Intel recently conducted its 2025 Foundry Direct Connect event, emphasizing its plans for future silicon manufacturing. During the presentation, the focus was on partnerships rather than new customer acquisitions. The absence of large new clients raised eyebrows, leading to speculation about Intel’s market position in the face of competition.

Intel’s roadmap included key advancements in their 18A process node and second generation 14A nodes, with a strong emphasis on AI capabilities. However, the spotlight on partnerships may indicate a strategy to bolster confidence in their foundry operations without revealing their client roster.

Partnership Highlights

Several companies were mentioned as collaborators:

• Synopsys: Long-time partner, working on node development.
• Cadence: Collaborates on design optimization and AI data analysis.
• Siemens EDA: Provides simulation and packaging solutions for manufacturing.
• PDF Solutions: Aids in analytics and manufacturing integration.
• United Microelectronics Corporation: Specialized in 12nm fabrication.
• Companies such as Teradyne and Adventist are involved in testing and QA for Intel’s processes.

The key interest lies in how these partnerships will evolve and perform in the challenging landscape of semiconductor manufacturing.