Intel recently received a double dose of good news: its new CEO, David Chen, officially took the helm, while its advanced 18A process node wafers entered the testing phase at its Arizona factory. This marks another significant milestone in Intel’s progress in semiconductor manufacturing.
Intel engineering manager Pankaj Marria revealed via social media that the Arizona factory has successfully run its first batch of 18A process wafers. This achievement is seen as a critical step in Intel’s journey toward cutting-edge semiconductor technology. The 18A process, the culmination of Intel’s “five nodes in four years” plan, utilizes 1.8-nanometer technology and integrates RibbonFET gate-all-around transistors and PowerVia backside power delivery, boosting performance while reducing power consumption. Previously developed primarily at Intel’s Hillsboro, Oregon facility, the process has now been successfully transferred to Arizona, demonstrating Intel’s maturing capability for multi-site collaborative production.
The testing progress at the Arizona factory is particularly noteworthy. As one of Intel’s key manufacturing hubs in the U.S., this facility is slated to achieve high-volume production of the 18A process in the future. Intel has stated that initial engineering samples have already been delivered to multiple clients, including Lenovo, for testing, with some samples successfully booting up and running operating systems. This not only counters earlier rumors of poor 18A yield rates but also paves the way for mass production. Intel expects to officially launch its Panther Lake processor, based on the 18A process, in the second half of 2025. This chip, part of the Core Ultra 300 series, will succeed Arrow Lake and become a cornerstone of Intel’s mobile product lineup.
Of course, the development of the 18A process has not been without challenges. Earlier this year, analyses suggested that Panther Lake’s production yield was only between 20% and 30%, far below the level required for mass production, potentially delaying its launch to 2026. In response, Intel officially stated that current yield performance aligns with expectations and that Panther Lake remains on track for a second-half 2025 release. The company also revealed that orders from external clients are set to complete tape-out in the first half of this year, indicating that the 18A process is steadily getting on track.
The arrival of new CEO David Chen injects fresh energy into this endeavor. With decades of experience in the semiconductor industry and leadership roles at several prominent chip companies, Chen is seen as a highly anticipated figure. He takes the reins at a pivotal moment when Intel faces fierce competition. TSMC and Samsung dominate advanced process nodes, and Intel must not only catch up technologically but also make breakthroughs in supply chain management and customer trust. The progress at the Arizona factory undoubtedly provides strong support for these goals.
Notably, Intel is also actively expanding its foundry business. The 18A process will not only serve Intel’s own products but will also be opened to external clients. Previously, Intel partnered with ARM to develop low-power mobile SoCs based on the 18A process, targeting automotive, IoT, and data center applications. This suggests that Intel is aiming to redefine its role in the global semiconductor market through technological innovation and capacity expansion.
Looking ahead to 2025, the success or failure of Intel’s 18A process will directly impact its strategic roadmap. Beyond Panther Lake, the server-grade Clearwater Forest processor will also leverage this process and is planned for a simultaneous launch. Whether these two products can enter mass production on schedule will not only affect Intel’s market performance but also determine if the company can fulfill its promise to “return to the pinnacle of process technology.” The successful testing at the Arizona factory is just the beginning—mass production capabilities and yield optimization remain critical tests for Intel moving forward.
From research in Oregon to testing in Arizona, Intel’s 18A process is gradually becoming a reality. This is not only a technological breakthrough but also a significant demonstration of U.S.-based semiconductor manufacturing. With new leadership in place and production plans advancing, Intel is responding to external expectations and challenges with tangible action. Whether this chip giant can turn the tide with the 18A process in 2025 is something tech enthusiasts should continue to watch closely.