Nvidia has tested Intel Foundry’s advanced 18A manufacturing node but has not moved forward with mass production, according to reports citing sources familiar with the matter. While the AI chipmaker evaluated the process as part of routine foundry assessments, it ultimately paused further testing, signalling that Intel’s 18A technology is not yet ready to meet Nvidia’s high-volume production needs.
The pause adds pressure to Intel’s foundry revival efforts, as 18A is seen largely as an internal-facing node, with future variants such as 18A-P and 18A-PT expected to better serve external customers. Reports suggest that performance and yield targets fell short during prototype runs, echoing earlier concerns raised by other potential customers. Intel, however, maintains that development of 18A remains on track.
For Nvidia, sticking with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) remains the safer option, given its dominant market share, mature 3nm production and high yields. Although Nvidia and Intel announced a partnership in September 2025, it focused on product collaboration rather than manufacturing commitments, with Nvidia reiterating its reliance on TSMC for advanced chip production.
The news weighed on market sentiment, with Intel shares falling around 3% following the report, while Nvidia shares edged slightly lower. As attention shifts to Intel’s next-generation 14A node, slated for around 2027, industry watchers say customer confidence and flawless execution will be critical if Intel hopes to challenge TSMC’s dominance in advanced semiconductor manufacturing.
