Apple reportedly evaluates Intel 14A process; Nvidia expresses interest in trial production

Aug 3

Written By Jae Park

Apple is reportedly evaluating early versions of Intel’s 14A semiconductor manufacturing process for potential use in future M-series chips.
Nvidia has also expressed interest in trial production using Intel’s 14A process, particularly for low-end gaming GPUs.
Intel’s 14A process is based on advanced technologies such as second-generation RibbonFET and PowerDirect, offering improvements in performance and power efficiency over its predecessor 18A.
This interest from Apple and Nvidia is critical as Intel’s foundry business depends on securing external customers for 14A production to justify continued investment.
Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan has indicated that the 14A process might be canceled if effective external client orders are not secured, highlighting the urgency.
Apple’s evaluation may be part of a strategic move to diversify its chip supply chain beyond dominant foundry TSMC, potentially adopting a dual-sourcing model.
A successful partnership with Apple and Nvidia could enable Intel to become a major competitor against TSMC and Samsung in advanced chip manufacturing.
Intel plans for 14A to be commercially available around 2028, directly competing with TSMC’s own 1.4nm process developments.

Why It Matters

Intel’s 14A process represents a potentially transformative advancement in semiconductor technology, combining high-performance features aimed at AI and edge computing markets.
The collaboration interest from tech giants Apple and Nvidia could revitalize Intel’s advanced foundry business, which has struggled after past manufacturing challenges and restructuring.
Apple evaluating Intel signals possible disruption in the semiconductor supply chain, which has been heavily reliant on TSMC, introducing more competition and supply resilience.
For Nvidia, diversifying foundry partners mitigates risks amid soaring demand for AI-related GPUs, helping secure supply stability.
Successful adoption of Intel 14A would drive innovation, competitive pricing, and geographic diversification in chip production, vital amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
The move could mark a significant shift in global semiconductor industry dynamics, potentially ending TSMC’s near-monopoly in premium chip manufacturing.
Intel’s ability to maintain this foundry momentum depends critically on demand from large customers like Apple and Nvidia, making their interest a key factor for the industry’s future.

Credit DigiTimes Asia

Jae Park

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