But they do outsource assembly and test and other services that they then bundle and sell to design companies.

I think skeptical optimist was just saying that everyone outsources their fab (to pure-play foundries). I was agreeing, and saying Intel has traditionally been the unique party in that model. Their supply chain was vertically integrated and a source of pride. But they’re breaking down to become more like AMD now so they can remain competitive.

It would be nonsensical to suggest he meant a pure-play foundry outsources their manufacturing… that’s kinda their role.