New era in chip competition: Intel and Microsoft join forces

Intel announced that it has signed a definitive agreement with Microsoft for its advanced 18A manufacturing technology, which will usher in a new era in chip manufacturing. This agreement is the first major commercial partnership for the US-based giant manufacturer under the 18A process.

GOOGLE AND NVIDIA ARE ALSO NEXT

Following Microsoft, other major players in the industry, Google and Nvidia, are also reported to be in talks with Intel. The 18A production process is considered a critical step that will allow the company to stand out in global competition with its Taiwanese rival TSMC. Intel introduced this new technology to the public at the recent “Direct Connect 2025” event.

HIGH EFFICIENCY AND COMPETITIVE POWER WITH 18A

Intel’s 18A technology offers similar SRAM density and energy efficiency to TSMC’s 2nm-class N2 process, making it a strong alternative not only in terms of performance but also sustainability and cost efficiency. Following this agreement with Microsoft, Intel has begun to rapidly expand its customer portfolio.

NEW ERA WITH NEW CEO

Intel’s recent breakthroughs have been driven by the strategic vision of its recently appointed CEO, Lip-Bu Tan. Under Tan’s leadership, Intel has shifted away from its traditional “IDM 2.0” approach to a more flexible, modular, and competitive manufacturing structure. Advanced chip packaging technologies and automated semiconductor designs are key to this transformation.

Due to the intense demand for chip production, TSMC's production capacity has reached its limit, leading technology companies to search for new manufacturers. Intel's 18A process provides an effective response to this need with its high performance and fast delivery advantages.

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Source: News Center