Intel has made statements that cast uncertainty over the future of its 1.4-nanometer 14A manufacturing process. The company announced that it could cancel the 14A process if it fails to achieve sufficient technical success or secure a major external customer. This development marks the first time Intel has taken such a critical step back in advanced manufacturing technologies.

Intel is shelving its 14A chip manufacturing process

14A is positioned as a direct successor to Intel’s 18A series and was planned for production in both in-house products and for external customers. However, statements in documents filed with the SEC indicate that the process could be discontinued entirely if these goals are not met.

The document states, “If we are unable to secure a significant external customer and achieve key customer milestones for Intel 14A, we face the possibility that it will become uneconomical to develop and manufacture Intel 14A and subsequent generations of advanced technology processes.”

The same document states that, for this reason, not only 14A but also subsequent planned processes and manufacturing facility expansion projects may be suspended or canceled.

At the time Intel made this announcement, the company appears to be reconsidering its manufacturing capacity investments and profitability priorities. The company remains committed to the 18A and 18A-P processes. These processes are planned to be used for at least three generations.

However, no clear commitment has been made regarding the 14A process. Before switching to 14A, Intel has prioritized assessing the viability of this manufacturing technology, not only from a technical perspective but also from a commercial perspective.

The 14A process will also be Intel’s first manufacturing technology to utilize High-NA EUV lithography. This system includes the Twinscan EXE:5000 and EXE:5200 machines developed by ASML, each valued at approximately $400 million.

Intel spent $16.5 billion on research and development alone in 2024, a significant portion of which was directed toward advanced manufacturing processes like 14A. Therefore, every decision involves the risk of a multi-billion dollar investment.