Intel Rockets Higher as Wall Street Buzzes Over a Potential Apple Comeback Deal

Intel’s stock lit up the shortened Friday trading session, jumping more than 10% and topping the performance charts on both the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq. The catalyst? A fresh wave of speculation that Apple may once again tap Intel as a future chip supplier — a move analysts say could reshape the chipmaker’s long-term outlook.

The renewed excitement came after TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo shared insights from industry checks, suggesting the chances of Apple partnering with Intel have “improved significantly.” According to Kuo, shipments of Intel-made processors for Apple devices could begin as early as 2027 if talks materialize into an actual deal.

Why Investors Are Paying Attention

For Intel, this rumor is more than just buzz — it’s a potential validation of its long, difficult push to revive its manufacturing dominance. Securing Apple as a customer would signal that major tech giants still see value in Intel’s foundry roadmap at a time when the company is battling persistent doubts about its ability to win large, stable clients.

Intel and Apple did not provide comments in time for publication, keeping the speculation alive and markets guessing.

Despite many challenges, Intel’s shares have doubled this year, helped by a string of partnerships including one with AI powerhouse Nvidia. But even with that momentum, the stock remains far below its historic peaks. Investors remain cautious, watching closely to see whether Intel can turn its manufacturing unit into a competitive, future-proof business.

Part of that skepticism stems from the Nvidia collaboration itself — although the two companies teamed up, Nvidia did not commit to using Intel’s foundry services. That absence of a firm manufacturing agreement raised questions: Is this a stepping stone to something bigger, or a sign that customers are still hesitant to bet on Intel’s foundry?

If Apple does step in, it could change that narrative entirely.

For now, all eyes are on whether this rumored partnership evolves from industry whispers into one of the biggest comeback deals Silicon Valley has seen in years.