Intel 14A defect density is dropping faster than the company expected — 'we have not seen this performance since 22nm,' says CFO
Intel says defect density of 14A process technology is declining rapidly as internal teams are already developing 14A-based products, while external clients are now wondering about capacity that Intel can provide them.
Intel's CFO, David Zinsner, expressed optimism about the company's 14A fabrication process during his presentation at Deutsche Bank's 2026 Technology Conference. Zinsner stated that the defect density of 14A is dropping faster than initially expected, which he believes is the best performance since Intel's 22nm technology from the 2010s.
This positive development comes as external customers are now expressing interest in using the 14A technology and internal customers have begun designing products on this node. Zinsner mentioned that the company plans to start risk production of its own products on 14A in the second half of 2027, with high-volume manufacturing commencing in 2028.
However, it's crucial to note that the comparison with 22nm should be made cautiously, as the defect density measurement methods and what constitutes a defect have evolved over time. Nevertheless, the rapid defect reduction trajectory of 14A gives Intel a strong position in the market, especially considering the delays and failures faced by previous nodes.
Written by urgent.news from Tom's Hardware's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
