Intel and partners to use Sharp's Japan LCD plants for chip research

TOKYO/OSAKA -- Intel and its 14 partner Japanese companies will use Sharp's underutilized liquid crystal display plants in the country to research cutting-edge semiconductor production technology, Nikkei has learned, in a move that will reduce costs for the alliance and provide needed income to the struggling electronics company. 

Intel will begin research and development of back-end chip production processes, including assembly, together with 14 suppliers including Omron, Resonac Holdings and Murata Machinery at Sharp's LCD factories.