Intel conducted technical briefings and factory tours in Arizona last week for industry analysts, covering the Panther Lake microarchitecture, including graphics and central processor cores, media engine, redesigned AI engine, and efficiency and performance processor cores adapted for the 18A process.
Panther Lake is Intel's high-end mobile processor for expensive laptops, marking the first high-volume product using the 18A process, which Intel has invested billions in developing; it uses 30% less energy than the prior generation and offers a 50% boost in graphics and central processor data-crunching ability in some situations
The chips are expected to be available early in 2026; the previous Lunar Lake chip was primarily made by rival Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co.
Intel reported a second-quarter loss of $2.9 billion in July and faces challenges in securing customers for its future 14A process; recent developments include investments from SoftBank Group and Nvidia, and a deal converting a CHIPS Act grant into a 9.9% equity stake after meetings with U.S. President Donald Trump.
Factory tours included Fab 52 in Arizona, where Intel's 18A process is housed, featuring a new transistor design and efficient energy delivery method; Intel broke ground on Fab 52 in 2021 as part of a global expansion plan under former CEO Pat Gelsinger to compete with TSMC.
Panther Lake yields were reported at roughly 10% over the summer, up from 5% late last year, though Intel executives did not discuss current yields during briefings.