Chip design tool manufacturer Synopsys has entered into an agreement to provide its technical building blocks to Intel’s advanced contract manufacturing services.
Under the deal, Synopsys’ intellectual property will be integrated as off-the-shelf components for chip designers, streamlining the design process. The collaboration includes a range of designs optimized for Intel’s advanced manufacturing capabilities, specifically Intel 3 and Intel 18A.
The arrangement between Intel and Synopsys establishes a framework for making this intellectual property available for future manufacturing processes. While financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed, it’s a significant move for both companies.
Of note, Intel’s 18A process introduces a new transistor design, further enhancing chip performance. This partnership also holds strategic importance for Intel Foundry Services (IFS), aiming to rival major semiconductor players like TSMC and Samsung.
Steve Leibson from Tirias Research highlighted the significance of this collaboration, stating, “Having Synopsys on board is a critical step for IFS to establish itself as a leading-edge semiconductor vendor. Without Synopsys’ involvement, credibility would be challenging.”
Intel launched IFS in 2021, and its Q2 2023 revenue reached US$232 million ($358 million), marking its growing presence in the market.