Intel and AMD Warn of 6-Month CPU Delivery Delays Amid AI-Driven Shortage

Intel (INTC-US) and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD-US) report escalating CPU supply constraints as AI-driven demand outpaces production, pushing delivery cycles to as long as six months for high-end server processors and extending into 2026. China, the world’s largest server market (accounting for over 25% of global units in 2024), faces the most immediate impact, with Intel and AMD implementing allocation-based deliveries and reporting 8–10 week lead times for AMD products. Inventory is at a historic low, with Intel forecasting Q1 stockouts and pricing up 10%+ in China due to supply caps. The shortage reflects advanced-node manufacturing constraints at Intel and reduced allocation to CPUs as TSMC prioritizes GPUs and NPUs for AI workloads, alongside pre-order overhang from memory price volatility and the computational demands of AI agents.