-disclosure agreement] with Intel and obtained the advanced-node 18AP PDK 0.9.1GA. The key simulation and research projects (such as PPA) are tracking in line with expectations, and Apple is now waiting for Intel to release PDK 1.0/1.1, currently scheduled for 1Q26. Apple's plan is for Intel to begin shipping its lowest-end M processor, utilizing the 18AP advanced node, as early as 2Q–3Q27, but the actual timeline remains contingent on development progress following the receipt of PDK 1.0/1.1.”