Intel Unveils Next-Gen ‘Panther Lake’ Chips, Arizona Fab Fully Operational

Intel unveiled its next-generation PC chip, “Panther Lake,” built using its advanced 18A manufacturing process, marking a significant milestone in U.S. semiconductor production. The processor, which will debut in laptops next year, will be manufactured at Fab 52 in Arizona, a site that Intel confirmed is now fully operational and ramping up production.

“The United States has always been home to Intel’s most advanced R&D, product design and manufacturing – and we are proud to build on this legacy as we expand our domestic operations and bring new innovations to the market,” said CEO Lip-Bu Tan.

Intel also announced that Xeon 6+ servers equipped with the same 18A processors will arrive in early 2026, underscoring the company’s renewed focus on high-performance computing amid fierce competition in the AI-driven chip race.

The update comes as Intel works to regain its leadership position after years of lagging behind rivals. In August, the U.S. government took a 10% equity stake in the firm to bolster domestic chipmaking capacity. Intel also received backing from SoftBank and Nvidia, signaling strong confidence in its comeback strategy.

Since Lip-Bu Tan took the helm in March, Intel shares have climbed 87%, reflecting growing investor optimism about the company’s turnaround and commitment to U.S.-based manufacturing.