Why Apple Ditched Intel for TSMC: A Little-Known Story

In 2011, Intel attempted to win Apple as a foundry customer, but ultimately failed. TSMC founder Morris Chang recounted that Apple CEO Tim Cook explicitly stated that Intel didn't understand the foundry business and lacked a customer-centric mindset. This contrasted sharply with TSMC's proactive response to even "crazy" customer demands, ultimately leading Apple to choose TSMC and solidifying the latter's leading position in chip manufacturing. This collaboration also forced TSMC to adjust its R&D plans, prioritizing Apple's custom needs and driving rapid technological iteration.