TSMC founder critiques Intel’s focus under Gelsinger
Intel’s failure to regain chipmaking leadership and strained relations with TSMC marked a challenging tenure for Gelsinger.
Morris Chang, the founder of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC), has criticised Intel’s former CEO Pat Gelsinger for focusing on becoming a contract chipmaker rather than prioritising AI. Speaking at an event to launch his autobiography, Chang suggested that Intel’s strategy under Gelsinger may have lacked direction, noting the company’s struggles in regaining leadership in chip manufacturing.
Gelsinger’s departure earlier this month followed frustrations over slow progress on Intel’s costly foundry initiative. Chang observed that finding a new CEO and strategy would present significant challenges for the company. He also recalled Intel’s historical missteps, such as rejecting an invitation to invest in TSMC during its early years, only to become a key customer later.
Intel’s foundry ambitions led to strained relationships with partners, including TSMC. Chang described Gelsinger as ‘a bit rude’ during his tenure, with reports of lost contracts compounding the company’s struggles. Intel has not commented on these remarks.
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