Intel has firmly rejected allegations from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) that a former executive disclosed confidential trade secrets after joining the US chipmaker. This development adds complexity to a situation that has already led to legal actions.
According to Reuters, Intel asserted that it implements stringent measures to safeguard sensitive information and intellectual property. The company stated that there is no evidence to suggest that these protocols were compromised when Lo Wei-jen, a former senior vice president of corporate strategy development at TSMC, began his new role at Intel in October.
TSMC claims that Lo shared insights regarding its upcoming 2nm production process. The company described this technology as set to be “the most advanced” in the semiconductor industry, emphasizing its superior density and energy efficiency. TSMC’s documentation highlights that the 2nm process incorporates first-generation nanosheet transistor technology, promising significant improvements in performance and power consumption.
Before transitioning to Intel, Lo retired from TSMC in July. Intel contended to Reuters that movement among skilled professionals is a common practice within the semiconductor sector, and it maintained that there is no basis for TSMC’s claims.
In response to the allegations, TSMC is reportedly pursuing legal action against Lo. Furthermore, he is under investigation by Taiwanese prosecutors. TSMC’s focus on protecting its 2nm process has intensified, as the company had previously terminated employees who sought unauthorized access to sensitive information.
This situation illustrates the fierce competition and high stakes within the semiconductor industry, where proprietary technology is critical for maintaining market leadership. As Intel and TSMC navigate these challenges, the outcome of this dispute could have significant implications for both companies and the broader industry landscape.
