For years, Intel (INTC) has been seen as a former tech titan struggling to keep pace with its more innovative competitors.
While the AI boom has propelled companies like Nvidia (NVDA), Broadcom (AVGO), and AMD (AMD) to new heights, Intel has largely been left behind.
But that narrative may be shifting. Recent speculation about major tech players showing interest in Intel has reignited optimism about the company’s future, reports The Street.
AI leaders consider Intel as a key partner
As Intel faces mounting challenges, industry powerhouses are assessing its value in their own expansion plans.
- Broadcom has reportedly explored acquiring Intel’s chip design division, a move that initially sent INTC stock upward.
- Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) was rumored to be considering Intel’s manufacturing facilities, though concerns emerged about how such a deal could affect U.S. AI chip dominance.
- More recently, both Broadcom and Nvidia have begun testing Intel’s 18A process, a cutting-edge manufacturing technology designed for advanced AI processors.
This process, developed over years, could make Intel a more attractive player in the AI chip race. Reuters also reports that AMD—one of Nvidia’s fiercest competitors—is evaluating whether Intel’s 18A process could fit its own AI production needs.
“We don’t comment on specific customers but continue to see strong interest and engagement on Intel 18A across our ecosystem,” an Intel spokesperson stated.
For now, the tests are focused on performance capabilities rather than full chip designs. But if they prove successful, Intel could secure lucrative manufacturing contracts, reinforcing its split foundry business and potentially benefiting from Chips Act funding.
Could Intel become a 2025 tech stock winner?
As interest in Intel’s 18A process grows, INTC stock is gaining momentum. However, the true turning point will come if Intel can secure a deal with any of the three AI leaders—Nvidia, Broadcom, or AMD.
- A successful partnership could breathe new life into Intel, repositioning it as a major AI chip player.
- The company’s struggling foundry business could find a clear direction, attracting further investment and innovation.
But not everyone would benefit from such a shift. TSMC, which has long dominated AI chip production, could see its market influence threatened if Intel lands major deals with its own clients.
With no official statements from TSMC yet, the global AI chip battle may be entering a new and unpredictable phase—one where Intel, once considered an industry underdog, may be gearing up for a surprise comeback.
