Intel’s new CEO, Lip-Bu Tan, is contemplating a significant shift in the company’s contract manufacturing (foundry) business to attract major clients like Apple and Nvidia. This potential overhaul involves moving away from the 18A chipmaking technology, which has faced delays and limited customer interest, in favor of the more promising 14A process.
Tan, who took over in March 2025, aims to cut costs and regain Intel’s technological edge after years of falling behind competitors like TSMC. The 18A process, heavily invested in by former CEO Pat Gelsinger, may be phased out for external clients, though Intel will continue to use it for internal projects like the Panther Lake chips, expected to enter mass production by late 2025.
The decision to shift focus to 14A is part of Tan’s broader strategy to revitalize Intel’s operations and reestablish its leadership in chip manufacturing. The company is tailoring the 14A process to meet key clients’ needs and attract new business.
