Chip designers Nvidia and Broadcom are testing Intel’s 18A manufacturing process, according to two sources.
The tests, which focus on specific components rather than complete chip designs, aim to determine the process’s performance before full-scale production commitments. AMD is also evaluating the process, though it is unclear if its test chips have been run.
If successful, these tests could lead to hundreds of millions of dollars in manufacturing contracts with Intel, boosting its contract manufacturing business. However, previous Broadcom tests reportedly did not meet expectations, and manufacturing tests alone do not guarantee new business.
Intel’s 18A process has experienced delays. Initially scheduled for 2026, the timeline has been pushed back another six months due to delays in qualifying essential intellectual property—a key requirement for small and mid-size chip designers.
An Intel spokesperson stated that production ramp-up will begin in the second half of this year, with customer designs expected soon. The process competes with advanced technologies from Taiwan’s TSMC, which dominates the global chip market.
This progress comes as Intel works to revive its foundry business, which saw a 60% revenue decline last year and is not expected to break even until at least 2027. Recent deals with Microsoft and Amazon have been announced, though details remain limited.
Industry experts and potential customers are closely monitoring this testing phase, and they are awaiting further results before committing to large-scale production.
