Apple and Samsung have a lot invested together, but recent legal actions between the two companies may have strained their commitment to each other.
According to the EETimes, Intel is vying for Apple's business. Apple currently relies on Samsung for the manufacturing of its A4 chips found in the iPhone, iPod and Apple TV as well as the A5 which is powering the newest iPad.
Apple won't be ditching Samsung anytime in the near future, but design and manufacturing plans for future projects are likely already in the works.
"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. "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 logic volume Intel needs to stay ahead in manufacturing."
An earlier report says that Apple is qualifying Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd. (TSMC) for the manufacture of its A5 processor, further demonstrating Apple's distancing itself from Samsung.
