Intel's make-or-break 18A process node debuts for data center with 288-core Xeon 6+ CPU — multi-chip monster sports 12 channels of DDR5-8000, Foveros Direct 3D packaging tech

Intel has unveiled its Xeon 6+ processors, featuring up to 288 energy-efficient Darkmont cores and utilizing the company's 18A fabrication process. These processors are designed for telecom, cloud, and edge AI workloads, boasting technologies like AMX, QAT, and Intel vRAN Boost. The CPUs combine 12 compute chiplets with 24 cores each, produced using 18A technology, along with I/O and base tiles made on different fabrication processes. The processors feature Foveros Direct 3D technology for stacking and EMIB bridges for lateral connections. Intel positions the Clearwater Forest CPUs for telecom and cloud workloads, offering high core counts for efficient virtualization and low latency.