The Peter Zeihan Podcast Series Intel Keeps Playing Catch-Up with TSMC || Peter Zeihan
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Jan 25, 2025 Intel faces a uphill battle in the semiconductor arena, struggling to regain its dominance against rival TSMC. The podcast highlights the fierce competition, emphasizing how major players like Samsung influence the landscape. It also unpacks the essential distinction between semiconductor design and fabrication, showcasing the need for collaboration in the U.S. The discussion reveals Intel's strategic moves and the challenges posed by a fluctuating supply chain, making it a captivating exploration of tech's cutting-edge dynamics.
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Intel's Technological Lag
- Intel, once a semiconductor leader, fell behind due to a failure to invest in Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) technology.
- TSMC capitalized on EUV, enabling faster fabrication and greater accuracy, thus overtaking Intel.
TSMC's Dominance
- TSMC is the dominant leader in high-end chip manufacturing, with Intel and Samsung trailing far behind.
- The semiconductor industry relies heavily on this single company for cutting-edge chips.
Chip Design Complexity
- Chip design, primarily done in the US and Japan, is more complex than fabrication.
- It involves integrating numerous elements and new technologies, taking up to 24 months.