Nvidia Corp. and Broadcom Inc. are conducting manufacturing tests using Intel Corp.’s advanced 18A semiconductor production process, according to sources familiar with the matter. The tests signal growing interest in Intel’s contract manufacturing business, which has struggled with delays and has yet to secure a major chip designer as a long-term customer.

The testing, which has not been previously reported, could lead to significant manufacturing contracts worth hundreds of millions of dollars for Intel if the chipmakers decide to proceed. “We don’t comment on specific customers but continue to see strong interest and engagement on Intel 18A across our ecosystem,” an Intel spokesperson said.

The tests are focused on evaluating Intel’s 18A process-a cutting-edge semiconductor manufacturing technique that competes with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co.’s (TSMC) most advanced technology. However, these evaluations are not full-scale chip production runs. Instead, chip designers typically purchase test wafers to assess specific components before committing to large-scale manufacturing.

Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) is also considering whether Intel’s 18A process meets its needs, though it remains unclear if the company has submitted test chips. AMD declined to comment.

While the tests indicate confidence in Intel’s foundry technology, past evaluations have yielded mixed results. Last year, Broadcom’s initial testing did not meet expectations, according to sources. At the time, the company stated that it was continuing to assess Intel’s foundry capabilities.

Intel’s manufacturing delays remain a challenge. The company originally planned to make its 18A process available for contract manufacturing customers in 2026, but recently pushed the timeline back by six months. According to supplier documents and sources cited by Reuters, the delay stems from the prolonged qualification process for crucial intellectual property (IP) needed by smaller and mid-size chip designers. Without certified IP, many potential customers cannot proceed with chip production on the 18A process until at least mid-2026.