Intel’s 18A Chip Process Faces Yield Issues, Threatening Panther Lake Rollout

Intel's ambitious 18A semiconductor process, pivotal to its U.S. manufacturing resurgence, is grappling with severe yield challenges. The node's struggles jeopardize the timely launch of Panther Lake, its next-generation laptop processor. Current yields fall far short of the 70-80% threshold required for profitability, casting doubt on volume production targets for late 2025.

The 18A process represents Intel's bid to reclaim leadership from TSMC and establish its foundry business as a credible alternative. Billions in facility investments hinge on demonstrating technical prowess through Panther Lake's success. While CFO David Zinsner maintains yield improvements follow typical industry trajectories, unnamed sources reveal alarmingly low output of viable chips.