Intel expands foundry ecosystem with TSMC, UMC, and Taiwanese IP partners

Intel’s new CEO, Lip-Bu Tan, has just completed his first earnings call, demonstrating a strong commitment to driving the company’s transformation. As noted by a report from Commercial Times, Intel’s next-generation CPU, Nova Lake, will combine in-house production with outsourcing to TSMC for additional support. 

As the report highlights, Intel’s foundry business is also shifting toward an alliance model, collaborating with several Taiwanese tech companies.

Intel balances TSMC outsourcing with foundry growth plans
According to a report from Economic Daily News, Intel’s chips for Nova Lake are reportedly undergoing trial production at TSMC’s Hsinchu fab, as both companies work to optimize yields ahead of mass production. 

As highlighted by Commercial Times, the overall internal production ratio for Nova Lake is expected to be higher than that of Panther Lake, reflecting Intel’s efforts to better utilize its own foundry capacity.

Regarding Panther Lake, Commercial Times notes that it will play a key role in Intel’s plan to reach a 70% internal production rate using its 18A process.

Intel foundry builds alliance with multiple Taiwanese firms
In addition, Commercial Times highlights that Intel is actively building its own foundry ecosystem. Taiwanese companies such as Faraday, M31, and eMemory have joined as design service and IP partners, the report notes.

Intel partners with UMC for 12nm production
Moreover, Intel is collaborating with UMC on 12nm technology. According to Commercial Times, development of their joint 12nm FinFET process platform is progressing smoothly, and the two companies are currently validating pilot production line performance. PDK (Process Design Kit) completion is expected in 2026, with mass production starting in 2027.

Commercial Times points out that UMC’s expertise in mature process manufacturing is expected to support joint production at Intel’s fabs within its Ocotillo Technology Fabrication campus in Arizona, according to sources cited by Commercial Times.

Intel accelerates Panther Lake development
As noted by Commercial Times, Tan plans to accelerate the development of the 18A process, and prioritize the launch of Panther Lake by the end of this year.

-- Source: TrendForce, Taiwan.