Advanced Micro Devices, or AMD, is a US multinational semiconductor company that develops computer processors and other components for business and consumer markets.
When first launched in 1969, AMD manufactured its own processors, but has since become fabless after the 2009 GlobalFoundries spin-off. This means that AMD designs and sells hardware, but outsources the fabrication of devices to a semiconductor foundry.
Taiwanese chipmaker TSMC is set to begin manufacturing semiconductors for the company, along with other competitors, in 2024 when the company opens its Arizona plant.
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Where does AMD stand in the market?
AMD’s closest competitor is Intel, a company that puts it in second place when looking at the biggest suppliers of x86-based microprocessors.
AMD and Intel have had a long, complicated history with one another, with their first technology exchange agreement being signed in 1981. This agreement came to light as IBM wanted to include x86 processors in its PC, but wanted Intel to provide a second-source manufacturer.
Intel has long held a leading position market but recent moves have seen AMD begin to present a challenge to Intel.
What other competitors are there?
The other major competitors are Imagination Technologies, Qualcomm, Nvidia, Samsung and Arm.
Nvidia was set to partner with Softbank in order to purchase Arm as part of a controversial merger, but this deal was abandoned in February 2022.
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