According to a Bloomberg report, Apple is preparing a generational leap in its iPhone processors. Starting in 2028, high-end iPhone models will adopt the new A22 Pro chip built on a 1.4-nanometer process. The primary supplier will be Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC), but Apple may assign some production to Intel, marking a shift in its sourcing strategy.
The Road to 1.4nm
Current iPhone 17 models use third-generation 3nm N3P chips. Upcoming models, including the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the foldable iPhone expected in September 2026, will be the first to feature 2nm chips. Chips in 2027 will also remain at 2nm. Only in 2028 will Apple introduce 1.4nm chips, delivering another leap in performance and efficiency.
Benefits of the New Technology
TSMC has been working on 1.4nm chips for years. Its A14 node promises up to 15 percent better performance than chips built on its N2 2nm node. Alternatively, the chips could offer the same performance with 30 percent power savings. These advantages are critical for Apple as it competes in a smartphone market demanding more battery life and computing power.
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Production Challenges
Every node shrink brings higher production costs and limited capacity due to manufacturing complexity. TSMC's advanced chips are also in high demand from AI server makers like NVIDIA, further constraining supply for consumer devices. During Apple's last earnings call, CEO Tim Cook said iPhone 17 models were constrained because Apple couldn't get enough A19 and A19 Pro chips from TSMC.
Supply Chain Diversification
Apple has been aiming to diversify its chip supply chain. Rumors suggest it is working with Intel. While Apple previously used Intel-designed chips in Macs, under a new agreement Intel would manufacture Arm-based chips using Apple's designs. Current speculation indicates Intel will make lower-end chips for iPad and Mac, but Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan wants to revitalize Intel's manufacturing business by focusing on advanced nodes. Intel is developing its 14A node for 1.4nm chips, expected to reach production in 2028. Earlier rumors hinted Intel could produce non-Pro iPhone chips in 2028.
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The introduction of 1.4nm chips is a key step for Apple to maintain its competitive edge in performance and energy efficiency. Partnering with Intel could reduce reliance on TSMC and mitigate supply risks. Meanwhile, the industry watches closely as computing power becomes ever more critical, exemplified by innovations such as Sakana Marlin AI agents and Stanford's DeLM multi-agent coordination. For a deeper dive into Apple's chip history, see the Apple Silicon Wikipedia page.
Source: https://www.macrumors.com/2026/06/16/2028-iphones-a22-pro-chips
