Intel to Produce Most Nova Lake Tiles In-House

Intel shifts Nova Lake production from TSMC to its 18A node as yields improve, according to a KeyBanc Capital Markets research note.

Intel is revising manufacturing plans for its upcoming Nova Lake-S processors, shifting the majority of compute tile production in-house. While the company previously intended to outsource 60-70% of production to TSMC's 2nm N2 node, a research note from KeyBanc Capital Markets indicates Intel now plans to manufacture 80-90% of tiles using its own 18A node. This change follows improvements in 18A yields, which have reached reliable defect rates of approximately D0=0.1 or D0=0.2. Intel currently maintains a manufacturing capacity of 30,000 wafers per month for the 18A node across Fab 52 in Phoenix, Arizona, and its Hillsboro, Oregon site. While this capacity is currently dedicated to Panther Lake processors, Intel is preparing for the Nova Lake consumer launch, which remains months away.