We typically cover Intel's efforts in developing its next-generation nodes, such as Intel 4 (formerly 7nm), which is just now rolling off the production line. But today, Intel is announcing new partnerships for its Intel 16 node. This is a FinFET process for enterprise customers that need affordable, low-power chips developed on a mature node. The move by Intel provides a more modern alternative to planar transistors for industry customers that need efficient chips for advanced applications, including IoT, military, storage, and mobile applications. Intel first announced its 16nm process in late 2022, and after adding MediaTek, it has now added Synopsys, Cadence Digital, and Ansys to its list of customers for this node.
The three companies announced the new partnerships, saying Intel's technology will allow them to "meet or beat" design targets, according to Synopsys. Intel's 16nm node is a redesign of its 22nm low-power FinFET process, known as 22nm FFL. Due to its mature status, it's a FinFET alternative to even more mature nodes, with higher yields at a lower cost. It can be used for varying customer applications that include Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, consumer electronics, government, and so forth, according to Tom's Hardware. However, it's superior to older designs that still use planar transistors as it offers increased density, better efficiency, and a simpler design. Synopsys describes Intel 16 as a "gateway to FinFET" for companies still using planar technology.
Applications that still use older processes are widespread in the industry and have extremely long life cycles. They are wide-ranging and only require a small amount of power, so advanced nodes are too expensive and unnecessary. Even industries such as AI and high-performance computing still rely on mature nodes, so it's not just RF and older devices involved.
For its part, TSMC also offers a mature node for its customers that is based on 16nm technology dubbed N12e. When it was announced in 2020, it said it was derived from its 16nm process, which it first launched in 2013. TSMC noted it was developed for customers deploying 5G and AI-enhanced IoT devices. Compared with its 22nm planar process, the move to FinFET afford a 76% leap in density and a 49% boost in performance in the same power envelope.
Last year, industry giant MediaTek announced a partnership with Intel Foundry Services, likely also using its 16nm process. It was Intel's first huge customer for its nascent foundry, so it was a big deal then. It was previously a TSMC customer, and it seems like it would remain that way while also using Intel to fab some of its chips. Though the companies didn't expressly state which node it would utilize, it was suspected it was Intel 16 since MediaTek announced it was making "smart edge" devices, which are usually IoT products.
