Intel Unveils New Processor Powered by Its 18A Semiconductor Tech

Intel has announced a significant hardware upgrade just six months after Lip-Bu Tan began his efforts to turn around the struggling semiconductor giant. On Thursday, Intel unveiled a new processor, codenamed Panther Lake, marking the next generation of the company’s Intel Core Ultra processor family. This is the first chip to be built using Intel’s 18A semiconductor process.

The Panther Lake processors are expected to begin shipping later this year, with production at Intel’s Fab 52 facility in Chandler, Arizona, which started operations in 2025.

A New Era of Computing

“We are entering an exciting new era of computing, made possible by great leaps forward in semiconductor technology that will shape the future for decades to come,” Tan said in a company press release. “Our next-gen compute platforms, combined with our leading-edge process technology, manufacturing, and advanced packaging capabilities, are catalysts for innovation across our business as we build a new Intel.”

Intel’s Xeon 6+ and Future Roadmap

In addition to Panther Lake, Intel also previewed its Xeon 6+ processor, codenamed Clearwater Forest, which is based on the 18A process. This server processor is expected to launch in the first half of 2026, further showcasing Intel’s commitment to high-performance computing.

Refocusing Intel’s Strategy

This is the most significant manufacturing announcement from Intel since Tan took over as Intel’s CEO in March. Tan has made it clear that his focus is on restoring Intel’s core engineering strengths and building a more resilient, engineering-driven culture.

The announcement also highlights the 18A semiconductor’s ties to the U.S., with Intel emphasising that the most advanced chip manufacturing process is being produced domestically. “The United States has always been home to Intel’s most advanced R&D, product design, and manufacturing — and we are proud to build on this legacy as we expand our domestic operations and bring new innovations to the market,” Tan added in the release.

Government Collaboration and U.S. Manufacturing

In August, the U.S. government took a 10% equity stake in Intel following a meeting between Tan and President Donald Trump at the White House. The meeting focused on how Intel and the government could collaborate to bring semiconductor manufacturing back to the U.S.