Intel closed the second quarter of 2026 with revenues of 16,1 billion dollars, up by 25 % compared to 12,9 billion for the same period in 2025, recording the best revenue growth in the last fifteen years. GAAP gross margin rose to 40,4 % from 27,5 % of a year earlier, while on a non-GAAP basis it went from 29,7 % al 41,8 %Research and development and administrative expenses decreased by 6%, attesting to 4,5 billion dollars (4 billion on a non-GAAP basis, -8%). The operating margin returned to positive at11,1 %, compared to -24,7% in the second quarter of 2025.
On the earnings front, Intel recorded a GAAP net loss of $11 billion, equal to -2,16 dollars per share, significantly impacted by extraordinary items. Excluding these effects, non-GAAP net income was equal to 2,2 billion dollars, with earnings per share of dollars 0,42, a clear improvement over the loss of dollars 0,10 per share last year. In the quarter the group also generated $7 billion in cash from operating activities.
Data centers and artificial intelligence drive growth
Growth was driven primarily by artificial intelligence-related activities. The division Data Center and AI (DCAI) achieved revenues of 6,3 billion dollars, up by 59 % on an annual basis. Even the personal computer business, now called Client Computing and Physical AI Group (CCPG), showed a positive trend with 8,9 billion dollars in revenues (+13%).
Overall, the division's revenues Intel Products they rose to 15,1 billion dollars (+28%), while Intel Foundry had a turnover of 5,8 billion, up by 31 % compared to the second quarter of 2025.
CEO Lip-Bu Tan: "AI is generating unprecedented demand."
Commenting on the results, CEO Lip-Bu Tan He underlined the central role of artificial intelligence in the growth of the group: “Artificial intelligence is generating an unprecedented demand for computing power And as we continue to execute on our plan, Intel is well positioned to capture sustainable growth in CPUs, ASICs, advanced packaging and our extensive foundry network.”
The manager added that "the second quarter results represent the strongest revenue growth in the last fifteen years, made possible by greater speed, responsibility, and customer focus." The CFO also Dave Zinsner highlighted that “AI-driven demand for computing power continues to strengthen”, explaining that Intel will significantly increase investments in machinery, cleanrooms and substrates to support the expected growth in both its products and foundry operations.
New products and positive guidance
In the quarter Intel announced the Xeon 6+ processor, first server product built with the production node Intel 18A, as well as new infrastructure solutions for agent AI, dedicated robotics platforms, and collaborations with Foxconn, Siemens, Google Cloud, and other industry partners. On the manufacturing front, high-volume production of some Panther Lake processors has also begun.
Management's guidance confirms a growth outlook for the current quarter as well. in fact it foresees revenues between 15,8 and 16,8 billion dollars, with earnings per share (EPS) of $0,31 under GAAP and $0,38 on a non-GAAP basis. The group also estimates a gross margin of 41% (42% non-GAAP) and confirmed its intention to increase investments in facilities, cleanrooms, and substrates to support the growing demand for artificial intelligence solutions and the development of its foundry activities.
Wall Street rewards the accounts
The quarterly results were welcomed positively by investors. In trading, after hours Following the publication of the results, Intel shares began to gain more than 7%, supported by 25% revenue growth, a return to non-GAAP profitability, and business momentum Data Center and AI (+59%) and encouraging third-quarter guidance. The market also appreciated signs of strengthening the artificial intelligence business and management's guidance on increased investments to expand production capacity and support future demand.
