Introduction to Intel’s Latest Milestones
Intel recently announced significant progress on its flagship products built on the Intel 18A process technology. The Panther Lake (AI PC client processor) and Clearwater Forest (server processor) have both successfully powered on and booted operating systems. These milestones were reached in less than two quarters after tape-out. Both products are on track for production in 2025.
Innovations in Intel 18A
In July, Intel released the Intel 18A Process Design Kit (PDK) 1.0, which includes design tools that allow foundry customers to utilize ribbonFET gate-all-around transistors and PowerVia backside power delivery. These groundbreaking technologies are being updated by electronic design automation (EDA) and intellectual property (IP) partners to help customers finalize their production designs.
Significance of These Achievements
Reaching these milestones is a testament to Intel Foundry’s ability to innovate in the AI era. Intel is the first foundry to successfully implement both ribbonFET and PowerVia technologies, offering a complete stack of solutions to its customers. Combined with Intel’s robust manufacturing capacity and advanced packaging technology, Intel Foundry Services is poised to deliver next-generation AI solutions that are more efficient and scalable.
Customer Collaborations
Receiving access to Intel 18A PDK 1.0 last month, Intel’s EDA and IP partners are updating their tools to enable external foundry customers to commence Intel 18A chip designs. This critical milestone accelerates innovations for mutual customers. Tom Beckley, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Custom IC at Cadence, said, “Cadence’s strategic collaboration with Intel Foundry helps accelerate mutual customers’ innovation by providing access to industry-leading EDA solutions and IP optimized for Intel 18A.”
