According to Nikkei Asia, Intel has begun actively urging laptop and PC manufacturers to switch to new processors based on the 18A process node. To achieve this, the company is phasing out shipments of older chips based on the Intel 7 process, compelling partners to transition to next-generation CPUs. This is reported by Ixbt.com reports .
This primarily concerns the Panther Lake and Wildcat Lake lines used in next-generation laptops. The main reason is Intel's reallocation of production capacity. The company is reserving Intel 7 chips for more profitable server and industrial segments, resulting in reduced supply of older processors for the mass consumer market.
For PC manufacturers, this creates a difficult situation: either switch to the new 18A processors on an accelerated schedule or face shortages of standard CPUs for current models. The problem is that such a transition cannot be done instantly — developing and testing new devices takes at least three months.
Furthermore, the Panther Lake and Wildcat Lake processors themselves are more expensive, which is driving up the prices of new laptops. The situation is further complicated by the market's lack of high demand for new Intel platforms. Many OEMs are releasing 18A-based laptops not due to consumer interest, but to maintain their partnership with Intel.
Currently, increasing 18A production volume is of strategic importance for Intel. The more processors are produced, the higher the yield of functional dies, which lowers costs. Analysts believe the company plans to reach full profitability with the new process node only by 2027.
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