Intel hints it has reduced its 7nm process node ambitions

So there was an update about Intel's manufacturing during the company's fourth quarter earnings call. Tom's Hardware has a writeup of the highlights. Pat Gelsinger will officially take over the reigns of Intel on February 15, but he was already on yesterday's earnings call to answer some questions.

Gelsinger is wasting no time. Over the last week, he personally reviewed Intel's 7nm progress. Gelsinger explained he is pleased with the "health and recovery of the 7nm program." Some future products will be manufactured by semiconductor foundries, which could be TSMC and/or Samsung, but Gelsinger explained he is confident that the bulk of Intel's 2023 chips will be made in-house.

A more detailed discussion of Intel's manufacturing situation will follow at a later point. Current CEO Bob Swan added that Intel has simplified and streamlined the 7nm process. This implies Intel may have made significant changes to the performance and/or design targets of its 7nm node. The first 7nm Intel chips are expected in 2023.

Moving forward, Gelsinger said he's not interested in merely closing the gap with TSMC. It is Gelsinger's goal to return Intel's manufacturing arm to its former glory:

Gelsinger also said the company remains committed to re-establishing its lead in process node technology, saying he's "not interested in closing the gaps...but being the unquestioned leader in process technology."