Intel Corporation has initiated talks with Apple Inc. about securing an investment in the struggling chipmaker, as part of broader efforts to stabilize and revitalize its business. According to a Bloomberg report on September 25, 2025, the discussions are in early stages and may not lead to an agreement, but they also involve exploring ways for the two companies to work more closely together. For investors, tech analysts, and industry watchers searching Intel Apple investment talks, Intel turnaround 2025, or chipmaker funding, this outreach follows recent multibillion-dollar deals, including a $5 billion investment from Nvidia and an $8.9 billion US government stake that gives Washington a 10% ownership. With Intel’s shares surging 6% to $31.22 on the news, the potential Apple tie-up—despite Apple’s shift to in-house silicon in 2020—signals validation for CEO Lip-Bu Tan’s ambitious recovery plan amid a $90 billion net debt load and foundry struggles.
The talks, which began before and continued after the government’s investment, highlight Intel’s push to engage former customers like Apple, which once relied on Intel chips for Macs before transitioning to its M-series processors.
The Discussions: Early-Stage Investment and Collaboration Talks
Intel has approached Apple for a potential equity investment, with conversations focusing on bolstering the chipmaker’s finances and exploring joint opportunities, according to sources familiar with the matter. Neither company has commented publicly, but the discussions are described as preliminary, with no guarantees of a deal.
Potential elements:
- Investment Size: Undisclosed, but could be significant given Intel’s needs; sources suggest it would follow Nvidia’s $5 billion precedent.
- Collaboration: Discussions on packaging Intel chips or joint foundry efforts, potentially tying into Apple’s $600 billion US manufacturing pledge.
- Government Angle: No direct White House involvement, but Intel’s $8.9 billion federal funding (10% stake) creates a supportive backdrop.
| Recent Intel Funding | Amount | Investor | Stake/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Government Investment | $8.9B | US Govt | 10% Ownership |
| Nvidia Deal | $5B | Nvidia | ~4% Stake; Joint Chips |
| Potential Apple | TBD | Apple | Early Talks; Collaboration |
Context: Intel’s Desperate Turnaround Push
Intel’s outreach to Apple caps a whirlwind of deals amid its deepest crisis: Q2 2025 revenue missed estimates by 5%, with foundry losses at $2.8 billion and a $90 billion net debt load. CEO Lip-Bu Tan, appointed in 2024, is spinning off the foundry (potentially to TSMC) and securing partners to revive the PC/data center business.
- Apple’s Angle: A small investment could diversify Apple’s supply chain (e.g., Intel foundry for non-M chips) and align with its $600 billion US manufacturing push.
- Market Reaction: Intel up 6% to $31.22; Apple down <1% to $252.31.
- Broader Outreach: Intel is pitching other firms for investments and partnerships.
Conclusion: Intel’s Apple Overture—A Lifeline or Long Shot?
Intel’s investment talks with Apple are a bold play in its turnaround saga, blending cash needs with collaboration potential amid government backing. While early-stage, a deal could validate Tan’s vision and diversify Apple’s chips. For semiconductor bulls, it’s bullish; skeptics see risks in execution. As shares pop, the talks tantalize—will Apple bite, or pass? The chips fall soon. Bloomberg
