Intel and Apple have been collaborating for a very, very long time, and it has often been speculated that this collaboration would extend from Macs to iDevices. Now that Apple has sued Samsung, the company that manufactures the processors for iDevices, there are chances that Intel will take over the role held by Samsung. An Asian publication "throws" first Bell which indicates a possible strategic collaboration between the 2 companies regarding the production of the A6 chip that would be launched together with the iPad 3.
Based on a number of inputs, we believe Intel is also vying for Apple's foundry business," said Gus Richard, an analyst with Piper Jaffray & Co., in a new report.
"It makes strategic sense for both companies. The combination of Apple's growing demand and market share in smart phones and tablets gives Intel a position in these markets and drives the logical volume Intel needs to stay ahead in manufacturing," Richard said.
"Intel's manufacturing lead gives Apple an additional competitive advantage in these markets and distances it from Asian competitors that are knocking off its products," he said. "Furthermore, it would also serve to weaken Samsung who is a significant competitive threat to both companies.
Theoretically, such a combination would be extremely beneficial for everyone, and in addition, Samsung would no longer have detailed information about the technology used in iDevices. Although Intel produces components based on its own technologies, I don't think it would be difficult to reach an agreement with Apple regarding the production of processors based exclusively on Apple's proprietary technology. Intel has the necessary resources to manufacture enough components for Apple and the hope is that both companies will collaborate to improve the technology in the future A6 chip.
Until we see the A6 chip implemented in an iDevice, there is still time, but such a collaboration would be interesting.
