Intel Wins Major Contract with Microsoft for 18A Process; Google, NVIDIA, and Others Set to Follow

Okay, so here goes nothing. Imagine this: Intel’s like that kid finally getting noticed in class, right? Yeah, Intel Foundry might just be having its “iPhone moment” with this 18A thing they’ve cooked up. Seems like every tech giant is suddenly interested, and who can blame them?

Let’s start with Intel’s wild chase. They’re scrambling for a breakthrough, not just because they want the cash — well, that too — but mostly because they wanna steal some of that sweet limelight from TSMC. TSMC pretty much made a home run when they teamed up with Trump, building up shop in the US and all. Feels like Intel has had enough of playing second fiddle, and their shiny 18A node might just be the ticket. Word on the street, or more like Korean media, says they’re chatting up NVIDIA, Microsoft, and Google to get this show on the road. Gunning hard for TSMC’s N2 process, maybe?

Oh, Intel didn’t just come out of nowhere spouting about their 18A. At this Direct Connect 2025 thing, they went all in, flashing it around like it’s the hottest deal — and maybe it is? The talk’s all about this node being the “most advanced process manufactured in the US.” Take that, TSMC. Apparently, it stands toe-to-toe with TSMC’s N2 with SRAM density and all those confusing numbers. They even say it’s a leap from their Intel 3, basically calling it a “wonder,” whatever that means. Nerds love it — always a good sign, right?

Here’s a pic, because why not?

Now, here’s where it gets juicy — leadership shuffle. Enter Lip-Bu Tan, the new conductor of this Intel orchestra. Under his watch, they’re focusing on stuff like semiconductor design and packaging. And this “IDM 2.0” strategy? Maybe it’s out the window now. Could be that Intel’s about to make some waves with their consumer business, especially with CPUs. Mind-blowing or absurd? You decide.

Also, TSMC’s been a bit too popular; their lines are practically overflowing. So, other companies are looking elsewhere, and Intel’s right there, playing the “we’re available” card. It’s like dating in tech, honestly. While Samsung’s also in the race, they’re still running behind. Will Intel keep the pace? Wait and see.