Intel, in a strategic move to bolster its position in the semiconductor landscape, has unveiled its latest Xeon ‘Clearwater Forest’ server CPU. This is not just any new chip; it’s the first to be manufactured using Intel’s groundbreaking 18A process node. This signifies a pivotal moment for Intel, as it intensifies its efforts to regain its dominance in the chip market.
While Intel’s Core Ultra 200V series, codenamed ‘Lunar Lake,’ has just made its way to market, the company is already turning its attention to the future with ‘Clearwater Forest.’ Intel showcased the new Xeon chip for the first time at its Enterprise Tech Tour event held in Portland, Oregon, last week. However, it won’t be hitting the shelves until 2025.
The importance of ‘Clearwater Forest’ lies in its use of Intel’s cutting-edge 18A process node. This new process technology promises significant performance and efficiency gains. Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger highlighted the significance of this achievement, stating, “Clearwater Forest for server, which also includes Foveros Direct and other key advanced packaging capabilities, is booted and likewise looking very healthy. These are the first of many Intel 18A products on track to bring Intel 18A to the mass market.”
Gelsinger further expressed excitement about the launch of ‘Clearwater Forest,’ emphasizing its use of industry-leading hybrid bonding. “Looking to the future, we are excited about the launch of Clearwater Forest, our first Intel 18A server product featuring our industry-leading hybrid bonding.”
With this move, Intel demonstrates its commitment to in-house semiconductor manufacturing and aims to rival semiconductor leader TSMC. While Intel continues to outsource production of some processor families to TSMC, the decision to manufacture ‘Clearwater Forest’ domestically in the USA underscores its strategic focus on bolstering its domestic production capabilities.
