Intel Foundry confirmed at the 2026 VLSI Symposium that its enhanced 18A-P technology has entered risk production. This low-volume manufacturing stage precedes high-volume commercial production and maintains the company’s original roadmap.
The 18A-P node delivers a 9% performance increase at equivalent power levels compared to the standard 18A process. Alternatively, the technology offers an 18% reduction in power consumption for the same performance.
The update includes improved thermal characteristics and full design-rule compatibility with Intel 18A. This compatibility allows external foundry clients to transition existing designs seamlessly. Intel views this progress as essential to regaining global process leadership and expanding its third-party manufacturing business.