Hu Xiu·2025-04-30 09:44Core Viewpoint - Intel's new CEO, Pat Gelsinger, emphasizes the importance of the foundry business and aims to prioritize it despite previous concerns about financial health and potential cuts to the division [1][2][4] Group 1: Leadership and Cultural Shift - Gelsinger's commitment to the foundry business marks a significant cultural shift within Intel, moving from an engineering-centric approach to one that prioritizes customer trust and responsiveness [3][5][6] - The focus on gaining customer trust is a departure from Intel's traditional engineering culture, indicating a potential transformation in the company's operational philosophy [4][5] Group 2: Foundry Business Strategy - Intel has invested $90 billion over the past four years in wafer fabrication to support its IDM 2.0 strategy, but the future direction under Gelsinger remains uncertain [2] - The company is building an ecosystem around its foundry services, including partnerships with leading EDA firms to enhance customer support in design processes [6][7] Group 3: Technological Advancements - Intel is advancing its manufacturing processes with multiple technology nodes, including Intel 4, Intel 3, and the highly anticipated Intel 18A, which is entering risk production and set for mass production this year [10][14] - The Intel 18A node features groundbreaking technologies such as RibbonFET and PowerVia, which are expected to significantly enhance performance and efficiency, potentially giving Intel a competitive edge over TSMC [17][18] Group 4: Competitive Landscape - Intel's competition with TSMC is intensifying, with both companies developing advanced nodes; however, Intel's unique technologies may provide it with a strategic advantage [14][21] - The introduction of Intel 14A, which utilizes high-NA EUV lithography, positions Intel to potentially surpass TSMC in technology, although TSMC's cost-effective strategies could pose challenges for Intel [20][21]