Intel forecast third‑quarter revenue of $15.8 billion to $16.8 billion, above the $15.1 billion analyst estimate, and raised its full‑year capital expenditure target to $20 billion as AI‑driven demand for its chips grows. The company reported second‑quarter sales of $16.13 billion, a 25 % increase, and adjusted profit of 42 cents per share, surpassing expectations of $14.42 billion in revenue and 21 cents per share.

Chief Financial Officer David Zinsner said Intel has signed long‑term agreements for data‑center CPUs and specialized XPUs, and will increase spending on its forthcoming 14A manufacturing process, which is slated for volume production in 2028. The firm holds about $30 billion in cash and a $10 billion line of credit and has not ruled out a share sale.

Foundry revenue reached $5.77 billion, beating the $5.55 billion estimate, and Intel secured Tesla as a customer for its next‑generation 14A process. Laptop and desktop sales were $8.88 billion, above the $7.89 billion forecast, while data‑center revenue was $6.26 billion, higher than the $5.37 billion estimate. Rivals Arm Holdings and AMD rose modestly in after‑hours trading.

Intel’s strategy to regain technology leadership and compete with Nvidia and AMD is being validated by strong AI‑driven demand, though the company must continue to convert data‑center shortages into sustained revenue growth.