Overview

• PCWorld and Tom’s Hardware report that AMD and Intel have begun exploratory discussions for Intel to manufacture some AMD designs, with no agreement signed.
• Any potential work would likely focus on supporting dies rather than AMD’s highest-end processors, given Intel’s nodes trail TSMC on density and performance per watt.
• AMD is evaluating a second source to reduce reliance on TSMC and add U.S. production, as supply constraints persist and TSMC’s Arizona capacity for advanced products is not expected before at least 2027.
• A deal would help validate Intel’s foundry roadmap and external-customer push, with Tom’s Hardware noting prior U.S. support of up to $7.9 billion for Intel’s fabs and the need to prove 18A/14A readiness.
• Investopedia highlights fresh political and market context, citing reported investments by Nvidia and SoftBank and a White House equity stake, while noting analyst skepticism that concrete manufacturing commitments will materialize before Intel demonstrates capability.