Intel is demonstrating the capabilities of their fab services including the ip blocks they have available. This scifive core is no different in that respect fro

Intel is demonstrating the capabilities of their fab services including the ip blocks they have available. This scifive core is no different in that respect from the pci controller or ddr5 memory controller in that respect. Many companies want to build custom silicon for various reasons (although the current value proposition seems to be ML related). Those companies will need many pieces to get data in and out of their custom solution, and a Linux capable cpu core to handle networking or a small amount of traditional compute is often necessary. Intel building a risc V core should not be seen in light of their traditional cpu business, it’s not even in the same league in terms of performance. It’s just a technology demonstrator to prove to companies that intel can actually deliver designs that integrate intel designed ip and regular fabless semiconductor designs. The fact that risc V is guaranteed press is just icing on the cake.