Intel's new CEO, Lip-Bu Tan, is considering a major strategic shift in the company's chip manufacturing business by potentially abandoning the 18A process for external foundry customers and focusing instead on the next-generation 14A process. This move represents a departure from the plans of former CEO Pat Gelsinger, who had heavily invested in the 18A manufacturing node. Sources indicate that discontinuing the 18A process for external clients could result in a write-off costing Intel hundreds of millions of dollars, possibly reaching into the billions. The decision aims to better position Intel against competitors like TSMC by concentrating resources on a technology where the company expects competitive advantages. Intel's board is expected to discuss these options within the month. The shift reflects CEO Tan's rapid efforts since taking the helm in March to cut costs and revive Intel's manufacturing business amid global competitive pressures.