[Wowfunhappy]

Also: Before, Apple was dependent on Intel (whose "product" is an integrated chip design and the fab to make it). Now they're dependent on TSMC (whose "product" is a fab). I'm... not really sure they've reduced their dependence? If TSMC starts falling behind Intel--which doesn't seem likely, but what happened to Intel didn't seem likely two decades ago--Apple will be stuck.

[GeekyBear]

TSMC does have competitors.

Intel is already being evaluated to fab Apple's entry level chips, if they can meet performance, energy efficiency, and production targets.

[Wowfunhappy]

Sure, but Intel has/had competitors too.

[GeekyBear]

Sure, and Apple very successfully competed with Intel when it came to chip design.

With fabs, other companies can still compete, but you absolutely require a partner with deep pockets to place big orders, since the costs have grown exponentially.