Amazon, Apple, AMD, Google, Tesla, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Qualcomm are currently evaluating Intel's 14A manufacturing process, according to a report from Piper Sandler. While these companies are in discussions, no firm contracts have been signed yet.
Intel aims to challenge TSMC's dominance in contract chip manufacturing. The company needs to secure at least one anchor customer by late 2026 or early 2027 to scale production by 2028. TSMC's capacity is currently booked through 2028, driving interest in Intel's US-based facilities.
Intel recently raised $23 billion, with funds potentially allocated for equipment at its Fab 62 facility. Equipping the plant is expected to cost approximately $10 billion, with a planned capacity of 20 000 wafers per month. Construction of the facility is nearly complete.
CEO Lip-Bu Tan stated that Intel will not expand advanced manufacturing without clear demand. If the company fails to secure major external orders or meet key obligations, it may halt the development of the 14A process and subsequent technologies to avoid economic unfeasibility.
Development of the 14A process remains on schedule, with trial production slated for 2028. This phase will involve testing and debugging before full-scale manufacturing begins. Intel has been working toward establishing its contract manufacturing business since 2021.
