Apple has depended on Taiwan-based TSMC to build the chips that power iPhones and Macs for over 10 years. CEO Tim Cook stated that chip shortages are constraining growth for products like the Mac mini and iPhone 17 Pro, indicating a need for more flexibility in the supply chain.
Apple's long-standing partnership with Intel has shifted as the company now relies solely on TSMC for chip supply. However, recent supply chain disruptions have prompted Apple to reconsider this strategy.
Apple has reportedly approached Samsung and Intel about building 'main device chips' in a bid to reduce its dependence on TSMC. The iPhone maker is said to have had early-stage talks with Intel and recently visited a Samsung chip plant currently under development in Texas.
Apple seems to want to headline price to remain the same as last year so people have the perception that nothing's changed, while covering some of the increased RAM costs by simply making the more expensive versions even more expensive.
