Intel: Sale of 3D XPoint fab will not disrupt Optane roadmap

Late last week, Micron announced it will exercise its call option to purchase Intel's remaining stake (49%) in the IM Flash Technologies joint-venture. The implication here is that Micron will be getting full control over current 3D XPoint production capacity, which is used by Micron for its QuantX product series, and by Intel for its Optane lineup. Both products have different target markets, hence the reason why the firms have drifted apart.

Intel will be able to buy 3D XPoint chips at preferential pricing until the end of 2019. AnandTech got in touch with Intel to learn how this would affect the Optane roadmap. The chip giant told the site that Micron's intentions to get full control of the fab near Lehi, Utah will not disrupt its roadmap. Intel says this has been part of the planning for some time now, and hints it has the capability to produce 3D XPoint at other facilities.

Micron’s statement is a pre-announcement. They can’t officially make the call until January 1, 2019. The operation of the IMFT factory would not change until after the close of the call, which is at Intel’s discretion for up to one year. There is no near-term change to Intel’s plans in the coming quarters—this has been part of our planning for some time now. Intel has a number of manufacturing options available to us within the time window. We’ve been shipping a broad portfolio of Intel Optane technology products for over a year with a continually expanding product line. We will continue to lead the industry with this exciting new technology.