Intel Launches Intel Foundry Business with Industry Leaders in Attendance

Intel launched its Intel Foundry business today, signaling a shift toward contract manufacturing for external customers through its multi-billion-dollar chip production facilities.

At a press event in San Jose, California, Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger addressed an audience of over 1,000, outlining how this new venture will position Intel as a leader in creating AI chips globally. The initiative represents Gelsinger's most significant investment since returning as CEO three years ago.

The Intel Foundry aims to redefine technology through innovation, resilience, and sustainability, providing a comprehensive solution for chip designers eager to leverage AI capabilities. Gelsinger emphasized the shift from being solely a wafer supplier to a full-service systems foundry, which will include wafer production, packaging, and advanced software capabilities.

The event also showcased Intel's process roadmap, including the unveiling of the Intel 14A process technology and new specialized nodes. Additionally, Intel Foundry introduced Advanced System Assembly and Test (ASAT) capabilities to support clients in achieving their AI objectives.

Craig Orr, Intel's vice president of marketing and platforms, expressed enthusiasm about the broad industry support for the foundry. He noted that Intel's IDM 2.0 strategy focuses on enhancing technology and product designs collaboratively while remaining competitive as a foundry.

Gelsinger reiterated, "This is an unprecedented opportunity for innovative chip designers, establishing the world's first systems foundry for the AI era. Together, we can create new markets and fundamentally transform technology's impact on society."

Intel’s ambitious five-nodes-in-four-years (5N4Y) plan aims to transition seamlessly between manufacturing nodes, including advancements like Intel 3 and Intel 18A process technologies. The new 14A node will utilize advanced UV tools for developing intricate chip patterns.

Orr commented, "As AI adoption grows exponentially, we must advance Moore’s Law while enhancing packaging technologies to meet demand sustainably."

Intel's commitment extends beyond technology; it aims to become the most sustainable foundry worldwide, with goals for 100% renewable energy, net-positive water use, and zero waste to landfills by 2030, as well as net-zero emissions by 2040.

The Intel Foundry also focuses on creating efficient chip systems to meet the increasing demand for AI applications, which have nearly doubled in recent years. Gelsinger highlighted the need for scalable manufacturing to prevent chip shortages and meet evolving industry needs.

By optimizing computation and interconnectivity while enhancing energy efficiency, Intel aims to ensure that AI technology is accessible and sustainable for future generations.