Official announces a delay in the manufacturing of Intel’s 7-nanometer processing technology chip. Intel’s reps state that a “defect” was found in the process. The chip production will be on hold until 2022. Meanwhile, Intel’s rival companies continue to strive through exceeding Intel.
What is different from Intel’s 7-nanometer chip?
The “next-generation” chip uses a 7-nanometer processing technology. The Protocol explains that a smaller manufacturing process means more transistors in a single silicon chip. BBC further adds chips with smaller processing technology can boost processors while still maintaining its energy efficiency. The new chip itself is not a considerably new and significant advancement in technology. However, this 7-nanometer chip will update Intel’s previous generation 10-nanometer chip.
What caused the delay?
While there is no exact reason for its delay, BBC reported that Intel has found a “defect” in the process. BBC further explains Intel is undergoing a “contingency plans”. Thus, the company will most likely look for a third party to produce some of its products. To which The Protocol deems as an “unthinkable” act for a senior Intel executive.
Intel’s delay gives space for rival companies to win over
The delay in 7-nanometer chip producing is not the first time for Intel. Previously, Intel has postponed the production of the 10-nanometer chip for more than two years. The halt gave Intel’s rival companies, such as TSMC, to advance with the first-ever 7-nanometer chip.
Intel’s most dense 10-nanometer chip itself is already broadly equivalent to TSMC’s most dense 7-nanometer chip. However, the subsequently occurring postponement surely caused a scratch to Intel’s reputation and credibility.
Rivaling Intel, TSMC is now the major contributor to major companies such as AMD, Huawei, and Qualcomm. Last June, Apple also announced a transition away from the Intel processor for its Mac computers. Apple’s decision to design its own chips then followed the announcement.
