Intel announced that the first sample chips based on the 18A process, including the AI PC processor Panther Lake and the server processor Clearwater Forest, have successfully passed the boot test and successfully launched the operating system, demonstrating excellent process yield performance.

New Technology Applications

The 18A process node utilizes RibbonFET wrap-around gate transistors and PowerVia backside power supply technology and is the first major node to be made available to the public, and Clearwater Forest also utilizes Foveros Direct 3D chip-to-chip hybrid packaging technology.

Kevin O'Buckley, head of Intel's Foundry, said that Panther Lake's yields are performing well and overall progress is going well, even beyond the scheduled schedule. In addition, Intel also released 18A PDK 1.0 to provide customers with the tools they need to complete their chip designs.

Market Expectations

Despite recent poor earnings and announced cost-cutting programs, Intel is aggressively regaining process leadership, and the 18A process is key to Intel's success in both chip design and foundry.

The first customer chip is expected to be finalized in the first half of 2025 and available in the second half of 2025, marking a significant milestone in Intel's contract chip foundry business.

Industry Collaboration

Partners such as Cadence and Synopsys have also begun updating their EDA and IP tools to support customer design efforts on Intel's 18A process, further driving industry innovation.