Intel is giving a startup the keys to its x86 (Atom) CPU kingdom

Reuters says Intel has signed a confidential licensing deal with startup RosaicLabs, giving it access to Atom CPU RTL code linked to the x86 instruction set.

RosaicLabs is led by people with ties to Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan, has incorporated in Delaware, and is seeking a $10 million funding round.

The move is unusual because Intel rarely shares official x86 design materials with third parties.

If it works, the deal could help create new x86 chips for edge computing, robotics, or AI, and it may even hint at a future Intel acquisition.